While there are different trauma therapies out there, many people find EMDR easier and more comfortable than other approaches. But what is EMDR, and how does it work? The ACP team explores this approach to mental health and why it’s worth considering. 

What Does EMDR Stand For?

EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. 

What is EMDR, and How Does it Work?

EMDR was initially developed in 1987 by Francine Shapiro when she accidentally discovered that by moving her eyes back and forth while thinking of traumatic situations, she could be less emotionally attached to the memories. 

Why is that? Research suggests that the brain stores traumatic memories differently. Guided bilateral stimulation (i..e, moving the eyes back and forth) can help people process traumatic memories in a different way to reduce some intrusive instances. 

During sessions, the EMDR therapist guides the patient through thoughts while controlling the pace and intensity of the preferred bilateral stimulation. Over time, many clients report that the memory starts to feel farther away and harder to access, more akin to a difficult memory than an intrusive thought. 

Uncovering the Biggest Misconceptions of EMDR 

Although this approach has been around for quite a while, there can sometimes be apprehensions around it.

“Some people worry that EMDR is a magic cure or harmful, but it’s neither of those things,” said Kristen Schmidt-Shay, MSW, LICSW, a Director of Outpatient Clinics and the DBT Program. “EMDR is evidence-based, well-researched, and paid for by insurance. It is a safe treatment.” 

Here are a few other misconceptions about EMDR: 

• “I’ll Get Stuck in a Trauma Memory.” That’s where a licensed and trained therapist comes in. We offer safe ways of managing the trauma so clients feel put back together when they leave the office.
• “I Don’t Have One Concrete Moment to Pull From.” One of the biggest benefits of this approach is that it works for a myriad of situations, including ongoing abusive situations.
• “I Don’t Have PTSD.” While this treatment therapy was initially designed for PTSD or a specific trauma memory, it’s become useful for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, phobias, and can even be used for performance enhancement. 

What Are the 8 Stages of EMDR?

With a basic understanding of this method, let’s look at how it works:

1. History Taking and Treatment Planning: The therapist gathers information about the client’s history, current symptoms, and therapy goals. Then, the therapist and client collaborate to develop a treatment plan.
2. Preparation: The therapist works with the client to establish trust and teach relaxation techniques. The client learns how to manage emotional distress and maintain a sense of safety during sessions.
3. Assessment: The therapist helps the client identify specific memories or experiences to target during EMDR therapy. These target memories are typically related to past traumatic events or distressing experiences that contribute to the client’s current symptoms.
   
4. Desensitization: The client focuses on the target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This stimulation helps the client process the memory and reduce the associated emotional distress. While it started with moving eyes, other methods include a light bar, buzzing tappers, headphones where the sounds go back and forth, or a butterfly hug.
5. Installation: Once the distress has been reduced, the therapist helps the client strengthen positive beliefs or adaptive coping skills. The client focuses on positive thoughts or beliefs while engaging in bilateral stimulation, helping to reinforce these positive changes.
6. Body Scan: The therapist guides the client in noticing residual tension or physical discomfort associated with the target memory. The client learns to identify and release any remaining physical sensations related to the memory.
7. Closure: At the end of each session, the therapist ensures that the client feels stable and grounded, using additional relaxation techniques or coping skills to help the client manage residual distress between sessions.
8. Reevaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client revisit the target memory to assess the progress. 

How long does EMDR take?

Every provider is different, but sessions usually last one hour and are scheduled weekly. Some people like to work through an issue all at once, while others choose to do EMDR on and off for years. 

The ACP Approach to EMDR

ACP’s robust and comprehensive approach to mental health services makes it an ideal place to try this approach. Our long history and wealth of knowledge mean we can find the right solution and setup for each individual. At ACP, we have the resources and staff to get you the help you need. Along your journey, we can have open, ongoing conversations about your treatment and progress and discuss options for other services within ACP, including DBT, medication management, psychological testing, and more.

“It’s also nice knowing I can refer patients to a different person or program within ACP,” said Kimberly Oftedahl-Brooks, LICSW and ACP Therapist. “ Everyone I’ve met here has a ton of experience—I think that says a lot.” 

We offer in-person and telehealth sessions so we can meet you where you’re most comfortable, and we can provide ongoing support between sessions if things get difficult. 

Is EMDR Right for Me?

If you’re curious about trying EMDR, fill out our form and tell us what’s going on. We’ll schedule an intake and find the right fit for you. In the meantime, remember you are not alone; we are here to help.