What is EMDR in Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of psychotherapy that assists individuals in healing from emotional distress caused by upsetting life events. It’s present-focused and works to reduce symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health disorders by altering how the brain stores traumatic memories.
In EMDR, the therapist collaborates with the client to identify negative thoughts, emotions and body sensations connected to a specific memory that is causing them distress. At this stage, bilateral stimulation (alternating rapid eye movements and other external stimuli) takes place as part of the therapy protocol for helping the brain process traumatic memories more quickly.
Once a client has identified a traumatic memory, their therapist helps them recall it without becoming distressed. At this stage, the client may be asked to write down any negative thoughts or feelings associated with that specific memory.
This step in EMDR therapy is essential, as it allows the therapist to identify any negative beliefs related to that memory that are causing distress for the client. If so, they will assist the client in replacing those negative thoughts with positive ones.
Next, the therapist will ask the client to recall how they felt when an event occurred. Furthermore, they may inquire into any modifications made in their lives as a result of that experience.
The therapist will then instruct the client to focus on negative thoughts, emotions and body sensations while following specific eye movements. These could include tapping or other forms of audio stimulation.
These stages of the EMDR process are crucial as they allow the therapist to identify which traumatic memories are causing a client distress and provide insight into what needs further work in future sessions.
Experience is the most crucial factor when searching for an EMDR therapist. Look for one with extensive trauma experience and is EMDRIA certified – this indicates they hold license in their independent mental health practice with at least two years of EMDR expertise.
It is essential to find an EMDR therapist who fits you perfectly and who will work with you on your unique trauma history. You should feel secure and at ease during each therapy session so that healing can begin.
You may choose an EMDR therapist who is close by and with a good reputation in the field. To find one near you, check with organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, EMDRIA or Psychology Today for more details.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy used to address psychological and physical problems like PTSD, panic disorders, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and addictions. It often works in combination with talk therapy or other types of therapies in order to maximize its efficacy.