EMDR Therapy: Understanding Its Uses for PTSD
You may be familiar with the acronym PTSD, which is short for post-traumatic stress disorder. It’s a mental health condition often associated with veterans or those who have been through wartime activity.
Only a fraction of the population affected by PTSD is actually within the veteran category. Traumatic experiences for the average everyday person also develop into PTSD when memories and emotions are not properly processed.
When your mind isn’t able to process trauma, your system may begin functioning in overdrive, creating challenges with quality of life. This is where EMDR can be helpful in finding healing.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is an evidence-based therapeutic approach originating from the 1980s. Its original purpose was in fact to treat PTSD, but noting positive outcomes, EMDR now is used to treat many other conditions, both mentally and physically.
EMDR follows a structured approach of eight phases, focusing on processing stuck memories through bilateral stimulation and honing in on a specific target memory.
EMDR Phases
History and treatment planning
Preparation
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body scanning
Closure
Reevaluation
How EMDR Relates to PTSD
As mentioned, EMDR was originally an intervention for PTSD. Due to research and effective outcomes, major organizations like the VA, the World Health Organization, and the American Psychological Association have embraced this as an effective treatment option.
EMDR is unique in that it doesn’t solely focus on talk therapy, like many other approaches. The focus is on targeting unprocessed memories to change the way they're stored within the brain.
The goal is to replace any negative associations with more productive and positive ones. As the memory becomes unstuck, you should notice a significant reduction in symptoms.
EMDR Benefits for PTSD
EMDR is widely accepted in the mental health arena for its many benefits.
Success Rate
EMDR has a high success rate in treating symptoms associated with PTSD. In addition to that, it’s been noted to be effective in treating a spectrum of mental health concerns. This could be an important note for those struggling with overlapping mental health issues.
Speedy Results
When you enter into therapy, especially talk therapies, there is an expected longer term time frame for treatment to be effective. EMDR participants have noted experiencing results a bit more quickly.
You may not see instant results after your first session, but for PTSD, you could expect 6 to 12 sessions. If you’re struggling with more complex PTSD, you should plan for more time.
The Process
EMDR does not require a trip down memory lane where you need to relive anything triggering or uncomfortable. Not having to revisit the nitty-gritty details can make it much easier to explore your struggles with trauma and work through them.
The process isn’t aiming to simply develop coping mechanisms either. Its focus is to challenge the negative thought patterns and replace them with new ones. Over time, you won't be continuously triggered by stressors and will find less of a need to have coping strategies readily available.
Reduced Reliance on Medication
Finally, EMDR is effective in treating PTSD and its associated symptoms. For many, as their symptoms decrease, they have noted a reduction in the reliance on psychiatric medications. This could mean no longer needing medication or accompanying use of medication to achieve maximal results.
Where to Start?
When you’re suffering from PTSD, your mind and body are already in overdrive. Sometimes the thought of doing the deep dive in therapy can be overwhelming in itself. This is where EMDR therapy may serve you better.
If you’re ready to explore the benefits and start taking back control of your quality of life, we’re here to help. Contact us today to set up an appointment.