Glad you asked. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a psychotherapy process that aims to alleviate distressing symptoms associated with traumatic memories or other disturbing life experiences. EMDR is a well-established, extensively researched, and a widely used therapy technique.
EMDR if done correctly, will not “re-traumatize” you. The process does not require you to verbally explore or re-live your distressing experiences in great detail during therapy. EMDR is a structured approach that utilizes fragments of your traumatic memories combined with bilateral stimulation (eye movements side to side, or sound, or tapping) to help you visit distressing events in a less disturbing way. During this process the brain’s information processing system naturally moves toward mental health. If the system is blocked by the impact of a disturbing event, intense suffering may occur. Once the block is removed during the EMDR processing, healing can resume.
EMDR therapy can be used for:
- Trauma, PTSD and stress-related issues
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
- Performance anxiety
- Sexual assault
- Depression
- Grief and loss
- Sleep issues
- Pain or chronic illness
- Dissociative disorders
Here’s a simplified explanation of how EMDR therapy works:
EMDR Assessment and Preparation: The therapist first conducts an assessment to understand the client’s history, symptoms, and identify the traumatic memories or distressing experiences that will be targeted in therapy. The therapist also helps the client develop coping skills and relaxation techniques to ensure they are adequately prepared for the therapy process.
EMDR Target Identification: The client and therapist work together to identify specific memories or aspects of the traumatic event that will be the focus of the EMDR treatment. These targets may include visual images, negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations associated with the distressing experience.
EMDR Desensitization: During the desensitization phase, the client holds the targeted memory or experience in mind while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This bilateral stimulation can be achieved through various techniques, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds. The purpose of bilateral stimulation is to activate both sides of the brain and facilitate the processing and integration of the distressing memory.
EMDR Processing: As the bilateral stimulation continues, the client allows their mind to freely associate and process the memory. The therapist does not direct the client’s thoughts or control the content that arises. The client may experience a range of emotions, sensations, or insights during this phase. The goal is to facilitate the natural adaptive processing of the traumatic memory, allowing it to be integrated with more adaptive and positive information.
EMDR Installation: In this phase, the therapist helps the client strengthen positive beliefs, self-esteem, and adaptive coping strategies to replace the negative beliefs or self-perceptions associated with the traumatic memory. The client may imagine or visualize a preferred positive outcome related to the distressing experience.
EMDR Body Scan: The therapist guides the client in scanning their body to ensure that any remaining tension, discomfort, or distress associated with the traumatic memory has been fully resolved. If any residual distress is present, further processing may be necessary.
EMDR Closure: At the end of each session, the therapist ensures the client is in a stable state and helps them develop techniques for self-soothing and managing any emotions that may arise between sessions.
EMDR Reevaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client review progress and assess the impact of the EMDR therapy on the targeted memories. Additional targets may be identified and processed until the distress associated with the original traumatic event is significantly reduced or resolved.
It’s important to note that this is a simplified overview, and the actual process can vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. EMDR therapy has been found effective in reducing symptoms related to trauma, but it’s essential to work with a trained and qualified therapist who can provide appropriate guidance and support throughout the process.
I am in the preliminary stages toward becoming certified in EMDR therapy, contact me today if you are located in Austin or Texas and you want to explore working together and explore if EMDR might be an option for your therapy goals.
Visit the EMDR International Association website to learn more.