EMDR therapy in-depth look

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of psychotherapy that was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is a structured eight-phase approach that involves the use of bilateral stimulation techniques, such as eye movements or tapping, to help individuals process traumatic experiences and overcome negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that result from those experiences.

The goal of EMDR is to help individuals process traumatic memories and integrate them into their existing memory network in a more adaptive way. The therapy is based on the theory that when a person experiences a traumatic event, the memory of that event becomes “stuck” in the brain and is not fully processed. As a result, the memory can continue to trigger negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors long after the event has occurred.

EMDR helps individuals to process traumatic memories by focusing on the memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This may involve following a therapist’s fingers with their eyes, listening to a series of sounds, or tapping on alternate sides of the body. The bilateral stimulation is believed to help “unstick” the memory and allow the brain to fully process the experience, leading to a reduction in negative symptoms.

EMDR is typically conducted by a trained therapist in a one-on-one setting, although variations of the technique can be used in group therapy settings or through online therapy. The eight phases of EMDR therapy are as follows:

1. History and Treatment Planning: The therapist will take a detailed history of the individual’s symptoms, identify the specific traumatic memory to be targeted, and create a treatment plan.
2. Preparation: The therapist will teach the individual a variety of coping skills to help them manage any distress that may arise during the therapy.
3. Assessment: The therapist will have the individual focus on the targeted traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
4. Desensitization: The therapist will continue bilateral stimulation while the individual processes the traumatic memory, focusing on the negative emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations associated with the memory.
5. Installation: The therapist will have the individual focus on a positive thought or belief that they would like to have instead of the negative thought or belief associated with the memory.
6. Body Scan: The therapist will have the individual scan their body for any residual tension or negative sensations.
7. Closure: The therapist will help the individual return to a calm state and reinforce any positive beliefs or emotions that emerged during the therapy.
8. Re-evaluation: The therapist will reassess the individual’s symptoms to determine if further therapy is needed.

EMDR has been found to be effective in treating a range of mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias. While it is not appropriate for everyone, EMDR can be a highly effective form of therapy for individuals with trauma-related mental health issues.