Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A Powerful Approach for Healing From Trauma
On many occasions folks have come into my practice having already tried therapy, but have found it wasn’t enough to resolve their traumatic stress or get to their deeper issues. Sometimes folks will say things like “I know it wasn’t my fault. I know I’m safe now. But I still don’t feel that way.” Luckily, traditional talk therapy isn’t the only path, and we have other tools available to us. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, offers another way to process traumatic memories, and many find it to be more effective than traditional talk therapy in resolving their traumas.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR focuses on processing traumatic memories. Unlike conventional therapy, which often involves verbal processing of distressing events, EMDR takes a different route. Instead of talking at length about the trauma, EMDR aims to change the emotions, thoughts, and sensations associated with those memories. The goal is to allow the brain to resume its natural healing process.
How Does EMDR Work?
Dual Attention Stimulation (DAS): During an EMDR processing session, I guide the client to connect to the memory while using dual attention stimulation. Traditionally, this has been side to side eye movements, but can also be accomplished through playing tones in headphones that alternate from ear to ear, or using tactile sensation by tapping on your arms or knees. The theory is that this process helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories more effectively. DAS helps to reduce the fight, flight, freeze stress response system that typically hijacks our system when we remember trauma. By allowing our system to focus on the memory without activating the stress response system, the brain is able to process the memory more effectively.
Adaptive Information Processing (AIP): EMDR relies on the AIP model, developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. According to this theory, the brain stores normal and traumatic memories differently. During distressing events, the brain’s networking doesn’t function correctly, leading to memory disruptions. EMDR aims to correct this by facilitating adaptive processing. When our brain can reprocess the memory in a more adaptive and helpful way it can then be stored differently in the brain.
Effectiveness of EMDR:
Scientific Backing: Numerous clinical trials since EMDR’s development in 1989 have demonstrated its effectiveness. It has been studied extensively and is considered one of the most researched treatments for trauma. EMDR is an evidence-based treatment for traumatic stress.
Faster Results: EMDR tends to work faster than many other therapeutic methods. People undergoing EMDR often experience positive changes sooner, making it an attractive option for those seeking relief from traumatic stress.
Beyond PTSD: While EMDR gained fame for its role in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), its applications have expanded. In my practice I have used EMDR to treat social anxiety, panic disorder, and other emotional challenges.
Comparisons with CBT: Some studies suggest that EMDR may be more effective than cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for trauma. However, both approaches have their merits, and the choice depends on individual needs. I am also trained in Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing therapy which are two evidence based CBT treatments for PTSD.
Cultural Considerations: In all aspects of my practice I center culture, and utilize cultural strengths, cultural gifts, and ancestors as resources in preparation for EMDR processing. I have successfully worked with client using EMDR to process experiences of racism, discrimination, classism, and other emotional injuries sustained while trying to survive in a white supremacy culture.