EMDR Therapy: What is it and how does it work?
Curious about EMDR?
This blog post will discuss the definition of EMDR, how EMDR works, and the types of concerns that EMDR can address. We’ll also dive into what an EMDR session looks like and a case study that can help you decide if EMDR could be right for you.
As always, please reach out to a trained therapist if you’re interested in beginning EMDR therapy. You can also explore an At-Home EMDR therapy resource that I created and can be purchased on Etsy.
EMDR: A Path to Healing Trauma and Loss
As a trauma and grief therapist, I know the incredible strength people possess to overcome challenges.
Every day, I sit with folks who have experienced some of the worst that life can throw and I’m honored to hold space for feelings of deep pain, terror, and abandonment.
On the other side, I get to be with the creativity, curiosity, and courage that has been there all along.
I see how deeply traumatic experiences and losses can impact your life. I’m really not one to say “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Trauma and loss can leave emotional scars that make it difficult to feel safe, peaceful, and joyful.
The good news is, there's effective help available, and EMDR therapy could be a powerful tool for your healing journey.
EMDR Therapy: Definition and Process
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a unique form of psychotherapy designed to address the emotional distress tied to disturbing or traumatic memories, especially visual memories. These experiences can range from a recent car accident, abusive parents, bullying, a traumatic loss, or a combat deployment.
What Makes EMDR Different?
While there are many different kinds of therapy that might be effective for grief and trauma, EDMR therapy for trauma stands out as a promising method.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR goes beyond simply discussing your experiences and trying to use logic and reason to change your reactions. It incorporates bilateral stimulation, which involves stimulating both sides of your body to address deep trauma that talking alone just can’t touch.
This can be done through eye movements (following a video back and forth), tapping, or auditory tones with music. While the science behind it is still evolving, the bilateral stimulation is believed to activate a process similar to what happens during REM sleep, when your brain naturally processes and consolidates memories and emotions.
A Collaborative Path to Healing
EM DR therapy is a collaborative process between you and me. Here's a glimpse into what a typical EMDR session might look like:
Assessment: We'll begin by discussing your needs and goals in a safe and supportive environment. Together, we'll determine if EMDR is a suitable approach for you. We'll also identify a specific target memory or negative belief related to the trauma or loss you're experiencing.
Preparation: Your emotional well-being is a priority. Before we delve into the memory, I'll teach you relaxation techniques, often called “resourcing” to help you manage any discomfort that may arise during the session.
Desensitization and Reprocessing: Now comes the heart of EMDR. While you focus on the target memory or belief, I'll guide you through bilateral stimulation. By revisiting the memory in a safe and controlled environment, you can begin to process the emotional charge associated with it.
This is where the healing happens – you might experience new insights, discomfort, shifts in perspective, or a lessening of the emotional intensity attached to the memory.
Integration: As the memory is reprocessed, we'll work together to integrate these positive changes into your overall life story. This can involve identifying and replacing any negative beliefs or self-perceptions with more empowering ones.
Evaluation: Following each session, we'll evaluate your progress and determine if further EMDR sessions are needed to address other memories or beliefs.
Continuing Support:
What Can You Expect from EMDR Therapy?
EMDR can be a powerful tool for healing, and it's important to have realistic expectations.
Here's what you might experience:
Reduced emotional intensity: Over time, the emotional charge associated with the traumatic memory may lessen.
Shifts in perspective: You might gain new insights into the experience, leading to a more empowering understanding of yourself and the event.
Improved emotional regulation: You might develop healthier coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult emotions.
Reduced avoidance: You might feel less compelled to avoid situations or reminders of the trauma.
It's important to remember that EMDR is not a quick fix.
The number of sessions will vary depending on your individual circumstances and the complexity of your trauma and grief. However, many people report feeling significant improvements in their overall well-being after EMDR therapy.
EMDR Therapy: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Approach
While EMDR can be highly effective for many people, it's not always the right fit for everyone. Here are some things to consider:
Some people may find revisiting traumatic memories emotionally challenging. If you're unsure about EMDR, we can discuss alternative approaches.
EMDR therapy requires active participation. Your willingness to engage in the process is crucial for its success.
EMDR therapy requires “activation.” People who are completely shut down or numb might need extra preparation and resourcing.
Certain mental health conditions might require additional treatment approaches alongside EMDR.
Taking benzos like Xanax shortly before an EMDR session can block the effects of EMDR.
Case Study: EMDR Therapy for Childhood Abuse Trauma
Background: The client is mid 30s, with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These struggles were linked to a history of childhood abuse. They reported experiencing emotional flashbacks, nightmares, and difficulty trusting others.
Treatment Approach: After a thorough assessment, we decided to pursue EMDR therapy to address the emotional distress related to childhood abuse trauma.
Session Focus: We chose to target a specific early memory that seemed to be a significant contributor to the current struggles. This memory involved a physical assault by a caregiver during the client's childhood.
Desensitization and Reprocessing:
Preparation: We practiced and used relaxation/resourcing techniques to address and soothe emotional discomfort that might arise during the session.
Focusing on the memory: The client focused on the visual image, emotions (fear, terror, helplessness), and bodily sensations (trembling, rapid breathing) associated with the memory of the assault.
Bilateral stimulation: While the client maintained focus on the memory, we used bilateral stimulation using eye movements (a youtube video that I have found really successful for online EMDR therapy).
Processing: As the session progressed, the client reported experiencing intense emotions but also started to detach from the memory. They began to truly beleive the caregiver's actions as wrong and not a reflection of their own worth.
Positive Cognition: The client developed a more empowering belief: "I am a strong person who survived a difficult experience. It was not my fault."
Integration: The client visualized themselves feeling safe and in control in the present moment. They also imagined future situations where they could assert healthy boundaries and protect themselves.
Evaluation: After the session, the client reported feeling a decrease in the emotional intensity associated with the memory. While some emotional processing remained, there was a shift towards self-compassion and empowerment.
Following Sessions:
Over the course of several EMDR sessions, the client continued to target other memories and negative beliefs linked to the childhood abuse trauma. The therapist also incorporated cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help the client manage negative thoughts and develop coping mechanisms for anxiety and depression.
Outcome: After EMDR therapy, the client reported significant improvements in their mental health. The emotional flashbacks and nightmares became less frequent and distressing. They developed healthier coping mechanisms for managing anxiety and depression.
Most importantly, the client reported feeling a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence.
Important Note:
This is a brief case study and doesn't depict the entirety of the client's treatment. EMDR therapy is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches to address complex trauma including IFS therapy and somatic therapy.
Taking the First Step Towards Healing
If you're curious to learn more about EMDR or explore if it's right for you, please reach out. I offer a free consultation where we can discuss your specific needs and answer any questions you might have.
