EMDR: Healing from trauma
In recent years, mental health treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has gained recognition and importance. Perhaps one of the more promising treatment options is eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which can help to reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories.
What is EMDR therapy?
Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), explained
EMDR therapy has captured the interest of psychological researchers in recent years, and evidence shows it to be a highly effective treatment modality - especially for individuals who have experienced trauma. This therapeutic approach uniquely combines cognitive and emotional elements, targeting the disturbing memories that cause distress.
Origins and foundation
Developed in the 1980s by Dr Francine Shapiro, EMDR is based on the premise that the memory of traumatic events and associated feelings can remain unprocessed, or "stuck" in the brain. These memories, when triggered, can cause intense emotional distress, and can often include physical sensations similar to those experienced at the time of the traumatic event. EMDR aims to help the brain process these memories and install more positive thoughts about the event, transforming the experience into a more adaptive form, and reducing its emotional charge.
The eight-phase approach
1. History and treatment planning: The therapist assesses the client's history, identifies potential target memories for EMDR processing, and creates a treatment plan.
2. Preparation, or resourcing: The therapist prepares the client for EMDR treatment, explaining the process and teaching self-control techniques to manage emotional distress.
3. Assessment: The targeted traumatic memory is identified, along with associated negative beliefs (known as the negative cognition), emotions, and physical sensations.
4. Desensitisation: With the use of bilateral stimulation, typically eye movements, the client focuses on the distressing memory and negative cognition which encourages the brain to safely re-process the memory, and reduces its emotional intensity.
5. Installation: The therapist helps the client replace negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory with positive ones (referred to as positive cognitions).
6. Body Scan: After processing the traumatic memory, the therapist asks the client to identify any residual physical tension related to the memory.
7. Closure: The session concludes by returning the client to a state of equilibrium, ensuring they leave feeling stable and safe. At the end of each session, the therapist may move to closure even if the all of the preceding phases are yet to be completed.
8. Re-evaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client review the progress and decide on the next steps.
Bilateral stimulation
Central to EMDR therapy is bilateral stimulation, often using lateral eye movements. The client is asked to follow the therapist's fingers (or a light bar) as it moves from side to side. This process is believed to stimulate the same brain mechanisms activated when we naturally process daily experiences and emotions.
Auditory or tactile bilateral stimulation can also be employed, like alternating beeps in each person each ear or tapping on alternate knees.
What are the benefits of EMDR?
Evidence-based treatment: EMDR treatment is recognised worldwide as an effective treatment option for PTSD. Many individuals who have experienced trauma have found healing through this method.
Treats a wide range of mental health concerns: Beyond PTSD, EMDR can assist with anxiety, depression, phobias, and other stressor-related concerns.
Suitable for both adults and children: Therapists are trained to modify EMDR to suit individual needs, whether their clients are adults or children.
Conclusion
EMDR therapy: A promising treatment
EMDR is an innovative and evidence-based approach to the treatment of trauma that focuses not only on symptoms, but also the way in which a person’s brain has processed information.
Targeting core issues: EMDR is unique in that it addresses traumatic memories, associated feelings, and physical sensations with an integrated neurological approach. Therapists can help clients confront and reprocess elements that have been a source of prolonged distress.
Balancing the mind: The term 'balance psychotherapy' resonates deeply with EMDR's philosophy. It's about recalibrating how the mind perceives and processes distressing events. Clients can adopt a more balanced, positive perspective by shifting negative cognitive patterns.
Holistic Healing: Beyond targeting symptoms, EMDR therapy strives for holistic healing. It's not just about managing PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks or depression, but rebuilding the individual's mental framework, ensuring they are better equipped to handle future challenges. This can help with, for example, relationship issues and personality difficulties going forward.
The role of counselling
Counselling can be invaluable in the treatment of trauma. Therapists offer a safe, supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, fears, and aspirations. With tailored strategies and interventions, psychologists impart essential skills that clients can use to facilitate their healing journey.
Getting support in Geelong
For those in Geelong with mental health concerns or who have experienced trauma, seeking support is essential. With EMDR therapy, therapists assist clients by targeting past traumatic memories, feelings, and physical sensations that may hold them back. The reprocessing therapy helps to create balance psychotherapy by shifting negative cognitive patterns.
Counselling, especially EMDR treatment, can provide the skills needed for healing. The goal is not just to treat PTSD or anxiety but to offer a comprehensive solution to treat various mental health problems.
Choosing an EMDR therapist in Geelong
It's essential to select an EMDR therapist who is trained and experienced. Explore Psychology in Geelong understands trauma's cognitive, emotional, and psychological aspects and are dedicated to helping their clients heal.
Book an appointment to meet with Luke Lawrence via our Enquiry Page, send us an email at luke@explorepsychology.com.au, or call 0433 778 929.