Understanding EMDR Therapy and Its Benefits for Mental Health Healing

What is EMDR and how can it help? 🧠

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy that helps your brain process difficult memories and experiences that feel "stuck."

Think of it like this: Sometimes our brains hold onto painful memories in a way that keeps us feeling distressed - like a file that didn't get properly saved. EMDR helps your brain "reprocess" these memories so they become less overwhelming.

During EMDR, you'll focus on a troubling memory while following specific eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation). This helps your brain naturally process the memory, similar to what happens during REM sleep.

EMDR can help with:

• Trauma and PTSD

• Anxiety and panic attacks

• Phobias

• Depression

• Grief and loss

• Performance anxiety

Many people find relief in fewer sessions compared to traditional talk therapy, and you don't have to talk about every detail of what happened.

Your brain has a natural ability to heal - sometimes it just needs a little help getting unstuck.

How EMDR Works

During an EMDR session, you will focus on a troubling memory while following specific eye movements guided by the therapist. These eye movements or other bilateral stimuli (such as tapping or sounds alternating between ears) help stimulate both sides of the brain. This bilateral stimulation encourages the brain to reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

• Recall the distressing memory: You bring the memory to mind but do not have to describe every detail.

• Follow the bilateral stimulation: Your eyes move back and forth, or you experience tapping or sounds.

• Allow natural processing: Your brain begins to reprocess the memory, making it less intense.

• Notice changes: Over time, the memory feels less overwhelming, and negative beliefs about yourself may shift.

  
  

This process helps the brain store the memory in a healthier way, reducing symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, or panic attacks.

A calm therapy room set up for EMDR sessions

What to Expect During an EMDR Session

If you decide to try EMDR therapy, it helps to know what a typical session looks like:

1. Assessment and Preparation: The therapist will discuss your history and explain the EMDR process. You will learn relaxation techniques to use during and between sessions.

2. Target Memory Identification: Together, you identify the specific memory or issue to work on.

3. Desensitization Phase: You focus on the memory while following the therapist’s guided eye movements or other bilateral stimuli.

4. Installation Phase: Positive beliefs or feelings replace negative ones linked to the memory.

5. Body Scan: You notice any physical tension or discomfort related to the memory and process it.

6. Closure: The therapist helps you return to a calm state before ending the session.

   
   

Sessions typically last 5-60 minutes.

Research supports EMDR’s effectiveness, especially for PTSD. The World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association recognize EMDR as a recommended treatment for trauma.

Tara Kong, LPC is accepting new clients for EMDR staring in January. Call or text us today to set up your initial appointment 832-913-7847 or text 281-306-3068.

Tara Kong, LPC is an expert in therapy for trauma-related conditions and has specialized training in EMDR.