EMDR — What is it?
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process distressing memories and experiences. EMDR involves using bilateral stimulation - typically through guided eye movements, tactile tapping, vibrations or auditory tones - to assist the brain in processing painful memories. EMDR therapy is used to address adverse life experiences that contribute to problems in daily living and has been used effectively across conditions and cultures.
What is the purpose of EMDR therapy?
The goal of EMDR therapy is to help you process adverse life experiences by transforming maladaptively stored memory networks into adaptive information. This helps to increase your ability to respond effectively and reduce physiological disturbance to present-day triggers. This may help improve overall daily functioning, reduce negative thoughts/beliefs about oneself.
How long does treatment take?
EMDR therapy is an 8-phase model of treatment that can take different lengths of time, depending on your particular circumstances. Some people require more preparation than others. Some memories resolve in a single session, sometimes it takes several sessions. There is no right or wrong when it comes to EMDR. You will be in control at all times during an EMDR session and can say ‘stop’ if you are feeling overwhelmed and need to pause the process. EMDR sessions typically last 50-60 minutes.
History Taking and Treatment Planning: We discuss information about your history, current concerns, and specific traumatic memories or issues to address in therapy.
Preparation: We prepare for the EMDR process, ensuring you are equipped with coping skills and a sense of safety.
Assessment Phase: We will identify and discuss the specific issues or traumatic memories you wish to address.
Desensitisation Phase: Through bilateral stimulation, you will process the targeted memories and associated negative beliefs.
Installation Phase: Positive beliefs and perspectives will be strengthened.
Body Scan Phase: Any residual physical tension related to the memories will be addressed.
Closure Phase: Techniques will be used to ensure you feel stable and calm at the end of each session.
Re-evaluation Phase: We will review progress and address any remaining issues in subsequent sessions.
What happens during an EMDR session?
During an EMDR session, the therapist will typically ask you to recall a traumatic event while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation (BLS), such as rapidly moving your eyes back and forth. BLS activates the brain’s natural healing mechanism. When you recall a memory, it moves from your long-term memory to your short-term memory, otherwise known as working memory. Keeping the memory in mind while engaging in BLS at the same time means that your working memory has to process a lot of information at the same time, therefore ‘overloading’ your working memory. As a result of all of this, three things usually happen: the memory becomes more distant; emotional distress diminishes; and new, more helpful beliefs emerge.
What evidence is there that EMDR is a successful treatment?
EMDR therapy is an evidence-based treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and approved by Medicare Australia. It is provided by qualified mental health professionals who have undergone additional, specialised training in this modality.
Who can benefit from EMDR?
EMDR was originally used only to treat trauma and PTSD. Individuals who experience anxiety, depression, phobias, grief and addiction could also benefit from EMDR.
What are the potential benefits and risks?
Benefits:
· Reduction of emotional distress related to traumatic memories
· Improved coping strategies and overall emotional well-being
· Improved emotion regulation and healthier thinking patterns
Risks:
· Temporary emotional discomfort or distress during or after sessions
· Possible re-experiencing of traumatic memories or emotions
· EMDR may not work for everyone and further therapeutic interventions might be necessary
Want to learn more about EMDR?