EMDR therapy is growing in popularity across the country. But, so many people still don’t know what it is or how it can help. Even if you’ve heard of it, it’s important to know the ins and outs of what to expect so you can decide if it’s the right treatment solution for you. 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses rapid eye movements to help individuals heal from emotional distress. 

Let’s take a closer look at who can benefit from this type of therapy and why it’s so effective.

What to Expect During EMDR Therapy 

Unlike many other types of therapy, EMDR focuses on a phased approach. It was first developed in the 1980s as a method to treat a variety of mental health conditions and panic disorders. Today, it’s often used to treat those impacted by trauma or people struggling with PTSD. 

During an EMDR session, you’ll experience bilateral stimulation. Your therapist will ask you to focus on a specific negative event or traumatic situation. As you focus on that event, the therapist will start a process of side-to-side eye movements or taps. This type of bilateral stimulation will force your brain to reprocess the negative event. 

Over time, the power of that negative event will become weaker, and you’ll feel more in control. Essentially, you’re “reprogramming” your brain when it comes to that specific event, so the emotions and fear associated with it aren’t as controlling. You’ll see that negative image as just that—a picture without real emotions attached to it. 

Your first session will be a bit different from the rest. Your therapist will obtain your history and focus on what you would like to work on. This is part of phase one. 

You should also be prepared to discuss any negative feelings or beliefs you have, as well as any disturbing feelings or memories. It’s not always easy to do, especially if you’re not a big talker. But you’ll be “getting it out of the way” quickly so you can move into the next phase of reprocessing. 

Who is a Good Candidate?

Even though EMDR has been around for years, people are still discovering different conditions that can be treated with it. Both men and women who have experienced any type of trauma are good candidates. But, EMDR has also been effective for individuals struggling with: 

● Panic attacks 

● Depression 

● Personality disorders 

● Eating disorders 

● Phobias 

● Complicated grief 

You might also be a good candidate for EMDR if you don’t think talk therapy would be effective for you. There is very little talking involved in this process. So, if you’re not comfortable “opening up” or being vulnerable in therapy sessions through words alone, EMDR could be a perfect solution. 

Why Does it Work? 

As stated above, EMDR reprograms and reprocesses the brain. Each session can last up to 60 minutes, and the phased approach will ensure that you no longer feel paralyzed with fear over a past negative event or traumatic experience. 

Unlike many other therapies that focus on rebuilding from the root cause of the event, EMDR pushes you to focus on that event right away. But you don’t stay there for long as you are continually working through the memory. 

If you have questions about the EMDR process or you’re still wondering if it’s the right option for you, feel free to contact me or to set up an appointment. 

The more people know about EMDR and its benefits, the more it will continue to grow in popularity and be a more viable option for those struggling with their mental health. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and try something that can finally give you relief from trauma.

If you have questions about EMDR therapy and whether it’s right for you, please contact me.