Mechanism of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
Quite a lot of studies have been conducted on how, by moving your body’s left and right sides in an alternating fashion (e.g., by so called bilateral stimulation such as drumming, walking, boxing), even chronic stress responses can be gently. “thawed down” and replaced with a feeling of calm and groundedness. For more information on this therapy that is called “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing” (EMDR Therapy), please visit EMDRIA.org. EMDR therapy is now the top treatment for PTSD in America.
EMDR Therapy Special Protocols
Flash Technique
While EMDR therapy has been around since the early 1990s, the flash technique, a recent protocol within the EMDR therapy field, has shown that we do not need to talk through a trauma at a time in order for the body to resolve it. Instead, we can allow the mind and body to briefly touch upon the traumatic memories. In that way (instead of diving into them for resolution), the traumatic stress response is discharged from the body more quickly than if a client describes the traumatic memory in great detail. Find more information on this short-term treatment protocol.
Feeling State Protocol
Feeling State: A Normal Feeling Fused With Trauma Becomes A Dysfunctional Feeling
EMDR Therapy processing gently “un-fuses” the feeling from the traumatic memory. Your behavior that you are struggling with will resolve or cease. Your authentic self (“you being you”) will rise automatically.
For instance, if a girl is traumatized and feels trapped in terror for not being safe, (a primal need) she may resort to a drug high to make her feel safe. NOT returning to the drug high is just like telling her brain that she can’t be safe, which is why it is so extremely difficult to stop the behavior. In her case, drugs = safety, which, however, is not real safety.
Studies show that the brain knows how to heal itself with the help of a therapist guide. The therapist helps the client describe the memory that causes the disturbance and the feelings that have been linked to the memory. The client then gently releases the traumatic stress response via bilateral stimulation.
Introduction to EMDR Therapy | EMDRIA
Understanding PTSD’s Effects on Brain, Body, and Emotions | Janet Seahorn | TEDxCSU
Discovery Channel Report on EMDR therapy including a short segment on EMDR group treatment (with Chinese Subtitles)
A brief overview how Dr. Sibylle works with her clients who engage in EMDR therapy
Possible Next steps:
- Check out self-help books with EMDR and trauma release strategies.
- Call Dr. Sibylle at (917) 620-0481, email her at toolsforvitality@gmx.de or complete the PsychologyToday Contact form to schedule a brief complimentary call for your questions or to set up your visit.
- Check out how to “Start” so that you know what you can expect.