#TherapyApproaches

[thedataproject]

What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It's based on the premise that the mind can heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma.

How EMDR Works

EMDR therapy involves an eight-phase treatment process, which includes:

History Taking and Treatment Planning: Understanding the client's history to identify specific traumatic memories for treatment.

Preparation: Establishing trust and explaining the EMDR process to the client. Techniques for handling emotional distress are often taught in this phase.

Assessment: Identifying the vivid visual image related to the memory, negative beliefs about oneself, related emotions, and body sensations.

Desensitization: Focusing on the traumatic memory while engaging in specific types of bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements, auditory tones, or tactile taps. This process is thought to facilitate the brain's information processing.

Installation: Strengthening positive beliefs to replace the negative ones associated with the traumatic memory.

Body Scan: Identifying and addressing any residual physical tension or discomfort associated with the memory.

Closure: Returning the client to equilibrium, regardless of whether the memory has been fully processed in a session.

Reevaluation: Assessing the client's progress and determining if further processing is needed.

For more insights, visit:

What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy? (mentalhealth-facilities.com)