EMDR Therapy in Eugene, OR and online throughout Oregon and Washington
As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I have witnessed the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. This innovative approach to trauma treatment has helped countless individuals process and heal from their traumatic experiences.
In this blog post, we will explore what EMDR is, what you can expect from it, who it can benefit, and why it might be more effective than other methods you may have tried. We'll also discuss how to find a qualified EMDR therapist near you and how my training and experience can support your healing journey.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy method designed to help individuals process and resolve traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR focuses on the distressing memories and beliefs that contribute to a person's psychological difficulties. It integrates elements from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, while using bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements) to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories.
The Mechanism Behind EMDR
The core of EMDR therapy involves the use of bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, taps, or auditory tones, while the individual recalls distressing memories. This process is thought to mimic the natural REM (rapid eye movement) sleep phase, during which the brain processes and integrates memories. By stimulating both hemispheres of the brain, EMDR helps to reprocess and desensitize traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and transforming negative beliefs associated with the trauma.
What to Expect from EMDR
EMDR typically follows an eight-phase protocol designed to ensure comprehensive treatment and lasting results. Here’s what you can expect:
Phase 1: History Taking and Treatment Planning
In the initial phase, the therapist gathers a detailed history of your life and traumatic experiences. This helps in identifying the memories and issues that will be addressed during the therapy. A treatment plan is then developed based on your specific needs.
Phase 2: Preparation
The therapist explains the EMDR process and techniques to you, ensuring you feel safe and informed. You will also learn self-soothing techniques to manage any distress that may arise during or between sessions.
Phase 3: Assessment
During this phase, the therapist helps you identify specific target memories for reprocessing. You will be asked to focus on the most distressing aspects of these memories, including any negative beliefs and physical sensations associated with them.
Phases 4-7: Desensitization, Installation, Body Scan, and Closure
These phases involve the actual processing of traumatic memories using bilateral stimulation. The therapist guides you through recalling the distressing memory while simultaneously engaging in eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. As the memory is reprocessed, its emotional intensity decreases, and positive beliefs are reinforced. The therapist also conducts a body scan to identify and address any residual physical tension or distress.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
In the final phase, the therapist reviews your progress and assesses the effectiveness of the treatment. This phase ensures that all targeted memories have been adequately processed and that you have achieved the desired outcomes.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR?
EMDR is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced trauma, including but not limited to:
Survivors of Abuse: EMDR can help survivors of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse process and heal from their traumatic experiences. By reprocessing distressing memories, EMDR reduces their emotional impact and helps individuals develop healthier beliefs about themselves.
Veterans and First Responders: Individuals who have experienced combat, natural disasters, or other high-stress situations often benefit from EMDR therapy. It aids in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.
Individuals with Complex Trauma: People who have experienced prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect, can find relief through EMDR therapy. It helps address deeply ingrained negative beliefs and emotional responses resulting from their traumatic experiences.
Those with Anxiety, Depression, and Phobias: EMDR is also effective for treating anxiety disorders, depression, and phobias. By targeting and reprocessing the underlying traumatic memories, EMDR helps alleviate the symptoms associated with these conditions.
Why EMDR is More Helpful Than Previous Methods You May Have Tried
EMDR offers several advantages over traditional therapeutic approaches, making it a highly effective treatment for trauma and related conditions:
Comprehensive and Holistic Approach: EMDR addresses both the cognitive and emotional aspects of trauma. It not only helps reprocess traumatic memories but also works on transforming negative beliefs and alleviating physical distress. This comprehensive approach ensures holistic healing.
Rapid Results: Compared to other forms of therapy, EMDR often produces faster results. Many individuals experience significant relief from their symptoms within a few sessions. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for those dealing with severe or long-standing trauma.
Non-Invasive and Safe: EMDR therapy does not require extensive verbal recounting of traumatic experiences, which can be re-traumatizing for some individuals. The bilateral stimulation techniques used in EMDR are non-invasive and safe, making the therapy accessible to a wide range of clients.
Empirically Supported: Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of EMDR therapy in treating PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. It is recognized as an evidence-based treatment by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Click here to learn more about EMDR!
Finding a Qualified EMDR Therapist in Oregon or Washington
To find a therapist who specializes in EMDR therapy, consider the following steps:
Research and Referrals: Start by researching therapists in your area who are trained and certified in EMDR therapy. You can ask for referrals from your primary care physician, friends, or family members who have had positive experiences with EMDR.
Professional Organizations: Visit websites of professional organizations such as the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) or the American Psychological Association (APA) to find directories of certified EMDR therapists.
Initial Consultation: Many therapists offer an initial consultation to discuss your needs and determine if they are a good fit for you. Use this opportunity to ask about their experience with EMDR, their approach, and how they can support your healing journey.
Trust Your Instincts: It's essential to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. Trust your instincts and choose a therapist with whom you feel a connection and trust.
My EMDR Therapy Services in Oregon and Washington
As a certified EMDR therapist, I specialize in helping individuals recover from the effects of trauma. In addition to using EMDR in traditional therapy, I also offer EMDR in an intensive format. Intensive therapy facilitates efficient and effective healing in a compressed time frame. Click here to read more about EMDR intensives!
“I see you offer Brainspotting, as well. They sound pretty similar — why would someone choose one over the other?”
Someone might choose EMDR over Brainspotting due to its structured, evidence-based protocol and extensive research supporting its effectiveness in treating PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. The eight-phase approach of EMDR provides a comprehensive framework that appeals to individuals seeking a well-documented and systematic method for processing trauma.
On the other hand, someone might choose Brainspotting over EMDR for its more flexible, client-centered approach, which allows for deeper emotional processing by focusing on specific eye positions that correlate with stored trauma. Brainspotting can be particularly appealing to those who prefer a less structured therapy that emphasizes the body-brain connection and offers a more intuitive, individualized healing experience.
My approach is warm, compassionate, and tailored to each client's unique needs, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for healing. Whether you have experienced a single traumatic event or prolonged trauma, I am here to support you in your healing journey.
Takeaways
EMDR therapy is a powerful and effective method for processing and healing from trauma. It offers a comprehensive approach that addresses the cognitive, emotional, and physical aspects of traumatic experiences. Whether you have experienced abuse, combat, childhood trauma, or struggle with anxiety or depression, EMDR can provide significant relief and facilitate lasting healing.
If you need support in your healing journey, I encourage you to schedule a consultation. Together, we can work towards processing your trauma and achieving emotional well-being. Remember, healing from trauma is possible, and you deserve to live a life free from the burdens of the past.
Looking to connect with a therapist who specializes in EMDR?
Take your first step towards healing from trauma and reclaiming your life.
(Oregon & Washington residents only)
About the author
Amanda Buduris is a licensed psychologist providing virtual Brainspotting sessions in Oregon and Washington. In person services are available for therapy intensives only. She is trained in multiple modalities of trauma-focused healing to best support clients who are looking to feel better faster.
