Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) is a newer therapy introduced to treat mental health. It helps reduce distress and process bad memories/traumatic events. This blog will explain EMDR therapy in detail. It will talk about its purpose, main parts, how it works, benefits, and safety steps. By learning about EMDR therapy, readers will understand this proven method that helps with trauma-related problems.
What is EMDR Therapy?
Origin and History:
EMDR therapy was developed by Shapiro in 1987 who realised that by using eye movements the distress was decreasing in relation to her own traumatic experiences, and this mode of therapy build from there with more research complete.
Purpose of EMDR Therapy:
The main goal of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy is to lessen distress and process bad memories. By thinking about these memories for a short time, people can desensitize to them. Negative cognitions can also be processed, and more rational cognitions installed.
Key Components:
A key part of EMDR therapy is bilateral stimulation(BLS). This means moving your eyes left and right in a pattern, which helps deal with bad memories better. There are other ways of using bilateral stimulation such as alternative tapping using hands.
Eight Phases of Treatment:
EMDR therapy has eight steps that focus on different parts of past trauma. These steps help people work through their experiences and feel less distressed.
How EMDR Therapy Works
Therapy Process
Initial assessment
First, the therapist learns about the patient’s past during history taking in assessment. They find out which traumatic events need targeting. This helps form a treatment plan.
Desensitization phase
Next, patients think about the “targeted memory”. At the same time, they follow moving lights or use tapping. This hopes to decrease distress, and rationalise the memory.
Session Structure
Duration of sessions
Each EMDR session lasts 60 to 90 minutes. This gives enough time to work on memories and use the BLS.
Number of sessions required
The number of sessions needed depends on each person and their trauma. Most people see big improvements after six to twelve sessions with a trained therapist.
Benefits and Safety of EMDR Therapy
Effectiveness
Research Findings:
Studies show Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy works well for trauma. Research says EMDR helps reduce long-term and short-term pain.
Conditions Treated:
EMDR is very good for people with PTSD. Studies back up that EMDR helps treat PTSD as well as other treatments. Reviews show big drops in PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and stress with EMDR.
Safety
One good thing about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy is it has few bad reactions. Studies say EMDR is safe for patients and helps a lot without serious side effects.
Comparison with Medication:
Compared to medicine for PTSD, anxiety, and depression, EMDR is safer with fewer bad effects. Many health groups around the world see how good EMDR is for mental health.
Many people say EMDR therapy changed their lives. It helps them move on from past trauma. They feel lighter and happier. EMDR helps them deal with deep feelings they didn’t know they had. The therapy is hard but freeing and makes them feel stronger and more confident.