EMDR has been practiced for years now, yet, still many people know very little about it. So, what makes EMDR become increasingly popular and why is it worth considering it ?
Traditionally, when a client came to therapy they were expected to share many intimate details of their trauma in order to experience relief. Many clients spent years talking about their trauma, working on changing their thoughts and beliefs associated with trauma. Despite that, a small trigger such as smell or sound, would still have the power to awaken the trauma stuck in their body and take clients back to the moment the traumatic event happened.
EMDR therapy focuses directly on the memory and how it is stored in the brain. It helps organize information and ensure that it is stored properly and no longer causes distress.
In the EMDR session, instead of discussing details of the trauma, a person focuses on a particular aspect of the memory. While using bilateral stimulation in a form of moving fingers or ” buzzies” I ask them to observe of what they notice while the brain is trying to organize the information.
What are the benefits of EMDR ?
- It is shorter than traditional talk therapy
- It targets specific memories, feeling
- It releases painful memories stuck in our brain and body
- There is no need to provide details of trauma to therapist
- It helps build capacity and resilience
What conditions can be treated with EMDR?
EMDR is very effective therapy in treating trauma, sexual assault, anxiety, high stress, loss and grief, OCD and pain.
Do you need to remember your trauma to do EMDR?
Unlike traditional talking therapy, you don’t have to have vivid memories of your trauma. Because our experiences are stored in the brain and nervous system already, EMDR taps into our brain’s natural ability to heal.
Can children participate in EMDR therapy?
Absolutely. As children do not have preconceived notions of what therapy is , they typically process events very quickly.
Can anyone engage in EMDR therapy?
Not everyone is able to engage in EMDR therapy. During initial sessions before EMDR is commenced I complete detailed assessment to ensure suitability of this treatment.
Is EMDR an evidence based therapy?
Yes. In additional to numerous research studies supporting effectiveness of EMDR, the World Health Organization (WHO) endorses EMDR as an evidence-based treatment for trauma.
Can any therapist provide EMDR therapy?
EDMR therapy can only be practiced by practitioners who have completed specialized EMDR training and engage in professional consultations.
Where can I learn more about EMDR?
For more information about EMDR please visit : https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/