EMDR therapy, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, is a powerful method designed to address the impact of traumatic experiences and other distressing life events. EMDR therapy is comprehensive, addressing past memories, present situations, and future skills needed for well-being. With the guidance of a skilled therapist, individuals can navigate each phase of EMDR therapy and experience profound healing and transformation.
How Does EMDR Work?
The core principle of EMDR therapy is rooted in the idea that unresolved memories can disrupt our present-day lives, especially if they are traumatic. EMDR aims to reprocess these memories by linking positive and life-affirming information from the present with the neural networks that hold the traumatic experiences.
EMDR is extensively researched and proven effective in treating various conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and trauma disorders. Reputable organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association, Veteran Affairs Canada, and International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies endorse its efficacy.
During an EMDR session, your therapist will guide you through a structured process. You'll briefly focus on the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, often through gentle eye movements. This stimulation has been shown to reduce the vividness and emotional intensity associated with traumatic memories, promoting healing and relief and more effective processing.
What to Expect During a Session?
Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning
The first phase of EMDR therapy involves taking a thorough history and developing a treatment plan tailored to the client's needs. This phase typically takes 1-2 sessions at the beginning of therapy and may continue throughout the treatment, especially if new problems are revealed. During this phase, the therapist discusses the specific problem that brought the client into therapy, the behaviors and symptoms stemming from it, and identifies the targets for EMDR treatment:
The event(s) from the past that created the problem
Present situations causing distress
Key skills or behaviors needed for future well-being
One unique aspect of EMDR is that clients do not have to discuss their disturbing memories in detail. They may provide general information or an outline, and the therapist can still identify and target the event with EMDR.
Phase 2: Preparation
In the preparation phase, which typically takes 1-4 sessions, the therapist establishes a trusting relationship with the client and teaches specific techniques for managing emotional disturbance. This phase is crucial for ensuring that the client feels comfortable and supported throughout the process. The therapist explains the theory of EMDR, clarifies expectations, and teaches relaxation techniques to help the client manage any emotional distress that may arise during or after a session.
Phase 3: Assessment
During this phase, the client accesses each target memory in a controlled and standardized way to be effectively processed. The therapist helps the client select a specific image or mental picture of the target event and identify negative self-beliefs associated with it. The client then chooses positive self-statements to replace these beliefs. The therapist uses scales to measure the intensity of negative emotions and physical sensations associated with the memory, with the goal of reducing distress and increasing the belief in positive statements.
Phase 4: Desensitization
Desensitization focuses on reducing the client's disturbing emotions and sensations associated with the target memory. The therapist guides the client through sets of eye movements, sounds, or taps, gradually reducing the intensity of distress until it is eliminated or significantly reduced.
Phase 5: Installation
During this phase, the therapist strengthens and reinforces the positive beliefs identified by the client to replace negative beliefs. The goal is for the client to fully accept these positive beliefs as true and integrate them into their self-concept.
Phase 6: Body Scan
The therapist helps the client identify and reprocess any residual tension or physical sensations associated with the target memory. This phase ensures that the client can recall the memory without experiencing body tension or discomfort.
Phase 7: Closure
Closure is essential at the end of each session to ensure the client leaves feeling better than when they arrived. The therapist helps the client return to a calm state and provides strategies for self-soothing between sessions.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
At the beginning of each new session, the therapist reviews progress and adjusts the treatment plan as needed. This phase ensures that the client's problems are continually addressed and that the therapy remains effective over time.
Understanding what to expect during an EMDR session can help alleviate any apprehension and ensure that you feel prepared and supported throughout the process. With the guidance of a skilled therapist, EMDR can be a transformative journey towards healing and recovery.Â
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Eras Therapy and Wellness is an Ontario based virtual therapy practice for kids, teens and adults. We treat anxiety, adhd, self-esteem and trauma and offer psychotherapy as well as EMDR that is collaborative, empathetic and effective. If you are ready to heal from your past and feel hopeful for your future, book a free consultation with Eras Therapy and Wellness HERE
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