Imagine your brain as a processing centre that's been overwhelmed by a traumatic event. Just like a computer that freezes when it's overloaded, your brain can get stuck too. EMDR helps by jump-starting the healing process, allowing your brain to resume its natural ability to move past trauma.
A bit of Background
The therapy was discovered by chance by Dr. Francine Shapiro while she was walking in a park. She realised that moving her eyes back and forth seemed to reduce the intensity of her distressing thoughts. This led to the development of EMDR, which has since been recognised by leading health organizations as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR therapy is not just for those with PTSD; it's also effective for a variety of emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and more.
The Process
It's a structured therapy that involves eight phases, guiding individuals through the process of healing. One of the most distinctive aspects of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation, typically through eye movements. This involves activating both sides of your brain to help process and integrate traumatic memories in a new, less distressing way. It's a bit like reprogramming a computer, but in this case, it's your brain that's being rewired to reduce the emotional impact of past experiences. Research has shown that EMDR can lead to changes in the brain regions associated with stress, such as the amygdala and the hippocampus, which helps to alleviate emotional distress. It's a transformative therapy that offers hope and empowerment to those dealing with the aftermath of trauma.
Finding an EMDR Therapist
If you're considering EMDR, it's important to find a therapist who is trained and certified in the method; these individuals can be found here:
The initial sessions will focus on education, assessment, and building coping skills before moving on to processing the traumatic memories. EMDR is not a quick fix, especially for complex trauma cases, and it requires a consistent level of safety and stabilisation first. But for many, it has been a life-changing experience that has allowed them to reclaim their lives from the shadow of trauma.
Research Base
EMDR is an innovative treatment that has successfully helped over a million individuals worldwide and its validity and reliability have been established through clinical research with infants as young as 18 months of age.
EMDR Therapy is a highly effective method of treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as best practice for PTSD.
The database of research can be found here at: https://www.emdr.com/research-overview/
Common Myths about EMDR treatment can be found here:
In summary, EMDR therapy is a safe, effective, and powerful tool for healing psychological distress. It's a beacon of hope for those who have felt weighed down by their past, providing a pathway to emotional freedom and personal growth. If you're feeling stuck or burdened by traumatic experiences, EMDR therapy could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.
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