EMDR: What does it mean and why is it so hard?

EMDR is a psychotherapeutic technique aimed at reducing stress and anxiety stemming from traumatic memories. The method identifies and processes unpleasant emotions and thoughts.

The process consists of eight phases and uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to break through mental blockages. EMDR contributes to cognitive changes and strengthens positive self-perceptions.

In rehab centers, EMDR is effectively used to treat addictive behaviors and underlying psychological issues. It helps patients process traumatic experiences that often contribute to their addiction.

What does EMDR mean?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, a psychotherapeutic technique recognized for treating trauma and emotional stress.

• E stands for “Eye,” referring to eye movements.
• M stands for “Movement,” the process of bilateral stimulation.
• D stands for “Desensitization,” the reduction of negative emotions.
• R stands for “Reprocessing,” the cognitive processing of memories.

EMDR treats post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, panic attacks, and more through eight phases. These phases help identify and process traumatic memories.

A touchstone memory is a core memory that carries intense emotions. It is significant because it serves as the foundation for current issues. EMDR can be complex and has drawbacks, such as triggering intense emotional reactions.

What can EMDR treat?

EMDR treats a range of psychological conditions, particularly trauma and PTSD. Shapiro and Maxfield (2002) demonstrated that EMDR effectively and efficiently treats PTSD by accelerating information processing and promoting adaptive resolution of traumatic memories.

The technique is recognized for effectively treating panic attacks, eating disorders, addictions, dental anxiety, depression, phobias, sleep problems, grief, and phantom limb pain.

EMDR is widely practiced in English-speaking countries and has been approved by health organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association. It is a powerful psychotherapy for treating mental health issues, particularly by reducing stress and improving daily functioning.

What are the 8 phases of EMDR?

EMDR follows eight phases.

• Phase 1: History taking and treatment planning, the therapist gathers the client’s history and identifies potential traumatic events for treatment.
• Phase 2: Preparation, this phase builds trust and rapport. The client learns stress reduction techniques to ensure emotional stability.
• Phase 3: Assessment, the therapist selects a specific memory to target and identifies the negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations associated with it.
• Phase 4: Desensitization, the client processes the memory using bilateral stimulation, focusing on the memory while following eye movements or other bilateral stimuli.
• Phase 5: Installation, this phase strengthens positive beliefs to replace negative ones.
• Phase 6: Body scan, the therapist checks for any remaining physical tension and focuses on clearing it.
• Phase 7: Closure, at the end of the session, the therapist ensures the client is emotionally balanced, discusses what came up, and plans further steps if needed.
• Phase 8: Reevaluation, the therapist assesses progress and the stability of the results, addressing any new memories that may have surfaced.

What is the “touchstone memory” in EMDR?

The “touchstone memory” in EMDR is the specific memory that forms the core of the current issue. This memory is often negative and emotionally intense, making it essential to process, as it lays the foundation for the symptoms the individual is experiencing.

Identifying this touchstone memory allows the therapist to approach EMDR therapy in a structured and systematic way. Working with this memory helps reduce stress and promotes adaptive processing.

The process includes several phases, such as assessing the memory, desensitizing its emotional impact, and reevaluating progress. By addressing the touchstone memory, EMDR can help install positive associations and promote healing, particularly in conditions like PTSD.

Why is EMDR so intense?

EMDR can feel intense because it focuses on processing distressing emotions and memories. The goal is to address negative associations and ultimately help reduce stress and promote healing.

It is important to note that EMDR is a complex process. Individuals must recall difficult and sometimes painful memories during sessions, which is inherently challenging. The therapy also requires active participation and effort from the client to manage these memories and transform them into adaptive, less distressing thoughts.

EMDR is conducted in a safe and supportive environment with a trained therapist. This professional guides the individual through the sessions, ensuring that stress reduction and emotional relief remain central.

Despite its intensity, it is essential to recognize that EMDR often leads to positive changes, making it a powerful tool for healing.

What are the disadvantages of EMDR?

The potential disadvantages of EMDR include increased temporary anxiety and discomfort. EMDR is a therapy that can bring up intense emotions and memories, which may cause unpleasant sensations such as dizziness or lightheadedness.

It is important to note that EMDR is generally considered safe and effective. However, for some individuals, the distress triggered by EMDR may outweigh the benefits. Research indicates that EMDR can be difficult to manage when performed by inexperienced therapists or without proper follow-up. It is crucial that EMDR is administered by trained professionals who follow the correct protocols.

Side effects are usually mild and temporary, particularly when treating trauma and stressful life experiences.

Although numerous studies support its effectiveness, Davidson & Parker (2001) noted in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology that EMDR may not be more effective than other exposure techniques for PTSD and that the eye movements might be unnecessary.

Is EMDR effectively used in rehab centers?

Yes, EMDR is effectively used in rehab centers to process trauma. In rehab facilities, EMDR is part of a broader treatment plan. It focuses on underlying psychological issues that contribute to addiction.

When treating drug and alcohol addiction, EMDR offers a unique approach. It is often combined with traditional techniques to create a comprehensive care package. By incorporating EMDR, rehab centers provide a holistic treatment that addresses both addiction and underlying psychological issues.

Can you undergo EMDR during pregnancy?

Yes, EMDR is safe during pregnancy. Baas et al. (2022) found that EMDR is effective for childbirth anxiety in pregnant women. However, it does not offer significant benefits over standard care.

EMDR helps manage anxiety and PTSD, particularly related to childbirth and reproductive trauma. Pregnant women often experience reduced stress after EMDR sessions.

Does EMDR work for drug addiction?

EMDR therapy offers hope in treating addiction-related issues. Perez-Dandieu and Tapia (2014) found that EMDR reduces PTSD symptoms in individuals with addiction but does not directly address addiction symptoms. However, it improved self-image and alexithymia.

By desensitizing pleasurable memories associated with drug use, EMDR can potentially disrupt addiction patterns. It is considered effective for individuals struggling with drug addiction, especially when trauma is involved.

Does EMDR work for alcoholism?

EMDR therapy shows promise as a treatment for alcoholism. It is used to address emotional trauma. In alcoholism treatment, it may also help desensitize pleasurable memories related to alcohol use.

Research suggests that EMDR can significantly reduce alcohol cravings in chronically alcohol-dependent patients. Hase, Schallmayer, and Sack (2008) found that EMDR treatment significantly reduced alcohol cravings compared to standard treatments.