How Does EMDR Therapy Treat PTSD?
EMDR therapy has become increasingly common and widely recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. Over the past few decades, EMDR has gained popularity among mental health professionals and clients alike due to its evidence-based approach and successful outcomes.
Treatment for PTSD using EMDR therapy follows a structured process to help individuals deal with distressing memories and symptoms associated with trauma. Here's a simplified explanation of how EMDR works:
Identifying Traumatic Memories: EMDR therapy begins by pinpointing specific memories that are causing distress and contributing to PTSD symptoms.
Establishing Safety: Before diving into the difficult memories, the therapist helps the individual feel safe and teaches coping strategies to manage any distress that might come up.
Using Bilateral Stimulation: During therapy, the person focuses on a traumatic memory while also engaging in some form of bilateral stimulation, like tracking the motion of lights on a light bar from left to right with their eyes. This helps the brain process the memory in a less upsetting way.
Memory Processing: While focusing on the memory and engaging in bilateral stimulation, the therapist guides the person through reprocessing the memory. This can involve exploring associated thoughts, feelings, and sensations to gain new insights.
Installing Positive Beliefs: After reducing the distress associated with the memory, the therapist helps the person adopt positive beliefs and coping skills to replace any negative beliefs related to the trauma.
Checking Physical Sensations: The person checks for any remaining physical sensations or tension related to the memory to make sure the distress has been addressed.
Ending the Session: The therapist makes sure the person is emotionally stable before ending each session, using techniques like relaxation exercises if needed.
Follow-Up: Throughout the therapy, the therapist keeps track of progress and may schedule follow-up sessions to address any remaining symptoms or issues.
By working through traumatic memories in a structured way, EMDR therapy helps individuals reduce the impact of past trauma and develop better coping skills for the future. If you are suffering from PTSD and would like to learn more about EMDR therapy, contact us today.
