Video courtesy of EMDR International Association.
(EMDR processing sessions are available online through telehealth)
What is EMDR, and how does it work?
EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a psychotherapy approach used to treat traumatic experiences, whether they be major traumatic events or upsetting life experiences. EMDR is well researched and has been proven highly effective in treating people with post-traumatic stress disorder. Many have also found it helpful in addressing other emotional and physical conditions such as depression, anxiety, phobias, addiction, and chronic pain.
When we are extremely distressed, it overwhelms our usual ability to cope so that the brain does not process information as it would normally. Instead, the disturbing event and our stress response to it is stored in a network of associated memories and experiences. The experience becomes “stuck” because the brain is not able to process the images, sounds, smells, emotions, and body sensations that were part of the original event. When this memory network is later triggered, all or part of the traumatic reaction can occur again and again, often with the same degree of intensity. Over time this kind of traumatic stress can have a lasting effect that interferes with the way we see the world and others in it. This type of stress can also impair our body’s ability to maintain physical health. Headaches, digestive problems, insomnia, pain, fatigue, lowered immunity, and other health problems often accompany unresolved trauma and loss.
In an EMDR session, the eye movements support adaptive processing in the memory network so that we no longer “relive” the event when we bring it to mind. We still remember what happened, but it disturbs us less in the present, and we stay more connected to our inner strengths and resources.
Is EMDR right for me?
It is not only major traumatic events, or “large-T traumas” that can cause a psychological disturbance. Sometimes a relatively minor event from childhood, such as being teased by one’s peers or disparaged by one’s parent, may not be adequately processed. Such “small-t traumas” can result in emotional problems and become the basis of current dysfunctional reactions.
How long will EMDR take?
Some people dealing with a single incident of trauma can often resolve the disturbing experience within a few EMDR processing sessions. Others with multiple traumatic events, especially if they took place early in life can need more time to address their treatment goals adequately. In the first several sessions, we will work together to decide on a course of action. We will build trust and coping skills, and prepare for using eye movements to desensitize and reprocess the traumatic memories.
Will I have to talk about the details of what happened to me?
EMDR does not require you to relive the trauma intensely or for a prolonged period. In actual reprocessing, many people get only a glimpse of the original experience. Others may feel a stronger degree of intensity but only for brief moments as the distress decreases quickly on its own. I am trained in techniques to help you lower the emotional intensity and to help you access positive coping when needed.
I’ve heard it’s just based on pseudoscience. Is EMDR a legitimate approach to therapy?
The American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association, U.S. Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs, World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies among many others, highly recommend EMDR as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress. Scientific and clinical evidence continues to show that EMDR is an efficient and effective therapy. Research continues to build on the application of EMDR to other psychological disorders such as specific phobias and panic attacks. Over two million people around the world are estimated to have successfully treated their symptoms and related concerns with EMDR. To read the latest research visit EMDRIA.org.
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