How to Know if EMDR Therapy is Right for You

How to Know if EMDR Therapy is Right for You

How to Know if EMDR Therapy is Right for You

EMDR has been proven to be a highly effective therapy form, but it is essential to understand how it works and what can be expected from it. EMDR is a relatively new type of therapy that began in the 1980s and has quickly grown as a premier treatment for trauma-related problems and PTSD. Here experts will explore things you need to know to help decide whether EMDR therapy in Orlando will be right for you.

Uses for EMDR therapy.

This therapy is used most commonly to treat trauma related problems and PTSD. It is developing into the leading trauma treatment across the globe. Its reaches are expanding to treat multiple mental health issues, though it is best known for treating trauma. One area of growth for EMDR therapy is the treatment of anxiety and issues related to it like phobias or panic attacks. Unlike many other treatments that help people deal with anxiety symptoms, EMDR therapy will help patients address the root causes of fear and anxiety. This therapy is also effectively used to help patients deal with depression. Often, depression is a symptom of other issues in a person's life, and EMDR therapy can help a patient work through the problems that are adding to their depression.

The following are essential areas that EMDR therapy can help to treat:

  • PTSD or trauma
  • Fears or phobias
  • Anxiety
  • Addiction treatment
  • Chronic pain
  • Eating disorders
  • Complex or childhood trauma
  • Unresolved grief

EMDR therapy risks.

EMDR therapy is highly recommended by various mental health organizations across the globe, and it's considered a safe therapy treatment form. However, it is still important to consider possible side effects with every psychological treatment. During treatment, you may experience physical or emotional discomfort. This is because EMDR treatment helps you work through emotionally painful experiences and memories. Please remember that this therapy should not feel overwhelming to you. Any effective treatment is not meant to leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed or re-traumatize you. This makes it essential to speak with your therapist about the differences between feeling overwhelmed or experiencing emotional discomfort. 

Patients often remember things they haven't thought about for long periods due to the nature of EMDR therapy. After these sessions, it can be possible for patients to experience strange and unusual dreams. Speak with your therapy provider about any side effects of EMDR therapy and things you should do when you experience uncomfortable dreams or memories.

Knowing when you're ready for EMDR therapy.

Considering whether you are ready to embark on the work required of this psychological treatment option is essential when considering EMDR therapy. Being sure you can handle your emotions is critical to know if you are ready to undergo this type of therapy. If you are known for shutting down when you feel certain emotions or are overwhelmed by your emotions, you might not be ready for treatment through EMDR.

Your brain and body's ability to effectively process your feelings and thoughts are essential. This therapy may not be effective for you if you cannot process feelings in this way. However, not being ready doesn't mean EMDR is not a viable option. It only means that you have more prep work to do before you can experience the full benefits of this therapy. Speak with your therapy provider about the best way to know when you are ready to experience EMDR therapy. Then, the two of you can work together to prepare for this treatment and make it as effective as possible.

The length of EMDR therapy.

Most people find this therapy compelling because it can accelerate healing, though EMDR therapy is not a quick fix. It helps patients to process things more effectively. It is crucial to think about the length of time you will be in treatment to get optimal results to determine whether EMDR therapy is the proper treatment for you. The length of this therapy option always depends on your specific situation. If you've been undergoing therapy for an extended time, you might find that the effects of this therapy are felt more quickly.

If you are undergoing therapy for the first time, it often takes more extended periods to prepare for the work that needs to be done. It is expected to take at least 10 to 12 therapy sessions to see effects from EMDR therapy as a general rule.

The eight phases of EMDR treatment are a simple way to describe a therapist's process during EMDR therapy. These eight phases include:

  • Providing life experience history.
  • Preparation for working through past negative experiences.
  • Determining which past experiences you need to work out.
  • Working through negative memories.
  • Implementing strengths and positive beliefs.
  • Working through physical symptoms caused by your thoughts.
  • Finding closure for memories.
  • Re-evaluating sessions to ensure you processed successfully.

When other treatments aren't working, EMDR therapy can be effective. This therapy is a unique therapy form. Traditional therapy types are often referred to as talk therapy. There is less verbal processing required in EMDR therapy, making it unique. EMDR therapy works by activating a person's psychological healing ability. The therapy allows a person's thoughts and emotions to be processed without discussing what they are experiencing. When it is too painful for you to discuss something that has happened to you, EMDR therapy in Orlando can be a valuable tool. This therapy can be highly effective without forcing you to share too many details about the experience. While there is some talking involved, it is more limited. A technique known as free association is used during EMDR. This therapy may be an excellent option for consideration when you have tried other therapy types and haven't been successful.

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(407) 592-8997

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Heather Oller

Heather Oller is the owner and founder of Orlando Thrive Therapy, Coaching, and Counseling. She is a licensed counselor and a family mediator who has over 23 years of dedicated work as a professional in the mental health field. Through her company's mission, she continues to pave the way for future therapists, and their clients, who want a higher quality of life....and who want to thrive, rather than just survive. You can contact Orlando Thrive Therapy at (407) 592-8997 for more information.