Does EMDR Therapy Really Work?

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, also known as EMDR, is a relatively new treatment for PTSD that has gained popularity in recent years. Many people are curious about whether EMDR works and if it can help them overcome their symptoms. Below, we will discuss the power of EMDR and how it can help you recover from your traumatic experiences.

1. What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a type of therapy that uses bilateral stimulation. The stimulation can be in eye movements, taps, or tones, and it helps the brain process and heal from trauma. This therapy was initially designed to treat PTSD. It has also been effective in treating other conditions such as anxiety, depression, and even addiction.

2. How EMDR Works

EMDR works by stimulating the brain to mimic how it processes information during REM sleep. When we are in REM sleep, our brains process and store information from the day. That is why we often have dreams during REM sleep–our brains are working to make sense of the information we have taken in. EMDR therapy works similarly by stimulating the brain and helping it to process and store information more effectively.

One of the most common questions people ask about EMDR is whether it works. The answer to this question is that EMDR does indeed work for many people who have experienced trauma. Studies have shown that EMDR is more effective than traditional talk therapy in treating PTSD.

This is likely because EMDR helps address the root cause of PTSD, which is often a memory ineffectively stored in the brain. By stimulating the brain and allowing it to reprocess the memory, EMDR can help reduce or even eliminate the symptoms of PTSD.

3. What Can You Expect During an EMDR Session?

If you are considering EMDR therapy, you may be wondering what to expect during a session. The first step is to meet with your therapist to discuss your therapy goals and identify any specific memories or events that you would like to work on. Once you have done this, your therapist will help you identify a target memory to work on. This can be done by having you recall the memory while focusing on a specific image, sensation, or thought.

Next, your therapist will begin the bilateral stimulation, which can be eye movements, taps, or tones. You will focus on the memory while your therapist performs the stimulation. You may notice that your thoughts and emotions begin to change during the procedure. You may also start to see the memory in a new light or understand it differently. After the session, your therapist will discuss any insights or revelations you had during the session.

4. Why Is It Important to Go with a Certified EMDR Therapist?

It is important to note that a certified EMDR therapist should only conduct EMDR therapy. This is because the treatment can be pretty intense, and it is vital to have someone who is trained and experienced in working EMDR sessions. If you consider EMDR therapy, confirm if your therapist is certified in EMDR before scheduling a session.

5. Find a Certified EMDR Therapist

EMDR is a powerful tool that can help you heal from your trauma. If you are considering EMDR therapy, find a certified EMDR therapist to help you through the process. You may find that EMDR is an effective way to address the root cause of your PTSD. It may also reduce or eliminate your symptoms, allowing you to live a more peaceful and fulfilling life.