How Does EMDR Resolve Trauma?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a groundbreaking therapeutic approach that has transformed the way we understand and treat trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR engages both sides of the brain to reprocess traumatic memories, facilitating deep and lasting healing. Let's explore the types of trauma EMDR helps with, the therapeutic technique behind EMDR therapy, the potential outcomes, and what it feels like when EMDR works.

Image of a sad man sitting on a couch looking down. If you struggle with past trauma, learn how an EMDR therapist in St. Paul, MN can help you begin overcoming your symptoms.

What Trauma Does EMDR Help With?

EMDR is highly effective in treating a wide range of traumas. Initially developed to help war veterans and survivors of sexual assault, EMDR has proven to be versatile in addressing various forms of trauma, including:

  • Childhood Trauma: This includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect.

  • Accidents and Injuries: Car accidents, falls, and other sudden traumatic events.

  • Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and other catastrophic events.

  • Loss and Grief: The death of a loved one or significant loss.

  • Domestic Violence: Emotional, physical, and psychological abuse in intimate relationships.

  • Work-Related Trauma: Experiences such as those faced by first responders, military personnel, and healthcare workers.

You may wonder, does EMDR work with PTSD? Or how many sessions of EMDR do you need for PTSD? EMDR is also beneficial for individuals dealing with complex PTSD, which involves multiple traumatic events and can be deeply rooted in one's life experiences.

What Is the Therapeutic Technique of EMDR?

Are you unsure how EMDR works and wonder what are EMDR techniques for trauma? EMDR operates on the principle of the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. This model suggests that trauma disrupts the brain's natural ability to process information, causing distressing memories to remain "stuck" and unprocessed. EMDR helps by engaging the AIP network to update these past experiences.

The therapeutic technique of EMDR involves eight phases:

  1. History-Taking: The EMDR therapist gathers detailed information about the client's trauma and symptoms to create a tailored treatment plan.

  2. Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process and helps the client develop coping strategies, building trust and a sense of safety.

  3. Assessment: Specific traumatic memories and their associated negative beliefs and emotions are identified as targets for EMDR.

  4. Desensitization: The client focuses on the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (BLS) through eye movements or tactile stimulation. This activates the logical/prefrontal cortex while accessing the trauma information in the right hemisphere, desensitizing the trauma.

  5. Installation: Positive beliefs are instilled to replace the negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory.

  6. Body Scan: The client checks for any residual physical tension related to the memory.

  7. Closure: Ensuring the client feels stable and safe before ending the session.

  8. Reevaluation: Progress is reviewed, and future sessions are planned.

During desensitization, the simultaneous activation of the prefrontal cortex and the trauma-affected areas allows the traumatic information to become desensitized. This opens up the opportunity for new learning and the formation of healthier beliefs.

Do You Still Have PTSD After EMDR?

The goal of EMDR is to significantly reduce or eliminate the symptoms of PTSD. Many individuals find that after completing EMDR therapy, their PTSD symptoms are greatly diminished or even gone. They no longer experience the intense emotional reactions or intrusive thoughts that once plagued them.

However, the extent of recovery varies from person to person. While some may achieve complete remission of PTSD symptoms, others might still have some lingering effects, though these are usually much more manageable. It's also important to note that EMDR can bring about profound changes in how individuals perceive their traumatic experiences, leading to a greater sense of control and empowerment over their lives.

What Does It Feel Like When EMDR Works?

Clients often describe a range of sensations and emotions as they progress through EMDR therapy. Initially, it can be challenging as they confront distressing memories. However, as the therapy progresses, many report feeling a sense of relief and release.

When EMDR works, clients typically experience:

  • Emotional Relief: The intense emotional charge associated with the traumatic memory diminishes. What once triggered severe anxiety or fear now feels neutral or distant.

  • Cognitive Shifts: New, positive beliefs about oneself and the world emerge, replacing old, negative ones. For example, a belief such as "I am safe now" might replace "I am in danger."

  • Physical Relaxation: As the body processes the trauma, physical symptoms like tension, headaches, or stomach aches often reduce or disappear.

  • Increased Presence: Clients feel more grounded and present in their daily lives, no longer haunted by the past.

The process of EMDR can feel like a journey of self-discovery and healing. Clients often gain new insights about their trauma and how it has impacted their lives, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth.

EMDR is a powerful and effective therapy for resolving trauma. Engaging both the logical and emotional parts of the brain helps reprocess traumatic memories, leading to significant symptom reduction and improved quality of life. Whether dealing with childhood trauma, accidents, natural disasters, or any other form of trauma, EMDR offers a path to healing and empowerment. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma, consider exploring EMDR therapy with a qualified professional at Sage Leaf Wellness. Your journey to recovery and resilience can start today.

Image of a smiling woman standing outside on a sunny day with her arms spread out. With the help of a skilled therapist, discover how EMDR therapy in St. Paul, MN can help you manage your trauma symptoms and begin healing.

Start Your Journey to Healing with EMDR Therapy in Saint Paul, MN

If you're struggling with past traumas or current distress, know that you don't have to face it alone. EMDR therapy in Saint Paul, MN, can be a transformative tool to help you heal and move towards a brighter, more peaceful future. At Sage Leaf Wellness, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for your healing journey. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists specializes in EMDR therapy and is dedicated to helping you overcome life's challenges. Take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life:

Additional Therapy Services at Sage Leaf Wellness

At Sage Leaf Wellness, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and live a fulfilling life. While EMDR therapy in Saint Paul, MN, is a powerful tool we offer, it is just one aspect of our comprehensive approach to supporting your mental and emotional well-being. Our team is committed to providing a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to support your unique mental health needs. Recognizing that each person’s journey is distinct, we offer a range of therapy options to meet diverse individual needs. Some of our other services include Anxiety Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Marriage and Couples Counseling, and more. In addition to our in-person services in Saint Paul, MN we offer online therapy for those in the state of Minnesota. Let us assist you in finding peace and empowerment through our EMDR therapy and other effective therapeutic practices.

Benjamin Kelley