–Written by Gabriel Pfeiffer, LPC

 

In therapy, there are various approaches to helping people navigate their emotional wounds and traumas. One method is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can help develop healing and resilience.

EMDR was developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. Grounded in the understanding that traumatic experiences can leave deep imprints on the mind and body, EMDR aims to alleviate distress by facilitating the reprocessing of these memories and emotional impacts from past experiences. The approach recognizes that when a traumatic event occurs, the brain may struggle to process the experience fully, leading to the formation of maladaptive beliefs, painful emotional responses, and disassociated memories. Pairing bilateral dual-attention stimulation (BLS) with processing traumatic experiences, EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories, allowing individuals to heal and integrate the traumatic material more effectively.

The EMDR process typically begins with an in-depth assessment by a trained therapist. The therapist develops an understanding of the client’s history, identifies target memories or issues to be addressed, and establishes a foundation of safety and trust. Then, clients are guided through a series of BLS exercises, such as following the therapist’s fingers with their eyes, listening to alternating sounds, or clients rhythmically tapping either side of themselves, among other forms of BLS. These exercises are designed to activate both hemispheres of the brain, facilitating the reprocessing of traumatic memories.

Throughout the process, the therapist guides the client in exploring the emotions, sensations, and thoughts that arise. By gently and non-judgmentally examining these parts, individuals can begin to reframe their experiences and develop new perspectives. As the therapist, I work to ensure that clients have the necessary coping skills and resources to manage any distress that may emerge during the sessions, prioritizing their well-being throughout the process.

EMDR offers several potential benefits for individuals seeking healing from trauma. It can significantly reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories, allowing individuals to regain a sense of control and freedom from their past. This therapy is not used to delete past traumatic memories or overwhelming emotions. Instead, EMDR can help “turn down the volume” so that traumatic experiences can sit in the past like normal memories without negatively affecting the present. EMDR also helps in identifying and transforming negative beliefs and self-perceptions that may have developed as a result of the trauma. Many clients have reported experiencing decreases in symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions.

EMDR is a powerful therapeutic technique, offering individuals the opportunity to heal from the wounds of trauma. With its compassionate and empirically researched approach, EMDR provides a safe space for exploring traumatic memories, reframing beliefs, and promoting lasting change. If you, a friend, or family member are someone who has experienced trauma and seeks a path towards healing, EMDR may be a valuable tool worth considering, offering the potential for renewed hope and resilience on your journey to recovery.

Gabriel Pfeiffer is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals and couples. He is passionate about helping people recover from trauma and uses his training and experience in EMDR to serve clients. Call or email today to schedule an appointment.