People you know may be “in therapy.” People you know may be suggesting therapy to you. But what does that mean? There are so many psychotherapeutic options. One size does not fit all. Thus, it is crucial that you do some homework. Explore the possibilities and see which ones call to you. When you’re in the midst of this research, be sure to check out Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
EMDR is usually a shorter, phased approach. It’s not traditional talk therapy. It does not require medication. As you are about to learn, the EMDR approach is unconventional but proven effective.
What Is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing was designed to help you process traumatic memories. The goal is to literally replace these negative memories with positive thoughts and emotions. For that reason, it is extremely effective for many conditions and issues, e.g.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Anxiety
Depression
Substance Abuse
Treatment takes place in as few as six sessions for a one time trauma, often it can take more. For attachment issues or traumas that happened over a long period of time it can take longer. The basic process encompasses eight phases:
History taking
Preparing the client
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body scan
Closure
Reevaluation of treatment effect
How Does EMDR Work?
After the first few phases are completed, the client is asked to zero in on a specific thought or memory. While the client keeps this focus in mind, the EMDR therapist is moving their hands in a particular way. These movements take place in the client’s field of vision. It’s called “Bi-Lateral Stimulation.” Here’s where the unconventional comes into play.
In a way somewhat similar way to Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, the focus and finger movement combination has a powerful effect. The client is able to resolve feelings that have been stuck for years or even decades. Then, as mentioned above, the client is asked to focus on a positive belief to install in place of the now-processed negative emotion.
3 Ways EMDR Can Help You
1. Trauma Recovery
There are so many forms of trauma. From abuse to natural disasters to losing a loved one to enduring neglect — the list goes on. EMDR empowers you to reorganize the thoughts and beliefs you’ve developed in relation to such experiences. Think of it as memory storage on a computer. You no longer identify as a “trauma survivor.” It’s just part of a much bigger picture.
2. Resiliency
The skills learned via EMDR empower you to more quickly let go of negative thought patterns. You are creating positive shifts and your mindset is evolving. Thanks to EMDR, you are better positioned to manage life’s inevitable, daily stressors. You feel lighter and less burdened by the weight of the past. You’re also able to view the future with optimism.
3. Self-Improvement
Benefits 1 and 2 set you up to release self-limiting beliefs. Yes, you’ve endured bad experiences but that no longer makes you feel unworthy or hopeless. Your internal brief systems move into a place where negative ideas lose their influence over you. You feel more capable, more hopeful, and more adaptable. EMDR helps you create a counter-balance to the long-term power trauma has held over you. The ability to work through traumatic memories during EMDR treatment carries over to guide you through life’s ups and downs.
Learn More About the Healing Power of EMDR
By now, EMDR probably sounds too good to be true. This is precisely why I’m inviting you to reach out and learn more. Prepare your questions and let’s set up a free and confidential consultation. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a unique approach that can offer you release from the wounds that hold you back. I’d love to help guide you through this process and toward a place of recovery. If you’d like to read more about EMDR please click on this link.