Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapeutic approach designed to address trauma and has been shown to effectively reduce PTSD symptoms. Unlike many other trauma therapies that involve prolonged exposure or detailed recounting of traumatic events, EMDR focuses on directly impacting the brain's neurological processes related to memory storage. In this therapy, the client briefly concentrates on the traumatic memory while the therapist guides them through exercises that promote bilateral stimulation of the brain, which may include eye movements or rhythmic left-right sensations like sounds or taps. Research suggests that this form of stimulation can significantly decrease the vividness and emotional charge of distressing memories.
The EMDR process is organized into an eight-phase framework:
Phase 1: History-taking
Phase 2: Preparing the client
Phase 3: Assessing the target memory
Phases 4-7: Processing the memory to achieve adaptive resolution
Phase 8: Evaluating the results of treatment
Typically, EMDR sessions are held once or twice a week over a period of six to twelve sessions, though some individuals may experience improvements after just three sessions.