Benefits of EMDR Therapy – Post traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can be a debilitating condition. PTSD is a lasting condition that is often rooted one or more traumatic events. It is characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, nightmares, and sometimes even self-destructive behavior. These symptoms often negatively affect quality of life. While there are numerous effective therapeutic treatments available, Morgan Center has had excellent results with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (also known as EMDR therapy). This treatment modality utilizes controlled recall of the triggering event, along with purposeful eye movement or other form of bilateral stimulation which is guided by a trained professional. The goal of the therapy is to decrease the client’s symptom severity and identify better coping mechanisms. There are often eight steps taken in the EMDR therapy process:
- Planning: The therapist works with the client in order to learn more about the traumatic event.
- Preparation: The client works with the therapist in order to understand and prepare for the process. Clients learn about a variety of strategies or coping mechanisms, in order to help them alleviate their symptoms as the event is recalled.
- Assessment: A specific moment of the event is recalled, and the client then brings forth a negative self-belief stemming from that moment. After that negative belief is discussed, the client is prompted to replace the belief with a more empowering and positive one. This process takes place over several sessions.
- Desensitization: The therapist guides the client through focused eye movement, tapping, and other movements, as the client works through subsequent memories or triggers surrounding the event.
- Installation: During this stage, the positive self-belief is strengthened, as the therapist works with the client to empower themselves with that belief when the traumatic experience is recalled.
- Body Scan: The client learns how to identify and resolve any tension within the body when recalling the event.
- Closure: This occurs at end of each session in order to ensure the client leaves feeling more empowered in their situation.
- Reevaluation: This occurs at the beginning of each session, in order to identify any new triggers or physical responses to the event.
EMDR therapy has proven to be extremely helpful for those who are looking to decrease their troubling PTSD symptoms, and regain control over their physical responses when that traumatic event is recalled. For those who are interested in learning more about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, please contact us. By working through your triggering event through these steps, it is possible to heal from these prior traumas, resulting in improvements to your overall well-being and quality of life. And while we typically have good results with EMDR therapy, it isn’t for everyone. Contact us to learn more and find out if EMDR therapy is right for you.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
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