What is EMDR Therapy?
In recent years, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has gained popularity as a unique therapeutic approach for addressing trauma and related mental health issues.
Originally developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has since been recognised by leading health organisations worldwide, for its effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, OCD and other trauma-related conditions.
Understanding EMDR: A Different Approach to Trauma Therapy
Unlike traditional talk therapies, which often rely on conversation and cognitive reframing, EMDR focuses on desensitising and reprocessing traumatic memories to reduce their emotional intensity. This therapy targets how memories are stored in the brain, aiming to integrate them in a way that reduces the negative impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Effectively aiming to reduce the emotional impact traumatic events have on a person long term.
The core principle behind EMDR is that trauma and negative experiences can become “stuck” in the brain. When we experience distressing events, the brain may fail to process and store them correctly. As a result, these memories remain “unprocessed,” meaning they can be easily triggered by current experiences, causing distress that seems disproportionate to the situation. EMDR aims to help the brain process these memories in a more adaptive way, lessening their influence on present emotions and behaviours.
How EMDR Works: The Eight Phases of Treatment
EMDR is structured in a systematic, eight-phase approach, ensuring a safe and comprehensive treatment process. Here is an overview of each phase:
1. History and Treatment Planning:
The therapist works with the patient to understand their history and identify specific traumatic memories or disturbing events to address. Treatment goals are defined, focusing on the areas where the client feels emotionally stuck.
2. Preparation:
In this phase, the therapist explains EMDR’s process and sets expectations. Relaxation techniques are taught to help clients cope with any distressing feelings that may arise during or after the sessions. This phase builds trust, helps the patient feel safe and prepares them for the upcoming stages.
3. Assessment:
The therapist asks the patient to identify a target memory and select images, emotions, and physical sensations related to it. They are also asked to express any negative beliefs about themselves linked to this memory.
4. Desensitisation:
This is the core of EMDR, where the therapist uses bilateral stimulation, typically through eye movements, taps, or sounds, to help reprocess the traumatic memory. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge associated with the memory, often leading to less distress over time.
5. Installation:
In this phase, positive beliefs are introduced and reinforced. The patient is encouraged to replace the negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory with positive ones, which helps shift their perspective on the event.
6. Body Scan:
Patients are asked to assess their body for any remaining physical tension or discomfort linked to the memory. This is done to ensure the trauma has been fully processed on both emotional and physical levels.
7. Closure:
Each session concludes with relaxation techniques to help the patient feel stable before they leave. Patients may also be given additional self-care practices to use between sessions, ensuring emotional safety and well-being.
8. Re-evaluation:
At the start of each session, the therapist checks in to assess the progress and re-evaluates any remaining distress associated with the memory. This phase ensures that the progress made in therapy is long-lasting and that no residual distress remains.
EMDR for Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and More
EMDR was initially used to treat PTSD, particularly in veterans and trauma survivors. However, as research on EMDR has evolved, the therapy has shown promise for a range of mental health issues, including:
- Anxiety: By targeting the underlying traumatic experiences that contribute to anxiety, EMDR can help reduce symptoms by changing how these memories affect present-day reactions.
- Depression: EMDR addresses unresolved traumatic memories that may contribute to negative self-beliefs and emotions, often helping to alleviate depressive symptoms.
- Panic Disorders and Phobias: Some phobias and panic responses are linked to specific past events. EMDR can reduce the emotional charge of these memories, helping clients respond to triggers more adaptively.
Why Bilateral Stimulation?
A defining feature of EMDR therapy is its use of bilateral stimulation, usually in the form of eye movements, although tapping or auditory tones may also be used. The exact mechanism behind bilateral stimulation’s effectiveness remains an area of ongoing study, but researchers propose that it may mimic the natural processing that occurs during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. During REM sleep, the brain processes and organises information, and EMDR seems to stimulate similar pathways, enabling the brain to reprocess traumatic memories in a more constructive way.
The Science Behind EMDR’s Effectiveness
EMDR’s success is supported by numerous studies, and its effectiveness is recognized by various psychological and medical institutions, including the American Psychological Association and the Department of Veterans Affairs. These organizations endorse EMDR as a valid and effective treatment for PTSD and trauma-related conditions, as studies have consistently shown that EMDR can significantly reduce symptoms after a limited number of sessions.
Research has shown that, in some cases, EMDR can bring relief faster than traditional therapy. One study indicated that 77% of individuals with PTSD experienced a significant reduction in symptoms after just six sessions of EMDR, as compared to more extended treatments in traditional therapy methods. However, the success rate and speed of progress depend on the individual, the complexity of their trauma, and their openness to the process.
How to Get Started with EMDR Therapy
If you’re considering EMDR therapy, it’s important to work with a licensed, EMDR-trained therapist (CLICK HERE TO MEET THE TEAM) In Australia, for example, organisations like the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA) offer resources and a directory of accredited practitioners. Selecting a qualified therapist is essential to ensure a safe and effective EMDR experience. At CK Health we currently have 2 highly trained EMDR Psychologists Margaret Conaghan and Elaine Bennett.
Is EMDR Right for You?
EMDR therapy may benefit anyone dealing with unresolved trauma, PTSD, or even more generalised anxiety or depression that seems rooted in past experiences. However, the success of EMDR can vary based on individual circumstances, and not everyone may find it beneficial. A preliminary consultation with an experienced EMDR Psychologist can help determine whether this therapeutic approach is appropriate for you.
EMDR has transformed the way therapists approach trauma and trauma-related conditions, offering a structured yet dynamic and safe therapy. If you are interested in trying EMDR then please reach out to our reception team today on 4077 3803
If you have a Mental Treatment plan from your GP you are generally entitled to a medicare rebate but a gap fee applies, call to discuss this today.
Do you have more questions?
Contact our friendly team on 02 4077 3803, they will be able to give you a comprehensive overview of the assessment procedure, including time frames and estimated expenses.