For those seeking help with trauma and anxiety, EMDR therapy offers an innovative approach that has shown to be impactful.
Reprocessing the memories through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing has proven to assist countless individuals over the years, and with good reason. Unlike traditional methods, which involve talking about the past, EMDR therapy helps individuals overcome by enabling them to reprocess those experiences.
The purpose of this writing is to explain the essence of EMDR, its functionality, and the reasons it may be the answer you have been looking for.
What Exactly Is EMDR Therapy?
The basis of EMDR lies in the work of one psychologist, Francine Shapiro, who developed it in the late 1980s. While its primary focus was post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR now tackles an array of emotional challenges such as:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression
- Grief and loss
- Phobias
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Substance use and recovery
This form of therapy assists patients in properly filing away disturbing memories that are improperly stored in their brains. Traumatic experiences tend to mentally paralyze an individual. EMDR therapy provides the necessary tools to break free from this mental cage to reclaim movement and progress.
Understanding the Process of EMDR Therapy
EMDR follows an eight-phase strategy, each of which is centered on ensuring that the individual is emotionally ready to handle their healing journey and is supported throughout the process.
1. History and Planning
The therapist collects and analyzes the client’s history and decides which memories from the past require treatment.
2. Preparation
The client will be trained on how to relax as well as how to cope with some of the emotions that will not be controllable during therapy.
3. Assessment
Together, you will select a particular memory that will be the ideal candidate for this work. You will also identify the negative image associated with that memory, such as “I’m not safe” or “I’m powerless.”
4. Desensitization
This is the part where the actual EMDR work is done. The therapist requests that you follow their eyes while they implement other tapping or sound exercises, concentrating on the selected memory. This helps the brain in “reprocessing” that memory in a healthy way.
5. Installation
You will work on strengthening a positive belief, “I am safe now,” to replace the negative one.
6. Body Scan
The therapist looks for any traces of tension or emotional distress that might be associated with the memory.
7. Closure
Every session has to end with some comforting technique in order to help the clients feel calm and collected.
8. Follow-Up
In the next session, you go back to the memory and check to see if the emotional charge has either fully dissipated or at least reduced.
What Separates EMDR From Other Therapies?
Unlike traditional therapy, EMDR is not conversation-based and does not require a lot of talking or analyzing. In fact, you don’t even have to tell them the details of the traumatic event. This is especially useful for those who have difficulty discussing trauma because it is re-triggering or overwhelming.
Another more notable difference is the pace of change. In some types of therapy, change can take years, while most people report noticing some change after just a few sessions of EMDR therapy.
Who Is Most Likely To Find Benefit From EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is not exclusively for people who have been to war zones or experienced major life disasters. EMDR is useful for anyone who has experienced any form of emotional pain or trauma, whether it is a single harrowing event or an ongoing series of hurtful experiences through a prolonged period.
You might benefit from EMDR therapy if:
- You feel as if your mind is stuck in one repetitive cycle of thinking.
- You experience lucid memories of a distressing event.
- You tend to isolate yourself, avoiding people, places and situations.
- You have extreme emotional responses that seem to be out of your control.
- You have had other forms of therapy but remain troubled by your past.
Even if you are unsure whether you have gone through “trauma,” EMDR is efficient when dealing with unsettled feelings alongside unhealthy core beliefs.
Is EMDR Therapy Effective?
Absolutely! EMDR is scientifically supported and recognized internationally. The American Psychological Association, World Health Organization, and the Department of Veterans Affairs endorse its use for PTSD and trauma-related issues.
Research indicates that EMDR is as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of therapy. Many people report feeling lighter, calmer, and more in control of their emotions after just a few sessions.
What Happens During a Session?
Every session begins with a check-in. The therapist will lead you to “bilateral stimulation,” which can include side-to-side eye movement, alternating sounds, or tapping sensations.
Once the memory is activated, your brain begins its work. You might feel different emotions surging, and you could “see” clear images or remember details you had long forgotten. All of this is part of the healing process. You are not experiencing the trauma again; you are safely reprocessing it.
At the end of a session, many people report that the memory feels less vivid and painful. It exists, but it does not provoke the same overwhelming reaction.
Are There Side Effects?
Every therapeutic practice has its risks. In the case of EMDR, some participants may experience unexpected strong emotions. Other participants have reported feeling tired, emotionally, or mentally exhausted. All of this is within the bounds of normal and will likely subside in the next day or two.
As a reminder, to reap the benefits of EMDR, the individual conducting it must be a trained and licensed professional. When done right, it is extremely safe and effective.
How Long Does It Take?
The amount of sessions needed depends on the individual as well as on the depth of the trauma. Some people report feeling better after only a few sessions, while others require several months of consistent sessions.
What feels the most important is having a therapist that you trust and being consistent with your therapy sessions. As with nearly everything in life, the more motivated you are, the greater the outcome that can be achieved in therapy.
EMDR Success Stories: Real People, Real Healing
Through EMDR therapy, lives have been changed – and it can change yours, too. Here are some of the experiences people have had –
“I never realized how much my childhood was still haunting me. EMDR helped me piece the puzzle together and allows me to finally move on.” – Kelly, 34
“The night terrors have ceased. I can now sleep soundly through the night without any distress.” – Jake, 41
“I have’nt believed in therapy intil EMDR showed up. It did give me my life back.” – Maria, 29
These stories are great examples to remind us all that healing is possible – even when it may not feel that way right now.
How to Find an EMDR Therapist
When looking for an EMDR therapist, make sure to ask about their level of training and experience. Try to look for a therapist that is certified by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). Many therapists display this in their bio or credentials online.
An ideal therapist will make you feel safe, respected, and in control. Feel free to book a consultation with them or ask clarifying questions regarding their strategies.
Begin Your Healing Journey With EMDR Therapy At California Mental Health
At California Mental Health, we help people with trauma, anxiety, or any emotional injury using EMDR therapy. Our licensed clinicians are trained in EMDR therapy, which helps our clients heal effectively. No matter if it is a recent incident or a lifetime of pain, we are here to help you find peace and freedom.
Final Thoughts: Moving Forward With EMDR Therapy
Trauma can leave deep scars, but not for a lifetime. EMDR therapy enables you to instead process, heal, and grow. Whether you are dealing with trauma from a single incident or years of struggle, this technique gives you the opportunity to reclaim your life.
If you were looking for real, life-changing results, EMDR therapy could be the solution you were looking for.
At California Mental Health, we believe everyone deserves to heal with dignity and support, so let us help you start that journey today.
