EMDR Behavioral Therapy in Orange County
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful and innovative approach to healing from trauma and emotional distress. At Able to Change Recovery, we offer this cutting-edge treatment to help individuals process traumatic memories and negative experiences that may be fueling mental health issues. EMDR works by stimulating the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing clients to reprocess disturbing memories and develop new, healthier associations. This scientifically proven method can provide rapid relief from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression, and more, often achieving results more quickly than traditional talk therapies.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s.[1] Originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories, EMDR has since evolved into a comprehensive approach for treating various psychological issues. At its core, EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing model, which posits that many psychological problems stem from unprocessed traumatic experiences stored dysfunctionally in the brain.[2]
During an EMDR session, the therapist guides the client to briefly focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through side-to-side eye movements. This process is believed to mimic the psychological state of Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, during which the brain naturally processes information.[3] As the client focuses on the memory, the bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess the experience, reducing its emotional intensity and allowing for new, more adaptive associations to form. Over time, this leads to a significant reduction in distressing symptoms and a shift in how the individual perceives the traumatic event.
EMDR treatment follows a structured eight-phase protocol that includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation.[4] This systematic approach ensures that clients are adequately prepared for the treatment and that all aspects of the traumatic experience are thoroughly addressed. Unlike traditional talk therapies, EMDR does not require detailed discussions of the traumatic event or homework between sessions, making it an attractive option for those who find it difficult to verbalize their experiences or engage in prolonged exposure to traumatic memories.
How (and Why) EMDR Works
EMDR therapy works through a unique combination of psychological principles and neurobiological processes. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to directly access and reprocess traumatic memories, leading to rapid and lasting changes in emotional responses and behaviors:[5, 6]
- Adaptive Information Processing: EMDR is based on the theory that our brains have a natural healing mechanism that can be activated to resolve psychological disturbances. When trauma occurs, this natural processing can become blocked, leaving memories stored in a dysfunctional state. EMDR helps to unblock this process, allowing the brain to resume its natural healing.
- Bilateral stimulation: The hallmark of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but also taps or sounds) while focusing on traumatic memories. This dual attention appears to create a state similar to REM sleep, facilitating the brain’s information processing system.
- Memory reconsolidation: EMDR is thought to work by triggering memory reconsolidation, a process where stored memories become temporarily unstable and open to modification. This allows for the integration of new, more adaptive information into the traumatic memory.
- Neuroplasticity: The therapy harnesses the brain’s neuroplasticity and its ability to form new neural connections. As traumatic memories are reprocessed, new, healthier neural pathways are created, leading to lasting changes in emotional responses and beliefs.
- Desensitization: Through repeated sets of bilateral stimulation, the emotional intensity associated with traumatic memories is gradually reduced, allowing clients to recall the event without experiencing intense distress.
- Cognitive restructuring: As emotional distress decreases, clients often spontaneously develop new insights and more adaptive beliefs about themselves and the traumatic event.
- Improved body-mind connection: EMDR incorporates awareness of physical sensations, addressing the bodily component of trauma that is often stored in the nervous system.
The Efficacy of EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy has proven to be a highly effective treatment for a wide range of psychological issues. EMDR provides clinicians with an efficient approach to address both psychological and physiological symptoms stemming from adverse life experiences.[7] This efficiency often results in faster resolution of traumatic memories and their associated symptoms compared to traditional talk therapies.
Originally developed for treating PTSD, research now indicates that EMDR could be a promising treatment for other mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and depressive disorders. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool in addressing the complex, often interconnected nature of mental health challenges.
Numerous controlled studies of EMDR for PTSD have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing PTSD symptoms, with many patients experiencing significant relief after just a few sessions.[8] EMDR for addiction treatment has shown promise in addressing underlying traumatic experiences that often fuel substance use disorders as well. The growing body of research and clinical evidence continues to support EMDR as a powerful and effective treatment option for a wide range of mental health concerns.
What to Expect from EMDR Behavioral Therapy
The core of EMDR therapy involves focused sessions where the client will be asked to recall a specific traumatic memory or disturbing thought while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. During this process, clients often experience rapid shifts in insight, emotion, and physical sensation. It's important to note that while EMDR can be intense, the therapist is there to guide and support the client throughout the entire process, ensuring they remain grounded and in control.
As treatment progresses, clients usually notice a gradual reduction in the emotional intensity associated with traumatic memories. Many report feeling a sense of empowerment and relief as they process and integrate these experiences. The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual and the nature of their concerns, but many people start to see significant improvements within 6-12 sessions. Throughout the therapy, clients will work with their therapist to track progress, adjust the treatment plan as needed, and develop strategies for maintaining their gains outside of therapy.
EMDR Behavioral Therapy at Able To Change Recovery
EMDR therapy offers a transformative path to healing, helping you process past traumas and build resilience. At Able To Change Recovery, our team utilizes this powerful technique to support your journey towards mental wellness. We believe in your inherent strength and ability to overcome challenges. By choosing Able to Change, you're paving the way for profound personal growth and lasting change.
Frequently Asked Questions
About EMDR in Orange County
EMDR differs from other forms of therapy by incorporating bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to help process and reframe traumatic memories. This unique approach focuses on the integration of past experiences with present beliefs, which sets it apart from traditional talk therapies.
To prepare for your first EMDR session, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the basic principles of the therapy and reflect on any specific issues or traumas you wish to address. Additionally, discussing any concerns or questions with your therapist beforehand can ensure you feel comfortable and informed.
EMDR therapy can assist with improving emotional regulation by helping individuals process and reframe distressing memories, reducing their emotional charge. As traumatic memories are reprocessed and integrated, clients often experience a greater sense of control over their emotions and an enhanced ability to manage stress.
[1] Cleveland Clinic. (2022). EMDR therapy: What it is, procedure & effectiveness. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22641-emdr-therapy on September 12, 2024
[2] Hill, M. D. (2020). Adaptive Information Processing Theory: Origins, Principles, Applications, and Evidence. Journal of Evidence-Based Social Work, 17(3), 317–331. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32420834/ on September 12, 2024
[3] American Psychological Association. (2017). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments/eye-movement-reprocessing on September 12, 2024
[4] Kaufman, S. (2021, August 13). The eight phases of EMDR therapy. EMDR International Association. https://www.emdria.org/blog/the-eight-phases-of-emdr-therapy/ on September 12, 2024
[5] Tapping into the benefits of EMDR. (n.d.). Www.counseling.org. https://www.counseling.org/publications/counseling-today-magazine/article-archive/article/legacy/tapping-into-the-benefits-of-emdr on September 12, 2024
[6] American Psychological Association. (2023). What is EMDR therapy and why is it used to treat PTSD? Apa.org. https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/emdr-therapy-ptsd on September 12, 2024
[7] Shapiro, F. (2014). The role of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in medicine: Addressing the psychological and physical symptoms stemming from adverse life experience. The Permanente Journal, 18(1), 71–77. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3951033/ on September 12, 2024
[8] Ad de Jongh, Carlijn de Roos, & Sharif El‐Leithy. (2024). State of the science: Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 37(2). https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jts.23012 on September 12, 2024