Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing is a research-supported therapy designed for working with traumatic memories. The theory behind EMDR explains that some of these traumatic memories remain unprocessed or blocked in the neural networks in our brain and therefore limits us from resolving the stress from the trauma. EMDR treatment takes on a three-pronged approach addressing past events, current triggers and future needs.

How it Works

There are a number of steps to EMDR treatment but here are some of the main ones:

1. You will be asked to think about a negative memory and identify an image of the worst moment of it, along with a negative belief, the emotions and bodily sensations.

2. While holding up the image of the memory and belief, you will be asked to make left to right eye movements or pay attention to left to right tapping sensations or sounds. 

3. You will be asked to notice what happens and go with what your mind comes up with. 

4. This is repeated until the memory does not cause you any disturbance (this may take  one session or more).

5. Your therapist may help facilitate the process by asking you questions that could help “unblock” your thoughts or memories.

How does eye movement help?

The eye movements used in EMDR resembles REM sleep through the moving of the eyes back and forth in a rapid manner. During REM, the brain naturally processes memories through the left and right hemispheres of our brain, relieving the emotional charge of stressful events that happen to us. However, sometimes these memories may be too overwhelming and disturbing and we are not able to relieve them naturally. By activating a  brain process similar to that of  REM sleep through bilateral stimulation of the left and right hemispheres, the emotional charge of the traumatic memories may be reduced. Adaptive or positive beliefs about the memories can also be installed through this process. 

Will it be too triggering for me?

EMDR has a preparation stage at the start that would help you prepare for coping with any distress that may arise during the “eye-movement” or desensitisation stage. Safety or self-regulation techniques will be taught and practiced to ensure that you are ready for the next steps.

How long does it take?

A typical EMDR session takes around 90 minutes. For maximum effectiveness, at least one session per week is recommended. For single incident traumas in a person with healthy relationships and stable background, EMDR could be effective within a few sessions. However, if there is a history of childhood trauma, current stressors and lack of supportive relationships, EMDR may take up to many months.

Does EMDR treat more than just PTSD?

Absolutely.

While EMDR therapy is most commonly associated with PTSD, its applications extend far beyond this specific condition. Research and clinical experience have demonstrated that EMDR can be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions.

Learn more about it here.

Curious to find out more about our trauma-informed interventions and how they may be able to help you? Speak to our Trauma Specialist Counsellors, Sho Sho O and Celeste Cai to find out how EMDR can work for you. Alternatively, you can also contact us at info@restingtree.ca or book your free consultation today.