EMDR Therapy
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a psychotherapy approach that was developed to help individuals process traumatic experiences and reduce the emotional distress associated with these memories. EMDR was originally developed by Francine Shapiro, PhD and has since gained popularity as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.
Here's what you can expect from EMDR treatment:
Assessment: The first step in EMDR therapy is an assessment, during which the therapist will gather information about your trauma history and current symptoms. This helps the therapist understand your specific needs and tailor the treatment accordingly.
Phases of treatment: EMDR therapy typically consists of eight phases: a. History-taking and treatment planning b. Preparation, where you and your therapist establish a therapeutic relationship and develop coping strategies. c. Assessment, where specific target memories or traumatic events are identified. d. Desensitization, where the processing of the traumatic memories begins using bilateral stimulation, which can involve eye movements, hand taps, or auditory tones. This helps to reduce the emotional charge associated with the memory. e. Installation, where positive beliefs are reinforced to replace negative beliefs associated with the trauma. f. Body Scan, to identify and process any physical tension or sensations related to the trauma. g. Closure, where you will discuss your progress, and the therapist will help you develop self-soothing techniques. h. Reevaluation, in which you and the therapist review your progress and address any remaining issues.
Bilateral stimulation: A key component of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation, which can involve following the therapist's hand movements with your eyes, listening to alternating auditory tones, or feeling tactile sensations such as taps on your hands. This bilateral stimulation is thought to help the brain process traumatic memories more adaptively.
Safety and containment: Throughout EMDR therapy, your therapist will emphasize creating a safe and controlled environment for you to process traumatic memories. They will help you develop coping skills to manage distressing emotions that may arise during the sessions.
Resolution of trauma symptoms: EMDR aims to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the emotional distress and negative beliefs associated with them. As the therapy progresses, you can expect a decrease in the intensity of your trauma symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
Individualized treatment: EMDR is a highly individualized therapy, and the number of sessions required can vary depending on the person and the nature of their trauma. Some individuals may experience significant relief in a relatively short period, while others may require more extensive treatment.
EMDR is primarily known for its effectiveness in treating trauma-related conditions and symptoms. However, it has also been used to address various other psychological and emotional issues, both as a primary treatment or in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches. Here are some of the issues that EMDR can be used to treat:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): EMDR is most commonly associated with the treatment of PTSD. It can help individuals process and reduce the distress associated with traumatic experiences.
Trauma and Trauma-Related Disorders: EMDR can be effective for treating various forms of trauma, including childhood abuse, accidents, combat trauma, natural disasters, and other distressing events.
Anxiety Disorders: EMDR has been used to treat various anxiety disorders, such as phobias, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. It can help individuals address the underlying traumatic experiences or distressing memories that contribute to their anxiety.
Depression: While EMDR is not a first-line treatment for depression, it can be used to address specific traumatic events or negative beliefs that contribute to depressive symptoms.
Grief and Loss: EMDR can assist individuals in processing the grief and loss associated with the death of a loved one, a significant life change, or other distressing events.
Emotional Dysregulation: EMDR can help individuals regulate their emotions and manage overwhelming emotional responses to various triggers.
Self-Esteem and Self-Image Issues: EMDR can be used to address negative self-beliefs and improve self-esteem.
Relationship Issues: EMDR can help individuals process past traumas that affect their relationships, including issues related to trust, attachment, and intimacy.
Performance Anxiety: EMDR can be used to address traumatic or distressing experiences that lead to performance-related anxiety, such as in public speaking or sports.
Phobias: EMDR can be used to target traumatic memories or experiences that contribute to specific phobias and fears.
Chronic Pain and Illness: EMDR can help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological impact of chronic pain or illness.
Interested in trying EMDR? Book a free 15 minute consultation with a licensed therapist to see if EMDR would be a good fit for you.