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Let's talk metaphors...


Maybe it’s because I am talking about and using eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) everyday...though I have noticed that EMDR is more recognised and sought after in Hobart | Tasmania lately.


Metaphors are a way for people to relate to healing and I've listed a few of my favourites below to help understand more about EMDR in Hobart.

 

EMDR is a key intervention in treating trauma, the World Health Organisation (WHO, 2013) and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ITSS, 2019) both recommend EMDR therapy as one of the treatments for adults and children who have survived trauma.

  

I don't know about you, but I have always understood concepts and process much better through stories and metaphors! How about we get rid of the medical jargon, just for this post, and come to understand EMDR in a more playful way?


Metaphors:


  • Catalogue Flipping: I heard this metaphor on a podcast! Trauma memories are often stored in fragmented, and unorganised ways, sort of like flipping rapidly through a chaotic, messy catalogue where images, emotions, and sensations are all jumbled together. EMDR helps file these images, emotions and sensations in an organised way to allow the memories to be understood.

  • Traffic Jam: Trauma creates a traffic jam in the brain. The same thoughts looping, and the same emotions stuck, with everything moving slowly like 5pm traffic.

    EMDR acts like a set of traffic lights that can help things flow again.

  • Digestion: Trauma can feel like food getting stuck in digestion. EMDR helps your body to digest traumatic memories and move them through your body.

  • Messy Desk: Trauma can create a sense of mess. Like when we have things all over our desk and can’t find where anything is. EMDR helps us file everything on our desk in an organised way to create a sense of clarity.

  • Train: In basic EMDR training, most EMDR practitioners are taught the train metaphor.

    This speaks about how EMDR is much like sitting on a train and moving forward. I never ask anybody to relive experiences, but rather watch them out the train window as a blur as they go by.  As the therapist, I make sure you know you are never on that train alone.

  • Backpack: Everyone carries a big backpack of experiences. You totally know what I am talking about if you've ever carried an overnight pack whilst summiting in Tasmania. I know you know how much easier it feels when your pack is lightened, even by half a kilo!

    EMDR will support you to lighten the load, bit by bit.


Which metaphor makes the most sense to you?

Is there a different metaphor that explains EMDR and trauma therapy that you've come across?


My offerings: I offer 60 minute sessions of in-person EMDR and trauma therapy in nipaluna, Hobart or across the country via telehealth.

My in-person appointments are accessible via stairs.

 

Does EMDR still work online?

Yes, EMDR is completely effective via telehealth. Some people prefer the safety and comfort, or accessibility of their own home when accessing therapy.


Trauma Therapy Hobart | EMDR Therapy Hobart | EMDR for Trauma Hobart | Therapist Specialising in Family Violence Hobart | EMDR Counselling Tasmania | Trauma Counselling Tasmania |


You can reach out to organise a complimentary phone consult here: https://www.taylareynolds.com.au/#anchors-lffc4din



Further information about fees, location, and ways of working is available at: https://www.taylareynolds.com.au/about


 
 
 

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