You may have heard the term “EMDR” in relation to trauma therapy, but what exactly is it, and how does it work? Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that has gained recognition for its ability to help people process traumatic experiences. While it’s a well-known treatment for trauma, EMDR can also help with a variety of mental health issues. But how do you know if EMDR is right for you? In this post, we’ll explain how EMDR works, who it benefits most, and when it may not be the best fit.
What is EMDR?
EMDR therapy was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. The treatment was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories, but over time it has been shown to help with various conditions such as anxiety, depression, and even chronic pain.
EMDR works by helping your brain reprocess distressing memories and experiences. In a normal, healthy brain, memories are typically processed and stored without causing ongoing emotional disturbance. However, when someone experiences trauma, those memories may not be processed correctly, leading to long-term emotional distress. Think of it like a skipping record – our trauma memories are on replay and we cannot seem to stop them.
During EMDR therapy, the client is guided through recalling traumatic or distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, taps, or sounds. All this means is that both sides of the brain are being activated. This dual-attention process helps the brain reprocess these difficult memories and “file them away” properly so that they no longer cause emotional overwhelm. The record plays to the end. Over time, the client becomes less triggered by those memories, and the intense emotions and body sensations tied to them are reduced.
Who Is a Good Fit for EMDR?
EMDR has been proven to be effective for people who have experienced trauma, whether that trauma is from a single event, such as an accident or assault, or from ongoing, complex trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect. However, EMDR can also be beneficial for individuals who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and even low self-esteem. If you’ve been through therapy before but find that talking about your problems doesn’t quite “stick,” EMDR could help by addressing the underlying emotional blocks that keep you stuck.
People with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) often see significant improvements with EMDR. Many studies have demonstrated that it is one of the most effective treatments for PTSD, reducing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance – always on guard for something bad to happen. It can also help with less obvious symptoms of trauma, like difficulty trusting others, irritability, and trouble concentrating.
EMDR is also helpful for people who may not feel traumatized but still experience distressing thoughts or negative self-beliefs that hold them back in life. It allows individuals to work through experiences that have led to beliefs like “I am not enough” or “I am powerless” and replace them with more empowering, healthier perspectives.
Who May Not Be a Good Fit for EMDR?
While EMDR can benefit many people, it’s not for everyone. For some individuals, especially those dealing with severe dissociation (a trauma response involving feeling detached from reality), unmanaged psychosis, or severe substance abuse, EMDR may not be appropriate without first addressing those underlying issues. For instance, if someone is actively in the throes of addiction or experiencing a psychotic episode, EMDR is not likely to be effective, as the person may struggle to engage in the process and stay grounded during therapy.
Additionally, individuals who have trouble managing strong emotions during therapy might find EMDR too overwhelming without first building coping strategies through other forms of therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Safety and emotional regulation are key before starting EMDR, and your therapist will assess if you’re ready to begin this type of treatment.
The Evidence Behind EMDR
EMDR has been extensively studied, with many research trials supporting its efficacy, particularly for trauma and PTSD. In fact, organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Department of Veterans Affairs all recommend EMDR as a top treatment for PTSD.
A notable study published in The Journal of Traumatic Stress found that after only three 90-minute EMDR sessions, 77% of individuals with PTSD experienced significant symptom reduction. Another study found that EMDR was more effective than other types of trauma therapy, such as supportive counseling, in reducing trauma-related symptoms.
In addition to PTSD, there’s also emerging evidence that EMDR can help people with anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. For example, studies have shown that individuals with anxiety disorders who undergo EMDR therapy often report a decrease in both emotional and physical symptoms of anxiety.
While more research is still needed for other conditions, the existing studies demonstrate that EMDR can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and personal growth.
The Benefits of EMDR
One of the most remarkable aspects of EMDR is how quickly it can work for some individuals. Many clients report feeling relief from their distressing memories or symptoms within a few sessions. While traditional talk therapy often involves discussing traumatic events over and over again, EMDR allows for quicker desensitization without prolonged exposure to the distressing details of the trauma.
Some additional benefits of EMDR include:
- Reduced Trauma Symptoms: EMDR is known for its ability to alleviate trauma-related symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and hyperarousal.
- Improved Self-Esteem: Many people experience an increase in self-worth after completing EMDR therapy, as it helps them to overcome negative self-beliefs.
- Less Emotional Distress: EMDR often leads to a decrease in overall anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, allowing individuals to feel more grounded and present in their day-to-day lives.
- No Homework: Unlike CBT, which often involves completing worksheets or assignments between sessions, EMDR is more about what happens in the therapy room, requiring less homework from clients.
Is EMDR Right for You?
If you’ve tried other therapies but still feel stuck or if you’re dealing with trauma that affects your daily life, EMDR may be the key to unlocking deeper healing. It’s important to remember that EMDR is not a “quick fix,” and the process can be emotionally intense, but many people find it to be life-changing. If you’re unsure whether EMDR is the right approach for you, a licensed therapist can help assess your specific situation and determine if this treatment could benefit you.
At Lime Tree Counseling, we specialize in trauma therapy, including EMDR, and are committed to helping you find the best path forward for your mental health. If you’re curious about EMDR or want to learn more, we’re here to support you on your healing journey. Reach out today to schedule an appointment. You don’t have to face your trauma alone—healing is possible.