Description
An introduction to EMDR, a proven trauma therapy with the power to heal, cowritten by a world-renowned therapist and a patient who experienced transformative relief through EMDR therapy.
Trauma is a part of life.Â
You or someone you care about has probably experienced trauma, whether “big-T” trauma, such as emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or the more common but no less significant “little-t” trauma that can result from divorce, job loss, painful childhood experiences, or any situation where you felt worthless, afraid, or powerless. Untreated trauma can lead to long lasting effects such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and difficulties maintaining intimate relationships.
But the good news is that we can heal—and it doesn’t have to take a lifetime. EMDR (which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a unique type of psychotherapy proven to help people recover from trauma and improve the quality of their lives.
Cowritten by a patient who experienced transformative relief from trauma through EMDR therapy, and a world-renowned psychologist who explains exactly how and why EMDR works, Every Memory Deserves Respect provides clear information while offering inspiration and hope.
Through compelling science, personal stories, and powerful photographic images, we learn how trauma is stored in the brain and body, continuing to cause pain and suffering, and how EMDR frees us by repatterning our thinking and emotional reactions. It explains why talk therapy has only a limited impact on trauma recovery, describes what to expect from gentle and targeted EMDR therapy, and offers guidance on how to find a therapist who is just right for you.
SBG (verified owner) –
This book is like none other I have read on this topic. The combination of the easy to understand narrative about what trauma is, how it lives in the body and disrupts our conscious lives, and how it can be resolved. With the powerful visual images that support the narrative this book is a deeply powerful and helpful book. Anyone who wants to understand more about trauma and what EMDR can do to help people MUST read this book. Michael’s honest account of his trauma and transformation through EMDR makes it very real. Give this book to any one who might be thinking about this for themselves.
Kathleen E. Brown (verified owner) –
This book is a must read for trauma survivors as well as anyone who is considering therapy. With great courage Michael Baldwin eloquently shares his long, previously unsuccessful, journey to overcome the effects of childhood trauma. After finding an EMDR therapist he was at last able to fully heal and begin to lead an authentic, fulfilling life. Testament to Michael’s success as well as his enormous generosity is his desire to “give back” by collaborating with Dr. Deborah Korn to create this book so that other traumatized people too might heal.
In very clear, easy to understand language Dr. Korn comprehensively explains the process of EMDR and the research that supports it. Most importantly, her explanation that trauma causes (curable) injury to the brain may well serve to help trauma victims realize that it’s not their fault that they can’t “just get over it”, and why talk therapy frequently does not bring about healing.
First and foremost this is a book for clients, but all trauma therapists would benefit from reading it as well. Many thanks to Mr. Baldwin and Dr. Korn for this wonderful, extremely helpful and unique book!
Ella M. Foshay (verified owner) –
What is exceptional about “Every Memory Deserves Respect” is that, although a short book, it thoroughly illuminates the complex subject of trauma through the eyes of an expert in EMDR therapy, Dr. Deborah Korn, and the personal experience of a patient, Michael Baldwin. The text on theory and practice by Dr. Korn is clear, concise and heartfelt. Baldwin’s straightforward account of difficult episodes in his personal and professional life makes the understanding of trauma believable and accessible to everyone. The many creative and moving images, inserted throughout the text, illuminate the experiences of both the pain and recovery from trauma. These visual metaphors will imprint indelible snapshot memories in the minds of readers, providing them understanding and solace for the emotional journey of life.
Marjorie L (verified owner) –
I’m an EMDR clinician and am thrilled to have a book I can recommend to clients and their loved ones that helps to explain trauma, EMDR Therapy, and that offers so much hope. The fact that this book is written from two perspectives – both the person who experienced trauma and the clinician – makes it personally relevant and educational to the trauma survivor and lay reader. In the short time since the book’s release, I have already recommended it to several clients. One in particular, who was unable to see the connection between ongoing trauma experienced over many years and current symptoms, now feels there is an explanation that makes sense!
Sandy Dixon (verified owner) –
This is a wonderful book that clearly and simply explains trauma, trauma responses, and the impacts they can have on our lives in ways that are accessible to everyone. It describes, using clear terms and helpful images, what it means to heal and how that can be achieved, using EMDR therapy along with a solid trauma framework. Mr. Baldwin, in bravely sharing his history, offers remarkable insight into his suffering and his path to healing. Dr. Korn, in clear writing that merges theory with clinical anecdotes, helps us understand how and why it happens, and that it is possible for others. Read this book!
David Mccorkle (verified owner) –
Every Memory Deserves Respect offers the dual perspectives of a patient and the therapist. Both voices carry the trauma narrative and how that narrative is faced with EMDR. The positive outcomes from the treatment leads us to clear explanations of how EMDR works and heals. And if this weren’t absorbing enough, there are amazing posters offering visuals that portray the EMDR experience!
Jennifer (verified owner) –
Trauma – in all its iterations, big and small – does not have to doom those who live with it, often unknowingly, forever. Read this straightforward and highly visual book. It combines the brilliant and ballsy courage of co-author/client Michael Baldwin with the brilliant and affirmative work of co-author/EMDR practitioner Dr. Deborah L. Korn. They deconstruct in plain English (shocker) and images (memorable) the myriad ways trauma impacts us and how EMDR (terrible acronym but don’t let that stop you) pretty much tops all other therapies for head pains ranging from trauma to depression. And it doesn’t take a lifetime. Who knew?
Tiggy (verified owner) –
This book should be a staple in every home, easy to read and informative!
Its an enlightening and powerful tool to help heal emotional trauma!
Judith Flynn (verified owner) –
In the new Apple TV series “The Me You Can’t See” Prince Harry shows himself doing EMDR trauma healing work over Zoom with his therapist. A powerful testament to this work. In this book, you get both narrative and theory. You read the story of Michael Baldwin who suffered from panic, anxiety, low self worth for almost six decades due to trauma in his family of origin. He sought help from six different therapists before he found the healing power of EMDR and body based bilateral stimulation. His story alternates with long term EMDR practitioner, researcher, teacher Debbie Korn’s expert explanation of the ways that trauma affects the nervous system and how EMDR help heals it. This book provides not only hope and insight but also a clear path to feeling better.
Barbara J. Hensley, Ed.D. (verified owner) –
This book is a must-have for both clinicians and clients. It provides a unique presentation and perspective of EMDR therapy that my friend, mentor, and hero, Dr. Francine Shapiro, can smile down upon. Kudos to Michael and Deb for an excellent job. I have been doing EMDR for more than 25 years and I learned and relearned from this book.
Caitlin Stark (verified owner) –
I loved this book. It’s a great introduction to (or review of) the profound psychological effects of trauma: beautifully written, clear, accessible, and most of all, hopeful. I’m a clinician who is not trained in EMDR (now I want to be), but it’s useful either way. I plan to recommend this to clients and to friends.
Jenna (verified owner) –
I highly recommend this book to therapists, clients, or anyone interested in learning about EMDR therapy! As a therapist I have read many books on the topic of trauma and found this to be impactful, educational and concise. The pictures and language the authors use make reading about the topic of trauma tolerable and easy to understand. It’s such a gift to have this as a resource!
Pamela (verified owner) –
Very informative, insightful, comprehensive well written book which details how EMDR with psychotherapy can heal the mind, body, and heart of those who have experienced trauma and continue to live with its effects. EMDR is transformative, empowering, and a way to take back your life so you can be fully present to experience it. So inspiring and hopeful and a way to become the hero of your own story.
Deborah Rozelle, PsyD, clinical psychologist (verified owner) –
This book fills a critical gap in the literature about trauma treatment in general, and about EMDR therapy in particular. it explains the healing process and profound benefits of EMDR therapy. Deborah Korn’s masterful clinical expertise, well-honed voice as an educator, and her genuinely warm heart, and Michael Baldwin’s deep gratitude, courage, and vision for this book, carry well the inspiring message of EMDR therapy’s healing power. In sum, this book is a perfect blend of wisdom and compassion couched in language understandable to all, punctuated by carefully chosen, evocative, and informative visual imagery. This is a must read for anyone interested in transforming trauma, including the wider public, clients and therapists.
John Rosario, Psy.D. (verified owner) –
Deborah Korn and Michael Baldwin have written a gem of a book. An accessible, educative, and deeply personal narrative about healing from childhood trauma, you will learn about EMDR and the possibilities for healing even when the pain and suffering seem insurmountable. I highly recommend this book for therapists, clients, and the general public. You will feel inspired and hopeful.
COS (verified owner) –
This easily readable book is the compelling story of Michael Baldwin’s significant childhood trauma, the powerful and long-lasting negative impacts of that trauma (resistant to most therapy) and how he healed through the therapeutic treatment called EMDR—Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Though she didn’t treat Baldwin, Deborah Korn, Psy.D., as Baldwin’s co-author, explains in digestible language why and how the treatment works effectively to relieve trauma and it’s nasty consequences, what’s involved and how to find a provider to treat you or someone you love. A previous consumer of therapy, I’d heard of EMDR, but knew little about its long history and was skeptical to invest my time and money in trying it. No more. If you or someone you care about is anxious, depressed, withdrawn or dysfunctional BECAUSE of some type of trauma, you’ll find research-based, lifesaving information here.
Rosemary Nurre (verified owner) –
If you don’t think you need or want traditional therapy the authors provide a new way to think about therapy. I like that you are physically and mentally engaged in the process. The physicality of it ensures that you are fully engaged. The authors present a thorough review of the process with lots of helpful resources.
L. Burns (verified owner) –
This is a full explanation of how this therapy is accomplished, and it leaves me feeling very hopeful. A great enticement to begin the healing journey.
Benjamin Lord (verified owner) –
Michael Baldwin & Dr. Deborah Korn have collaborated on a difficult subject and made it a must-read. As a Dyslexic with ADD, reading is challenging. This book was easy to read with a great balance of images. I have personally witnessed how EMDR has helped family & friends. Thank you, Michael & Deborah.
sue macmillan (verified owner) –
This account of personal recovery provides hope for anyone suffering the effects of childhood trauma. It is a very personal story and therefore easy to connect with, to know that yhere is an answer…and hope!
Reyn Parsons, consultant (verified owner) –
Read this book….. for yourself or someone you love. This books explains how this effective EMDR treatment works and allows one to heal after trauma….. big or small, old or new. Don’t wait….
R. Owen Williams, Ph.D. (verified owner) –
Gorgeous slides allow us to understand trauma, text and personal narrative show us a powerful tool for healing: EMDR. Highly recommend!
david j (verified owner) –
I love how both authors contribute their distinct and relevant perspectives in ways that connect and inform.
Dawn (verified owner) –
This brave story will help so many people.
Dr. Aline Zoldbrod (verified owner) –
With Every Memory Deserves Respect, Dr. Deborah Korn and Michael Baldwin have made an outstanding contribution to the self-help literature on trauma in general and to the writings on EMDR treatment for trauma specifically.
If you are a therapist not trained in trauma, you will find this book a fascinating and thoroughly engaging step-by-step description of the process of healing trauma through EMDR treatment. You will most certainly become inspired to get trained in EMDR.
This book, although it is an inanimate object, is a loving thing. When you read it, you’ll know what I mean.
Every Memory Deserves Respect radiates warmth and optimism. The actual layout of the book, with its wonderful, full-page, color graphics throughout, is most enjoyable to read. If you are a client, I believe this creative and welcoming format and Dr. Korn’s calm and generous narration will make thinking about your own trauma feel less threatening. Because Michael shares his story, my patients reading it feel “seen” in a new way.
Dr. Korn is and has been a major contributor to the development of EMDR treatment, and with this book in your hands, you have your own renowned personal trauma therapist.
This book has too many strengths to name, but I will name a few. It takes the complicated clinical literature about memory and boils it down for the lay person. It contains an especially cogent description of what happens to your brain during stress. The detailed description of the course of EMDR therapy is unusual in books for the lay public. Lastly, the section on “Contemplating beginning treatment –am I ready?” will help give patients who are afraid to tackle their trauma the courage to move forward and get help.
I give Every Memory Deserves Respect my highest recommendation.
Aline P. Zoldbrod Ph.D.
music lover (verified owner) –
Moving, clear, creative, concise, with all the details necessary to understand EMDR. This book is a treasure for those thinking about or starting EMDR therapy. Anyone who already loves EMDR and anyone who wishes to explore EMDR for the first time will benefit from the loving, healing words written by Debbie and Michael. Every question you have had about EMDR is addressed in a purely accessible way, with heart.
Cathy Anne (verified owner) –
I found this book very helpful in understanding trauma, both big and small and how they stay with you. Excellent way to describe the EDMR therapy, how it is performed and how it truly helps.
The Wolfpack (verified owner) –
Several weeks ago, I attended a review and discussion about the book Every Memory Deserves Respect by Deborah Korn and Michael Baldwin. As I was listening to them speak about the book, I felt they were able to capture in the best way possible what I’ve been communicating to my clients when I explain trauma and EMDR. I always used to say how I wish there was a book that explains what we do in EMDR in a simple way. A book that could help therapists who are not EMDR practitioners understand what we do better. More importantly, I was hoping I can have a book that I can use with my clients that is informative, accurate, and helpful. That is exactly what I felt about this book as I was listening to the authors. Needless to say, I purchased the book as I was listening to them and I am happy I did. Since then, a few of my clients purchased the book and our conversation about it has helped ease their process significantly. This book is a treasure for EMDR therapists who need psychoeducation for their clients about the EMDR process (and that is basically all of us because EMDR is not that easy to explain after all).
The passion they both bring to make a change in this world, especially during these tough times, is a refreshing and powerful contribution. The therapist community is lucky to have this resource as a tool for the clients. This book will hopefully expand the ability of the therapist community in this process of healing and change in a world that needs it so much.
Leslie P (verified owner) –
If you have ever been interested in EMDR, wonder what the hype is, want to learn more how EMDR works, or ever wondered how trauma impacts us all, this book is for you. Beautiful first-person storytelling, with easy to read and to digest explanation of how trauma can impact for a life-time. And the magic that EMDR can help heal to wellness. This book is gorgeous.
Jane (verified owner) –
I am a certified EMDR therapist and was privileged to have Dr. Deborah Korn as my supervisor and mentor during my training on the affects of trauma on the psyche and body.
The result of this books collaboration between Michael Baldwin and Dr Debbie Korn is A brilliant and unique approach easily accessible to both therapist’s as well as well as anyone wanting to deepen there understanding of trauma and how EMDR can help in the healing.
Dr Korn and Co author Michael Baldwin brilliantly weave together Michael’s very personal and deeply moving experience of his traumatic memories alternating with Deborah’s intelligent, compassionate and clearly described explanations of what happens when one is traumatized…bringing so much hope and meaning to so many. The visuals and descriptive pictures keep you engaged and offer another dimension to comprehend traumas impact adding to the books ease in understanding a very complex subject. Michael’s courage in sharing his story offers so many hope that even the most challenging of memories no matter how long you may have been suffering, help and healing is possibilities.
I have recommended this book to many colleagues and clients and even bought one for my daughter. Buy it and share it.
CoCh (verified owner) –
Easy to understand.
Natalya (verified owner) –
I am a psychology student and I chose to buy this book simply because I love reading things that have to do with psychology even if it isn’t for school. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is going into the same field as me or for anyone who wants to learn and is curious. Great read!
Marie Macomber (verified owner) –
Every Memory Deserves Respect is a beautifully written book for both the therapist/practitioner as well as the curious, interested client who wants to understand more about EMDR and how it works.
It is full of examples of various traumas and how EMDR processes the stuck places so that healing can take place.
I highly recommend this book. It is fascinating, educational and uplifting, providing understanding and hope that people can be freed from previously debilitating traumas.
JaRyHnt (verified owner) –
Informative & Well Written with wonder insights from both client and therapist.
G. Tavaglione (verified owner) –
As far as explaining the trauma therapy known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), this book is very interesting, well-written, and easy to understand how EMDR therapy is a helpful way to treat people with CPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). It will help you to understand the process, and help you find a correct therapist who uses EMDR. HOWEVER- what drove me to distraction is that every third page there is a 2-page spread with a full color picture and a ‘fortune-cookie’ statement on the other. It totally broke my concentration and enjoyment to have this happen in the middle of a sentence. The authors would have been better off to finish the sentence (and thought) before interjecting this ‘billboard’ with such regularity. I finally taped the two pages together so that I could read the text un-harassed. Your mileage may vary.
ADB (verified owner) –
The service that Debbie Korn and Michael Baldwin have provided by publishing this book has done incalculable good. The combination of Michael’s story and Debbie’s expertise provide a road map for so many others to alleviate psychological burdens in an incredibly efficient fashion, previously unheard of. What an extraordinary mental health breakthrough!
James Horohan (verified owner) –
This is a must-read for anybody interested in resolving past trauma and living their best life. Micheal and Deborah have written a book as important as “The Body Keeps Thre Score.” for people living with unresolved trauma.