Understanding EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy used to treat people who have experienced traumatic events. It was devised by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s.

While focusing on a specific traumatic memory or emotion, the therapy employs eye movements, taps, or noises that alternate from one side of the body to the other. The objective is to assist the patient in reprocessing traumatic memories and emotions, so they no longer cause distress or adverse symptoms.

It is an effective treatment for various trauma-related mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and depression. It is typically administered by a trained therapist and may involve multiple sessions, depending on the person’s requirements and objectives.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) typically consists of the following steps:

• History and evaluation: The therapist will first collect information about the patient’s past and current symptoms and any traumatic events they have experienced. This information is used to develop a treatment plan and determine which memories or emotions will be targeted during EMDR therapy.
• Preparation: The therapist will then assist the patient in developing coping strategies and relaxation techniques for therapy. This may involve instructing the patient in deep breathing, visualization, or other relaxation techniques. The therapist will work with the patient to identify a specific traumatic memory or emotion that will be the focus of therapy.
• Desensitization: During this phase, the therapist will ask the patient to concentrate on the target memory or emotion while engaging in rapid eye movements, taps, or sounds that alternate from side to side of the body. Multiple repetitions of this procedure enable the patient to reprocess the traumatic memory or emotion.
• Installation: Once the patient is no longer distressed by the target memory or emotion, the therapist will work to reinforce positive beliefs and feelings associated with the memory.
• Body scan: The therapist will then request that the patient examine their entire body for any lingering physical sensations or discomfort associated with the memory.
• Closure: The therapist will assist the patient in returning to a state of relaxation and provide them with outside-of-therapy coping skills.
• Re-evaluation: The therapist will periodically assess the patient’s progress and determine if additional therapy sessions are required.

Depending on the individual’s requirements and the severity of the trauma being addressed, the number of sessions required for EMDR therapy can vary. It is helpful for several reasons:

• It effectively treats trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and depression. Studies have demonstrated that EMDR can reduce the intensity of traumatic memories and emotions, reducing symptoms.
• Faster results: It often yield faster results than other forms of psychotherapy, with many patients experiencing symptom improvement after only a few sessions.
• Minimal adverse effects: It is generally considered safe and has fewer adverse effects than medications or other forms of treatment.
• Long-lasting outcomes: Many individuals who undertake therapy report long-lasting results, with symptoms improving after the treatment.
• Addressing underlying issues: It can assist in addressing underlying issues associated with trauma, such as negative beliefs or self-talk, which may contribute to ongoing symptoms.
• Individualized treatment: The therapist collaborates with the patient to devise a treatment plan that addresses the patient’s unique concerns and goals.

Overall, the therapy can be a beneficial and effective treatment option for individuals struggling with trauma-related symptoms. To obtain the best results, it is essential to work with a trained therapist with EMDR experience and to adhere to the recommended treatment plan.