EMDR therapy, is better known as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. It is a therapeutic methodology that helps individuals heal from trauma. EMDR therapy can also be used to treat a variety of mental health and substance use disorders, particularly addiction. Research has shown that up to 90% of single-trauma victims no longer have PTSD after just three 90-minute sessions. At Sobriety Options, we utilize this therapy mode with clients that are looking to overcome addiction.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy focuses on the brain’s information processing systems, helping remove the mental blocks that prevent healing. During this treatment method, clients will address emotionally distressing or traumatizing events while focusing on external elements. This is typically done through therapist directed lateral eye movements. However, hand-tapping and auditory stimulation are also options for external stimulus. This works to associate traumatic events with new experiences or information. New associations often result in new learning, elimination of emotional distress, and the development of cognitive insights and complete information processing.
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy sessions occur over eight different phases. Each phase serves a different purpose and builds upon the last to heal trauma and mental health conditions like addiction. Each time a client meets with their clinician, they will go through all eight phases.
- Phase 1: The therapist will sit down with the client and get to know their emotional and health histories. During this phase the therapist will identify memories that can be targets for EMDR processing.
- Phase 2: The second phase of treatment will determine the different ways the client can manage emotional distress. This can include previously known coping mechanisms as well as learned strategies to reduce stress. These coping strategies should be used in between sessions to maintain emotional regulation.
- Phases 3-6: These are the trauma processing phases. During these phases, the client will identify the visuals related to the memory, the negative and positive beliefs they hold, and any related emotions or physical reactions. While recalling all of this, the therapist will bilaterally stimulate the client with eye movement, taps, or tones. They will repeat this process as much as needed until the client does not experience distress regarding the memory.
- Phase 7: The seventh phase is closure. Clients should keep a log or diary of any related material or events that occur during the off days. They should use the coping mechanisms learned to self-calm through these events.
- Phase 8: Phase eight sparks the start of the next session. The client and clinician will examine previous EMDR therapy progress, and discuss what the next steps are.
Every phase of EMDR therapy works towards processing and healing from past traumas, and learning how to move forward when coming across new traumas. Instead of letting traumatic events completely overshadow thoughts and emotions, EMDR therapy essentially reprograms the brain.
Sobriety Options Offers EMDR Therapy
Sobriety Options offers a variety of therapies and treatment methods that work to get to the root of addiction – which is often trauma. Once the detox process is completed, clients will move into residential rehab treatment where EMDR therapy can be conducted. EMDR therapy may not be right for everyone, the doctors and clinicians assigned to every client will determine what the best treatment plan is for each person. If you or someone you know is experiencing addiction as a result of trauma, give Sobriety Options a call. Our admissions team will get you placed in a treatment facility that meets your needs.
About Sobriety Options
Sobriety Options is open 24/7 to provide support and care for those seeking substance abuse or mental health treatment. A branch of Solution Based Treatment, we serve as a central admissions office for seven different branches throughout Southern California. Our team is able to help you find the best sober living option for yourself or your loved one to help them get the care they need. For more information visit our website at sobrietyoptions.com or give us a call at (855) 485-0071.
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