EMDR FAQs
-
EMDR stands for Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a modality of therapy that works directly with your brain to neutralize traumatic events, negative thoughts, negative feelings, and/or body sensations so they no longer hold so much power over you. EMDR utilizes bilateral stimulation (any stimulation to both sides of of the body) to help you to reprocess events.
-
EMDR works to reduce your symptoms and remove the power that trauma may be holding over you. Many studies have shown the effectiveness it has on PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and other areas of concern.
-
No, you are not required to review any resources prior to your session. If you would like some extra resources on EMDR, I recommend talking further with your therapist and/or reviewing the following videos:
EMDR Therapy Example Session: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6UvKhLYf7w&t=12s
EMDR Therapy Explanation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
-
A typical EMDR therapy session can last as long as your standard talk therapy session. For some people, it may take up to three sessions to reprocess a memory, but this is dependent on the brain re-building neural pathways. From the standpoint of how long you may be engaged in services, it varies by person due to many factors including their current situation, symptom severity, level of distress, and many other considerations .
-
After your EMDR session, what you experience may vary. Often times, clients may feel either more energized or more tired after reprocessing. Within a few days after reprocessing, most clients experience a reduction in symptoms and a reduction in negative thinking patterns. Your EMDR therapist will talk further with you regarding what you may experience. Normally, it is encouraged to engage in some of your favorite self-care practices after a session.
Written by Lacey Lemaster, M.Ed., LPC