Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing is an eight-stage approach to psychotherapy, recognized as an efficient, research-based treatment for trauma. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) signifies a therapy modality that allows people to heal from symptoms and emotional distress that happen from frightening and challenging life experiences. Clients and clinicians are reporting that EMDR is also successful in treating an array of issues including addictive behaviors, anger, anxiety, depression, loss and grief, pain reduction, performance enhancement, avoidance behaviors, self-esteem, stress management, trauma (violence/abuse, car accidents, natural disasters), etc.
VALID AND RELIABLE TREATMENT FOR TRAUMA
In 2004 the Practice Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association, the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and the World Health Organization supported the use of EMDR for the treatment of trauma. The purpose of EMDR is to minimize the long-lasting effects of distressing thoughts by employing the brain’s natural adaptive processing mechanisms, whereby reducing present symptoms. EMDR can accelerate therapy by resolving the impact of your past injuries and allowing you to live more fully in the present.
8 Phases of EMDR
- Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning.
- Phase 2: Preparation.
- Phase 3: Assessment.
- Phase 4: Desensitization.
- Phase 5: Installation.
- Phase 6: Body Scan.
- Phase 7: Closure.
- Phase 8: Reevaluation
DIFFERENT APPROACH
EMDR therapy takes a different approach from that of traditional psychotherapy, and issues that clients have tried to talk through for years may resolve in only a handful of sessions. You also don’t have to divulge every detail of your memories in EMDR, which is very helpful if you have trouble sharing your experience with others.
TREATING ALL ASPECTS
EMDR therapy can treat a range of symptoms, many of which are experienced by those battling trauma, including panic attacks, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, phobia, insomnia, excessive worrying, addictions and anger issues.