Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) was developed in 1989 by Francine Shapiro. In EMDR, a therapist guides a client through a series of repetitive steps to help desensitize the client to their negative emotions while the client is experiencing “bilateral stimulation.”
Bilateral stimulation involves rhythmic movements between the left and right sides of the body. Examples are eye movement from left to right, body tapping from one side of the body to the other, or auditory input alternating between the left and right ears.
Bilateral stimulation creates a calming and relaxing effect on the body and mind. As you experience the positive, calming effect of bilateral stimulation, you can gradually begin to experience a lessening in the negative feelings associated with a traumatic event. Your bodily sensations and feeling of calmness help to reduce the amount of anxiety and distress associated with recalling past traumatic events.
EMDR works effectively to heal trauma by creating a soothing environment for the client to process his or her trauma with a trained professional. The bilateral stimulation helps the body relax, and as the body enters a relaxed state, the mind follows. Additionally, you process your emotions in a non-threatening environment with the guidance of a therapist through a series of repetitive sessions.
Many clients find that they like the structured approach to EMDR, as clients move through eight phases: history and treatment planning, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure (occurring at the end of each session), and re-evaluation (occurring at the beginning of each session). EMDR, as a part of an individual’s recovery plan, has been shown to help clients reprocess traumatic experiences. EMDR has also been an effective treatment tool for depression, anxiety, and panic disorders.
If you are interested in more information on EMDR and other techniques to alleviate symptoms from trauma or PTSD, contact The Guest House at (855) 483-7800. The Guest House offers both short-term stays and outpatient services for you or a loved one experiencing distress from psychiatric issues associated with the negative impact of trauma. EMDR is one of the many therapeutic approaches we offer here! Our staff can answer any questions you may have about EMDR and any of the other innovative techniques that we offer! Help is here for you! Call the staff at The Guest House today for you or a loved one!