Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) aids in the processing and release of traumatic memories by utilizing eye movements. Trauma affects people in various ways, leading to difficulties such as disrupted sleep, flashbacks, and heightened anxiety. While conventional talk therapy and medications serve as primary treatments for trauma-related conditions, EMDR complements these approaches and enhances their effectiveness. But what exactly is EMDR therapy?
Woodland Recovery Center offers a range of trauma therapies, providing clients with comprehensive care. We also have a dedicated veterans program to support those who have served in the armed forces and their families. Contact our team today, and let us guide you in finding the right treatment to support your healing journey.
Understanding Trauma and Memory Storage
Although the human brain has an incredible ability to process stressful information, it occasionally stores unprocessed traumatic experiences. Even if these memories are not consciously accessible, the brain retains:
- Images
- Feelings
- Thoughts
- Smells
- Sounds
While everyone has vivid memories—both pleasant and distressing—memories associated with trauma often carry intense fear, pain, or anger. These experiences can be so overwhelming that individuals may relive them unexpectedly. Flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or heightened emotional responses to triggers can make daily life difficult, disrupting work, relationships, and overall well-being.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a psychotherapy approach that helps individuals process and release traumatic memories. It was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since been extensively researched and used to treat various mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
EMDR therapy involves eight phases of treatment:
1. History Taking
The therapist begins by gathering information about your history and current symptoms to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Preparation
You will learn relaxation techniques to help manage any distressing emotions or sensations that may arise during the session.
3. Assessment
During this phase, you will identify a specific memory or event related to your trauma that you want to process.
4. Desensitization
The therapist will guide you through a series of eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation) while you focus on the traumatic memory. This process helps activate the brain’s natural ability to process and reduce the intensity of associated emotions and sensations.
5. Installation
Positive beliefs or affirmations are introduced to replace negative thoughts about yourself that may have developed as a result of the trauma.
6. Body Scan
You will be guided to notice and address any lingering physical sensations related to the memory, allowing these sensations to dissipate further.
7. Closure
The session concludes with a discussion of any after-effects or new insights that emerged during the processing.
8. Reevaluation
In follow-up sessions, the therapist will review your progress and continue addressing other traumatic memories as necessary.
What You Need to Know About EMDR Therapy Sessions
An EMDR therapist undergoes extensive training to ensure client safety and stabilization. This includes learning a standard eight-phase EMDR protocol, receiving supervision, and completing clinical hours. All EMDR therapists are licensed clinicians with nationally recognized certifications available for further expertise.
During an EMDR therapy session, the therapist guides you to focus briefly on a distressing memory while instructing you to perform side-to-side eye movements or another form of bilateral stimulation. This process engages both hemispheres of the brain, promoting emotional healing and cognitive restructuring.
EMDR therapy typically involves six to 12 sessions, with treatment plans tailored to the individual’s symptoms and goals. Many clients experience noticeable progress within a few sessions, making it a highly effective option for those seeking relief from trauma-related symptoms.
The Role of Rapid Eye Movement Therapy in Trauma Healing
Often referred to as rapid eye movement therapy, EMDR helps trauma survivors by mimicking the brain’s natural process of integrating memories. The eye movements used in EMDR are similar to those occurring during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, a phase crucial for emotional processing. By stimulating this function while consciously addressing distressing memories, individuals can effectively reframe their experiences, making them less distressing over time.
This approach is particularly helpful for people who struggle with verbalizing their trauma or feel stuck in traditional talk therapy. Since EMDR does not require in-depth discussions about traumatic events and experiences, it is accessible to a wide range of individuals who may otherwise find therapy overwhelming.
Call Woodland Recovery Center Today for Help Finding Therapy for Trauma
Woodland Recovery Center is committed to helping people work through trauma and find relief through evidence-based therapies, including EMDR. Our experienced, licensed clinicians provide individualized treatment plans designed to support your healing journey. If you or someone you care about needs support in processing trauma and managing its effects, we’re here to provide the help you need. Find the support you need today by calling 662.222.2989 or completing our online contact form.
