6 Important things to know about EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR is an integrative psychotherapeutic approach that has received considerable attention and rightfully so! It has been utilized for more than 30 years and is most commonly used as a part of PTSD treatment or trauma therapy. It has helped countless people to overcome trauma. Letting them finally “get out” from the weight of past traumatic life experiences. While also getting free from being stuck on an idea or theme in their life.
At my practice, VDC-Counseling LLC in Virginia, I have noticed that clients will sometimes specifically request Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing psychotherapy without really knowing anything about it. Nonetheless, they are interested to try it. When these clients come in and ask “what is EMDR Therapy” there are usually six main misconceptions or questions that we discuss first. For example how long it takes, how it works, and if it can be used during online therapy.
How long does EMDR Therapy take?
There is not a one size fits all answer to how long it will take. As an EMDR therapist in Arlington, VA I cannot anticipate how many Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing sessions it will take to achieve success. It can range anywhere from one session to several sessions. The process is comprised of several steps. First, there is the step of preparation. Then the therapist will provide an assessment before moving to the next step. Finally, once that is complete you will begin the phases of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. During these phases, the EMDR therapist will guide you through disturbing memories that are stored in your brain. Thus allowing you to successfully process them. During your sessions of processing, there are three different protocols: Past, Present, and Future. The EMDR therapist will not only focus on your past and present but, most importantly, they will help you to find more adaptive responses to your challenging life experience in your future.
Does it involve eye movement?
In short yes it does but it is so much more than just eye movement. As mentioned above Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is composed of 8 different phases. Bilateral stimulation, guided by a therapist, is only a small part of the whole process. Therefore, it is especially important to have a trusted therapeutic relationship with your therapist who will guide you through the different phases.
Am I conducting Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing properly?
This is a very common question I have received from clients. They often become concerned and want to make sure they are participating properly. The truth is that there is nothing that you can do which can be classified as “wrong” or even “right." Your brain has its own time and way of processing traumatic or disturbing life experiences. Everyone’s brain is unique making each person's experience with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing unique.
Is it only used as a part of trauma therapy?
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy most commonly used as a part of PTSD treatment. However, its application has been studied and proved effective with other mental health diagnoses. It has been used as a part of trauma therapy to help process traumatic life experiences which are not classified as PTSD. If you are worried that it might not be effective for you because you do not have PTSD speak with an EMDR therapist. The unique techniques used in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing might be exactly what you need to move forward from whatever you are facing.
Can it be used during Online Therapy?
At the beginning of Covid 19 mental health professionals, including EMDR therapists, needed to quickly adapt to this emergency. After more than two years of using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in an online setting, we can confidently say that it can be delivered effectively through tele therapy. Research has shown that there is no significant difference between the outcomes obtained from EMDR Therapy sessions delivered online or in person. Of course, therapists will provide ample time for their clients to prepare themselves so that they may increase their awareness and learn to stabilize themselves in case of need.
Is EMDR Therapy like Hypnosis? Will I forget my memories?
EMDR Therapy and Hypnosis are different in so many ways. During an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing session, the client will always remain conscious. Allowing you to maintain control and if you desire, to stop the process. The client remains “in charge” during the EMDR session while decreasing the emotional charges of the disturbing life experience. The objective is to facilitate a “more adaptive” resolution of traumatic life challenges not make you forget your memories.
Start EMDR Therapy in Arlington, VA and/or Alexandria VA
Do you think Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing may be able to help you? Do you want to start EMDR therapy to get out from the weight of past traumatic experiences? VDC-Counseling LLC by Valeria D’Amato Caputi is ready to help you get started on your unique journey of healing. As a licensed trauma therapist in Maryland and Virginia, I understand it can be hard to reach out and get started. It all starts with three easy steps:
Reach out for a free consultation.
Schedule an appointment and meet with our EMDR therapist.
Begin your healing process and live your life to the fullest!
Help beyond EMDR therapy in Virginia & Maryland.
At VDC Counseling LLC in Alexandria VA, we offer more than just EMDR and trauma therapy. We also offer anxiety treatment and depression treatment. Meet with a therapist near me from the comfort of your own home with online therapy Virginia and in Maryland. Our multicultural counseling is offered in English and Italian. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you live your life to the fullest!
