Laurie Kilmartin: Healing from Trauma with EMDR on Mental Illness Happy Hour
As much as people want to say like, “Oh, it's not that bad,” I mean, if you're carrying around something that's affecting your daily life, it’s bad. It doesn't matter what it is. It's just as valid as if you lost a leg or something. It's affecting your life, so you should take care of it.
Ever wondered how unresolved trauma can shape your life? Laurie Kilmartin, a NY Times bestselling author and stand-up comedian, sits down with Paul Gilmartin in this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour' to share her deeply personal journey. Laurie opens up about a painful event that derailed her dreams and cast a long shadow over her late teens and twenties.
She candidly discusses how she eventually sought help through EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, a technique that helped her process and heal from her trauma. Laurie's story is a poignant reminder that no trauma is too small to seek help for. She and Paul dive into the common struggle of feeling like one's trauma isn't valid enough to warrant attention, a sentiment many listeners may find all too familiar.
Laurie emphasizes that if something affects your daily life, it’s worth addressing. The conversation also touches on the importance of finding the right therapist and being compassionate toward oneself. Laurie’s humor and honesty make this episode both engaging and insightful, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice. If you've ever questioned the validity of your own pain or wondered about the benefits of EMDR therapy, this episode is a must-listen.
It's a heartfelt dialogue that underscores the importance of seeking help and the transformative power of self-compassion.