Over my years as a therapist I've worked with several individuals throughout Utah who feel stuck in talk therapy. They express that they know things but they still don't feel them. Many of them have experienced childhood trauma, sexual abuse, or a traumatic birth. They may know they are worthy of love but their brain has not accepted it. They may understand that they are safe but they never quite feel it. When, despite adaptive thinking styles and good coping skills you feel stuck, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) may be able to help you feel and believe the things you know.
Exploring EMDR Therapy: A Guide to Understanding Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR is a therapeutic approach that has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions, particularly Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has since been widely studied and implemented by mental health professionals worldwide. Studies have found that up to 80% of people who do EMDR therapy are no longer experiencing trauma symptoms after 3 sessions.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR is based on the premise that traumatic experiences can overwhelm the brain's natural coping mechanisms, leading to the persistence of distressing memories and associated negative emotions. The therapy aims to help individuals process these memories and alleviate their emotional impact. For even quicker results, EMDR intensive therapy can be used in 3-15 hour treatment plans.
The core components of EMDR typically include:
Assessment and Preparation: The therapist assesses the client's history and current symptoms to determine if EMDR is suitable. They also prepare the client for the therapy process, explaining what to expect and ensuring they have coping strategies in place.
Desensitization Phase: During this phase, the client is asked to focus on specific aspects of the traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This can involve following the therapist's fingers with their eyes, listening to alternating tones through headphones, or tapping on alternate sides of the body.
Installation Phase: Positive beliefs and emotions are integrated to replace negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory.
Body Scan: The therapist helps the client notice any residual tension or discomfort in their body related to the trauma, using bilateral stimulation to process and release these sensations.
Closure: At the end of each session, the therapist ensures the client feels grounded and calm. They may teach additional coping skills for managing any emotions that arise between sessions.
What Makes EMDR Effective?
EMDR is believed to work by stimulating the brain's natural healing mechanisms, facilitating the reprocessing of traumatic memories. The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR is thought to help the brain process information more thoroughly, potentially reducing the intensity of emotional and physical reactions to traumatic memories over time.
What Conditions Can EMDR Treat?
While EMDR is most commonly associated with PTSD, it has also been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
Anxiety disorders
OCD
Depression
Phantom limb pain
Postpartum Mood disorders
Specific Phobias
Personality disorders
EMDR therapy offers hope to individuals struggling with the aftermath of trauma by providing a structured approach to processing and integrating distressing memories. While it may not be suitable for everyone, numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
If you or someone you know is considering EMDR therapy, it's essential to consult with a qualified mental health professional who is trained in this approach. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and determine whether EMDR is appropriate based on individual needs and circumstances. Consider reaching out to us at Peaceful River Counseling. We serve cities all across Utah Including Salt Lake City, Saint George, Provo, Lehi, Logan, and more.
By understanding the principles and potential benefits of EMDR, we can continue to support advancements in trauma treatment and help more individuals reclaim their lives from the grip of past traumas.
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