How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR therapy is an 8-step process in which the therapist helps you identify a target memory or distressing thought to reprocess. Careful preparation allows you to access these thoughts and memories without becoming too upset. The most unique aspect of EMDR is bilateral stimulation, a technique in which you hold a thought in mind while focusing on a stimulation that goes back and forth; this is most typically done by following a light back and forth with your eyes, but it can also be achieved with alternating auditory tones, or by holding sensors that buzz in your hands.

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Why Does EMDR Work?

When we experience something stressful or frightening, our memories can become entangled with distressing thoughts and feelings. The brain has a natural process to remove the feelings of distress when they are recalled, however sometimes the process gets stuck, and that is why we experience trauma. EMDR assists the natural healing process of the brain by reprocessing memories without the distressing elements. The memories still exist, but they no longer carry distressing thoughts or feelings with them. To learn more, please visit the EMDRIA website.

Is EMDR The Same as Hypnosis?

No. In order for EMDR therapy to be effective, the client must remain present and focused on their thoughts. EMDR does not induce any sort of altered mental state. EMDR does not work through the process of suggestion. Your memories won’t be changed or removed. Instead, EMDR activates a natural healing process which allows you to recall your memories without activating the body’s “fight or flight” response.

Will I have To Describe My Trauma?

We recognize that certain traumas are difficult to describe out loud, and this might cause some people to hesitate to engage in therapy. In EMDR therapy you will need to work with your therapist to target memories, but you do not need to describe the memories in detail; in order for EMDR to work, you just need to hold the memory in your mind during the bilateral stimulation described above. You will never be asked to recall difficult memories before you feel prepared, and your therapist can work with you to target less distressing memories or even just parts of memories until you feel confident in moving forward.

What if I Have Multiple Traumas?

It is common for people to have multiple traumas in their lives; the therapist will work with you to create a treatment plan to address these traumas separately using EMDR. Many people find that by addressing one traumatic experience with EMDR, the distress they feel regarding other traumatic events decreases.

IS EMDR Safe?

EMDR is perfectly safe for most people, however it is not recommended for women in their third trimester of pregnancy, and people with certain mental health and substance use conditions. The therapist will screen appropriately before administering treatment. Some people may be unable to use the visual bilateral stimulation (eye-movement) described above, due to being prone to seizures or if it causes eye discomfort, however the same effect can be achieved with auditory tones or with buzzing sensors being held in the hands.

Is EMDR Completely Different From Traditional Therapy?

There are elements of EMDR that resemble other traditional psychotherapy models. You will meet with a therapist in an office setting to discuss your past, present, and future. You will develop coping skills to help you manage stress and allow you to confront difficult memories without becoming too distressed. Like traditional psychotherapies, you will develop a treatment plan, and will schedule appointments at regular intervals until your treatment is sufficiently complete.

Is EMDR Just for Trauma?

EMDR was initially developed for use in the treatment of PTSD, however it has shown to be effective in treating most conditions for which people would seek therapy, such as depression, anxiety, grief, and substance abuse. To learn more, please visit the EMDRIA website.

Can EMDR be Used with Children?

EMDR can be successfully adapted for children, even those who are quite young. Creative methods and adaptive technology allow therapists to blend play therapy with EMDR techniques. In fact, children are particularly resilient and adaptable, meaning that they sometimes respond more quickly to EMDR than adults.