Common Uses for EMDR Therapy

Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years for a variety of reasons. While it was originally developed in 1987 as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it has been proven to be effective in helping with several types of mental health conditions. 

Unlike many traditional talk therapies, EMDR focuses on the use of bilateral stimulation. Rapid eye movements guided by the therapist are used as a client focuses on a traumatic or negative thought, and it is eventually “replaced” with a more positive perspective. 

EMDR is unique and effective, and can help with much more than PTSD symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at some of the common uses for EMDR therapy so you can determine whether it’s right for you. 

Trauma

Even though EMDR is used to help with different conditions, it’s important that we don’t ignore its original purpose — helping trauma victims. 

Once a traumatic experience has cemented itself in your mind, it can negatively impact your quality of life. You might deal with things every day that trigger flashbacks or negative memories. Living with trauma can even lead to other mental health issues. 

EMDR helps with trauma by changing the way you process those negative memories. While it doesn’t erase them, it allows you to change the way you see them, so they no longer hold power over you. 

Panic Attacks

EMDR has been proven to help with anxiety, and, more specifically, panic attacks. If you’ve ever experienced a panic attack, you know it can be incredibly scary. One of the great things about utilizing EMDR is that it can help to find out what’s triggering your panic. 

EMDR therapists perform scans to determine where the body might be storing anxious thoughts. Then, they can focus on those areas and how they correlate to your brain. So, not only will you learn what’s causing you to panic, but you can overcome it by reprocessing the way you see your triggers. 

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can be something that makes it difficult to lead a normal life or participate in the activities you enjoy. If your pain is the result of something like traumatic memories, depression, or anxiety, EMDR can help. 

Many people try to push down traumatic memories, but even if you think you’ve forgotten about them, your body hasn’t. Trauma can “freeze” in the body and cause pain. EMDR will help you discover where that pain is stuck and what it stems from, so you can finally release it. 

Additionally, EMDR can improve your mood. If you’re dealing with anxiety or depression and it’s contributing to your pain, less stress and a better mood can make you feel better from the inside out. 

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders tend to stem from negative thoughts. You might not like the way you look. Or, things in your life might feel so out of control that you’re trying to take the reins in some way. 

Whatever the case, there’s no question that an eating disorder can be extremely dangerous, leading to serious health concerns. EMDR can help you identify whatever beliefs might be triggering your disordered eating, so you can replace them with rational thoughts that will help you on your healing journey. 

As you can see, EMDR therapy can help with so much more than trauma. There are even more uses for this type of therapy. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want more information. It’s a great option for almost anyone who wants to try something different from traditional talk therapy. If you’re ready to learn more or you want to set up an appointment, please contact me today.