Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy Explained

The widespread impact of trauma, anxiety, and PTSD is an emotional burden that can persist for years. However, there is a do therapeutic remedy that hopes to restore well-being – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) – which has already helped hundreds of people recover from the shackles of trauma. In this article, we will discuss basics of EMDR, its processes, and what makes it successful in treating trauma, PTSD, and anxiety related disorders.

What Is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

EMDR is one of the eight psychotherapy types that was created in 1980s by Dr. Francine Shapiro. Its main purpose is to help those who have experienced trauma as well as people with PTSD and other emotional disorders get the help they need.

The main component of EMDR therapy is bilateral stimulation, often achieved through guided eye movements, but can also include sound or touch stimuli. This active stimulation sought aids in memory retrieval and diminishes the psychological impact traumatic events have on the user for easier recollection.

How EMDR Therapy Works

There are eight phases to the EMDR therapy, each of which is meant to guide the patient through their trauma and emotional distress. This is the process outline:

History Taking: The therapist documents your past trauma alongside a treatment plan.
Preparation: The therapist aids in building coping strategies for emotional pain that may arise in the course of treatment.
Assessment: Targeted memories are retrieved along with the negative beliefs associated with them.
Desensitization: The traumatic memory is processed using bilateral stimulation in the form of eye movements.
Installation: Negative thoughts and beliefs are replaced with positive ones and are validated.
Body Scan: The therapist pinpoints any remaining physical tension related with trauma and works on the release.
Closure: Final steps of restoring emotional equilibrium is done to close the session.
Re-evaluation: Subsequent sessions will monitor the progress of the treatment plan.

With therapy EMDR entails multiple sessions and will vary from one individual to another in the number of required sessions.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR?

EMDR therapy deals effectively with a wide range of issues, primarily those relating to trauma. The following groups may benefit from EMDR therapy:

People with PTSD

EMDR is particularly popular with people who have suffered trauma like veterans, sexual assault survivors, and victims of childhood abuse.

People with Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety also can be treated with EMDR by helping patients work through negative memories and beliefs that increase anxiety.

Children and Adults

EMDR therapy can be done with both younger and older children. With younger kids, therapists may incorporate games to help them process trauma.

Anyone Who Has Experienced Emotional Distress

EMDR can address emotional pain and facilitate recovery caused by a car accident, a natural disaster, or any alarming event.

Research & Endorsements

The treatment has been accepted by leading health institutions globally. The American Psychological Association (APA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the VA also accept EMDR as effective therapy for PTSD and trauma-related cases.

Almost everyone experiences significant relief after just a few sessions, attesting to the therapy’s efficacy. Research claims that EMDR is as effective as other talk therapies but has the advantage of addressing the trauma’s roots more quickly.

Eye Movement Desensitization Versus Other Therapies

EMDR is unique in the way that it confronts the memories of trauma directly making use of the body’s innate ability to heal. Unlike other therapies which aim to treat PTSD and trauma, EMDR stands out for working on the memories themselves.

EMDR vs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT requires an individual to actively shift their thoughts. EMDR allows the brain to work through trauma without needing to describe it in detail every time a session is conducted. EMDR is often quicker and less distressing than conventional therapies.

EMDR vs Exposure Therapy: Combat the trauma to lessen distress. Both focus on this premise. However, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to enable processing of trauma on an anatomical level which is more productive. This, in turn, facilitates quicker results.

Finding a Qualified EMDR Therapist

In searching for an EMDR therapist, make sure to check if he or she has been trained and certified by bodies such as the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). With this certification, you can be sure that the therapist has undergone thorough training in EMDR, and that he or she observes professional conduct.

You may search for EMDR therapists in your locality or opt for EMDR therapy online, which is a preferred mode of therapy for many people nowadays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is EMDR Safe?

Yes, EMDR therapy is safe and has undergone extensive research. It is scientifically backed and endorsed by mental health institutions across the globe.

How Long does EMDR Take?

The duration of the treatment varies with the person and the severity of the trauma. Most clients begin seeing results after 6-12 sessions.

Does EMDR Work for Everyone?

Though EMDR is one of the most useful therapies for a vast number of people, it does not work for everyone. Various factors including one’s history of trauma as well as their participation in the therapeutic process influences the success of the therapy.

Trauma, PTSD, anxiety and any emotional wounds can be treated using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as it is highly effective. It is helpful for people seeking to mend their emotional scars and attain emotional stability. Ensure to reach out to a certified EMDR therapist if you are interested in learning more about the benefits of EMDR therapy.

Are you searching for EMDR therapy in your area? Start the first step of healing by working with a certified EMDR EMDR professional.