EMDR is a type of therapy that was developed in the 1980s to help people heal from the symptoms of trauma. It is based on the idea that when we experience a traumatic event, our brain is unable to process the information correctly. This can lead to us feeling stuck in a state of distress, reliving the event over and over again. EMDR therapy can help to reprocess these memories and allow us to move on from them. The therapist will use eye movements, taps, or tones to help the client focus on the memory while at the same time allowing them to process it in a more healthy way. This can help to reduce the symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

The goal of EMDR therapy is to help the patient reprocess the memories of the traumatic event so that they no longer cause distress. Numerous studies have shown that EMDR therapy is an effective treatment for PTSD, and it has helped countless people heal from the symptoms of trauma.

Recovering from Trauma

The theory behind EMDR is that the mind can recover from trauma much as the body does. When we experience a physical injury, our bodies go through a natural healing process. Similarly, when we experience psychological trauma, our minds go through a natural process of healing. However, sometimes this process is disrupted, and the mind becomes stuck in a state of distress. EMDR therapy helps to jump-start this natural healing process by stimulating the brain with repetitive eye movements. As a result, people who undergo EMDR therapy can often experience significant improvements in their mental health.

Seven Phases

EMDR therapy consists of eight phases:

• One: Taking the client’s history

• Two: Preparing the client for therapy

• Three: Assessing the memory that is to be targeted

• Four through Seven: Processing the memory

• Eight: Evaluating results

EMDR therapy usually takes six to twelve sessions, though some people see results in as few as three. If you’re interested in EMDR therapy and would like to try an online session, reach out to Crossing Wellness to learn how our clinicians can help you process trauma through EMDR therapy.