EMDR Reprocessing Therapy- Denver, CO

Erika Baum
Sep 3, 2024
3 min read

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that helps people heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the brain’s natural ability to process and heal from traumatic memories.

It’s particularly effective for those struggling with symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions that stem from unresolved trauma.

How Does EMDR Work?

At its core, EMDR works by helping the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they are no longer as distressing.

When something traumatic happens, it can get "stuck" in the brain, leading to intense emotions and reactions whenever something reminds you of that event.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—usually eye movements, but sometimes taps or sounds—to help the brain process these stuck memories, so they become less intense and more manageable.

Efficacy of EMDR

EMDR is well-researched and has been shown to be effective for many people.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association (APA), and numerous studies, EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD and trauma-related conditions.

Some studies have shown that between 77% to 90% of people with PTSD experience a significant reduction in symptoms after just a few sessions of EMDR.

The 8 Phases of EMDR

EMDR therapy is structured around eight distinct phases. Here's a brief overview of each phase:

History Taking and Treatment Planning: In this phase, your therapist will gather information about your past experiences, current symptoms, and treatment goals. This helps them create a personalized treatment plan.

Preparation: Your therapist will explain the EMDR process, answer any questions, and teach you relaxation techniques to use during and between sessions.

Assessment: Together, you’ll identify specific memories, thoughts, and physical sensations that will be the focus of your EMDR sessions. This helps target the most distressing aspects of your experiences.

Desensitization: This is where the bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds) comes in. While you focus on a distressing memory, your therapist will guide you through the stimulation, helping your brain reprocess the memory.

Installation: In this phase, you’ll work on strengthening positive beliefs and emotions related to the traumatic memory. The goal is to replace negative thoughts with healthier, more adaptive ones.

Body Scan: After processing a memory, your therapist will ask you to scan your body for any residual tension or discomfort. This helps identify if any parts of the memory still need attention.

Closure: At the end of each session, your therapist will ensure you’re feeling stable and grounded. You’ll practice the relaxation techniques learned earlier to help you stay calm between sessions.

Reevaluation: In the final phase, you’ll revisit previous sessions to assess your progress. If there’s still distress related to a memory, your therapist will guide you through additional processing.

What to Expect

EMDR sessions are different from traditional therapy.

You won’t be talking in-depth about your trauma, and the focus is more on what you’re experiencing in the moment rather than digging into the details.

This can make it a bit more comfortable for some people who find it hard to talk about their experiences.

While EMDR can be intense, many people find that they feel a significant sense of relief after just a few sessions.

It's important to communicate openly with your therapist throughout the process, as they will help you navigate any challenging emotions that come up.