Is EMDR Right for Me?
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based trauma therapy that combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness with neuroscience. It's different from other therapies in that clients do not have to talk about the details of their memories, which can be very freeing for those who've had negative experiences with other processing-based trauma modalities.
The basic idea behind EMDR is that traumatic memories can get "stuck" in the brain's information processing system, leading to psychological distress and reactivity. EMDR relies on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which is a theory that recognizes that your brain stores normal and traumatic memories differently.
If EMDR is done correctly, it can unlock the brain's natural ability to process these memories and help clients heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences.
Although EMDR has its skeptics, there is plenty of science behind the modality to back up its effectiveness. The EMDR Institute cites an extensive body of research demonstrating its efficacy in helping people recover from trauma and PTSD. And ongoing research supports positive outcomes for EMDR in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and even addictions (Maxfield, 2019).
EMDR is Not a One-Session Cure
EMDR therapy uses an eight-phase structured approach that includes:
Phase 1: History taking and treatment planning
Phase 2: Preparation
Phase 3: Assessment
Phases 4-7: Processing
Phase 8: Reevaluation
During the processing phases, the client is instructed to briefly focus on the distressing memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping or tones). The eye movements (thought to be similar to REM) stimulate the brain's information processing system, enabling the person to reprocess the traumatic memory and reduce its emotional charge.
The entire process, starting with a thorough history taking, takes time to work up to and is most effective if the therapist-client relationship is well-established. If your therapist recommends starting EMDR without adequately preparing for it, think twice about making another appointment.
Mind, Body and Spirit
EMDR focuses on the mind's capacity to heal itself and emphasizes the importance of addressing both past traumas and current symptoms. It also recognizes the impact of trauma on the body, as emotional distress can manifest physically in the form of tension and chronic pain. EMDR integrates somatic techniques to release physical tension associated with traumatic memories while cultivating mindfulness, which can help a person stay grounded in the face of life's challenges. Lastly, EMDR supports spiritual growth by helping people reconnect with their inner selves and core values. For some, this can lead to an empowered sense of meaning and purpose.
Not for Everyone
EMDR is a remarkable tool for many clients who need help processing their traumas, both “big T and little t.” However, it's not suitable for everyone. Because EMDR requires that people have a strong sense of security in their lives, clients who are in abusive relationships (or currently experiencing trauma), struggling with acute substance abuse or experiencing housing insecurity may not fully benefit from this therapy.
For a quick look into EMDR, watch this short video. If you'd like to learn more, our trained EMDR therapists are here to help 801-449-0426.