Cleaning Out the Shop: Getting Reorganized with EMDR
One of my husband’s favorite hobbies is woodworking. He enjoys being creative, learning new skills, and seeing a finished project. I enjoy the custom-built furniture. Win-win. However, It’s not always this seamless and enjoyable. For example, my husband recently had a plan to build some patio furniture. As he prepared for the project, we quickly realized that this plan was not going to work if he did not clean out his shop first. There have been times when my husband has worked on a project for hours. He would then come inside feeling exhausted and frustrated about his lack of progress because his shop is cluttered, nothing is in the right spot, and he is unable find the necessary tools.
As I reflect on the state of my husband’s shop and how it impacts his ability to efficiently complete his projects, I can’t help but notice the similarities to when we get “stuck” in life. When a traumatic or distressing event occurs in our lives, we can sometimes become stuck if our brains do not fully and effectively process the event. When there is a traumatic experience, the “fight, flight, or freeze” part of our brain (the amygdala) becomes automatically activated. As we move forward in life, triggers from traumatic memories can cause the amygdala to become activated once again. A negative belief is often attached to these memories, and then becomes heightened when similar experiences occur. The “shop” becomes more cluttered, and information is inaccurately stored.
By using Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), I work with clients to help them process and heal from these past traumatic experiences. Together we “clear out the shop” and reorganize the thoughts and emotions attached to these memories in a more desired and empowering way. Eventually, when a trigger occurs, the client does not have to trip over the paralyzing emotion and negative thoughts. Instead, they can readily find the tools they need to fully process the trigger and move forward.
Cleaning out the shop is not something that is done quickly, and neither is the trauma work. It takes time, energy, effort, and support. However, as I frequently hear from my clients, doing the transformative hard work is worth it, and it allows them to more fully engage in the life and relationships. If you are interested in learning about EMDR and trauma work, contact us at info-mosaic@mdofficemail.com or 317-645-7691.
Written By: Morgan Smith, MA, LMFTA