Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy is a relatively new but increasingly popular therapy used to help people overcome the effects of traumatic experiences. EMDR therapy is said to help the brain reprocess information more effectively, which can lead to relief from symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, and hyperarousal. 

 

EMDR therapy is divided into eight phases; you must attend multiple sessions. Treatment typically consists of 6 to 12 sessions, but additional sessions may be required.

 

Phase 1:  History is taken, and treatment plans are developed.

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Your therapist will review your symptoms and medical history to determine where you are in the treatment process.

 

This evaluation phase briefly discusses your trauma and identifies potential memories to address.

 

Phase 2: Planning

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Your therapist will teach you various techniques to help you manage and cope with the emotional or psychological stress and any uncomfortable feelings that may arise during treatment. This is referred to as resourcing. You could, for example, learn stress management techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness exercises.

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Phase 3: Evaluation

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During the third phase of EMDR therapy, your therapist will walk you through the process of choosing a specific memory to target, as well as any relevant aspects of that memory, such as:

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• Emotions or painful physical sensations

• Thoughts or images that are aggravating

• Distressing or unfavorable self-beliefs

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Phase 4–7: Treatment

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Your therapist will then begin addressing the targeted memories with EMDR therapy techniques. This occurs in four stages:

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• Desensitization

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You will be preoccupied with that negative thought, memory, or image. Simultaneously, you will be guided through bilateral stimulation (BLS), including specific eye movements, tapping, audio tones, or blinking lights.

 

Then you'll let your eyes drift and notice any thoughts or feelings that arise. If you identify these thoughts, your therapist may ask you to refocus on that traumatic memory or move on to another if it no longer elicits unwanted emotions.

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• Installation

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You will "install" a positive self-belief or image to replace the undesirable one identified in phase 3. Then, you'll concentrate on this belief by repeating BLS.

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• Scan of the body

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Your therapist will inquire whether the targeted memory causes unpleasant physical pain or sensations. If it does, they will walk you through another round of BLS.

 

• Closure

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Following each session, your therapist will discuss your progress and recommend relaxation techniques and other coping strategies to help you maintain your gains.

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Phase 8: Reassessment

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Your therapist will ask about the memories and feelings you discussed in the previous session during the re-evaluation phase, which begins in the next session. If those memories continue to cause pain, they may continue targeting them. However, they'll probably suggest moving on to new targets if they don't.