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What Is EMDR Therapy and How Does It Work?  

September 10, 2024

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Home-What Is EMDR Therapy and How Does It Work?  
What Is EMDR Therapy and How Does It Work?  

Mental health issues can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Traditional therapy methods offer relief for many, but some individuals continue to struggle with distressing memories and symptoms. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an innovative approach designed to help those who have experienced trauma. At CNSL, our compassionate therapists are here to help you understand this unique therapy and determine if it might be the right fit for you.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a mental health treatment developed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Unlike traditional talk therapies, EMDR focuses on the patient’s rapid eye movements while revisiting traumatic experiences.

Conditions Treated by EMDR Therapy

Initially known for treating PTSD, EMDR therapy’s application has expanded to include several other mental health conditions:

  • Major depressive disorder
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Panic disorders
  • Phobias
  • Addiction

EMDR therapy is suitable for children, adolescents and adults, making it a versatile treatment option.

The Process of EMDR Therapy

Overview of the Eight Phases

EMDR therapy is structured into eight specific phases, ensuring a comprehensive approach to healing:

  1. History Taking: Your therapist gathers detailed information about your past, focusing on traumatic events and your therapy goals.
  2. Preparation: This phase involves discussing what to expect during sessions and learning techniques to manage emotional stress.
  3. Assessment: The therapist helps identify negative beliefs and disturbing memories to target during reprocessing.
  4. Desensitization: Using eye movements, sounds or taps, the therapist facilitates the processing of traumatic memories.
  5. Installation: Positive beliefs are reinforced to replace the negativity associated with traumatic memories.
  6. Body Scan: The therapist checks for residual physical tension and symptoms related to the trauma.
  7. Closure: Each session ends with techniques to ensure you feel calm and safe.
  8. Reevaluation: Progress is reviewed, and future steps are planned to continue healing.

What to Expect During EMDR Therapy

During EMDR sessions, you will not be required to go into detail about your traumatic experiences. Instead, the therapy focuses on altering the emotional responses associated with these memories. By following the therapist’s instructions, such as moving your eyes in specific patterns or responding to tactile stimuli, the brain can process and integrate the traumatic memories more effectively.

Patients typically start noticing improvements within three to six sessions for single traumatic events. More complex traumas may require additional sessions, usually lasting between one hour and 90 minutes each.

Benefits and Effectiveness of EMDR Therapy

Dozens of clinical trials and research studies confirm the effectiveness of EMDR therapy. Patients often experience faster relief from symptoms compared to other forms of therapy. EMDR does not require extensive homework outside of sessions, making it a more accessible option for many.

One of the most significant advantages of EMDR therapy is its focus on processing and moving past trauma without necessitating detailed recounting of painful events. This method helps individuals regain control over their lives and reduces the intensity of negative emotions tied to traumatic memories.

Take the First Step with CNSL

EMDR therapy represents a powerful tool in the treatment of traumatic memories and associated mental health conditions. At CNSL, our dedicated therapists are committed to helping you reclaim your life and move past the pain of trauma. If you or a loved one is struggling with persistent negative emotions or memories, contact us to learn more about EMDR therapy.

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