Embarking on your first year of EMDR therapy can be a daunting experience, but also an incredibly rewarding one. EMDR is a highly effective approach used to treat individuals suffering from traumatic events. Your first year of EMDR therapy will involve several stages, beginning with a comprehensive evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your trauma.
While EMDR can be a challenging process, it can ultimately lead to significant improvements in your daily life, allowing you to let go of past traumas and move forward with newfound freedom and confidence.
This blog post seeks to provide you with more details about EMDR’s specific healing process, what happens during EMDR’s first year of therapy sessions, and some other mindfulness strategies like couples therapy in Phoenix for recovery from your mental health treatment.
What Is EMDR Therapy
EMDR Therapy or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, is an empirically-based treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health disorders like anxiety, and depression.
It has become increasingly popular as an evidence-based therapeutic tool since its initial introduction in 1987 by psychiatrist Dr. Francine Shapiro.
Phases Of EMDR Therapy
The treatment has eight phases designed to facilitate a comprehensive healing process.
- The first phase focuses on the history and assessment of the client to identify potential targets for EMDR processing.
- The second phase prepares the client by teaching effective relaxation and coping techniques.
- The third to sixth phases, referred to as the reprocessing phases, utilize EMDR techniques to process targeted traumatic memories, negative emotions, and maladaptive beliefs that result from the trauma.
- The seventh phase reinforces the processing of memories and beliefs and facilitates the integration of positive thoughts and actions.
- The eighth phase is the evaluation phase which assesses the progress made in treatment.
How EMDR Therapy Works
EMDR therapy involves a specific set of procedures that process traumatic memories or experiences in a way that allows for the healing and integration of those events.
During EMDR therapy, the patient is guided through a series of eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, which are designed to stimulate both sides of the brain and facilitate natural healing processes.
Through this method, individuals can reprocess difficult experiences and develop more adaptive beliefs and behaviors.
An Overview of EMDR Therapy’s First Year
During your initial sessions, your therapist will work with you to establish a safe environment where you can explore your past experiences and gain insight into your behavioral patterns. As you progress in EMDR therapy, you can expect to engage in the following pattern:
Beginning Assessment And Treatment Planning
In the first phase, your therapist will assess your suitability for EMDR therapy and create a treatment plan. You’ll discuss your symptoms, any past traumas, and your therapeutic goals.
The Therapist may ask you to fill out questionnaires and complete interviews to gather information. During this time, it’s important to establish a relationship of trust with your therapist, as this is the foundation of successful EMDR therapy.
Preparation Phase
During the second phase of EMDR therapy, you’ll work with your therapist to build upon the relationship of trust by learning skills to manage your emotions.
He will work with you to develop coping skills, relaxation techniques, and positive imagery. These techniques are key to preparing you for the more intensive phases of EMDR therapy.
Desensitization Phase
During this phase, you’ll begin reprocessing traumatic events. You’ll identify a target memory and your therapist will guide you to recall it.
You’ll then use bilateral eye movements, sounds, or taps to facilitate the processing of the memory.
Furthermore, you will experience a range of emotions, including frustration, sadness, and anger. However, by working with your therapist, you will be able to prioritize your emotions and manage them appropriately.
Installation Phase
During the installation phase, your therapist will solidify a positive belief to replace the negative one that arose from traumatic experiences.
This phase focuses on solidifying the positive and permanent changes made throughout EMDR treatment. The installation phase also involves desensitization work but with a focus on reinforcing new, positive coping mechanisms and ways of thinking.
Body Scan
During the body scan phase of EMDR, you’ll be asked to pay attention to how your body feels when you think about the event and the positive thoughts related to it. The goal is to notice if there’s any remaining physical discomfort. If you feel any discomfort, specific techniques using bilateral stimulation will be used to help process and resolve it.
Reevaluation
The final phase focuses on reviewing the work you’ve done throughout the EMDR therapy process, reviewing progress made, and setting future goals. Throughout this phase, you’ll discuss whether additional sessions are necessary and how to continue to maintain these newfound skills.
Conclusion
EMDR therapy is an effective, evidence-based therapy that can help individuals grappling with a variety of mental health-related issues. In your first year of EMDR therapy, expect a transformative journey as you navigate the depths of your past traumas. Through the power of bilateral stimulation, expert guidance, and your own courage, EMDR therapy offers hope, healing, and a path toward a brighter future.
Leave a Reply