EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing

EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched. Consequently, it has been proven effective for the treatment of trauma. The model asserts that it facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories to bring these to an adaptive resolution (Shapiro 2001). In addition, several professional organizations have endorsed the credibility of EMDR.

Ideal for those who have been unable to forget traumatic life events.

  • The American Psychiatric Association (APA) notes that EMDR is effective for treating symptoms of acute and chronic PTSD. According to the APA, the model may be useful for people who have trouble talking about the traumatic events they’ve experienced.

  • Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense have jointly issued clinical practice guidelines. These guidelines “strongly recommended” EMDR for the treatment of PTSD in both military and non-military populations.

How EMDR Works

 EMDR actively employs bilateral stimulation across the brain’s right and left hemispheres. Therapists deliver this stimulation through diverse methods, such as guided eye movements, alternating auditory tones, or rhythmic tactile tapping.

Moreover, this bilateral stimulation effectively facilitates the brain’s reprocessing of memories trapped in an emotionally distressed state. Consequently, the brain accelerates information processing and actively creates new, healthier associations between the traumatic memory and more adaptive ones.

As a result, patients continue to recall the targeted event as negative, yet they now confidently recognize their own safety and strength in handling those memories. Additionally, current reminders of the event no longer provoke intense distress reactions. Therefore, patients cultivate a significantly more positive self-view, for example, embracing empowering beliefs like “I can be safe,” “I have worth,” or “I am not defective.”

To learn more, visit EMDRIA, the website for the EMDR International Association.

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