EMDR vs. Hypnosis: Comparing Techniques for Trauma Recovery
Trauma occurs in many shapes and sizes, with symptoms being equally variable. It can be hard to sift through treatments and decide which option is most suitable for you.
EMDR therapy is often known for treatment of trauma, but you may be surprised to hear that hypnosis is as well. They share some similarities, but have different frameworks for how they’re implemented.
Here’s a closer look at a comparison of the two.
EMDR Overview
EMDR therapy originated in 1987 by psychologist Francine Shapiro as a means for treating trauma. In fact, she was experiencing her own feelings of distress and noticed that moving her eyes back and forth in a rapid manner reduced her negative feelings. By studying and trialing this approach, she developed what is known today as EMDR.
This approach follows the theory that traumatic memories can become stuck if not processed correctly, which in many cases, they aren’t. These stuck memories can then cause psychological distress and negatively impact quality of life.
Through EMDR, the goal is to reprocess any traumatic memories in the correct manner. It utilizes an eight phase structure including the following:
History and profile
Preparation
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body scan
Closure
Reevaluation
The EMDR Therapy Technique
One of the big components of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation. This can include horizontal eye movements, tactile tapping, or auditory stimulus.
As a client, you’ll be instructed to focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously being exposed to the bilateral stimulation. This takes you through a simulated REM sleep process, allowing your brain to make new associations with the memories.
Hypnosis Overview
Hypnosis, on the other hand, is a much older therapeutic approach. It can be traced back to many cultures and uses, with the therapeutic approach originating in the 19th century.
This approach involves inducing an altered state of consciousness, or a trance-like state. During this time, you would have more focused attention and an increased suggestibility. With trauma, it’s more common to repress negative memories or experiences that can be deemed harmful. Through hypnosis, your memories and past experiences become more accessible.
Hypnosis Therapy Techniques
At the start of a session, you’ll be guided into a relaxed state where you feel safe. This is often achieved through guided imagery or verbal directions from the therapist you’re working with. This is known as the induction phase.
After that, you’ll enter into a hypnotic state where suggestion occurs. Your therapist will make suggestions to help you explore any repressed memories in a controlled manner. They may also offer suggestions for change that can be helpful to your quality of life and present experience.
There may also be post-hypnotic suggestions that are initiated during the hypnosis, but don’t take effect until after you’ve left your session. This can help with sustained symptom relief.
Comparing the Two Techniques
With both EMDR therapy and hypnosis, there is an overall goal of alleviating negative or harmful symptoms associated with your trauma. Each of these techniques requires you to be an active and willing participant in the process. They are client-centered, meaning that they can be tailored to your specific needs. Modifications and adjustments can be made when necessary.
There are some differences between the two techniques worth noting as well. EMDR therapy works on a neurological level while hypnosis involves altering consciousness. EMDR is a bit more structured with the eight phases, whereas hypnosis is much more adaptable in the process.
Seeking Treatment
Trauma recovery may be a long journey and a difficult process, but you have options available to help you through to the other side. Trauma therapy, whether EMDR therapy, hypnosis, or another technique, can help hone in on certain memories that are problematic and help work through them.
If you’d be interested in exploring trauma therapy treatment options further, we’d be glad to assist you on your journey. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your appointment for EMDR therapy in Colorado Springs.
