written by Monica Brookhart  7/23/2023

Finding Healing: How Marlin from Finding Nemo Could Benefit from EMDR 

I was watching Finding Nemo with my kids, a movie we have watched several times. However, this time I was seeing it through the lens of EMDR. I noticed how Marlin was experiencing the effects of an unprocessed trauma after the loss of his wife and unhatched eggs.

Marlin's journey to rescue his son, Nemo, is not just an animated tale of bravery; it touches upon the lasting effects of unprocessed trauma that many of us can relate to.  His actions and emotions are influenced by the haunting memories of that significant event, and it made me wonder how so many of us go through life feeling hurt by trauma and its symptoms.

Marlin's Struggle: The Lingering Effects of Trauma 

As we watch Marlin embark on his quest to reunite with Nemo, we can't help but notice the undercurrents of trauma that govern his actions. The horrifying moment when he witnesses his wife and unhatched eggs being consumed by a barracuda leaves him emotionally scarred and vulnerable to triggers throughout his journey.

His fear becomes palpable, pushing him to become an overbearing and overprotective father. Marlin's attempts to shield Nemo from the world stem from his desperate desire to prevent any more heartbreak. However, this protective barrier inadvertently hinders Nemo's growth, preventing him from making his own choices and learning life's essential lessons.

EMDR: Unlocking the Path to Healing 

As a counselor, if Marlin were my client, I would recommend a powerful therapeutic approach known as EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is an extensively researched therapy designed to address trauma and its lasting effects on the mind.

In our counseling sessions, we would begin by compassionately exploring the traumatic memories of Marlin's wife and the emotions associated with that fateful moment. The feelings of hopelessness, weakness, and fear would be validated and examined without judgment.

Unraveling the Tangled Roots: Digging Deeper 

Through the EMDR process, we might also discover if there are earlier experiences in Marlin's life that mirror these intense emotions. Sometimes, unprocessed memories from the past can exacerbate the impact of current traumas. By delving into these deeper layers, we can provide a comprehensive healing experience for Marlin.

EMDR in Action: Healing Trauma's Wounds  

As Marlin processes the traumatic memories and the emotions attached to them, we can gradually witness the transformation within him. EMDR's unique approach allows the mind to reprocess these distressing memories, alleviating their emotional charge and reducing their power to trigger negative reactions.

With each counseling session, Marlin would gain a newfound sense of empowerment and resilience. As the healing unfolds, his fears would no longer dictate his decisions, and he would feel more capable of navigating life's challenges without being weighed down by the past.

You Don't Have to Live Like This: Seek Healing Today 

While Marlin is a fictional character, the struggles he faces are strikingly relatable to many individuals. Like Marlin, some of us may find ourselves carrying the burden of unprocessed traumas, impacting our daily lives and relationships.

If you identify with Marlin's journey or have experienced trauma, anxiety, or depression, know that healing is possible. EMDR therapy offers a ray of hope and transformation. You don't have to navigate the depths of your experiences alone; counseling can guide you towards a brighter and happier future.

As we conclude our reflections on Marlin's story, let's remember that just like this animated fish, we all have the potential to find healing and growth. EMDR therapy is a powerful tool that can help untangle the knots of trauma and free us from the shackles of the past. So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of healing, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can explore the depths of your experiences and help you emerge stronger, resilient, and ready to embrace life with newfound courage.

picture by: media mogul