Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This therapy involves having the client recall traumatic memories while simultaneously engaging in eye movements or other forms of rhythmic left-right stimulation. But what is EMDR therapy, exactly? Contact Grace Counseling at 844.564.0712 today to discover our compassionate EMDR therapy program.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
What is EMDR therapy? EMDR therapy is a unique, evidence-based psychotherapy technique designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. It’s used to treat a variety of mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more.
Invented by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR therapy has gained recognition and popularity among mental health professionals as an effective treatment for trauma-related disorders. According to the EMDR International Association, over 70,000 clinicians worldwide have been trained in this therapy.
The basic premise of EMDR therapy is that traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in the brain, causing ongoing distress and interfering with daily functioning. By engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, EMDR therapy aims to reprocess these memories and desensitize the individual to their negative effects.
At Grace Counseling, located in Fort Worth and Lewisville, Texas, we offer EMDR therapy as part of our comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment programs.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
EMDR therapy involves eight phases, including:
- History and treatment planning
- Preparation
- Assessment
- Desensitization
- Installation
- Body scan
- Closure
- Reevaluation
The process employs bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements) while the patient focuses on different aspects of a traumatic memory. This process helps change how the memory is stored in the brain, reducing and often eliminating its traumatic impact.
The goal of EMDR therapy is to comprehensively process the experiences that are causing problems and to include new ones that are needed for full health. Processing does not mean talking about it. It means setting up a learning state that will allow experiences that are causing problems to be digested and stored appropriately in your brain.
Is EMDR Safe?
Though it may sound unconventional, EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and is considered a safe and effective treatment option for trauma-related disorders. It has been effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more. The American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, and the Department of Defense all recognize EMDR therapy as an evidence-based treatment for trauma.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy Treatment
EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. Here are some benefits of EMDR therapy:
Efficiency
EMDR therapy can often achieve results more quickly than traditional talk therapy.
Effectiveness
EMDR is extremely effective in treating PTSD and other trauma-based disorders.
Less Reliance on Talk Therapy
Some individuals find it challenging to articulate their experiences or feelings verbally. EMDR provides an alternative method of accessing and processing traumatic memories.
At Grace Counseling, we customize our EMDR therapy program to meet the individual needs of each client. Our expert team prides itself on offering a wide range of therapies, including EMDR, to address various mental wellness and addiction issues effectively.
Call Grace Counseling to Start EMDR Therapy
If you’re considering EMDR therapy, reach out to Grace Counseling online or call 844.564.0712 today. Our compassionate caregivers in Fort Worth and Lewisville are ready to provide you with the support you need. We understand that seeking help can be a daunting process, but we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Everyone deserves to heal from trauma and live a fulfilling life. Let us help you on your journey to recovery with our EMDR therapy program at Grace Counseling.
