At Restored Pathways Family Counseling Collective, our therapists are deeply passionate about the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Our highly trained professionals are dedicated to helping clients heal from past traumas and distressing life experiences using this innovative and evidence-based therapeutic approach.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has been extensively researched and validated as an effective treatment for trauma and a variety of other psychological issues.
How EMDR Works
EMDR therapy involves a structured process that includes eight phases, guiding clients through the identification and processing of traumatic memories. A key component of EMDR is bilateral stimulation, which typically involves guided eye movements, but can also include taps or auditory tones. This bilateral stimulation is believed to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing for more adaptive integration.
What EMDR Helps With
EMDR is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
EMDR is a frontline treatment for PTSD, helping individuals process and reduce the impact of traumatic memories from events such as military combat, sexual assault, or natural disasters.
Childhood Trauma and Abuse
Many adults and adolescents seek EMDR to address unresolved childhood trauma, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. EMDR can help reframe these early experiences, reducing their negative impact on current functioning.
Anxiety and Panic Disorders
EMDR can be effective for reducing symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders, particularly when these symptoms are linked to past traumatic events.
Depression
For some individuals, depression is rooted in unresolved trauma. EMDR helps to process these underlying issues, often leading to an improvement in depressive symptoms.
Grief and Loss
EMDR can assist individuals in processing complicated grief, helping them to work through the pain of loss and find a path to healing.
Phobias
Specific phobias, which may originate from past negative experiences, can be effectively treated with EMDR, reducing the intense fear response.
Performance Anxiety
EMDR is also used to address performance anxiety, whether related to work, sports, or other areas where individuals experience significant stress related to performance.
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a structured, eight-phase approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic memories and distressing life experiences. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR has been extensively researched and is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and a variety of other psychological issues. Here is an overview of the eight phases of EMDR therapy:
Phase 1: History Taking and Treatment Planning
In the initial phase, the therapist gathers comprehensive information about the client’s history, current symptoms, and specific issues that need to be addressed. This includes identifying traumatic memories, distressing events, and other contributing factors to the client’s mental health. The therapist and client collaboratively develop a treatment plan that outlines the target memories and desired outcomes.
Phase 2: Preparation
The preparation phase focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and ensuring the client feels safe and supported. The therapist explains the EMDR process, what to expect during sessions, and teaches the client various relaxation and coping techniques to manage distress. This phase aims to prepare the client for the upcoming reprocessing work and establish a sense of trust and security.
Phase 3: Assessment
During the assessment phase, the therapist and client identify specific target memories for reprocessing. This includes selecting a vivid image that represents the worst part of the memory, identifying associated negative beliefs (e.g., “I am powerless”), and establishing a desired positive belief (e.g., “I am in control”). The client also rates the emotional and physical distress associated with the memory using the Subjective Units of Disturbance Scale (SUDS) and identifies any physical sensations linked to the memory.
Phase 4: Desensitization
The desensitization phase is the core of EMDR therapy, where the actual reprocessing of traumatic memories takes place. The client focuses on the target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, taps, or auditory tones. The goal is to reduce the emotional intensity of the memory and allow the brain to process it adaptively. The therapist continuously checks in with the client and adjusts the stimulation as needed.
Phase 5: Installation
In the installation phase, the therapist helps the client reinforce the positive belief identified earlier. The client focuses on the target memory and the desired positive belief while engaging in bilateral stimulation. The aim is to strengthen the positive belief until it feels completely true to the client. This process helps replace the negative belief with a more adaptive, empowering perspective.
Phase 6: Body Scan
The body scan phase involves assessing any residual physical tension or discomfort associated with the target memory. The client is asked to bring the memory to mind and scan their body for any lingering sensations. If any distress is found, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation to address and alleviate these physical responses. The goal is to ensure that the memory is fully processed on both emotional and physical levels.
Phase 7: Closure
Closure ensures that the client leaves each session feeling grounded and stable. If the target memory has not been fully processed, the therapist guides the client through relaxation and self-soothing techniques to manage any remaining distress. The client is also encouraged to keep a journal to track any thoughts, feelings, or memories that arise between sessions. This phase emphasizes the client’s safety and well-being.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
The final phase, reevaluation, occurs at the beginning of each new session. The therapist assesses the client’s progress, reviews any changes since the last session, and determines the effectiveness of the reprocessing work. The therapist and client then decide on the next target memory or issue to address, continuing the cycle of treatment until the client’s goals are met.
Our Passionate and Trained Therapists
At Restored Pathways, our therapists are not only skilled in EMDR but are also passionate about its potential to transform lives. Our team has undergone extensive training and continuing education in EMDR, ensuring that we provide the highest standard of care. Our commitment to continuous professional development means that we stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in EMDR therapy.
Why Choose EMDR at Restored Pathways?
- Expertise: Our therapists are certified EMDR practitioners with a deep understanding of trauma and its impact on mental health.
- Compassionate Care: We approach each client with empathy and understanding, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing.
- Holistic Approach: We integrate EMDR with other therapeutic modalities to address the whole person, considering their unique needs and circumstances.
- Family-Centered Support: Recognizing that trauma affects not just individuals but also families, we offer support that extends to family members, helping to foster a healing environment at home.
At Restored Pathways Family Counseling Collective, we believe in the profound healing potential of EMDR therapy. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, grappling with anxiety, or seeking to overcome past abuse, our dedicated and passionate therapists are here to guide you on your journey toward recovery. EMDR therapy can help you reprocess and integrate distressing memories, reduce symptoms, and reclaim your life with renewed resilience and well-being.
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