EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy that was originally developed to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It has since been found to help with overall challenges related to depression, anxiety, rumination, addiction, and much more.
EMDR is based on the idea that past/traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in the brain and cause ongoing emotional and psychological distress. The goal of EMDR is to help the individual process the challenging experience in a safe and controlled environment, so that it no longer has a negative impact on their daily life.
The power of EMDR lies in its ability to help individuals reprocess challenging memories and develop more positive beliefs about themselves and their abilities. By doing so, EMDR can reduce symptoms of PTSD, improve self-esteem and emotional resilience, and promote personal growth and well-being.
EMDR typically involves the following steps:
Preparation:
The therapist works with the individual to develop resources and establish a safe, comfortable environment for the therapy sessions.
Assessment
The therapist helps the individual identify either current challenges or specific traumatic memories or experiences that they would like to process during the therapy sessions.
Desensitization
The therapist uses a combination of eye movements, sounds, or other forms of bilateral stimulation (BLS) to help the individual process the traumatic memory in a safe and controlled way.
Installation
The therapist helps the individual develop positive beliefs or self-statements to replace negative thoughts or beliefs associated with the traumatic memory.
Body scan
The therapist helps the individual scan their body for any physical sensations or discomfort associated with the traumatic memory, and uses techniques such as deep breathing or relaxation exercises to help the individual manage these sensations.
Closure
The therapist helps the individual process any residual emotions or sensations associated with the challenging or traumatic memory, and helps the individual develop a plan for self-care between therapy sessions.
Overall, EMDR has been statistically shown to be an incredibly efficacious treatment for trauma and PTSD, as well as host of challenging conditions. The eye movements and other forms of bilateral stimulation used in EMDR are believed to help the brain process old, stuck, or traumatic memories more effectively, and can lead to a reduction in symptoms and an overall improvement in emotional well-being.