How EMDR Therapy Works: What to Expect & How It Helps with Trauma
How EMDR Therapy Works: What to Expect & How It Helps with Trauma
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a specialized approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. Developed in the late 1980s, EMDR has become a widely recognized treatment for trauma-related conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Understanding how EMDR works and what to expect in therapy can provide clarity and confidence for those considering this form of treatment.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps clients reprocess distressing memories, allowing the brain to heal naturally from the emotional impacts of trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR engages both the cognitive and sensory processing systems by incorporating bilateral stimulation—most commonly, guided eye movements.
How Does EMDR Work?
Traumatic memories are often stored in the brain differently from routine memories. They can remain “stuck” with intense emotional charge, negative beliefs, and physical sensations. EMDR therapy helps unlock these memories, enabling the brain to integrate and reframe them in a more adaptive way.
The therapy involves eight distinct phases:
History Taking: The clinician gathers a comprehensive history and assesses your readiness for EMDR therapy.
Preparation: You learn about EMDR, develop coping strategies, and establish a safe place for emotional regulation.
Assessment: The specific traumatic memory and its associated negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations are identified.
Desensitization: Using bilateral stimulation, the therapist guides you through the traumatic memory, allowing your brain to process and reduce distress.
Installation: Positive beliefs that counter the original negative ones are strengthened.
Body Scan: You focus on any residual physical tension or discomfort related to the memory.
Closure: Ensures emotional stability at the end of each session.
Reevaluation: At the start of subsequent sessions, your progress and remaining concerns are reviewed.
What to Expect During an EMDR Session
During EMDR therapy, you will be asked to bring to mind a traumatic memory while simultaneously following the therapist’s finger movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation like tapping or auditory tones. This dual attention allows your brain’s natural healing processes to engage.
You may experience shifts in how you perceive the memory—feelings of distress often decrease, and new insights or perspectives may arise. It is normal to feel varying emotions throughout the process. Your therapist will ensure the pace suits your comfort level and provide support if distress feels overwhelming.
How EMDR Helps With Trauma
EMDR therapy addresses trauma on multiple levels:
Reduction of Emotional Distress: EMDR helps lessen the intensity of negative feelings tied to traumatic memories.
Changing Negative Beliefs: It facilitates the replacement of unhealthy beliefs (e.g., “I am powerless”) with balanced, positive ones (e.g., “I am in control now”).
Physical Relief: The therapy can alleviate somatic symptoms such as tension or pain linked to trauma.
Improved Functioning: Many clients experience better emotional regulation, decreased anxiety, and enhanced daily functioning following EMDR.
Faster Healing: EMDR often achieves therapeutic results more quickly compared to some traditional talk therapies.
Is EMDR Right for You?
EMDR has been shown effective in treating a range of trauma-related conditions and other mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. It is applied with sensitivity to individual needs and is conducted by clinicians trained in this specialized technique.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the aftereffects of trauma, discussing EMDR therapy with a qualified mental health professional may offer a pathway toward healing. At Cedar & Sage Therapy, our experienced clinicians are here to support you through every step of your journey to recovery.
Should you have questions about EMDR therapy or want to schedule an evaluation, please contact Cedar & Sage Therapy. Our goal is to provide compassionate, professional care tailored to your unique situation.
