EMDR & Counselling

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy that is used to treat traumatic memories, including those that are associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The therapy involves the patient recalling a traumatic memory while the therapist guides the patient’s eye movements or uses tapping to help the patient process the memory in a less distressing way.

EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in the brain in an incomplete or unprocessed form and that by recalling the memory while also engaging in some type of bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements), the memory can be “processed”, and the associated distress can be reduced.

Describe An EMDR Consultation

An EMDR consultation typically begins with an initial assessment where the therapist will ask the client about their history of trauma, their current symptoms, and their goals for therapy. The therapist will then explain the EMDR therapy process, including what to expect during the session and how it can be helpful.

The therapist will then guide the client through the EMDR process, which includes:

  • The client will be prepared with coping strategies prior to addressing the trauma memories.
  • Identifying a specific traumatic memory to focus on during the session.
  • Discussing any negative beliefs or emotions associated with the memory.
  • Establishing a “safe place” or resource that the client can use to ground themselves during the session.
  • During the actual EMDR therapy session, the client will be asked to recall the traumatic memory while the therapist guides the client’s eye movements or uses tapping.
  • The therapist will check-in with the client throughout the session to ensure that they feel safe and comfortable.
  • After the session, the therapist will discuss the client’s experience and any insights or changes that occurred during the session.

EMDR therapy is typically not done in one session, it usually takes several sessions to process the trauma.

How Does EMDR Combine With Counselling Therapy

EMDR therapy is typically used in combination with traditional talk therapy, such as counselling. The counselling aspect of therapy can provide a supportive environment where the client can discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to the traumatic event(s) being processed with EMDR. During the counselling sessions, the therapist can provide the client with coping strategies, help the client to identify and challenge negative beliefs or thoughts that are related to the trauma and provide a safe space for the client to process their emotions.

The counselling aspect of therapy is also important in helping the client to integrate the insights and changes that occur during the EMDR therapy sessions. The therapist can help the client to understand the meaning and significance of the changes that have occurred and to develop a plan for using this new understanding in their daily life.

EMDR and counselling therapy complement each other and work together in the healing process. EMDR is a powerful tool to process traumatic memories and reduce distress while counselling therapy provides a supportive environment for the client to talk about the trauma and learn new coping strategies.

What To Expect In An EMDR Session

During an EMDR therapy session, the client can expect the following:

  • The therapist will ask the client to focus on a specific traumatic memory or event that they would like to work on.
  • The client will be asked to rate the level of distress or intensity associated with the memory on a scale of 1-10.
  • The therapist will guide the client through a process of recalling the traumatic memory while engaging in some form of bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, or tapping.
  • The client may be asked to focus on different aspects of the memory, such as the image, emotion, or belief associated with it.
  • The therapist will check in with the client throughout the session to ensure that they feel safe and comfortable, and will provide support as needed.
  • The client may experience a range of emotions and physical sensations during the session. It’s important to know that these are normal responses, and the therapist will be there to support and guide the client through the process.
  • After the session, the therapist will discuss the client’s experience and any insights or changes that occurred during the session.
  • The therapist will also provide any homework or coping strategies to support the client’s progress between sessions.

It’s important to know that EMDR therapy sessions are typically not done in one session, it usually takes several sessions to process the trauma, and it’s important to have a regular follow up with the therapist.

What Types Of Conditions Are Treated Using EMDR?

EMDR therapy is typically used to treat traumatic memories and the associated symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This can include symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, EMDR therapy has also been used to help individuals who have experienced a wide range of traumatic events, such as combat-related trauma, sexual assault, physical abuse, and natural disasters.

EMDR therapy can also be effective in treating other conditions related to traumatic memories and negative beliefs about oneself, such as:

  • Phobias
  • Panic disorder
  • Generalised anxiety disorder
  • Complex trauma
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Depression
  • Body dysmorphic disorder

It’s important to note that EMDR therapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, and it’s not intended to treat all mental health conditions, it’s important to seek an evaluation from a professional, who will help you determine if EMDR therapy is the best treatment option for you.

What Authorities Have Recommended The Use Of EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy has been recognised as an effective treatment for trauma and related conditions by several national and international organisations.

In the United States, EMDR therapy is recommended as a first-line treatment for PTSD by the American Psychiatric Association and the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defence. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK also recommends EMDR as a treatment option for PTSD.

In addition, EMDR therapy has been recognised as an effective treatment by several other professional organisations and government agencies, including:

  • The World Health Organisation
  • The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies
  • The European Society for Trauma and Dissociation
  • The Australian Psychological Society
  • The Canadian Psychological Association

EMDR therapy has also been found to be an effective treatment for PTSD in multiple randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews.

EMDR therapy should be provided by a qualified and trained therapist who has completed the appropriate EMDR training.