Understanding EMDR Therapy: What It Is, How It Works and Its Benefits

When someone experiences trauma or struggles with mental health challenges, finding effective therapy can feel overwhelming. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained attention in Canada, including Calgary, for its unique approach to healing. But what exactly is EMDR? How does it work, and what kinds of issues can it help with? Drawing on Canadian research and clinical experience, we want to share a clear, practical overview of this therapy and its benefits.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured form of psychotherapy designed to help people process and heal from distressing memories and emotional pain. Developed in the late 1980s by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic experiences.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses less on detailed discussion of the trauma and more on how the brain stores and processes those memories. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge and negative beliefs linked to traumatic events, allowing individuals to move forward with less distress.

In Canada, EMDR has become an accepted treatment for trauma and related conditions. The Canadian Psychological Association recognizes EMDR as an effective therapy, and many mental health professionals in Calgary and across the country offer it.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR therapy involves eight phases, starting with history-taking and preparation, followed by the actual reprocessing of traumatic memories, and ending with closure and evaluation. The key element is bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, taps, or sounds.

Here’s a simplified look at the process:

• Identification of Target Memories: The therapist and client select specific distressing memories or thoughts to work on.

• Bilateral Stimulation: The client follows the therapist’s fingers moving side to side with their eyes, or experiences gentle taps or sounds alternating between sides.

• Reprocessing: While focusing on the memory and the bilateral stimulation, the brain begins to reprocess the information, reducing emotional intensity and changing negative beliefs.

• Installation of Positive Beliefs: The therapist helps the client replace harmful thoughts with healthier, more adaptive ones.

• Body Scan: The client notices any remaining physical tension related to the memory and processes it.

• Closure and Reevaluation: Each session ends with grounding techniques, and progress is reviewed in following sessions.

  
  

Research suggests that bilateral stimulation helps the brain access and integrate traumatic memories more effectively, similar to the natural processing that happens during REM sleep. This can lead to faster relief from symptoms compared to some other therapies.

What Can EMDR Help With?

EMDR is best known for treating trauma, but its applications extend beyond post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Canadian studies and clinical reports highlight its effectiveness for a variety of mental health concerns:

Trauma and PTSD

EMDR is widely used to treat trauma from events such as accidents, abuse, violence, or sudden loss. A 2019 study from the University of Calgary found that EMDR significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in veterans and first responders, with many participants reporting lasting improvements after just a few sessions.

Depression

Depression often involves negative thought patterns and unresolved emotional pain. EMDR can help by targeting the root memories or beliefs that contribute to depressive symptoms. Research from the University of British Columbia showed promising results using EMDR alongside traditional treatments for depression, helping clients break free from cycles of hopelessness.

Anxiety and Phobias

EMDR helps reduce anxiety by addressing the memories or experiences that trigger fear responses. For example, a person with a phobia of driving after a car accident can use EMDR to lessen the emotional impact of that memory, making it easier to face driving again.

Addictions

Addiction often masks deeper emotional wounds. EMDR can support recovery by processing trauma or painful experiences that fuel addictive behaviours. Canadian addiction treatment centres have incorporated EMDR into their programs with positive outcomes, noting reduced cravings and improved emotional regulation.

Other Conditions

EMDR has also been used to help with:

• Grief and loss

• Chronic pain linked to emotional trauma

• Performance anxiety

• Eating disorders

  
  

While more research is ongoing, many therapists in Calgary and across Canada report success using EMDR for these issues.

Why Choose EMDR Therapy in Calgary?

If you or a loved one are considering therapy for trauma or mental health challenges, EMDR offers a unique option.

Some reasons to consider EMDR therapy here include:

• Evidence-based approach: Supported by Canadian research and clinical guidelines.

• Efficient treatment: Many clients see improvement in fewer sessions compared to traditional talk therapy.

• Safe and supportive: Therapists prepare clients carefully and provide grounding techniques to manage distress.

• Versatile: Helps with a wide range of mental health issues beyond trauma.

What to Expect in an EMDR Therapy Session

If you decide to try EMDR, here’s what a typical session might look like:

1. Check-in: You discuss your current feelings and any recent events with your therapist.

2. Target selection: Together, you choose a specific memory or issue to work on.

3. Preparation: Your therapist explains the process and teaches you coping skills for managing emotions.

4. Bilateral stimulation: You follow the therapist’s finger movements or experience other forms of bilateral input while focusing on the memory.

5. Processing: You notice thoughts, feelings, or images that come up, and the therapist guides you through them.

6. Closure: The session ends with relaxation or grounding exercises to ensure you feel stable.

   
   

Sessions usually last about 60 to 90 minutes. Many clients notice changes after just a few sessions, but the total number depends on individual needs.

EMDR therapy offers a powerful tool for healing trauma and improving mental health. Its growing presence in Calgary reflects its effectiveness and adaptability.

Both Jenna and Kelly provide EMDR treatment at Realign. Book a consultation or an initial session today if you're curious about EMDR therapy.

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