Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has since been extensively researched and found effective for treating a wide range of mental health conditions, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Lotus Recovery recognizes the link between trauma, mental health and substance use, which is why we offer trauma treatment services like EMDR. We know how important it is to heal from unprocessed trauma so that you can continue your recovery from mental health and substance use disorders.
Fundamental Principles of EMDR
Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model
Bilateral Stimulation
Phases of EMDR
Phase 1. History-Taking and Treatment Planning
Phase 5. Installation
Phase 2. Preparation
Phase 6. Body Scan
Phase 3. Assessment
Phase 7. Closure
Phase 4. Desensitization
Phase 8. Reevaluation
Applications of EMDR
EMDR is effective for a variety of conditions, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Reduces symptoms related to traumatic experiences.
- Anxiety disorders. Alleviates anxiety and panic related to specific events.
- Depression. Addresses underlying traumatic memories contributing to depressive symptoms.
- Phobias. Reduces irrational fears by reprocessing related memories.
- Substance use disorders. Manages cravings and triggers by addressing past traumas.
- Grief and loss. Processes and copes with significant losses.
Benefits of EMDR
EMDR can produce significant improvements in a relatively short period of time. It also does not rely on medications and instead uses the brain’s natural healing processes. Clients who are recovering from substance use disorders are especially grateful for this, as they try to add as few medications as possible to their regimens.
EMDR is also valued for its ability to process and heal from traumatic memories rather than having to relive these painful events, and it addresses the emotional, cognitive and physical aspects of traumatic memories for complete healing. We recommend this therapy for individuals who have experienced past trauma and want to gain control over their distressing memories and symptoms. EMDR is also effective for treating a broad range of other mental health issues beyond PTSD, so it may work for you even if you haven’t experienced trauma.