Trauma can profoundly affect mental health, leaving individuals with lasting emotional scars from a traumatic event. Whether stemming from abuse, an accident, or a violent experience, the emotional impact of these events can manifest as anxiety disorders, negative emotions, and post traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). While traditional therapy options like trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been effective in helping individuals process these difficult memories, another effective treatment option has emerged that promises profound relief: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR. Both types of therapy are effective and have research to support them.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a form of psychotherapy that has gained recognition as an effective treatment for PTSD and other traumatic stress disorders. It uses bilateral stimulations—often through eye movements—to help individuals process and reframe traumatic memories. The therapy works by guiding the individual to focus on traumatic experiences while engaging in a type of rhythmic, bilateral stimulation, such as moving their eyes from side to side. This process is designed to facilitate the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing the individual to desensitize and reprocess EMDR the emotional impact of the traumatic event.
The Science Behind EMDR: How Does It Work?
The theory behind EMDR therapy is rooted in the idea that traumatic memories are often “stuck” in the brain, causing ongoing emotional distress. When a person experiences a traumatic event, their brain struggles to process and store the event as it would other memories. This can result in the memory being persistently vivid, emotionally charged, and overwhelming, triggering anxiety, flashbacks, and PTSD symptoms long after the event has passed.
During an EMDR session, the therapist works with the client to identify the specific traumatic memory or event that is causing distress. The client is then guided to focus on
this memory while following the therapist’s hand movements with their eyes. This bilateral stimulation is thought to facilitate the brain’s natural information processing system, helping to integrate the traumatic memory into a more adaptive context.
Bilateral Stimulation: The Key to EMDR’s Success
One of the unique aspects of EMDR therapy is its use of bilateral stimulation (BLS), which involves alternating stimulation between the two hemispheres of the brain. This can take the form of eye movements, taps, or sounds. Research has shown that bilateral stimulation activates both the left and right sides of the brain, which may enhance the processing of traumatic memories.
This form of stimulation is thought to facilitate memory processing by creating a “dual attention” state. As the client simultaneously processes the traumatic memory and focuses on the bilateral stimulation, the brain is able to reframe the emotional intensity associated with the memory, allowing for the reduction of negative emotions linked to the traumatic event.
The Role of Eye Movement in EMDR
Eye movement is not a necessary part of EMDR. Tactile and auditory stimulation are also well-researched and proven options, making EMDR therapy more accessible to people with varying needs, abilities, and preferences. There is active debate about why EMDR works. Some studies have shown that the act of moving the eyes in a specific pattern helps to process and integrate distressing memories. It is believed that eye movement mimics the natural process the brain undergoes during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, which is when the brain processes and consolidates memories. By tapping into this natural process, EMDR helps the brain process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional intensity.
A meta analysis of multiple studies on EMDR has supported the efficacy of this treatment for PTSD. The research suggests that EMDR therapy can result in significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, including hyperarousal, intrusive memories, and emotional numbing. The therapy has also shown promise in addressing anxiety disorders, depression, and other mental health conditions related to trauma.
EMDR’s Efficacy: More Than Just PTSD Treatment
While EMDR was originally developed as a treatment for PTSD, its applications have expanded to address a variety of traumatic experiences and mental health challenges. The therapy is now recognized as an effective treatment for anxiety disorders, depression, and even phobias. Its ability to address traumatic memories, regardless of when the trauma occurred, makes it a versatile tool for individuals dealing with the aftermath of a wide range of stressful life events.
EMDR sessions can help individuals process not only recent trauma but also long-standing traumatic memories that may have been suppressed or avoided. This makes EMDR particularly useful for those with complex trauma, such as childhood abuse or chronic exposure to stress.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. EMDR
Both trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR are evidence-based therapies designed to treat trauma. However, the approaches differ in their methods and focus.
While TF-CBT involves talking through the traumatic memory, challenging negative emotions, and using relaxation techniques, EMDR emphasizes processing the trauma through bilateral stimulation. Some individuals may find that TF-CBT is more effective for them, while others may respond better to EMDR. In many cases, combining both therapies can provide the most comprehensive approach to trauma healing.
The Long Term Benefits of EMDR Therapy
One of the most appealing aspects of EMDR therapy is its long-term benefits. Research has shown that EMDR not only reduces the symptoms of PTSD but also helps individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms, leading to lasting emotional relief. Many people who undergo EMDR sessions report feeling a greater sense of control over their emotions and their memories, which can lead to improved relationships, better emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
Additionally, the treatment for PTSD with EMDR often results in decreased anxiety disorders and improved overall mental health. As individuals work through their traumatic experiences, they can experience reduced emotional distress, improved self-esteem, and increased resilience in the face of future challenges.
Conclusion
EMDR therapy is a groundbreaking approach to healing from traumatic memories, offering effective treatment for PTSD, anxiety disorders, and other mental health challenges. By utilizing bilateral stimulations and the power of eye movement, EMDR helps individuals process and reframe their traumatic experiences, leading to lasting emotional relief. Whether used alone or in conjunction with other therapies like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR is a valuable tool for rewriting the story of one’s life after trauma.
Learn more about the benefits of EMDR therapy with one of our therapists today. Contact Silverlake Psychology today!