Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a fairly new and non-traditional type of psychotherapy. Its popularity is growing, especially for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD often occurs after experiences such as military combat, physical assault, rape, or car accidents. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) refers to an interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress.
EMDR therapy is most commonly used to treat symptoms of traumatic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR therapy is widely regarded as one of the best treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has been approved by many organizations as an effective therapy. EMDR therapy is an effective treatment option for people suffering from anxiety, panic, PTSD or trauma. As a therapeutic approach, EMDR is based on several theories of psychotherapy, including the concepts of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
EMDR works to disarm belief systems, also known as cognition, and changes negative cognition through a series of lateral eye movements, tapping or sounds, while asking the client to create the picture of the pain and danger (trauma) that most disturbs them. EMDR therapy includes a set of standardized protocols that incorporate elements of many different treatment approaches and has alleviated psychological trauma for millions of people of all ages. EMDR therapy has been supported by the American Psychiatric Association and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. EMDR therapy is a gradual, focused approach to treating trauma and other symptoms by reconnecting the traumatized person in a safe and measured manner with the images, self-thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations associated with the trauma, and allowing the brain's natural healing powers to move towards the resolution adaptation.
A small pilot study found that EMDR therapy was safe and effective for treating PTSD in people with a psychotic disorder. While research suggests that EMDR is an effective approach to reducing trauma, there may be some risks or side effects involved. EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. According to the EMDR Research Foundation, more than 30 studies have documented the effectiveness of EMDR therapy over the past 30 years for problems such as rape and sexual abuse, combat trauma, child trauma and neglect, life-threatening accidents, and symptoms such as anxiety, depression and substance abuse.
EMDR is generally recommended for people living with overwhelming traumatic memories and symptoms of PTSD. Although originally developed to treat trauma and PTSD, EMDR can also help relieve symptoms of other mental health problems, especially those related to past trauma. One goal of EMDR therapy is to produce rapid and effective change while the client maintains balance during and between sessions. In EMDR, the person receiving treatment remembers distressing experiences while performing bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements or physical stimulation, such as tapping both sides of the body.
Research findings have prompted the American Psychological Association to conditionally recommend EMDR for the treatment of PTSD. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that allows people to heal from symptoms and emotional distress that result from disturbing life experiences. .
