EMDR
For real change to take place, the body needs to learn that the danger has passed and to live in the reality of the present.
-Bessel Van Der Kolk
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective treatment for trauma and psychological distress. By processing upsetting memories, thoughts, and feelings related to a traumatic experience, EMDR provides relief from anxiety symptoms and allows you to heal.
EMDR was developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro. While taking a walk in the woods, she observed that moving her eyes back-and-forth reduced the intensity of her negative feelings. Dr. Shapiro subsequently found the same positive effects in her controlled studies investigating the treatment of PTSD. Over the past 30 years, EMDR has developed into a well-established and empirically validated treatment approach for PTSD, anxiety, eating disorders, and addictions.
What to expect?
Prior to beginning EMDR, you will learn about the physical and emotional reactions that accompany traumatic events. We will discuss your readiness to focus on your trauma memories in session, and develop a treatment plan. We will also ensure that you have adequate skills for handling emotional distress, and you will learn new ways of coping as needed.
Next, we will identify the target, or rather the distressing memory you want to work on. You will focus on this memory, including the image, negative belief, and bodily sensations, while simultaneously engaging in EMDR processing using sets of bilateral stimulation. Sets typically include eye movements, taps, or tones, and the length varies for each individual. Following each set of bilateral stimulation, we will check in about what is coming to mind, and continue processing until your distress goes down.
When you are no longer distressed by the target memory, we will focus on enhancing a positive belief and ensure you have no lingering bodily tightness or tension. Finally, we will assess your symptoms, and determine if any additional targets require processing.
“The goal of EMDR is to rapidly metabolize the dysfunctional residue from the past and transform it into something useful."
-Francine Shapiro
What are the risks?
You may initially feel uncomfortable when calling to mind traumatic memories or beliefs. These feelings tend to be short-lived and you can expect to feel better as you continue EMDR. You may also notice fatigue after a processing session, which may linger for a day or two. Most individuals who successfully complete EMDR discover that the benefits outweigh any discomfort.
Can EMDR be done virtually?
Yes. The primary principles and phases of EMDR do not change when done online. The main difference between in-person and virtual EMDR is the way bilateral stimulation is delivered. I utilize EMDR-specific software that allows for seamless remote treatment in the comfort of your home.
Although the research has been limited, the evidence we do have supports the idea that EMDR can have positive outcomes even when done via telehealth. I have also personally experienced good success with the many clients I have worked with online since the beginning of the pandemic.
Why choose EMDR?
EMDR is an effective treatment, often achieving results relatively quickly for many individuals. It typically involves weekly sessions for several months. However, you may start to notice improvement after only a few sessions.
In contrast to other therapy approaches, EMDR does not require you to complete any homework outside of sessions. EMDR also does not require you to talk about the details of your trauma out loud. Instead, you will be asked to mentally focus on your traumatic experience in session.
It works.
