Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that has gained popularity in recent years for its effectiveness in treating trauma-related disorders. It was initially developed to help individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but has since been used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma, including EMDR therapy in a treatment plan can help. At Honey Lake Clinic, EMDR is one of the many evidence-based therapies we offer to help patients heal from past traumas and find lasting recovery.
Call 888.428.0562 to discover how EMDR therapy could help you reclaim your story.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy was first developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is based on the theory that traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in a person’s mind and body, causing distress and symptoms of mental health disorders. EMDR works to reprocess these memories, allowing individuals to process them in a safe and controlled environment.
The therapy involves eight phases and typically begins with an assessment of the individual’s history, symptoms, and current triggers. Then, guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation are used while the patient focuses on specific aspects of their trauma. This process helps individuals reprocess and integrate the traumatic memories into their overall life experiences, leading to a reduction in distress and symptoms.
How Does EMDR Work?
Why do eye movements and other forms of bilateral stimulation help with trauma processing? The exact mechanism is still being researched, but it is believed that these movements and sensations facilitate communication between different parts of the brain, helping to integrate traumatic memories into a person’s overall narrative. This allows EMDR participants to gain new insight and perspective on their experiences, ultimately leading to healing and recovery.
Is EMDR Biblically Sound?
At Honey Lake Clinic, our therapies are rooted in both evidence-based practices and Biblical principles. EMDR therapy is based on the concept of healing from past traumas and finding freedom from distressing memories.
Additionally, EMDR therapy is not a form of hypnosis and does not involve any mystical or New Age practices. It is grounded in scientific research and has been shown to be effective in treating various mental health conditions.
How Can EMDR Therapy Help with Trauma?
EMDR therapy has been proven to be an effective treatment for individuals struggling with trauma-related disorders. Multiple studies have shown that the vast majority of individuals with PTSD no longer meet the criteria for the disorder after completing EMDR therapy.1 It has also been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Some potential benefits of EMDR therapy include:
- A reduction in distress related to traumatic memories
- Improved emotional regulation and coping skills
- Increased self-esteem and confidence
- A deeper understanding and integration of traumatic experiences
- A decrease in symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions
Whether used on its own or in combination with other therapies, EMDR has the potential to help people heal from past traumas and find lasting recovery.
Find Healing for Trauma at Honey Lake Clinic
Traumatic experiences can have a significant impact on your mental health and well-being. But with proper treatment, it is possible to overcome these challenges, reclaim your story, and live a fulfilling life. At Honey Lake Clinic, we offer comprehensive treatment programs for trauma that incorporate evidence-based therapies like EMDR, along with holistic treatments and a supportive, faith-based community.
Call 888.428.0562 or reach out online to learn more about our adult mental health treatment programs and start your journey toward healing.
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