Understanding EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained recognition as an effective psychological treatment for trauma. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is designed to alleviate the stress associated with traumatic memories, aiding in their processing to diminish their ongoing effects (Shapiro, 1989). This blog explores what EMDR is and what clients might expect during a session.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a psychotherapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress linked to traumatic memories. Unlike traditional therapies that focus on altering emotions, thoughts, or behaviors resulting from traumatic experiences, EMDR concentrates on the memory itself, attempting to change how it is stored in the brain to lessen problematic symptoms (Shapiro, 2001).
The principle behind EMDR is analogous to the body’s mechanism for healing physical trauma. Just as the body naturally works to repair a wound unless it is obstructed by debris or infection, the brain too has a natural way of moving towards mental health unless blocked by the impact of a traumatic event (Solomon & Shapiro, 2008).
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy encompasses eight distinct phases, addressing past memories, present disturbances, and future actions necessary for health:
1. History Taking and Treatment Planning: The therapist gathers information on the client's history to identify the specific emotional wounds and devise an appropriate treatment plan.
2. Preparation: The therapist equips the client with strategies to manage emotional distress and explains the EMDR process.
3. Assessment: A specific traumatic memory is selected, and components such as image, cognition, emotion, and body sensation are pinpointed.
4. Desensitization: This involves the use of bilateral stimulation (like guided eye movements) while the client focuses on the traumatic memory, continuing until the memory no longer provokes a distressing response.
5. Installation: The focus shifts to reinforcing positive beliefs associated with the memory.
6. Body Scan: The client scans for residual physical sensations linked to the memory, which are then targeted for reprocessing.
7. Closure: The therapist ensures that the client leaves each session feeling more positive than when they arrived.
8. Reevaluation: At the start of subsequent sessions, progress is reviewed, and future directions for the therapy are determined.
What Can Clients Expect During an EMDR Session?
EMDR sessions typically last between 60 to 90 minutes, during which clients might experience intense emotions—a normal part of the therapeutic process. The therapist will employ techniques like guided lateral eye movements, taps, or tones to facilitate the brain's reprocessing of the trauma (Shapiro, 1995).
Who Can Benefit from EMDR?
Primarily used for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR has also shown effectiveness in addressing:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression
- Stress
- Phobias
- Sleep problems
- Complicated grief
- Addictions
- Pain relief
- Other trauma-related issues
EMDR therapy offers a structured, evidence-based approach to healing from trauma. It can significantly shorten the recovery time compared to other therapeutic methods, providing relief for those haunted by traumatic memories (Shapiro, 2001). If you believe EMDR could be beneficial for you, consulting with a qualified therapist is an essential first step towards recovery.
For more information on how EMDR could help you, please contact our practice. We are committed to supporting your journey to greater mental health resilience.
References
- Shapiro, F. (1989). *Eye movement desensitization: A new treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder*. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 20(3), 211-217.
- Shapiro, F. (1995). *Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures*. Guilford Press.
- Shapiro, F. (2001). *Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, third edition: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures*. Guilford Press.
- Solomon, R. M., & Shapiro, F. (2008). *EMDR and the adaptive information processing model: Integrative treatment and case conceptualization*. Clinical Social Work Journal, 36(3), 265-277.
