Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, or EMDR, is a psychotherapy treatment specifically designed for trauma and PTSD. Recently, EMDR has expanded its role to address other mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and anger.

What is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy)?

EMDR is a type of psychotherapy treatment developed to treat trauma and PTSD. Its aim is to alleviate distress stemming from traumatic experiences and promote positive thinking associated with these traumas.

What mental health conditions can EMDR address?

• Acute stress disorder

• Adjustment disorder

• Anxiety disorder

• Borderline personality disorder

• Eating disorder

• Depression

• OCD

• PTSD

What is the EMDR Procedure?

EMDR shares similarities with Exposure Therapy in that individuals are exposed to painful memories in a safe environment, the therapy room. During EMDR sessions, individuals focus on disturbing experiences associated with their past traumas, including images, thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Simultaneously, they focus on external bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements from left to right or tapping on shoulders from left to right.

Why Use EMDR?

EMDR is relatively quicker in addressing trauma and its impacts compared to other therapy approaches. EMDR does not require clients to verbalize their painful memories in detail, making it a uniquely effective therapy option.

Who Is Eligible for EMDR?

EMDR can be used for a wide range of mental health conditions. People of all ages, from children to adults, can benefit from EMDR. There are therapists trained in EMDR specifically for children. Individuals with a single trauma can benefit the most from EMDR.

While EMDR is known for its effectiveness in addressing PTSD and trauma, it may not yield rapid results for all types of traumas. One critical factor in the success of EMDR intervention is the development of a sense of safety, which individuals who have experienced trauma may find difficult to establish. If an individual is currently in crisis, addressing the immediate crisis and adjusting to the external environment in therapy may be more beneficial before undergoing EMDR treatment. In addition, for individuals with multiple traumas and other mental health conditions (e.g., depression, addiction, bipolar disorder, etc.), more extended preparation for EMDR, in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches (e.g., Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, etc.), may be necessary.

EMDR is an effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, and other mental health conditions such as anxiety or OCD. People of all ages, from children to adults, can benefit from EMDR, which does not require the detailed verbalization of traumatic experiences. To benefit from EMDR, it is recommended to consult with professionals and find the best way to utilize EMDR for your own benefit. Contact Asana for more information about receiving EMDR therapy.

Written by: EK Seo, Ph.D., LPC (Link)