EMDR Therapy
EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. It is a therapeutic method used to treat patients undergoing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and those battling substance abuse.
Francine Shapiro created this technique in the late 1980s. She established that people fighting addiction and other disorders could reprogram their trauma responses with this method while identifying what obstructive emotions and behaviors are worsening their condition.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
EMDR therapy relies upon its eight crucial components. These phases, which we discuss below, help patients to dive beneath the surface of their traumas and apply skills to regulate emotions and stress. These phases are essential during the training process required to undergo EMDR, resulting in numerous benefits.
The eight phases of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy are:
- History and Treatment Planning: The first phase promotes a connection between the therapist and patient so there is an understanding of the past trauma. The patients discuss their history, which is used in the design of their unique treatment plan.
- Preparation: The second phase helps the patient to grasp the purpose and process of the therapy training. Techniques are created to combat emotional stress that may arise during the treatment process.
- Assessment: The third phase is also referred to as the “target event” since the licensed therapist will note the patient’s beliefs, feelings, and sensations and figure out how emotional damage and physical dependence on drugs were established.
- Desensitization: The fourth phase includes side-to-side eye movements and sounds while focusing on the past trauma. During the process, new thoughts and sensations often occur.
- Installation: In the fifth phase, the therapist will work with the client to associate positive beliefs and thoughts.
- Body Scan: During the sixth phase, the client will focus on the trauma and the new, positive thoughts and feelings created by the therapist and client.
- Closure: In the seventh phase, the client is soothed and transitioned out of the process, rendering it complete.
- Revaluation: In the eighth and final phase, the client will continue regular sessions with the licensed therapist to ensure distress is low and positive cognition is stagnant or improving.
EMDR therapy helps with depression, PTSD, addiction, and other conditions. Research indicates no side effects with EMDR, with the added benefit that it does not require medication. Never cease the use of medication without talking to a medical professional first. Many clients and healthcare professionals find this treatment effective and supportive of recovery goals.
Treatment at Sunshine Care Centers
From cognitive-behavioral therapy to music therapy and EMDR training, Sunshine Care Centers offers evidence-based programs to help you during the treatment process. When our clients begin recovery, we work hard to make sure they feel comfortable expressing themselves, working with others, and applying new skills.
Sunshine Care Centers has a suite of medical professionals and addiction specialists with over 30 years of experience in drug and alcohol rehabilitation to assist you on the road to recovery.
Don’t wait to receive the help you deserve.
Speak to a specialist at Sunshine Care Centers by calling 883-597-CARE or message us today!