Now Providing EMDR in Summerville, South Carolina

In the late 1980s, Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., discovered a connection between eye movement and persistent upsetting memories. Recognition of this connection motivated lifelong study and ultimately the development of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an "extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms (EMDRIA)." Although initially developed as a form of trauma therapy for adults, EMR has been identified as being an effective intervention for a range of concerns and is currently being utilized with children and adolescents (Child Mind Institute).

EMDR is different than typical CBT-based talk therapy. Instead of targeting change in emotions, thoughts, or behaviors, EMDR therapy focuses on memory. EMDR is intended to "change the way that the memory is stored in the brain, thus reducing and eliminating the problematic symptoms (APA)." EMDR does not necessitate extensive detailed discussion or re-telling of an identified trauma or details related to the distress being experienced. EMDR integrates the body in the therapeutic intervention through various forms of bi-lateral stimulation, traditionally, eye movement.

Trauma-focused CBT and EMDR therapy are recommended for children, adolescents, and adults with PTSD. Like CBT with a trauma focus, EMDR therapy aims to reduce subjective distress and strengthen adaptive cognitions related to the traumatic event. Unlike CBT with a trauma focus, EMDR does not involve (a) detailed descriptions of the event, (b) direct challenging of beliefs, (c) extended exposure or (d) homework."

-World Health Organization

There are eight structured phases in EMDR:

1. History taking and treatment planning

2. Preparation and establishing coping skills

3. Assessment and choosing target memories

4. Desensitization during eye movement

5. Installation and strengthening positive beliefs

6. Body scan

7. Closure

8. Reevaluation, review, and choosing of next target memory, if appropriate.
   

Since its development in the 1980s by Dr. Francine Shapiro, there have been various studies on what makes EMDR effective. It has been found that bi-lateral stimulation, both hemispheres of the brain working in tandem, helps to re-encode memories and is beneficial in addressing various symptoms. All aspects of what makes EMDR effective is still being explored.

If you are interested in learning more about EMDR, I've outlined a few resources:

EMDRIA

Connect EMDR

If you'd like to have an initial consultation to discuss EMDR or engaging in other forms of therapy, feel free to schedule an initial consultation here.

References

Maxfield, L. (2019). A clinician’s guide to the efficacy of EMDR therapy. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research [Editorial], 13(4), 239-246. Open access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.13.4.239

Shapiro, F., & Forrest, M. S. (2016). EMDR: The breakthrough therapy for overcoming anxiety, stress, and trauma. Hachette UK

Van der Kolk, B.A., Spinazzola, J., Blaustein, M.E., Hopper, J.W., Hopper, E.K., Korn, D. L., & Simpson, W.B. (2007). A randomized clinical trial of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), fluoxetine, and pill placebo in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: treatment effects and long-term maintenance. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 68(1), 37-46.