Sonnia Navas Gafter: Using EMDR techniques to heal from disturbing experiences | Columnist | Magazine

What is EMDR? Systematic eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

This is a psychotherapy method used to help people Healing symptoms and emotional distress caused by disturbing life experiences. It was developed by Francine Shapiro in the 1980s.

The basic principle:

1. Information Processing: EMDR is based on the following theories: Psychological problems are caused by unprocessed memories of traumatic events. These unprocessed memories can be triggered by related stimuli, causing strong emotional and physical reactions.
2. Eye Movements: Similar to the eye movements that occur naturally during REM sleep, guided eye movements are used in EMDR sessions to help process and “reprocess” these traumatic memories.

Treatment phases. EMDR treatment is generally divided into eight phases:

1. Medical History and Treatment Plan: The therapist collects information about the patient’s medical history and the problems they wish to treat.
2. Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process to the patient and prepares the patient for treatment by teaching stress management techniques.
3. Evaluate: Identify specific memories to be processed, as well as the negative and positive beliefs associated with those memories.
4. Desensitization: The patient focuses on the traumatic memory while following eye movements directed by the therapist. This helps reduce the emotional intensity of the memory.
5. Installation: Positive beliefs associated with the memory are strengthened.
6. Body Scan: Explore the physical sensations associated with the memory to ensure there is no residual discomfort.
7. Closing: Ensure that the patient has returned to a state of balance at the end of each treatment. If a session does not complete the treatment, the therapist will teach the patient techniques to deal with any discomfort that may have occurred.
8. Reassessment: In subsequent sessions, progress will be reviewed and whether additional memories or issues need to be addressed.

Benefits of EMDR include:

• Symptom relief: EMDR has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions.
• Improved self-esteem: By reprocessing traumatic memories, patients often develop a more positive, healthier self-image.
• Treatment Length: Patients typically experience significant improvements in a relatively short period of time compared to other forms of treatment.

Not everyone is a good candidate for EMDR. Therapists must assess whether a patient is a good candidate for this type of treatment. It is important to work with a certified EMDR therapist to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that can be a powerful tool for healing from traumatic experiences and improving overall emotional well-being. (profound)