What is EMDR Therapy for PTSD?
As a therapist who has walked alongside countless individuals struggling with the aftermath of trauma, I’ve seen firsthand how Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can hijack a person’s life. It’s more than just remembering a bad event; it’s the persistent feeling that the past is still happening, leading to distressing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance. So, how does this seemingly unconventional therapy work to alleviate the profound distress of PTSD?
The “Stuck” Memory: Understanding Trauma in the Brain
At its core, EMDR Therapy is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. This theory suggests that our brains have an innate capacity to process experiences and integrate them into our memory networks healthily and adaptively. Think of it as your brain’s natural information digestion system.
However, when a traumatic event occurs—especially one that is overwhelming, terrifying, or life-threatening—this natural processing system can get overloaded. The memory doesn’t get properly “digested” or filed away. Instead, it becomes “stuck” or maladaptively stored in its raw, unprocessed form. This means the original images, sounds, feelings, and body sensations from the traumatic event remain vivid and readily triggered, making it feel as if the trauma is happening all over again.
PTSD symptoms, then, are seen as the activation of these inadequately processed memories. The brain isn’t able to distinguish between the past and the present, constantly re-experiencing the threat.
EMDR Therapy’s Mechanism
EMDR therapy aims to re-stimulate the brain’s natural processing ability to resolve these “stuck” traumatic memories. The unique element of EMDR Therapy is the use of bilateral stimulation (BLS), which typically involves guided eye movements (such as following a therapist’s fingers moving back and forth) but can also include alternating auditory tones (through headphones) or tactile taps (on the knees or hands).
The client is asked to briefly focus on specific aspects of the distressing memory, including:
The most vivid image from the event.
The negative beliefs they hold about themselves due to the trauma (e.g., “I am helpless,” “I am unsafe,” “It was my fault”).
The emotions and their intensity.
Where do they feel the disturbance in their body?
Several theories suggest how it works:
Mimicking REM Sleep: The bilateral stimulation is thought to mimic the eye movements that occur naturally during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, a phase of sleep during which the brain processes and consolidates memories. EMDR Therapy may accelerate this natural processing.
Working Memory Theory: Engaging in BLS taxes the working memory, which is the system responsible for holding and manipulating information.
Increased Brain Communication: Some theories suggest that BLS helps to facilitate communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, promoting the integration of fragmented traumatic memories.
As the memory is reprocessed through repeated sets of BLS, clients often report a noticeable reduction in the emotional distress associated with the memory.
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy for PTSD
EMDR Therapy for PTSD is delivered in a structured, eight-phase approach, though the exact length and number of sessions can vary based on individual needs and the complexity of the trauma.
History Taking and Treatment Planning: Understanding your trauma history and current symptoms.
Preparation: Building coping skills and ensuring you feel safe and ready for the processing work.
Assessment: Identifying the specific target memory and its associated negative aspects.
Desensitization: Using BLS to reduce the distress of the target memory.
Installation: Strengthening a new, positive belief about yourself related to the reprocessed memory.
Body Scan: Checking for and clearing any remaining physical tension.
Closure: Ensuring you feel stable and grounded at the end of each session.
Reevaluation: Checking progress at the start of subsequent sessions.
EMDR Therapy focuses on activating the memory and allowing the brain to reprocess it, often with less direct verbal engagement than other therapies. Clients remain fully conscious and in control throughout the session. If PTSD keeps you stuck in the past, book an EMDR therapy Colorado Springs session today.
