Eye Movement Desensitization andReprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro inthe late 1980s, EMDR has been extensively researched and validated as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. This document will provide an overview of what EMDR is, how it works, and how it is used to treat trauma.

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What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages clients to focus trauma memories while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements). EMDR aims to process these memories, allowing the individual to integrate them into their overall life narrative and reduce their emotional charge. Common BLS can include tappers, audio, light bar, tapping, and swaying. EMDR can be effective both virtually orin person.

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The EMDR Process

EMDR therapy is typically divided into eight phases:

1. History Taking and Treatment Planning: The therapist gathers the patient's history and assesses their readiness for EMDR. A treatment plan is developed, focusing on specific memories and associated negative beliefs.

2. Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process to the patient and helps them develop resources for handling emotional distress. This may include teaching relaxation techniques and establishing a safe place.

3. Assessment: The target memory is identified, and the patient selects an image that represents the worst part of the memory. The patient also identifies a negative belief about themselves related to the memory and a positive belief they would like to have. Emotions and physical sensations associated with the memory are also noted.

4. Desensitization: The patient focuses on the traumatic memory while simultaneously following the therapist's fingers as they move back and forth across the patient’s field of vision. This bilateral stimulation can also be achieved through tapping or auditory tones. The goal is to reduce the distress associated with the memory.

5. Installation: The focus shifts to the positive belief the patient wants to associate with the memory. Bilateral stimulation is used to strengthen this positive belief.

6. Body Scan: The patient is asked to focus on any residual physical sensations associated with the memory. If distressing sensations remain, additional processing may be required.

7. Closure: At the end of each session, the therapist ensures that the patient returns to a state of equilibrium. Relaxation techniques may be used, and the patient is reminded of self-care strategies.

8. Reevaluation: At the beginning of the next session, the therapist assesses the patient's current state, reviewing the progress made and determining if further work on the target memory is needed.

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How EMDR Treats Trauma

● Processing Traumatic Memories: EMDR helps reprocess traumatic memories so they are no longer psychologically disruptive. The bilateral stimulation during EMDR sessions is thought to mimic the brain's natural processing mechanisms, similar to what happens during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. EMDR may cause an increase in dreaming/ nightmares.

● Reducing Physiological Arousal: By repeatedly exposing the patient to the traumatic memory in a controlled environment, EMDR reduces the physiological responses associated with the memory, such as anxiety and panic.

● Cognitive Restructuring: EMDR helps clients replace negative beliefs associated with the trauma (e.g., "I am powerless") with positive beliefs (e.g., "I am in control"). This cognitive restructuring can lead to significant changes in self-perception and behavior.

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Clinical Applications

● Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): EMDR is most widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating PTSD. Numerous studies have shown significant reductions in PTSD symptoms following EMDR treatment.

● Anxiety and Depression: EMDR has also been used to treat anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder. Additionally, it can help alleviate depressive symptoms associated with trauma.

● Complex Trauma: For individuals with complex trauma or multiple traumatic experiences, EMDR can be an effective part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It can help disentangle and process various traumatic memories.

● Other Applications: EMDR has been applied to a wide range of psychological issues, including grief, addiction, and chronic pain, where trauma or distressing memories play a significant role.

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Hannah Higgins Professional Experience

LICENSE INFORMATION: Hannah Higgins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Colorado (CSW.09928629).

DEGREE INFORMATION: Hannah Higgins graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 2017 with her Masters degree in social work. Hannah has a Bachelor's degree in social work from Northeastern Illinois University.

REGULATION OF PSYCHOTHERAPISTS: The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies has the general responsibility of regulating the practice of licensed psychologists, licensed social workers, licensed professional counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed school psychologists practicing outside the school setting, licensed or certified addiction counselors, and unlicensed individuals who practice psychotherapy.

EMDR training completed by Kase & Co. Training and Consulting:

admin@kaseandco.com

(253) 780-1204

Training completed 3/2024

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