Understanding EMDR in 30 seconds: A Simple Guide

What is EMDR?

·      EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.

·      It is a psychotherapy technique used to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences.

·      The world health organisation (WHO) and major countries health authorities recognise EMDR as a credible and well researched technique.

How does EMDR work?

·      EMDR involves recalling traumatic memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps. The process moves a bad thought stored in the short-term memory to the long term memory

·      This means that the memory can still be recalled but emotionally you do not react to it.

Benefits of EMDR:

·      Reduces symptoms of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

·      Helps with anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.

·      Often faster than traditional talk therapy.

·      Does not require detailed verbal descriptions of the trauma, which can be less distressing for the client.

·      Can remove phobias or ticks

Who can benefit from EMDR?

·      Individuals suffering from PTSD.

·      People with anxiety, depression, or panic disorders.

·      Anyone who has experienced trauma, such as abuse, accidents, or loss.

·      Adults, adolescence and even dogs!

Common Misconceptions:

·      Myth: EMDR is hypnosis.

·      Fact: EMDR is not hypnosis; clients remain fully aware and in control.

·      Myth: EMDR is only for PTSD.

·      Fact:** EMDR can help with various mental health issues, not just PTSD.

·      Myth: EMDR won’t work on blind or the visually impaired or neurodivergent

·      Fact: EMDR uses light bars, tapping or various aids for what is called bilateral stimulation. EMDR can be used for anyone.

·      Myth: You have to relive a terrible traumatic situation for it too work.

·      Fact: Not necessarily. An expert EMDR therapist will have multiple ways, so the reprocessing does not re traumatise or make you feel upset.  

Finding an EMDR Therapist:

·      EMDR therapists are very sort after, and it can sometime be tricky to find one that is available. You can find a list of accredited EMDR therapists here https://map.emdrassociation.org.uk/

·      Tracey Brittain is an EMDR specialist. She has over two decades of EMDR experience and has presented research on EMDR to many educational and therapist institutions. Traceys website is www.traceybrittain.org

Conclusion:

·      EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based therapy.

·      It can help people heal from trauma and improve their mental health.

-              If you or someone you know is struggling with traumatic memories, consider exploring EMDR as a treatment option.