Break Free from Trauma with EMDR Therapy
EMDR is a psychotherapy technique designed to help individuals reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer cause emotional distress. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require discussing the trauma in detail. Instead, it focuses on changing how the brain stores and responds to distressing experiences.
EMDR is endorsed by leading mental health organizations, including:
• The American Psychological Association (APA)
• The World Health Organization (WHO)
• The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy involves bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones, to help the brain process traumatic memories in a healthier way.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
1. History & Treatment Planning
Understanding the client’s background and identifying target memories.
2. Preparation
Teaching relaxation techniques and coping skills to ensure emotional stability.
3. Assessment
Identifying distressing memories and the negative beliefs associated with them.
4. Desensitization
Using eye movements, tapping, or sound to reprocess the traumatic memory.
5. Installation
Replacing negative beliefs with positive, empowering thoughts.
6. Body Scan
Checking for residual distress and ensuring full emotional resolution.
7. Closure
Helping the client return to a calm state at the end of each session.
8. Reevaluation
Reviewing progress and addressing any remaining distress.
What to Expect with EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy is highly effective for individuals struggling with various forms of trauma and emotional distress. It is commonly used to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), childhood trauma or abuse, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, depression, and low self-esteem. Those coping with grief and loss, recovering from sexual assault or domestic violence, or facing trauma related to their roles as first responders or healthcare workers may also find relief through EMDR. Additionally, individuals experiencing stress due to medical conditions or chronic pain can benefit from this evidence-based approach to healing.
During an EMDR session, your therapist will guide you in focusing on a traumatic memory while using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping. This process helps you safely access and reprocess distressing emotions in a controlled, structured way.
Research Related to EMDR Therapy
These studies, among others, highlight EMDR's effectiveness as a therapeutic approach for trauma and related conditions. Ongoing research continues to explore its applications and mechanisms, further establishing its role in mental health treatment.
Effectiveness with PTSD:
A study conducted at Kaiser Permanente reported that 100% of single-trauma victims and 77% of multiple-trauma victims no longer had PTSD after a mean of six 50-minute EMDR therapy sessions. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Benefits for Adults and Children:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder, with support from more than 30 published randomized controlled trials which demonstrate its effectiveness in both adults and children. (research.vu.nl/en)
EMDR and Substance Use:
EMDR is used to treat substance abuse and addiction as well as dual diagnosis. Painful memories and trauma are often triggers to abuse drugs or alcohol. Clients must learn to manage their triggers in order to prevent relapse. (fherehab.com)
Satisfaction and Outcomes:
Most people who complete 1-3 months of weekly 50-90 minute sessions of EMDR show a noticeable improvement in PTSD symptoms. Many people start to notice improvements after a few sessions. (ptsd.va.gov)
EMDR for Cancer Patients:
In randomized, controlled trial published in 2018, researchers found that PTSD, anxiety, and depression rates were significantly lower among women with cancer who received EMDR than among a control group who did not. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)