EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that aims to help individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences. EMDR is based on the understanding that the mind has a natural tendency to integrate our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations related to a particular experience and process these through natural coping mechanisms like, the REM phase of the sleep cycle or through discussions with our friends and family. Most of the time, this process is so innate – we do not even realize that it is happening.
What is EMDR?
When our normal coping mechanisms become overwhelmed via sudden or repeated trauma, however, these experiences may become stuck in the mind and become stored as unprocessed emotional data, rather than processed narrative. When these difficult experiences become stuck in this way, one’s thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations remain intertwined and can be easily triggered by similar stimuli and situations long after the danger of the original experience has passed. These experiences are often quite distressing for clients, so EMDR aims to help clients ‘reprocess’ these traumatic experiences by jump-starting the brain’s natural processing system.
What happens during EMDR?
EMDR therapists and their clients work closely together to determine an appropriate treatment plan and pacing that best suits the client. During EMDR sessions, the therapist guides the client through a structured process that involves recalling distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation that mimics the eye movement of REM sleep. This stimulation can take the form of visually following the therapist’s finger movements, listening to alternating sounds, or feeling gentle tapping or vibrations on a client’s hands.
EMDR aims to help clients ‘reprocess’ these traumatic experiences by jump-starting the brain’s natural processing system.
The bilateral stimulation is believed to help process traumatic memories by activating both sides of the brain, allowing you to reprocess the experiences in a more adaptive way. As a result, the intense emotions and negative beliefs associated with the memories may become desensitized, and new, healthier perspectives can be integrated.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR therapy typically involves eight phases, including:
History-taking & Treatment Planning
In this phase, the therapist and client begin to cultivate a trusting relationship, and enact a treatment plan that determines which traumatic memories are the focus of treatment.
Preparation
The preparation phase is concerned with setting expectations, addressing client questions and concerns, deepening the rapport between client and therapist, and proactively exploring coping techniques that can be used to face any challenging emotions that may arise both during and after treatment.
Assessment
The assessment phase is focused on the memories targeted for re-processing and identifying the thoughts, beliefs, feelings, sensations, etc. that the client associates with them. Baseline measures of the client’s distress regarding the traumatic memory are also set.
Desensitization
In this phase, the therapist and client begin to cultivate a trusting relationship, and enact a treatment plan that determines which traumatic memories are the focus of treatment.
Installation
During the installation phase, a client associates a chosen positive belief with the event and strengthens it until it feels true.
Body Scan
As the name suggests, during this phase a client is asked to think about the traumatic event and mentally scan their body for any signs of disturbance. Steps 4-6 are repeated until the traumatic memory is processed.
Closure
During this phase, the therapist helps the client in returning to a state of calm and here-now awareness. Depending on the success of steps 4-6, closure may be initiated before the target event is completely processed.
Reevaluation
Subsequent sessions begin with reevaluation of previously processed memories to confirm that distress remains low and that the client’s positive associations with the event continue to be strong. It is during this phase that other targets and ongoing treatment plans are discussed.
Throughout the process, the therapist provides support and guidance, but the client remains in control of the pace and content of each session. Overall, EMDR is known for its effectiveness in reducing the impact of traumatic memories, promoting emotional healing, and fostering resilience. It can be a valuable option for individuals seeking relief from distressing experiences and looking to move forward in their lives with greater emotional well-being.
Is EMDR right for me?
Are you ready to take the first step towards a brighter future? Our team of experienced therapists is here to guide you through the transformative journey of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Whether you’re seeking relief from trauma, anxiety, or other emotional challenges, we have several therapists whose approaches combine the power of connection, support, and specialized, evidence-based techniques to help you work to overcome even a lifetime of obstacles and reclaim your life.