EMDR-TRAUMA RECOVERY NETWORK (TRN) OF MINNESOTA
Trauma may be created by natural or person-made disasters or violent events. Symptoms are a way the body/mind attempts to deal with the event and register the need for psychological care. We believe psychological care is every bit as important as physical care.
HISTORY OF OUR TRN:
Our MN TRN came into being after the 2007 Mississippi River Bridge collapse. We were concerned that EMDR resources were not as available or widely known as we would have hoped. With the help of EMDR-HAP (Humanitarian Assistance Program), we were able to train almost 100 non-profit based psychotherapists in EMDR during 2009-10 many of whom have special language or cultural competences. When the 2011 tornado disaster hit North Minneapolis and western suburbs, more referrals to EMDR psychotherapists were made.
AFTER A DISASTER:
Brief EMDR treatment, in most cases, can alleviate common symptoms of trauma such as:
- Irritability or anger
- Fearfulness
- Confusion
- Signs of strong reaction to stress
- Feeling “spaced out” or confused
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks
- Avoidance of reminders of the event
- Sleep disturbance
- Anxiety
- Lack of energy or concentration
- Difficulty focusing.
- Mood swings
- Troubling dreams
- Depression
- Family conflict
- Overuse of medication
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Increase of other addictive behavior
- Feeling that “nothing seems the same”
EMDR has been shown by research to be an effective psychotherapy for resolving symptoms created by trauma in adults and children. For many people it may be the first choice to help resolve the distress of trauma and move on to a calmer, more satisfying life.
EMDR trained and licensed psychotherapists may be available to volunteer in case of a disaster. For more information or a referral to a qualified EMDR psychotherapist, you may contact:
Stacia Hanson, M.A., L.P., Trauma Recovery Network Coordinator at 952-921-3266 or staciahanson@gmail.com.