In the realm of therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has emerged as one of the best approaches to healing trauma for people with a variety of mental health struggles. Initially developed by Francine Shapiro in the late ’80s, EMDR has gained widespread popularity. But what are its processes and benefits?
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a psychotherapeutic approach designed to help people process distressing memories. This reduces their lingering impact on mental health. At its core, EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories are improperly processed and stored in the brain. This contributes to trauma’s negative effects: unhealthy coping methods, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and panic disorders, among other issues.
It uses bilateral stimulation, which just means moving the eyes from one side to the other, guided by a therapist. This eye movement works to reprocess these memories, which allows the brain to store them properly. A person gains a new understanding of the traumatic memory and is no longer negatively affected by it.
What are the Phases of EMDR?
1. History and treatment planning
You and your therapist will explore your history, identifying specific traumatic events that continue to cause you distress. Collaboratively, you’ll work out a treatment plan that outlines the goals of your EMDR sessions.
2. Preparation
Before delving into the trauma reprocessing, your therapist will equip you with coping mechanisms and relaxation techniques to make sure you can maintain emotional stability throughout this process.
3. Assessment
You and your therapist will determine target memories—those traumatic experiences that are most distressing for you. Your therapist will help you explore the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations you associate with each memory.
4. Desensitization
This phase involves bilateral stimulation, often achieved through guided eye movements. As you focus on the traumatic memory, your therapist will direct your eye movements in a rhythmic pattern from side to side. This process allows for the adaptive processing of your memory.
5. Installation
You’ll replace positive beliefs and self-statements with the negative beliefs you associate with traumatic memory. This phase reinforces your self-esteem and resilience, giving you a healthier mindset.
6. Body scan
Your therapist will guide you in a body scan, which helps identify and address any residual tension or discomfort associated with the trauma. This step ensures the healing process goes beyond cognitive restructuring and includes bodily experience.
7. Closure
The session concludes with a review of the day’s work together, ensuring you feel grounded and stable when you leave the room. Your therapist may give you homework assignments, such as journaling or practicing relaxation techniques. This will help you retain the positive effects of your therapy.
8. Reevaluation
Later sessions often begin with a reevaluation of progress, which allows you to gauge the effectiveness of the previous session and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
What are the Benefits of EMDR?
- Efficiency: Compared to traditional talk therapies, EMDR can provide huge results in a shorter time frame. This makes it a great option for those with limited time for therapy.
- The mind-body connection: EMDR acknowledges the interconnectedness of mind and body in trauma. This holistic approach contributes to more comprehensive healing by addressing not only the cognitive aspects of trauma but also its physiological impact.
- Minimization of retraumatization: By providing a controlled environment for memory processing, there’s less likelihood of retraumatization. Its phases and therapist guidance help make sure clients feel supported and safe throughout this process.
Are You Looking for an EMDR Therapist?
Therapists who are specially trained in EMDR are listed in databases provided by the EMDR Institute. If you’re interested in trying out EMDR therapy, search online to find one near you.
To find out more about whether EMDR therapy can help heal your trauma, please reach out to us.
