The EMDR Basics & How it Helps
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is especially effective for treating trauma and trauma-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is a research-driven treatment widely accepted in the mental health space as the gold standard for treating trauma.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a structured therapy designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Unlike traditional treatment methods, EMDR does not rely on talking or CBT-informed interventions (such as worksheets). At Sona Collective, we combine somatic therapy interventions with EMDR to integrate awareness of the body so that the nervous system becomes regulated. EMDR is known for using bilateral stimulation (in our office, we use a device that buzzes from the right to left hand) to help the brain make sense of and properly store traumatic experiences.
EMDR therapy is based on the idea that trauma can overwhelm the brain’s natural ability to process information, causing distressing memories to become “stuck” and improperly integrated. These unprocessed memories can lead to symptoms such as flashbacks, depression, nightmares, anxiety, and emotional numbness. EMDR aims to help the brain reprocess these memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing for healthier cognitive and emotional responses.
The Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR follows eight phases. It begins with history-taking to identify target memories, followed by preparation where the process is explained and distress management techniques are taught. In assessment, the client focuses on a specific memory, identifying distressing images and beliefs. During desensitization, the client recalls the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation until it becomes less distressing. Installation strengthens positive beliefs and the body scan at the end checks for residual tension in the body. Sessions will always close with any additional grounding necessary for the client’s nervous system to be regulated enough to end. Reevaluation in following sessions review progress and set new targets for future sessions.
How Does EMDR Work?
The exact mechanisms behind EMDR’s effectiveness are not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed. One prevailing theory suggests that the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR mimics the natural eye movements that occur during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, a phase of sleep involved in memory consolidation and processing. By engaging in these eye movements while recalling traumatic memories, the brain may be able to reprocess and integrate these memories more effectively.
Another theory posits that EMDR helps activate the brain’s inherent information processing system, allowing for the resolution of trauma similar to how the brain naturally processes less distressing experiences. Regardless of the precise mechanisms, numerous studies have demonstrated that EMDR can significantly reduce the symptoms of various trauma-related conditions.
Conditions Treated by EMDR
Originally developed to treat PTSD in veterans, EMDR has since been applied to a wide range of psychological conditions. Some of the primary conditions that EMDR can effectively treat include:
PTSD: EMDR is particularly well-known for its effectiveness in treating PTSD. It helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories, reducing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
Anxiety Disorders: EMDR can be beneficial for individuals suffering from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and specific phobias. By addressing the underlying traumatic experiences that contribute to anxiety, EMDR can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall functioning.
Depression: Trauma and unresolved negative experiences can often contribute to depression. EMDR can help individuals reprocess these experiences, leading to a reduction in depressive symptoms and an improvement in mood.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): For some individuals, OCD may be linked to traumatic experiences. EMDR can help address these underlying traumas, potentially reducing the severity of OCD symptoms.
Complex Trauma (CPTSD): Individuals who have experienced multiple traumatic events, such as childhood abuse or prolonged exposure to violence, can benefit from EMDR. The therapy can help process and integrate these complex experiences, leading to improved emotional regulation and resilience.
Addiction and Substance Abuse: Trauma often plays a significant role in the development of addiction and substance abuse disorders. EMDR can help individuals address the traumatic roots of their addiction, facilitating recovery and reducing the likelihood of relapse.
Grief and Loss: The loss of a loved one can be a profoundly traumatic experience. EMDR can help individuals process their grief, reducing the intensity of painful emotions and promoting healing.
Chronic Pain: Some individuals experience chronic pain that is exacerbated or maintained by unresolved trauma. EMDR can help reduce the emotional distress associated with chronic pain, potentially leading to improvements in pain management.
Next Steps
EMDR is a powerful and versatile therapeutic approach that has helped countless individuals overcome the debilitating effects of trauma. By facilitating the reprocessing of traumatic memories, EMDR can reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and various other conditions.
As our understanding of EMDR continues to evolve, it holds promise for even broader applications in the field of mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of trauma, consider exploring EMDR as a potential path to healing and recovery.
To learn more about how EMDR may benefit you, schedule a complimentary consultation phone call. Our therapist(s) may recommend a combination of EMDR, somatic therapy, and/or ketamine therapy for maximum benefits, all of which are clinically proven to treat trauma and trauma-related symptoms. You may also want to check out other EMDR blog posts to learn more!