You’ve heard the acronym before, but what is EMDR?
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a type of psychotherapy that has been gaining popularity in recent years for its effectiveness in treating trauma. It’s a relatively new form of therapy that was developed in the late 1980s, but has since been widely researched and used by mental health professionals around the world.
The basic idea is that traumatic memories are stored in the brain differently than other memories, and can be “stuck” in the nervous system, causing ongoing distress. EMDR aims to help patients “unstick” these memories so they can be processed and integrated into the rest of the person’s life experiences.
One of the key elements of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation, usually in the form of eye movements, to stimulate the left and right sides of the brain. This stimulation is thought to help the brain process the traumatic memories and resolve any associated negative emotions.
Research has shown that EMDR is highly effective in treating a range of mental health issues related to trauma, including PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), anxiety, depression, and phobias. A number of studies have found that EMDR is at least as effective as other forms of therapy for treating trauma, and in some cases, even more so.
One of the things that sets EMDR apart from other forms of therapy is how quickly it can produce results. Many patients report significant improvements after just a few sessions, and some even report experiencing relief from symptoms after just one session.
While EMDR has been found to be effective for many people, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone, or at every time during one’s healing journey. If you’re considering trying EMDR, it’s important to speak with a mental health professional who is trained in this form of therapy. They can help you determine the best therapeutic choice for you, and ensure that you receive the support you need to effectively process your traumatic experiences.
Contact NeurAlive to connect with an EMDR therapist today.
