Exploring EMDR and it’s benefits in healing through trauma…
Last week we talked about Neuro- Emotional Technique as a powerhouse healer for emotional experiences that have been stored in the body. This week we want to introduce EMDR, another powerhouse technique that, like NET, helps us process emotions and stressful experiences to regain our power over our health and our mindset.
Our subconscious mind makes up 92-98% of our minds function and it is designed to keep us alive. It is geared towards survival and is constantly surveying our environment, in and out, for information and for threats. When we experience a stressful event, trauma or a highly emotionally charged moment, our subconscious mind gathers as much information and stores it for use for future similar events. This is how we learn, we remember certain reactions and movements that helped us to survive this experience and we create a program to do the same in the future. This is a wildly intelligent process and it is so effective. It will keep us in a positive and thriving state while it is balanced, however, where there are emotional experiences that can't be processed because they are too overwhelming, difficult to understand or we are already in survival mode as it is, this system can quickly become a cage of fear that keeps us trapped and in a loop.
EMDR is a process used by psychotherapists that hacks this exact system and uses the physiological functions to create the normal conditions that would help us process these stressors. EMDR is a beautiful process because it literally uses the exact same protocols as our subconscious mind does to process stress. This means that by using EMDR we can process those stressors that are overwhelming, difficult to understand, or we can process even if we are burnt out or under the pump.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, unlike conventional talk therapies, EMDR incorporates a unique element of bilateral sensory stimulation, typically through eye movements, to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories, aiming to diminish their emotional impact.
A critical component of EMDR, particularly in its later stages, is forward pacing. This technique is employed to help clients anticipate and prepare for potential future stressors, applying the coping mechanisms and positive beliefs developed during therapy. Forward pacing serves to consolidate the therapeutic gains by enabling clients to envision themselves successfully managing future challenges, thus reinforcing their adaptive coping skills and resilience.
Understanding EMDR
EMDR therapy is predicated on the understanding that the mind can heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. When distress from a disturbing event remains unprocessed, it can cause intense suffering. EMDR therapy aids in reactivating the natural healing processes of the brain, allowing these memories to be processed effectively.
Tailored Therapy Sessions
The duration and number of EMDR sessions required can vary significantly from one individual to another, influenced by factors such as the complexity of the trauma, the individual's response to therapy, and overall mental health. While some may experience considerable relief within a few sessions, others with more complex trauma histories may require a more extended treatment period. The therapy is highly personalized, with the therapist adjusting the approach to meet the specific needs and pace of the client.
The Efficacy of EMDR
EMDR therapy is not merely about coping with past traumas; it is about transformative healing. It enables individuals to not only process and move beyond their traumatic experiences but also strengthens their capacity to face future adversities. This therapeutic approach has garnered recognition for its effectiveness, particularly in treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression, making it a valuable option for those seeking to overcome the psychological impacts of trauma.
Who could benefit from EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy can benefit a wide range of individuals, particularly those who have experienced traumatic events or are struggling with the ongoing effects of such experiences. Here are some groups who may find EMDR particularly beneficial:
Survivors of Trauma: Individuals who have experienced traumatic events, such as physical assault, sexual abuse, accidents, natural disasters, or combat, may benefit from EMDR therapy as it helps process and integrate traumatic memories.
People with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD, helping individuals process the trauma that contributes to their PTSD symptoms.
Those with Anxiety Disorders: EMDR can be helpful for people with panic attacks, phobias, or other anxiety-related issues, as it can assist in processing the underlying experiences that may contribute to anxiety.
Individuals with Depression: For some people, depression is linked to past traumatic or distressing experiences. EMDR can help by addressing the root causes of their depression.
Children and Adolescents: EMDR has been adapted for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, with modifications to suit their developmental level.
Victims of Childhood Abuse or Neglect: EMDR can be particularly effective for adults who have experienced abuse or neglect in childhood, helping them to process these early traumas.
Those Experiencing Grief or Loss: Individuals struggling with intense grief or loss may find relief through EMDR as it can help process the pain associated with their loss.
People with Attachment Disorders: EMDR can also be beneficial for individuals with attachment issues, helping them to work through traumatic experiences that may have affected their ability to form healthy relationships.
First Responders and Military Personnel: EMDR is used to support first responders, military personnel, and veterans who are often exposed to traumatic events in the line of duty.
Individuals with Specific Phobias: By processing the distressing memories associated with the phobia, EMDR can help reduce the fear response.
Those with Addiction or Substance Use Disorders: EMDR can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals dealing with addiction, addressing underlying traumatic experiences that may contribute to substance use.
EMDR not only helps us process past emotional stressors, leaving us less anxious and less depressed in the present, but it also allows us to develop resilience and autonomy by helping us prepare for future stressors. This incredible technique offers a pathway through trauma and into the life you would choose for yourself. If you are interested in EMDR for yourself or someone you know please reach out to chat, check out our website for more information or go ahead and book your appointment with our psychotherapist today.