In the journey of healing from trauma or other mental health conditions, finding the right therapeutic approach can make a world of difference. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one method that has been making waves in the field of psychotherapy. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has been extensively researched and proven to be highly effective for trauma and other mental health issues. This blog post aims to demystify EMDR for psychotherapy clients, providing a comprehensive overview of what it is, how it works, and what you can expect from the process.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a therapy modality that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic memories. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require clients to discuss their traumatic experiences extensively. Instead, it focuses on the brain's natural healing processes. The core of EMDR involves Bilateral Stimulation (BLS), often through eye movements, taps, or tones, which is believed to help reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional charge. EMDR is one of the top evidence-based practices to treat PTSD per SAMHSA and the VA.
What is the EMDR process?
1. History Taking
The EMDR therapy process begins with a thorough assessment by an EMDR-trained or certified therapist. They will gather your history and begin rapport development. You will work on creating a list of experiences to be targeted, as well as current triggers and how you want to respond to those triggers in the future. All three of those memory experiences will be addressed using the 8-phase protocol, not just the memories alone.
2. Preparation
In Phase 2, you will be more fully introduced to the EMDR theory and gain an understanding of the next several phases. You will choose a BLS and stop signal to use. The therapist will help you with some guided resourcing activities (e.g., Container, Calm/Safe Space) and emotion regulation skills.
3. Assessment
Once you're prepared, the therapist will help you identify a specific memory or experience off your target list to reprocess. You'll answer a series of questions to activate the memory such as a negative belief about oneself, a positive belief, distressing emotions a few rating scales, and body sensations..
4. Desensitization
During the desensitization phase, you will focus on the targeted memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This could involve following the therapist's fingers with your eyes, listening to alternating sounds, or feeling taps on your hands. The goal is to reduce the vividness and emotional intensity of the memory.
5. Installation
After the desensitization phase, the therapist will help you install positive beliefs to replace the negative ones associated with the traumatic memory. This strengthens your sense of self and fosters a more adaptive understanding of the experience. Phase 5 is typically shorter than Phase 4.
6. Body Scan
In this phase, you will be guided to scan your body for any residual tension or distress. This helps ensure that the memory has been fully reprocessed and integrated.
7. Closure
Each session concludes with closure, ensuring you feel grounded and safe before leaving.
8. Reevaluation
In subsequent sessions, the therapist will reevaluate the progress and address any new targets that may arise.
What to Expect During EMDR Therapy Sessions
EMDR therapy sessions typically last between 60 to 90 minutes. The number of sessions required varies depending on the complexity of your issues and the severity of your trauma. Some clients may experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may need longer treatment.
It's normal to feel a range of emotions during and after EMDR therapy sessions. You might experience temporary discomfort or fatigue as you process distressing memories, but this is a part of the healing journey. Your therapist will provide support and strategies to help you manage these feelings through resourcing exercises.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
✔️ Effective for Trauma:
EMDR is particularly effective for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.
✔️ Effective for Other Mental Health Conditions:
As long as you can identify memory targets of phobias, depression, substance use, etc, EMDR has expanded protocols.
✔️ Effective for Pain Relief:
EMDR can be a tool for reducing physical pain and even phantom limb pain.
✔️ Holistic Healing:
By addressing the root cause of distressing symptoms, EMDR promotes holistic healing and long-term recovery. EMDR targets all the main ways we store memories (the event, emotions, cognitions about yourself, and body sensations).
✔️ Minimal Talking:
EMDR does not require you to talk extensively about your trauma, making it a less invasive option for those who find it difficult to verbalize their experiences.
✔️ Faster Results:
Many clients experience significant improvements in a relatively short period compared to traditional therapy methods. EMDR can take longer, though, for childhood trauma, complex PTSD, and longer memory target lists.
EMDR offers a transformative approach to healing trauma and other psychological issues. By leveraging your brain's natural ability to process and integrate memories, EMDR can help you move past your trauma and lead a more fulfilling life. If you're considering EMDR, it's essential to work with a trained EMDR therapist who can guide you through the process safely and effectively. Lindsay, Debra, and Kaylin currently provide EMDR, and Van and Maggie will be ready to see clients for non-complex trauma therapy in August 2024 while they are in the training process.
Remember, healing is a journey, and EMDR is one of many paths you can take. With the right support and determination, you can find peace with your past and embrace a brighter future.
Kommentare