Have you experienced a life challenge or a trauma that simply has your brain stuck in a never-ending spiral? Many of us can relate to this never-ending spiral experience. However, the good news is that we as humans can overcome many of our challenges. EMDR is empirically supported by science and lots of research. So, what exactly is EMDR? EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. With many years of treatment, EMDR continues to be very successful in treating a plethora of concerns. Some of these concerns include but are not limited to PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, issues with sleeping, grief/loss, and pain. Francine Shapiro is the mastermind behind EMDR, and through many years of research, all beginning from 1987 to the current day, EMDR has become an ideal therapy modality for individuals who prefer minimal talking and more processing. A trained and professionally licensed individual who works in the mental health field can conduct the EMDR practice. The professional will support their client in creating a safe space where healing can begin.
Now let’s get into the mechanics of EMDR. It is said that our thoughts/distressing recollections are stored in the memory and are processed in their unique way. Oftentimes, we are exposed to these stressors, thus causing more continuous distress emotionally and physically. The brain will associate feelings, body sensations, and images with the stressful event(s), thus causing heightened stress and anxiety. EMDR is effective in allowing the thought to come to the surface and allows the individual the time and space to reprocess the stressors in a different way through bilateral stimulation (hand movements or tapping). Memories/thoughts from the past, present, and future are tackled to desensitize the individual to the maladaptive thought or memory. These thoughts are reformed or reborn into a thought or memory that has been resolved. When successful, the individual who has received EMDR treatment can now view the stressful memory or fear as a memory and can experience less fear and anxiety related to stressors. The EMDR approach includes 8 phases to help prepare individuals receiving treatment. The phases are as follows:
- Phases 1: History taking and treatment planning
- Phase 2: Preparation and stabilization
- Phase 3: Target assessment
- Phase 4: Desensitization
- Phases 5: Installation
- Phase 6: Body scan
- Phase 7: Closure
- Phase 8: Reevaluation
Each phase is completed thoroughly and provides time for the client and professional to understand the underlying concerns and develop a method that works best for the client in reprocessing the memories/thoughts. Good rapport and communication are crucial for the EMDR experience. Children and adults will be equipped with proper knowledge and psychoeducation about EMDR to help them through the experience or process. If we can become unstuck from our negative thoughts, views, and memories, we might take a chance on EDMR. It is encouraged to discuss EMDR with trained professionals in the behavioral health field. You might be one step closer to healing.
For more information about EMDR, please visit: About EMDR Therapy – EMDR International Association (emdria.org)
For a visual experience on EMDR see the videos down below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IPsBPH2M1U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLrmZXheY5c
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
Written by Celina Peña