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When Prince William disclosed that he utilized EMDR therapy to work through his grief over his mother’s death, it sparked considerable interest online. While EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, has been around since 1987, its popularity is on the rise for its effectiveness in helping individuals process traumatic events.
According to the American Psychological Association, EMDR is designed to treat PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). The therapy operates on the idea that distressing experiences lead to symptoms stemming from “unprocessed memories” that encompass the emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and physical sensations associated with those events. The goal is to directly address these memories, altering how they are stored in the brain to alleviate the troubling symptoms.
During an EMDR session, a therapist guides the patient to engage in eye movements and bilateral stimulation while briefly concentrating on the traumatic memory. If you’re unsure how this method can be effective, you’re not alone. I consulted with Dr. Emily Turner, a licensed therapist and podcast host, about the EMDR process.
Dr. Turner initially thought EMDR sounded a bit “out there.” However, she discovered that it is evidence-based and beneficial not only for trauma but also for various issues such as mood and anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, phobias, grief, and more. She experienced EMDR personally after a challenging childbirth. “I was amazed by its power and how quickly I could process experiences that might have taken months in traditional therapy,” she revealed.
What Does EMDR Entail?
Dr. Turner notes that the therapy comprises eight structured phases that tap into the body’s natural healing mechanisms. She compares it to a broken arm that needs a cast and time to heal. Similarly, our brains have a natural processing system that can become blocked or overwhelmed at times. EMDR could be the solution.
The first phase involves finding an EMDR practitioner who will assess your current challenges and history. In the second phase, the therapist ensures you have tools to help manage difficult emotions before diving into the reprocessing work. These tools might include mindfulness techniques, visualization, and stress-reduction strategies that aid in grounding yourself and reclaiming a sense of control.
Phases three through six focus on the “deep work” of EMDR. The therapist helps you identify a target memory for reprocessing, which may or may not be the earliest memory linked to your triggers. You’ll explore associated images, negative self-beliefs, physical sensations, and emotions tied to that memory. You’ll also establish the positive beliefs you wish to adopt about yourself. The bilateral stimulation can involve eye movements, sounds, or tapping that simulate a sensory experience similar to REM sleep.
Dr. Turner emphasizes that this processing occurs while you’re awake and in a safe, supportive environment with a professional. In phase seven, the therapist wraps up the session, offering guidance and discussing insights gained between appointments. The final phase is a progress check, where the therapist assesses whether you no longer experience disturbance or discomfort related to the traumatic memory.
Is EMDR Right for You?
If you’re hesitant about EMDR, it’s important to know that this method is evidence-based and not a quick-fix solution. It requires a trained professional who will approach your healing journey thoughtfully. EMDR can address various challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fertility issues, among others.
One significant advantage of EMDR is that it can be more efficient than traditional talk therapy, which often takes numerous sessions to achieve similar results. While EMDR is not the definitive answer for everyone, it can provide a powerful means of processing trauma. Dr. Turner found it especially impactful, noting that it helped her address not only birth trauma but also other interconnected issues of shame and fear that surfaced during her sessions.
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Summary
Prince William’s revelation about using EMDR therapy to address his trauma has brought attention to this evidence-based treatment. EMDR helps individuals process traumatic experiences through structured phases that engage the body’s natural healing processes. With the guidance of a trained professional, patients can work through difficult memories and emotions, making strides toward emotional well-being.
Keyphrase: EMDR therapy for trauma
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