Although Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)—a psychotherapy for processing distressing memories—is a well-known, evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it has also been shown to be effective in treating other mental health disorders such as
- anxiety disorders.
- bipolar disorder.
- eating disorders.
- major depressive disorder.
Created in 1987 by Francine Shapiro, PhD, EMDR relies on the theory that the brain stores normal memories differently than distressing (or traumatic) memories. When a traumatic memory becomes “stuck” and an individual is triggered to recall the memory, its associated elements (emotions, beliefs, thoughts, physical sensations) occur along with it again and again.
EMDR helps release “stuck” traumatic memories into the working memory for processing, ultimately facilitating the formation of new neural connections and severing the association between it and the previously distressing emotions, beliefs, thoughts and physical sensations.
Clinical research suggests that EMDR results in accelerated learning through the use of eye movement and other bilateral (left-right) brain stimulation (such as tones or taps) while the client briefly recalls the distressing memory. The EMDR standard protocol is delivered via 6-12 individual therapy sessions through which the clinician guides the client in progressing through eight phases of treatment.
Since the first clinical trial investigating EMDR in1989, a plethora of research has indicated its efficacy. For example, more than 30 randomized controlled trials have demonstrated EMDR’s effectiveness in treating PTSD in both adults and children. Additionally, EMDR is endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association, among other renowned organizations.
About the Term “Trauma”
Many think that only the most objectively horrifying and distressing events can be considered traumatic (war, car accidents, rape,etc.). However, when we’re referring to “traumatic memories,” any subjectively distressing event that changes the way individuals think about themselves and/or the world would qualify. For example, imagine if a person is reading aloud in front of their third-grade class. They begin stuttering and the entire class laughs. Fast forward twenty years and this individual is now an adult who is terrified of public speaking. This would be a subjectively distressing “traumatic” memory that could be processed through EMDR.
If you’re interested in learning more about EMDR at Travco, contact us today at 330.286.0050!
