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EMDR Explained!
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a symptom based eight phase psychotherapy treatment developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. It is empirically supported and recognized internationally as an effective treatment for trauma. So how does it work? To explain it simply, our brain's information processing system is thought to always gravitate towards healing. While some of our traumatic memories can be adaptively processed on our own, other experiences may overwhelm our nervous system and require additional support.
We store memories in what we call associative memory networks - these guide both our behaviour and perception of our environment. These memories play a role in pathology and mental health. When we experience trauma, our adaptive information processing may be disrupted resulting in information being stored in maladaptive memory networks.
EMDR reprocessing connects maladaptive memory networks to adaptive memory networks. Therefore, reducing the somatic charge (felt sense) of the previous traumatic memory and shifting the cognition (belief about self) associated with it.
8 Phases of EMDR
What are the eight phases of EMDR?
EMDR has 8 phases. When we think of EMDR, many of us think of the left right movement of our eyes, which is called bilateral stimulation, but that is actually only a small portion of EMDR!
Phase 1: History Taking
In this phase we spend sessions getting to know you. This is my favourite phase! It is INCREDIBLY important to me that my clients feel known, heard, and seen. We will discuss what presenting concerns you are hoping to address and a plan to target these moving forward (treatment planning).
Phase 2: Resourcing
In in phase we will develop strategies to help you self-soothe, tolerate difficult emotions and increase confidence in utilizing your resources. We are increasing your resiliency and readiness to move into later stages.
Phase 3: Assessment
In this phase we will access and activate neural networks. We do this by identifying a distressing memory as well as an image, a body sensation and negative self-belief associated with the memory. We will also identify a positive belief that you would like to feel more believable.
Phase 4: Desensitization
In this phase we will use bilateral stimulation (BLS) to shift distressing traumatic memories to neutral memories. Bilateral stimulation is stimulation of the right and left hemispheres of your brain. Bilateral stimulation promotes the reprocessing of an experience in an efficient and effective way.
What does this phase feel like? Although it feels different for everyone, you may experience your thoughts ebbing and flowing while also being present within the space with your therapist.
There are many different forms of BLS (tactile, auditory, visual etc.). When we think of visual BLS you may think of a therapist moving their fingers from left to right as the client follows with their eyes. We can also use tactile stimulation (buzzers in each hand) or audio tones left and right in your ears.
Phase 5: Installation
In this phase we install the positive belief that we had identified in Phase 3 OR we develop a new positive belief that feels best for you!
Phase 6: Body Scan
In this phase we will identify any lingering negative body sensations through the use of a body scan. These can be processed further and neutralized if needed.
Phase 7: Closure
At the end of each session, we will check in and discuss any resources that may need to be used between sessions. I also ask that client keep a journal or log of experiences between sessions.
Phase 8 Re-evaluation:
In this phase, we check in on our previously worked on target. We will explore if that memory continues to have a charge as well as discussing treatment planning moving forward.
What is EMDR used for?
EMDR has been used to treat:
Depression
Anxiety
Phobias
Addiction
Trauma
Distressing life experiences/events
EMDR FAQs
You Ask - I Answer
Will I be in control?
Yes, you are in control during EMDR therapy. In EMDR we like to use the phrase “one foot in the present and one foot in the past” which is also called dual awareness. Instead of reliving trauma, you will be simply noticing emotions, sensations and images. We use the metaphor of sitting on a train watching scenery pass by. The goal is to stay grounded in knowing that this event has passed while noticing memories and feelings from a safe distance. As mentioned previously, resourcing can help you feel empowered and gain the tools to help you self-soothe. We will also discuss pace and tools to communicate if any discomfort arises.
How long is EMDR treatment?
Each session is 50 minutes in length. EMDR is thought to be more efficient and effective than typical talk therapy however the duration of therapy (like many of my other answers) depends on the individual client and their unique needs!
What if I still want to spend sessions engaging in talk therapy as well?
Some folks prefer to spend some of their sessions engaging in traditional talk therapy and some of their sessions focusing on EMDR. I encourage flexibility and what feels right for you on any given day.