EMDR - Changing Your Trauma
EMDR has been a hot discussion topic in the mental health fields recently, but it is important to understand what it really is and how it can be a useful tool!
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is now a widely used therapy technique for adults and children, specifically for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or trauma patients.
The goal of this technique is:
To change the way traumatic memories are stored in our brain through an eight-phase method.
To eliminate negative symptoms and side effects, allowing you to associate positive beliefs with the traumatic memory.
In this post, we will cover all you need to know about the eight phases, the benefits, potential risks, and different options that suit your needs best!
The Eight Phases of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and What They Mean:
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The Phase |
What Does it Mean? |
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1 – History Taking |
In this initial phase, the client will be given questionnaires that cover personal history and previous diagnoses. The practitioner can then review the client’s background information to gain insights on suitability, past events, triggers, and future needs or targets. |
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2 – Preparation |
This phase provides information to clients about what to expect with this form of therapy. It also ensures that clients have resources for regulation. |
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3 – Assessment |
The targeted memory is accessed, and the practitioner looks at the components of the memory, such as images, beliefs, emotions, and sensations. |
|
4 – Desensitization |
Next, the client focuses on the memory while also doing eye movement exercises. This phase works to gain insights on new emotions, new sensations, and recover other memories from the client. |
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5 – Installation |
This phase builds on desensitization, integrating the positive belief into the memory and strengthening the positive connections. |
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6 – Body Scan |
The client will then be asked to focus on their physical state and sensations while pointing out any distress they may feel. |
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7 – Closure |
This phase ensures that the client is stable after the session. The practitioner will also outline any techniques and instructions to prepare the client for the upcoming session. |
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8 – Reassessment |
This is the final stage, and it focuses on maintenance. The practitioner evaluates the psychological state of the client, treatment effects, and creates a plan for the next session. |
Other FAQs:
Who Can Benefit From This Type of Therapy?
Research has primarily shown that EMDR is helpful in cases of PTSD. That said, it can also be used for a wide variety of cases such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, stress-related disorders, and more!
What Are Some of the Benefits?
Research has primarily shown that EMDR is helpful in cases of PTSD. That said, it can also be used for a wide variety of cases such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, stress-related disorders, and more!
Sydney, TCC’s EMDR-trained psychologist has seen the following benefits:
Processing through traumatic memories
Reshaping past events
Acceptance and the healing of past events and traumatic memories
A better understanding of the self
Increasing window of tolerance
Reduction of overall symptoms
Are There Any Risks?
This has been shown to be a low-risk form of therapy. It is important to note that it can lead to negative thoughts or feelings between sessions; however, your therapist would go through what this may look like and provide appropriate resources where needed.
Is it a Good Fit for Me?
Therapeutic techniques used vary from client to client, and some may work better for you than others. It is important to take the time to talk to your therapist about these techniques and ask any questions you have. From there, your therapist will work with you to meet your needs.
Accessing EMDR in Canada
If you are looking for options across Canada, a great starting point is to look at EMDR specific directories, such as the EMDR International Association or the Canadian EMDR Directory. You can also look at other directories, like Psychology Today, Therapy Route, and Therapy Tribe, where you can filter your search to EMDR-trained therapists in your area specifically! If needed, you can also talk to your doctor or a trusted health professional as they may be able to refer you to someone or provide additional information and resources.
Is There a Virtual Option?
This service can be provided both in-person and virtually, depending on your comfort level. Some people believe there are some added benefits to EMDR being conducted in-person, however, it is still an available service online.
Here are some Tips from TCC’s therapist Sydney on How to Get the Most Out of EMDR:
This therapy technique is not for everyone
It does not work if you are not interested in it or if you are forced into it
If you are blocked, meaning beliefs are present that might prevent us from integrating an upsetting or traumatic experience, it takes longer to work through and you can be blocked for a long time. This relates to Stuck Reprocessing which is a common phenomenon that can sometimes slow down the therapeutic process. However, it also allows for therapists and clients to explore and address the underlying emotional and cognitive challenges that may be hindering progress.
It takes commitment and trust between yourself and the therapist as well as recognition of reopening the trauma itself
Conclusion
EMDR can be a useful tool for those who have experienced trauma or related issues. Always ask questions, keep an open mind, and take a look at the services offered in your area. This therapy technique is becoming more widely used, and has shown to have positive benefits for those facing trauma, anxiety, stress, and more!
Explore your options and if it sounds like this might be helpful for you, you can book a free 15-minute consultation with TCC’s EMDR-trained professional Sydney. (Alberta Only).
Resources:
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments/eye-movement-reprocessing
Shapiro, F. (2014). The role of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in medicine: Addressing the psychological and physical symptoms stemming from adverse life experiences. The Permanente journal. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3951033/
EMDR therapy: What it is, Procedure & Effectiveness. (n.d.) Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22641-emdr-therapy
