EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy)

EMDR is often integrated into trauma treatment. EMDR trauma therapy is a structured approach that helps individuals process and desensitize distressing memories associated with trauma. EMDR is an 8-phase treatment modality and includes much more than just eye movements.

The 8 phases of EMDR treatment include:

1. History taking and treatment planning – This involves sharing your history, with an emphasis on traumatic events you’d like to work through.
2. Preparation – Learning about the process of EMDR and answering any questions you may have. Plus, learning grounding and coping skills that you can turn to if you’re feeling overwhelmed during a session.
3. Assessment – During this phase, you will identify the events, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that you would like to target for reprocessing.
4. Desensitization – This is the term people usually think of when they hear EMDR. During this process, bilateral stimulation techniques are used, which can include auditory, visual, or tactile stimulations that engage both sides of the body.
5. Installation – During this phase, you will learn how to create and associate new positive, core beliefs that will replace traumatic memories.
6. Body scan – You will be prompted to scan your body and share the sensation you’re experiencing, while keeping in mind your traumatic event and positive belief.
7. Closure – After the reprocessing, you will be assessed to make sure you’re feeling grounded and calm, which will help you return to the present moment. You may be asked to share your thoughts, feelings, and reactions to the traumatic event, as well as how you’re feeling in your body.
8. Reevaluation – At the beginning of each new session, you will review your thoughts, feelings, beliefs about the event, and your distress level to evaluate your progress. You may identify and address additional traumatic memories for reprocessing in future sessions.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy designed to reduce distress caused by traumatic memories. It is well known for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but is also used for anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. During EMDR sessions, a therapist helps the individual recall distressing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation—usually through side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues. The aim is to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer cause intense emotional responses. You can learn more about EMDR here: https://youtu.be/Pkfln-ZtWeYY.