EMDR Treatment in Flower Mound

and Southlake, TX

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a psychotherapy approach that was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is primarily used to help individuals who have experienced trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it has also been used to treat a range of other psychological issues.

EMDR therapy is based on the idea that traumatic memories can become stuck in the brain, leading to distressing symptoms and emotional disturbances. The therapy aims to help individuals process these traumatic memories and make them more manageable.

The core components of EMDR therapy include:

  1. History Taking: The therapist gathers information about the client's traumatic experiences and assesses the client's readiness for EMDR.

  2. Preparation: The therapist helps the client develop coping skills and relaxation techniques to manage distress and anxiety during therapy.

  3. Desensitization: The client focuses on a specific traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This is often done by following the therapist's hand movements, listening to auditory tones, or using tactile devices that alternate stimulation from one side of the body to the other. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge associated with the traumatic memory.

  4. Installation: Positive beliefs and emotions are targeted to replace negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory.

  5. Body Scan: The client is asked to identify any residual physical tension or discomfort associated with the traumatic memory.

  6. Closure: The therapist helps the client regain a state of equilibrium and emotional stability.

  7. Reevaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client assess progress and determine if additional work is needed.

EMDR is believed to work by helping individuals reprocess traumatic memories, making them less distressing and decreasing their impact on a person's emotional well-being. The bilateral stimulation is thought to mimic the rapid eye movements that occur during the dreaming (REM) phase of sleep, which is when the brain naturally processes memories.

EMDR has been found to be effective in treating PTSD and trauma-related issues. It is considered a relatively short-term therapy, with some individuals experiencing significant improvements in a relatively short period. However, the effectiveness of EMDR may vary from person to person, and it is not a suitable treatment for everyone. It is important to consult with a trained and qualified mental health professional to determine if EMDR therapy is appropriate for your specific needs. Reach out to one of our EMDR therapists at Pineapple Counseling today.