EMDR Therapy
What Is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, often simply known as EMDR, involves a therapist guiding a client with bilateral stimulation to notice where they’ve been holding on to somatic tension. This could include finger tapping or guided eye movements. During sessions, the client gradually releases the physical tension that has accumulated as a result of their trauma by reprocessing distressing emotions and memories. EMDR can reduce one’s physical and emotional symptoms associated with past trauma so that these stressors and symptoms no longer interfere with their daily life.
EMDR was originally developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the 1980s, and since then, it has been widely used to treat various mental health conditions (1). An abundance of studies support the effectiveness of EMDR. Compared to other forms of therapy, people undergoing EMDR tend to experience relief from their symptoms on a faster timeline, allowing them to rebuild their lives sooner after trauma (2).
EMDR does not require people to explain their specific traumatic experiences in depth. Instead, this modality involves a body-based, somatic approach. People can hold on to trauma in their bodies without necessarily being aware of it, which disrupts their daily lives and makes it harder to form healthy relationships. Through EMDR, one can learn how to soothe and regulate their nervous system, gain a sense of inner calm, and begin choosing how to handle situations in ways that honor their values rather than reacting reflexively.
How Does The EMDR Therapy Process Work?
EMDR therapy consists of eight specific phases. To begin, the client will share some details of their experience with the therapist, as well as their specific triggers to help the therapist develop a treatment plan. Next, the therapist will take time to ensure that their client has the tools they need to maintain awareness throughout sessions while regulating their emotions so that they don’t feel overwhelmed when they revisit past experiences.
In phase three, the client will be prompted to visualize their memories, including any particular beliefs, images, or physical sensations associated with the event. To start phase four, the therapist will use bilateral stimulation, such as rapid eye movement, while encouraging the client to share their emotions and any physical feelings they might be experiencing. During phase five, the client will focus on new, positive ideas to form beneficial associations with the event and gradually shift their thought patterns. Phase six includes a body scan to reduce any remaining physical discomfort, and the client will relax and reflect on the session during phase seven. Finally, the therapist and client will decide which memory to target for the next session in phase eight.
A therapist can also incorporate other modalities into treatment plans that include EMDR. For example, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can guide people in modulating their emotions, while Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help people practice compassion for their past and present self.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy?
People who have lived through a single traumatic incident or who are struggling with complex trauma due to a series of traumatic events can find relief through EMDR, making it useful for people who are suffering because of past trauma or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as well as those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, phobias, or panic disorders.
EMDR is particularly beneficial for people who are hesitant to pursue traditional talk therapy because they would prefer not to share intimate details of their trauma or those who have tried talk therapy to heal from trauma yet made little to no progress during sessions. Ultimately, EMDR can help people break free from the past and gain agency over their own futures.
My Background In EMDR Therapy
I have been providing therapy services to clients since 1999, and while working with clients in addiction recovery, I realized that people receiving EMDR were more successful in maintaining their sobriety, developing healthier relationship patterns, and committing to other beneficial lifestyle changes. I worked alongside multiple EMDR counselors throughout my career. And after listening to their positive experiences using this modality to treat clients, I was inspired to pursue training and begin offering EMDR within my solo practice. I completed EMDR training through EMDRIA in 2023, and I am currently receiving ongoing consultation to deepen my understanding and knowledge of this modality.
Why I Offer EMDR Therapy
Over the course of my career as a therapist, I have seen the powerful benefits of EMDR for individuals and couples dealing with a wide range of challenges. For example, EMDR can be integrated into couples counseling to help both partners work through past trauma that is affecting their relationship in the present.
I also support many neurodivergent clients who have often dealt with complex trauma within their families of origin, at school, or in personal relationships. EMDR can assist neurodivergent individuals in designing lives that truly support their unique needs. Overall, it’s not uncommon for clients to find themselves making faster progress in therapy with EMDR, but ultimately, this process can still be adapted so that individuals can process trauma at their own pace.
You Can Let Go Of Past Trauma
If you’re interested in learning whether EMDR might be right for you, I invite you to fill out my scheduling form to book a free 15-minute consultation or schedule a therapy session.
Recent Posts
