How Does EMDR Work?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR) is a popular treatment approach for many mental health concerns. Most notably, it is used to help trauma survivors or those who experience PTSD symptoms. Originally founded in the 1980s, in the last two decades, it has grown in popularity for helping people who have gone through something traumatic.
For those unfamiliar with EMDR, it can seem like a giant mystery. The purpose of this blog post is to go over how EMDR works.
Understanding EMDR
At its core, EMDR is an approach designed to help individuals process distressing memories and experiences. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, typically in the form of guided eye movements, to facilitate the reprocessing of traumatic memories. The process involves eight distinct phases, each contributing to the comprehensive healing journey.
1. History Taking and Treatment Planning
EMDR begins with a thorough assessment of the client's history and the identification of specific target memories. These memories often involve traumatic events that continue to exert a negative influence on the individual's well-being.
2. Preparation
The therapist works with the client to establish a foundation for the EMDR process. This involves building trust, explaining the therapeutic approach, and teaching stress-reduction techniques to ensure the client feels adequately prepared for the emotional work ahead.
3. Assessment
During this phase, the therapist identifies and evaluates specific target memories, exploring associated negative beliefs and emotions. This sets the stage for the subsequent phases where the reprocessing of these memories takes place.
4. Desensitization
The hallmark of EMDR, desensitization involves the bilateral stimulation of the brain through guided eye movements or other forms of rhythmic stimulation. This helps the individual process the traumatic memories, gradually reducing the emotional charge associated with them.
5. Installation
Positive beliefs and emotions are integrated during this phase, helping the individual replace negative self-perceptions with more adaptive and empowering ones. The therapist guides the client in embracing a healthier perspective on the self and the traumatic event.
6. Body Scan
Sensations and tension held in the body are addressed in this phase, allowing the individual to release physical manifestations of trauma. This holistic approach ensures that the healing process extends beyond the cognitive realm to encompass the entire mind-body connection.
7. Closure
The therapist ensures that the client is in a stable emotional state before concluding each session. Techniques are employed to help the individual return to a state of equilibrium, minimizing the risk of emotional overwhelm.
8. Reevaluation
In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client revisit the progress made and address any residual issues or emerging concerns. EMDR is a dynamic process, and adjustments are made as needed to optimize the therapeutic outcomes.
The Science Behind EMDR
While the exact neurobiological mechanisms of EMDR are still a subject of ongoing research, several theories propose explanations for its effectiveness. Bilateral stimulation during the desensitization phase activates both hemispheres of the brain, facilitating the integration of traumatic memories into the larger neural network. This process is believed to mimic the natural mechanism of memory consolidation during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
EMDR offers hope and healing to individuals grappling with the aftermath of trauma. By addressing the connection between memories, emotions, and beliefs, EMDR provides a structured and effective approach to reprocessing distressing experiences.
If you are curious about EMDR and if it is right for you, don't hesitate to reach out to learn more. EMDR therapy might be the missing piece that can help you heal and move forward.
