EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a psychotherapy approach that was originally developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s to help individuals process traumatic memories and experiences. EMDR is now widely used and has been empirically validated for the treatment of various mental health conditions, particularly PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
The main components of EMDR therapy include:
Desensitization: This involves recalling distressing memories while simultaneously focusing on external stimuli, typically bilateral stimulation such as eye movements, hand tapping, or auditory tones.
Reprocessing: During this phase, the therapist helps the individual to reprocess the distressing memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity and associated negative beliefs.
Installation of Positive Beliefs: Positive beliefs or affirmations are introduced to replace negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory.
Body Scan: After processing the memory, the therapist guides the individual through a body scan to ensure that there are no lingering physical sensations or tension related to the memory.
EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic experiences can become "stuck" in the brain's processing mechanisms, leading to symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened arousal. By engaging in bilateral stimulation while recalling the traumatic memory, EMDR aims to facilitate the brain's natural healing processes, allowing the memory to be processed and integrated in a more adaptive way.
EMDR has been shown to be effective not only for PTSD but also for other conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and grief. It's typically conducted by licensed mental health professionals who have received specialized training in EMDR therapy.
Bbased on your presenting problem, you and your therapist can determine if EMDR is right for you.