Building the Bridge from Treatment to Transformation
Relational EMDR Therapy℠ considers the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client as a central component for our clients who struggle with low self-esteem, relationships, and self-regulation by actively accompanying them on their journey towards healing. R-EMDR℠ is a shared experience between therapist and client beyond the resolution of the traumatic memories promoting growth and change. The Self of the therapist plays an integral role in the client's healing journey and is considered an active ingredient in co-creating the conditions that make it possible for our clients to "go there." So the question we pose as Relational EMDR therapists isn't "is the client ready," but, "are we ready to embark on this journey together?"
In more traditional EMDR, our primary objective is to offer symptom relief. For many others, however, they need more. That's where Relational EMDR Therapy℠ comes in. As an R-EMDR℠ therapist, we focus on helping our clients grow and change into the person they can become now in their lives and be able to thrive, not just survive.
The Self of the Therapist is Integral to the Client's Journey
EMDR training isn't just about knowing what to do, we have to know how to be. Being present, not just as an observer, but as a witness. Not just as a support, but as co-regulator of the client's experience as they move through the eye of the storm to get to the other side. Not just to lance the wound, but to add the balm that helps the wound heal. It's about being exquisitely attuned to our client's experience, moment to moment, so they have the experience of being with a kind empathic Other. It's about being in it with them and reflecting our experience of being with them. Being an R-EMDR℠ therapist requires that we bring a mindful presence as well as the courage we ask of our clients as they approach this unchartered territory with us. The training and consultation process is an ongoing invitation to bring our highest Self to this very important work of helping our clients transform their pain. It's a journey of personal growth for the Relational EMDR therapist that makes it possible for us to "go there" too.
Upcoming EMDR Consultations and Trainings
May 2025
December 2025
Here's what a colleague says about Deany and R-EMDR℠
