What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of integrative psychotherapy used as a treatment for trauma. The EMDR method looks at past events that formed the present psychological and emotional responses and helps you process and integrate these memories in a way that reduces their negative impact on current wellbeing. Rather than focusing solely on the content of traumatic memories, EMDR helps clients change the way their brain stores these memories.

In other words, EMDR is like flossing your brain. Many of my clients truly benefit from the deep cleanse that EMDR can offer. Just like flossing clears the gunk between your teeth, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) clears the mental clutter and emotional residue stored in your nervous system.

How does EMDR work?

The method involves recalling distressing events while engaging in bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements, tapping or auditory tones, to reduce emotional reactions of memories. This process facilitates the brain’s natural ability to process and reintegrate traumatic memories, allowing the individual to approach them with less emotional reactions.

EMDR is based on the adaptive information processing model which suggests that traumatic memories that are not fully processed become ‘stuck’ in the brain and contribute to ongoing emotional distress. Through the use of bilateral stimulation, EMDR is a technique that encourages the brain to reprocess these memories and integrate them into more adaptive memory networks, therefore reducing those memories emotional nature. As a result, individuals can start to experience less feelings like anxiety, fear or avoidance when recalling the traumatic memory.

Who can benefit from EMDR?

Anyone can benefit from EMDR therapy as it can be used to treat psychological responses to difficult and traumatic events. Some examples of individuals who may find relief through EMDR include those experiencing:

• Self-esteem challenges
• Difficulties with mood regulation
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Complex-PTSD
• Anxiety
• Depression and feelings of hopelessness
• Phobias
• Additictions
• Chronic Pain

EMDR is not only effective for people with diagnosed mental health disorders, but it can also be helpful for anyone has experienced distressing life events, for example, a difficult breakup, childhood trauma or car accident. EMDR is adaptable and can be tailored to meet the needs of each individual.

Before starting EMDR, it’s important that you feel emotionally stable and able to cope day-to-day. If needed, we’ll first focus on building coping strategies and managing triggers. We’ll also consider any current life stressors to ensure the timing is right for trauma processing.

What research is there on EMDR?

EMDR was originally founded by Dr Francine Shapira. Shapira discovered that certain types of eye movements could reduce the intensity of emotional distress caused by traumatic memories.

With the therapy being 35 years old, it has accumulated a substantial body of research proving its efficiency and is recognised in several professional bodies in the UK such as: the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Studies have shown EMDR can significantly reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, often leading to faster improvements in emotional regulation and mental well-being compared to traditional therapies. Additionally, research indicates that the benefits of EMDR can be long-lasting, with many individuals reporting sustained recovery and a reduced impact of past traumatic events on their daily lives.

What happens during an EMDR session?

EMDR therapy is typically conducted over 6-12 sessions, each lasting 60 minutes. The structure of EMDR therapy is built around 8 phases consisting of:

• History taking – Gathering details of your past experiences 
• Preparation – The therapist helps you establish a sense of safety and trust
• Assessment – The therapist identifies the specific traumatic memories to focus on
• Desensitisation – The bilateral stimulation is introduced as you recall the memory
• Installation – Positive thoughts and beliefs are reinforced as new, adaptive ways of thinking are integrated.
• Body Scanning – The therapist guides you in noticing any residual tension or discomfort in your body related to the memory, working to release it.
• Closure – Ensure you leave each session feeling grounded and stable, even if the memory work is not complete
• Re-evaluation – At the beginnings of each subsequent session, progress is assessed to ensure the therapy is 

These phases are designed to ensure that you process traumatic memories in a safe and structured way, allowing your brain to make new connections and heal from past wounds.

How does it compare to other therapies?

EMDR differs from traditional talking therapies as it incorporates bilateral stimulation (eye movements or tapping). While talking therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, EMDR works on reprocessing memories at a deeper, more unconscious level. The effectiveness of EMDR is often faster compared to other therapies, especially for people with PTSD or trauma-related disorders. Clients often experience significant relief from distressing symptoms in fewer sessions. However, it’s important to note that the duration and success of treatment vary depending on the individual and their specific issues.

Outcomes of EMDR

Most individuals who engage in EMDR therapy report significant improvements in their mental health and emotional well-being. The main outcomes include:

• A reduction in the intensity and frequency of trauma-related flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety
• A shift towards more positive and adaptive beliefs about oneself and the world
• Increased ability to cope with stress and emotional regulation
• A greater sense of peace and acceptance regarding past traumatic event

The long-term effects of EMDR can be profound, helping individuals to not only process past trauma but also build resilience for future challenges.

Important considerations

• It is crucial to work with a trained EMDR therapist who has a full accreditation from a UK professional body to ensure safety and effectiveness of the therapeutic intervention.

• This therapeutic method is not a quick fix and, like most therapy, can be difficult work, especially when recalling traumatic memories and working through them. The therapy itself is designed to help you process and heal, but some emotional discomfort is to be expected as you work through past experiences. Patience and commitment to the process are key.

Interested in getting started?

Email  drmajajankowska@gmail.com