EMDR

What is EMDR?

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a well-researched approach for addressing trauma. It's backed by a lot of scientific studies, more than any other non-medical method for treating trauma. Essentially, EMDR helps people quickly deal with past traumatic experiences. It works by aiding the brain and body in understanding that the traumatic event is over, and it helps lessen the intensity of the negative thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations tied to that event.

Here are a few ways EMDR can help…

Improve Self-Esteem
Enhance Well-being
Heal Unresolved Trauma
Help get "unstuck"
Build Resiliency

What to Expect

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy involves multiple phases, starting with using eye movements to identify and target a specific traumatic memory. The client is asked to focus on various aspects of the memory while tracking the clinician’s hand, leading to the emergence of internal associations and processing of the memory. Over time, this process can help transform the emotional meaning of painful events, shifting feelings of shame or distress to empowerment and resilience. Unlike talk therapy, insights in EMDR emerge through the client's own emotional and intellectual processing, rather than the therapist’s interpretation.

However, a potential risk is that buried or altered memories may resurface, and the accuracy of traumatic memories can be difficult to confirm, as they may change over time.

The duration of EMDR therapy varies. For a single traumatic event, it may take just a few sessions, but for more complex or long-term trauma, therapy can last years, with EMDR typically used in later stages. Sessions may be spaced out or conducted back-to-back, with time between sessions to allow the mind and body to adjust. Rushing the process can reduce its effectiveness and may prolong symptoms.

Am I ready for EMDR?

Each person’s readiness for EMDR processing is unique to them. Use this handy list, along with your therapist’s assessment, to determine your readiness for EMDR processing.

1. Do you have an established therapeutic relationship?

Trust is essential since clients often find themselves in a very vulnerable state when processing trauma memories.

2. Are you dedicated to your own safety and treatment?

Can you practice patience with this process, knowing it is not a “quick-fix" to trauma resolution?

3. Can you hold high levels of emotion and body sensations?

Can you identify 3-5 healthy self-regulation strategies that work effectively for you? It is important to be confident in your ability to regulate your body, e.g. through your breath or other somatic interventions.

4. Can you hold positive states?

f you are able to effectively use the resourcing exercises after having practiced them in your therapist’s office, this is a good sign. Before any reprocessing of trauma, you should: Feel stable; Have access to an external support system; Have a decent sense of self and identity; and be able to safely tolerate intense, unpleasant emotions.

5. Are you able to maintain awareness?

Can you keep one foot in the present and one foot in the past when thinking about a recent mildly disturbing incident? Are you able to go back and forth between focusing on this incident and then returning your attention to the safety of the present? If you can’t, you might not be ready to process.

6. Are you relying on substances for self-regulation?

Clients who are dependent on substances for safety or self-regulation should address this in therapy prior to starting trauma processing.

7. Do you experience dissociation?

Clients who dissociate are at a higher risk of decompensation, but dissociation alone is not a contraindication for EMDR processing. What’s important is the client’s awareness of the dissociative process and their ability to bring themselves back to the present.

8. Is there a current crisis in your life?

Clients who are experiencing substantial crises may not be able to simultaneously process disturbing material. Hopefully, by the time the crisis is over, you will be ready to start processing.

9. Are you at risk of harming yourself or others?

When clients express suicidal or homicidal ideation, EMDR work is not indicated until the crisis is stabilized.

10. Is there a pending legal case?

Active legal involvement does not always prevent clients from starting processing, but it should be taken into consideration.

11. Are there any health concerns?

Some health conditions may be worsened by EMDR processing (e.g., heart and blood pressure concerns as well as certain neurological issues). It is important to consult with your medical providers to ensure you are medically cleared for EMDR treatment.

12. Are you afraid to start EMDR processing?

Some nervousness is normal when starting EMDR. However, it is important to not push to start processing. Focus first on understanding your fears or reasons to push EMDR to get started through education or more skills building.