What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy was developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro, as an alternative treatment to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It has since evolved into a highly structured and comprehensive eight-phase treatment method used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions (listed below).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the brain’s natural ability to process and heal from trauma using bilateral stimulation, such as tapping or guided eye movements.
During EMDR sessions, the therapist guides clients to recall a distressing memory while simultaneously practicing bilateral stimulation. This process aims to help the brain reprocess the traumatic memory, so that clients can recall the memory without experiencing the intense emotional reactions which are part of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The process helps the brain move the memory from a place of emotional distress to a more neutral and manageable state.
What Mental Health Conditions Can EMDR Treat?
EMDR is particularly helpful for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it can also be used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including:
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
- Chronic illness and medical issues
- Depression
- Dissociative disorders
- Eating disorders
- Grief and loss
- Sexual assault
- Sleep disturbances
- Substance use disorder and addiction
- Violence and abuse
- PTSD and other stress-related issues
- Personality disorders
- Performance anxiety
- Pain
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
During EMDR therapy, the therapist safely guides the client to recall past negative or distressing memories. The client may discuss the physical sensations and distressing emotions associated with the memory.
During the rapid eye movement phase of treatment, the client focuses on their past memory as they engage in bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or counting. The bilateral stimulation activates the brain’s natural ability to reprocess a memory, similar to what happens during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
Over time, the memory becomes less emotionally charged and more neutral, allowing clients to feel more in control and less inhibited by their past.
Learn more about the eight phase treatment method in our service article, “EMDR Therapy in Massachusetts.”
How Can EMDR Help Individuals Move Forward from Trauma?
When we experience trauma, our brain struggles to properly store and understand the experience. As a result, our memories of the traumatic event become stuck in our brain, causing us to experience flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, or emotional reactions long after the event. We may become distressed and disconnected from ourselves, and the opportunities around us.
EMDR helps individuals get unstuck from past experiences and rediscover the inner peace and healing that is available to all of us. As individuals reprocess distressing experiences with EMDR therapy, they often feel more in control, less anxious, and capable of moving forward in life without being confined by past trauma.
Start Working with an EMDR Certified Therapist in Massachusetts Today:
At Handel Behavioral Health, our therapists trained in EMDR therapy are here to support you through every step of your emotional healing. Our therapists provide safe, nurturing, and professional space where you can begin your journey toward recovery and lasting wellbeing.
If you’re ready to start working with an EMDR therapist online in Massachusetts, or in person at our offices in Amherst, West Springfield, Wilbraham, Natick, or Franklin, we’re here for you.
Call us today at (413) 343-4357 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healing.
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