Michiel Bosman MD PhD

EMDR- and IFS-trained Psychiatrist

Find Relief with EMDR Therapy for Anxiety Disorders

Like many of you searching for effective ways to treat anxiety, my journey into psychiatry led me to discover the profound impact of EMDR therapy. I was drawn to its potential to help individuals find lasting relief from the grip of anxiety disorders, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of this evidence-based psychotherapy as treatment for anxiety disorders. If you're ready to explore a path toward healing and reduce the burden of excessive anxiety, you've come to the right place.

How does EMDR work?

Click here to download an in-depth glossary of EMDR-related terms and techniques.

Understanding EMDR Therapy for Anxiety

EMDR therapy, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a powerful approach that recognizes the connection between unprocessed memories and current emotional distress, including anxiety symptoms. It operates on the principle that our brains have a natural capacity to heal from disturbing experiences, a concept supported by the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model.

During an EMDR session, we focus on specific anxiety triggers or disturbing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation (BLS), such as guided eye movements. This process helps to activate the brain's natural processing system, allowing these memories to be reprocessed in a healthier and less distressing way. EMDR is well-known for its effectiveness in treating PTSD. In my experience it is also a valuable treatment for anxiety, including:

• Generalized anxiety disorder.
• Panic disorder.
• Social anxiety disorder.
• Other specific anxiety disorders.

The goal of EMDR for anxiety is not to erase memories, but to reduce their emotional intensity and help you develop more adaptive beliefs and coping mechanisms, ultimately leading to a significant reduction in anxiety.

Why Choose EMDR Therapy for Your Anxiety?

EMDR therapy stands out as a targeted and efficient approach to treat anxiety. Unlike some therapies that rely heavily on detailed descriptions or prolonged exposure, EMDR works directly with the root of the distress using the brain’s innate healing capabilities. Many individuals find that EMDR can help them experience relief in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional talk therapy alone.

Why Work with Me?

As an EMDR-trained psychiatrist, I bring a unique perspective to your healing journey. I have extensive expertise and training in EMDR therapy and understand the intricate ways in which anxiety disorders can impact your life. My experience integrating EMDR with psychiatry allows for a comprehensive understanding of your needs, considering both psychological and potential biological factors.

My commitment is to create a safe and understanding therapeutic relationship where you feel heard, validated, and empowered. We will work collaboratively, respecting your pace and building trust throughout the EMDR process.

Taking the First Step: Becoming a Client

I understand that reaching out for help with anxiety is a significant step. Due to the demand for effective treatment like EMDR, I often maintain a waiting list.

To be notified of openings in my schedule and to receive occasional IFS insights (as Internal Family Systems principles often complement EMDR work), I encourage you to join my mailing list. Signing up is free and easy, and you will receive priority notification of available appointments. My online calendar provides details on session costs and potential sliding scale options.

What to Expect After Signing Up

Subscribers to my mailing list receive updates on appointment availability, helpful insights into EMDR therapy and anxiety, and links to relevant resources. I respect your inbox and am committed to not overwhelming you with emails.

A Note on the Therapeutic Relationship

In EMDR therapy, as in any effective therapeutic process, the therapist-client relationship is paramount. My approach is characterized by safety, acceptance, and compassion. I believe in your innate capacity for healing and will work alongside you with empathy and understanding.

Concluding Thoughts

I believe in the transformative power of EMDR and its potential to help you break free from the constraints of anxiety. Taking the first step towards healing is an act of courage, and I encourage you to connect with me today. Please feel free to reach out with any initial questions you may have.

Find an EMDR therapist to help reduce anxiety

Ready to reduce your anxiety with EMDR therapy? Connect with me now to receive priority notifications for openings!

Michiel Bosman MD PhD

EMDR- and IFS-trained Psychiatrist

Frequently asked questions about EMDR treatment for anxiety

Q: What is EMDR for anxiety, and how does it work?

A: EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a form of therapy designed to help people process traumatic experiences and reduce their anxiety. It involves a series of structured phases where the therapist guides you through recalling distressing events while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, like guided eye movements. This process helps you reprocess the memories and can lead to a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms.

Q: Can EMDR treatment help with panic disorder?

A: Absolutely! EMDR treatment can be an effective way to help treat anxiety associated with panic disorder. By targeting the underlying traumatic events or negative beliefs that contribute to panic attacks, EMDR can help you manage and reduce the intensity of your symptoms.

Q: How is EMDR different from cognitive-behavioral therapy?

A: While both EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are used to treat anxiety, they take different approaches. cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, whereas EMDR works on processing traumatic memories through guided eye movements. Some people find EMDR to be a quicker way to address deeply rooted issues.

Q: What are the phases of EMDR?

A: EMDR consists of eight phases. These include history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. Each phase builds on the last and is designed to help you safely process your anxiety and traumatic experiences.

Q: Is EMDR effective for generalized anxiety disorder?

A: Yes, EMDR is considered an effective treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It helps individuals process the underlying causes of their anxiety, which can lead to improvements in daily functioning and overall mental health.

Q: What should I expect during sessions of EMDR?

A: During an EMDR session, you can expect to share your experiences related to your anxiety, followed by engaging in the eye movement exercises. Your therapist will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel safe and supported. It's common to experience a range of emotions during sessions, but many find the relief afterward to be worth it.

Q: Are there any benefits of EMDR for social anxiety disorder?

A: Definitely! EMDR can help treat anxiety linked to social situations by addressing the negative beliefs and past traumas that fuel social anxiety disorder. Many individuals report feeling more confident and less anxious in social settings after completing EMDR therapy.

Q: Can using EMDR for anxiety help with obsessive-compulsive disorder?

A: Yes, using EMDR can be beneficial for those suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as it can help process the traumatic experiences that may contribute to the compulsions and obsessions. It’s an innovative approach that some therapists are integrating into OCD treatment plans.

Q: How long does EMDR treatment take to see results?

A: The timeline can vary based on individual circumstances, but many people start to notice changes within a few sessions. For some, it might take longer, especially if they have complex histories or severe anxiety. The key is to stay committed to the process and work closely with your therapist.

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