Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy

Traumatic incidences such as motor vehicle accidents, violent incidences such as a random attack or a fall, emotional or physical abuse, are negative in their nature, are devastating and adversely influences how we view the world.

These events make us question what we know about the world, whom we can trust, and how much control we have over our lives. It affects our relationship with ourselves and our loved ones. Emotions are overwhelming, and for many of us who have experienced a trauma, we are challenged even in the simplest of everyday tasks.

Gone untreated, people who experienced traumatic incidences quite often experience post-traumatic stress, intense anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.

For many years, talk therapy has been a cornerstone of mental health treatment, offering a space to process emotions and gain insight. However, a newer, highly effective approach called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged, offering a unique path to healing for those struggling with the aftermath of distressing experiences.

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma.

EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches.

To date, EMDR therapy has helped millions of people of all ages relieve many types of psychological stress.
EMDR International Association

Watch this powerful video:

The Goal of Trauma Therapy

When we experience trauma, whatever trauma it may be, we typically will experience fear, anger, sadness, guilt, irritability, numbness, and detachment. Every time we recall the trauma, we also remember the images and the sounds that accompany that memory. We would also remember how it felt at that moment.

The goal of trauma therapy is to detach the emotions – as much as this is possible – from the memory of the trauma, such that we can recall the memory without experiencing the intensity of the emotions.

In other words, it helps us to live and function healthily in the present, without being overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions of events in our past.

During EMDR sessions, a trained therapist guides the client through a series of bilateral stimulations—most commonly eye movements, but also taps or tones.

While engaging in these bilateral stimulations, the client focuses on the distressing memory, including the associated thoughts, feelings, and body sensations. The bilateral stimulation is thought to facilitate communication between the brain’s hemispheres, similar to what occurs during REM sleep.

This process is believed to help the brain reprocess the traumatic memory, integrating it in a more adaptive and less distressing way.

Essentially, it’s like helping the brain “digest” the undigested memory.

EMDR seems to have a direct effect on the way that the brain processes information. Normal information processing is resumed, so following a successful EMDR session, a person no longer relives the images, sounds, and feelings when the event is brought to mind. You still remember what happened, but it is less upsetting. Many types of therapy have similar goals.
However, EMDR appears to be similar to what occurs naturally during dreaming or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Therefore, EMDR can be thought of as a physiologically based therapy that helps a person see disturbing material in a new and less distressing way. EMDR Canada

Read the fascinating story of how EMDR was discovered.

What can EMDR treat?

While initially developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the application of EMDR therapy has expanded significantly due to its demonstrated effectiveness.

Today, EMDR is used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This is where EMDR shines. It’s recognized by numerous health organizations worldwide as a first-line treatment for PTSD, whether from a single traumatic event or complex, chronic trauma.
• Anxiety Disorders: Including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias.
• Depression: Particularly when depression is linked to unresolved past experiences.
• Grief and Loss: Helping individuals process the emotional impact of significant losses.
• Dissociative Disorders: Assisting in integrating fragmented memories and experiences.
• Chronic Pain: Addressing the psychological component and impact of persistent pain.
• Performance Anxiety: Helping individuals overcome blocks related to public speaking, artistic performance, or athletic endeavours.

How Effective Is EMDR?

The efficacy of EMDR therapy is supported by a robust body of research. Numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness, particularly for PTSD.

• World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO recognizes EMDR as a recommended treatment for PTSD, stating, “EMDR therapy is recommended for children, adolescents and adults with PTSD.”
• American Psychiatric Association: The APA also lists EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD, recommending it in their practice guidelines.
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense: Both organizations endorse EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD for veterans and military personnel.

Research consistently shows that EMDR therapy can lead to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Many studies have found that EMDR can be as effective as, or even more effective than, other trauma-focused psychotherapies in a shorter amount of time. Clients often report a decrease in the vividness and emotional charge of traumatic memories, leading to an improved quality of life.

Is EMDR Right for You?

If you’re struggling with the lingering effects of distressing experiences, or if you identify with any of the conditions mentioned above, EMDR therapy may be a powerful tool for your healing journey. It’s crucial to seek out a trained and certified EMDR therapist.

A qualified professional will be able to assess your individual needs and determine if EMDR is the most appropriate course of treatment for you.

EMDR therapy offers a hopeful and effective path towards resolving past trauma and moving forward with greater emotional freedom and well-being.

Book your EMDR session today

Have you experienced trauma, and would you like to get help to feel better?

A number of our therapists are trained and experienced in EMDR techniques and have helped many clients with their experience of trauma.

Call us today for a 15-min free consultation and find out more about what a EMDR therapist could do for you. 604-484-2737.

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