Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful psychotherapy technique that has been used to effectively treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. This therapy utilizes a unique combination of eye movements, or other forms of bilateral stimulation, to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories.
Experiencing the benefits of EMDR therapy can be life-changing, and Skywood Outpatient is proud to offer this evidence-based treatment for our clients. Our staff can offer the support and guidance needed to navigate the process of transformation and healing. Contact us at 248.617.6237 or via our online form to learn more about our EMDR therapy program in Royal Oak, MI.
Understanding Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a form of psychotherapy that was developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987. The therapy is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in the brain in a way that makes it difficult for individuals to process and integrate them. The goal of EMDR therapy is to help individuals access these memories and process them in a way that allows them to be integrated into their existing knowledge and understanding of the world.
During an EMDR therapy session, the therapist guides the individual through a series of eye movements, or other forms of bilateral stimulation, while they focus on a traumatic memory or event. The bilateral stimulation is thought to help the brain process the memory more effectively, allowing the individual to move past the trauma and reduce the negative symptoms associated with it.
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes and are typically conducted on a weekly basis. The therapist begins by taking a detailed history of the individual’s traumatic experiences and symptoms. They then guide the individual through the eye movement or bilateral stimulation process while they focus on the traumatic memory or event.
During the eye movement or bilateral stimulation process, individuals may experience a wide range of emotions and sensations. These can include feeling a sense of calm and peacefulness or experiencing intense emotions or physical sensations. The therapist helps the individual process these emotions and sensations and work through any negative thoughts or beliefs that may be associated with the traumatic memory or event.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy has been used to effectively treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, and be effective in reducing symptoms of addiction, such as cravings and relapse. The therapy has been found to be particularly effective in reducing the symptoms of PTSD, such as intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares. Other benefits of EMDR therapy may include the following:
- Improved self-esteem
- Enhanced coping skills
- Improved interpersonal relationships
- Increased ability to process difficult memories
- Improved ability to regulate emotions
- Enhanced problem-solving skills
- Improved performance in work and school
- Improved insight into underlying issues
While traditional talk therapy can provide insight and support, EMDR therapy can help to quickly rewire the brain and create lasting change. The benefits of EMDR therapy can be felt long after the therapy session has ended. Many individuals who have participated in EMDR therapy have reported feeling more in control of their emotions and less overwhelmed by the effects of their trauma.
Discover EMDR Therapy for Addiction Treatment at Skywood Outpatient
At Skywood Outpatient, EMDR therapy is incorporated into a comprehensive treatment program that includes individual and group therapy, as well as other evidence-based treatment modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
We understand that addiction is often a result of underlying trauma and that addressing this trauma is essential to achieving lasting recovery. Our program of EMDR therapy for addiction can help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories and experiences, reduce symptoms of substance abuse, and improve overall psychological functioning. Call us today at 248.617.6237 or fill out our online contact form to learn more.