EMDR is an emotional healing method, so it may be emotionally draining. Your therapist won’t be surprised if you experience discomfort during a session.
An EMDR session requires recalling and processing emotionally upsetting material before being exposed to bilateral stimulation such as light bars that move side to side or plastic paddles that vibrate in your hands.
Using EMDR Therapy Vibration
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment for trauma that has been demonstrated effective through numerous studies, and has even received endorsement from the Department of Veterans Affairs and American Psychiatric Association. It can be useful in relieving negative thoughts and emotions while helping resolve traumatic memories or experiences; however, not every person may find EMDR to be the appropriate therapy solution; therefore if in doubt contact your counselor as it might not be the most suitable choice.
EMDR therapy employs bilateral stimulation to assist the brain in processing disturbing memories and emotions. Eye movements are usually used, though other stimuli like tones or vibration can also be employed for this therapy. It has proven safe and effective in many countries worldwide.
Therapists using EMDR may employ various tools during sessions, with tactile bilateral stimulation (BLS) often being the go-to choice. BLS refers to physical stimuli that activate both sides of the brain at once. A variety of devices such as light bars, buzzers and tappers may also be utilized, including battery-operated ones with vibration features or audio feedback to aid clients who may have hearing impairments.
Most EMDR sessions take place in person; however, online therapists use software to enable clients to experience bilateral stimulation from the comfort of their own homes. A qualified therapist may use simple devices like butterfly hug or vibrating hand paddles in addition to software – it is crucial that clients find one who provides the optimal experience.
EMDR can be an effective treatment for PTSD and is best when combined with other therapies for maximum effect. When considering EMDR as a potential option for you, be sure to speak to your therapist about any traumatic events and issues you might be dealing with, as well as take breaks if necessary; your therapist is there for support; however it’s up to you which parts of your trauma memories to work through at once.
Using EMDR Therapy Bilateral Stimulation
EMDR therapy helps your mind process memories and emotions from your past in a non-overwhelming manner. As an evidence-based practice, EMDR is widely recognized as an effective technique for treating trauma and anxiety symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks and issues stemming from unresolved events in your life. While eye movements are most frequently used during an EMDR session, therapists also utilize vibration stimulation or sound therapies as means to address distressing memories or feelings.
Your therapist may ask you to focus on a positive thought or memory while stimulating both sides of your brain using EMDR, such as repeating a mantra or something you believe in, in order to build positive associations that counteract any negative associations you may have associated with certain experiences. At this stage, your therapist may have you explore what unpleasant memories do to you physically as well.
Your therapist will then guide you through the process of recalling and processing a traumatic memory. They may ask you to close your eyes and imagine yourself living through it as though you were there right now, paying close attention to any thoughts, images, or sensations that arise during this process.
EMDR therapy aims to “repair” mental injuries associated with particular memories, so you won’t experience trauma again in real time. Even with a therapist present, however, some emotional discomfort is inevitable during an EMDR session; should this become overwhelming or unbearable for you, your therapist must be prepared to stop proceedings immediately so you can step away.
Your therapist might ask you to engage your sense of touch by touching both hands or arms while stimulating both sides of your brain with EMDR. Some therapists use tactile BLS devices such as paddles that vibrate on either hand, or light bars you follow with your eyes, in addition to stimulating both sides with EMDR.
Listening to music composed using BLS techniques can also engage your sense of hearing during an EMDR session, engaging your sense of hearing while attuning to its beats. Most often, this music has a rhythm which alternates from right to left side of your head – some therapists use headphones to play these sounds; you will then be asked to move your attention back and forth according to each beat of music.
Using EMDR Therapy Lights
EMDR therapy can be an effective treatment for PTSD, but multiple sessions must be attended before its effects become evident. Working with a trained therapist who understands EMDR’s workings is key, and supporting him or her throughout can help mitigate any distress during sessions.
EMDR involves recalling a traumatic memory while following their therapist’s finger with their eyes. This helps the brain process the memories and lessen their impact on an individual’s life by decreasing avoidance behaviors and strengthening coping mechanisms; additionally it may help lessen any trauma-related physical symptoms that have surfaced as a result of trauma exposure.
It remains unknown exactly how EMDR works, although eye movements appear to aid in consolidating and integrating various aspects of traumatic memories. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated its success at helping regulate nervous systems away from fight-or-flight responses and toward healthier regulation mechanisms; and breaking down negative beliefs and emotions which contribute to anxiety and depression.
Exposure and Desensitization Therapy, along with EMDR, can also be employed to help treat trauma. These techniques involve gradually exposing someone to situations or objects they fear in order to reduce phobias and panic attacks. When combined with EMDR therapy, exposure therapy may even help decrease its impact and boost self-confidence and self-esteem.
Light bars may not be necessary when practicing EMDR, but some clients can find them helpful. This device enables therapists to stay out of the way while remaining attentive to client responses and eye movement during bilateral stimulation phase of session. They may also be combined with auditory or tactile stimuli.
EMDR can be combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to aid individuals in creating coping mechanisms and overcoming anxieties that stem from childhood traumas. Furthermore, EMDR may prove particularly helpful for treating trauma associated with war and terrorism which have been linked to severe psychological complications; survivors can suffer anxiety depression as well as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD).
Using EMDR Therapy Sound
EMDR therapy uses a series of steps to assist people in unburdening themselves from traumatizing experiences. Reprocessing painful memories and emotions as well as creating new associations to soften them further can also change how memories are stored in your brain.
Employing sound for EMDR therapy can be highly effective, yet professional assistance should always be sought before undertaking such treatments. A trained therapist can assist in selecting a sound which won’t be too loud or harsh; some of the most widely-used EMDR sounds include tones, vibrating hand paddles, and flashing lights – these may all provide soothing support during sessions.
These devices help stimulate both sides of the brain by using rhythmic stimulation – known as tactile bilateral stimulation (BLS) – in a rhythmic fashion. BLS devices can be found online; however, be wary as some manufacturers might not have adequate trauma and EMDR training and expertise.
Professional therapists will assist in helping you identify various parts of the event or experience you are working through and then create a sequence of events for processing during bilateral stimulation. Traditionally, this was accomplished through eye movements; now any stimulus that alternates between left and right brain may do as well, such as tone, taps on knees/hands or tracking visual targets from left to right brain will suffice.
As well as using light and sound therapy, therapists may also utilize bilateral stimulation techniques like playing music that shifts between left and right ears – this has been found effective in treating trauma as well as other conditions; its presence decreases physiological arousal while simultaneously encouraging relaxation.
EMDR therapy can be an invaluable asset for those suffering from trauma or other conditions that are negatively impacting their life. Although this process may be daunting at times, its results can have profound benefits on one’s life; making painful memories just another part of history to forget.
