EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
At Jump Start 2 Recovery, we are dedicated to offering the most effective therapeutic techniques to support our clients on their journey to recovery. One of our specialized approaches is EMDR Therapy, designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. It helps clients process distressing memories, reduce their lingering effects, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy involves the use of dual attention stimulation (DAS), which includes techniques such as eye movements, auditory tones, or tactile tapping. These techniques help clients process traumatic memories by engaging both the left and right sides of the brain simultaneously. This stimulation helps the brain's natural healing processes, allowing individuals to reprocess negative experiences and integrate them in a more adaptive way.
Dual attention stimulation (DAS): Techniques that engage both sides of the brain, such as eye movements or tapping, to help reprocess traumatic memories.
Reduction in Distress: EMDR helps desensitize present triggers that cause distress, enabling clients to respond more adaptively. This means that things that used to upset you may no longer have the same effect.
Enhanced Coping Mechanisms: Clients learn new coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions and reactions, making it easier to handle stress.
Improved Emotional Regulation: EMDR supports the reintegration of the personality, helping individuals achieve a more balanced emotional state. This helps you feel more in control of your emotions.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy is structured into eight distinct phases, each designed to help the client through their healing process:
Preparation
We help you build coping skills and introduce you to the dual attention stimulation techniques that will be used during therapy.
Client History and Treatment Planning
In this phase, we assess your history and readiness for EMDR. This includes understanding your past experiences and determining your safety and ability to handle the therapy.
Desensitization
Using long sets of dual attention stimulation, we help you process and reduce the intensity of distressing memories.
Assessment
We set up target memories (specific distressing events) and evaluate your distress levels to understand the severity of your feelings.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is beneficial for individuals who have experienced:
Traumatic events (such as accidents or abuse)
Mood disorders (like depression)
Anxiety and phobias (intense fears)
Grief and loss (dealing with the death of a loved one)
Emotional distress (feeling overwhelmed)
Dissociative disorders (feeling disconnected from reality)
Installation
We reinforce positive beliefs about yourself through short sets of stimulation.
Body Scan
We check that your body has processed the memories without leftover tension or distress.
Closure
We prepare you for self-care between sessions, ensuring you feel safe and supported.
We assess your progress, including your sleep, energy levels, and any recurring distress, to determine if further sessions are needed.
Re-evaluation
Why Choose Jump Start 2 Recovery for EMDR Therapy?
At Jump Start 2 Recovery, our therapists are trained and experienced in delivering EMDR therapy with empathy and expertise. We are committed to providing personalized care tailored to each client's unique needs. Our approach ensures a supportive and healing environment, fostering recovery and personal growth.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.
What can I expect during an EMDR session?
During an EMDR session, your therapist will guide you through specific eye movements or other forms of dual attention stimulation while you focus on a traumatic memory. This process helps to desensitize the memory and reprocess it in a way that is less distressing. Each session typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes.
Is EMDR therapy safe?
Yes, EMDR therapy is considered safe when conducted by a trained and licensed therapist. It is a well-researched and evidence-based treatment for trauma and other distressing experiences. However, it is important to discuss any concerns with your therapist before starting the treatment.
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual and the nature of the trauma being addressed. Some clients may experience significant improvement in as few as three sessions, while others may need 8 to 12 sessions or more to fully process their traumatic memories.
Can EMDR help with conditions other than PTSD?
Yes, EMDR has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions beyond PTSD, including anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, grief and loss, and other emotional and psychological distress. Your therapist can help determine if EMDR is a suitable treatment option for your specific needs.