EMDR Therapy: A Path to Healing

​Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a unique and effective form of psychotherapy that has been gaining recognition for its ability to help individuals overcome trauma and psychological distress. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR therapy combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with bilateral stimulation, most commonly through guided eye movements. This innovative approach aims to reprocess traumatic memories and alleviate the emotional burden associated with them. Kelly Mental Health offers EMDR therapy in Thunder Bay, both in-person and through virtual appointments. 

How EMDR Therapy Works

At the core of EMDR therapy is the concept of bilateral stimulation, which involves engaging both hemispheres of the brain to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories. This stimulation can take various forms, including side-to-side eye movements, auditory tones, or tactile sensations. The therapy is typically structured into eight phases:

1. History Taking and Treatment Planning: This type of therapy can be intense. Taking a detailed history before developing a treatment plan is important to ensure the safety of the client.
2. Preparation: We will review the EMDR process, and establish a sense of trust and safety, and teaches the client coping mechanisms and relaxation techniques.
3. Assessment: The therapist and client identify specific target memories and associated negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations.
4. Desensitization: Using bilateral stimulation while the individual recalls the traumatic memory, this helps to desensitize them to the emotional impact of the memory.
5. Installation: The therapist helps the client replace negative beliefs with positive, adaptive ones while continuing bilateral stimulation.
6. Body Scan: The client scans their body for any remaining physical tension or discomfort related to the memory, addressing any residual issues.
7. Closure: The therapist ensures the client returns to a stable state and provides resources for self-care between sessions.
8. Reevaluation: The therapist and client review progress and determine if additional sessions are needed to address other target memories.

EMDR has been known to successfully treat the following:

• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Grief & loss
• Depression
• Addictions
• Anger
• Phobias
• Performance anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Traumatic memories
• Low self-esteem
• Trust issues

Benefits and Applications of EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and is considered an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, its applications extend beyond PTSD to a wide range of psychological conditions, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and complicated grief. Some key benefits of EMDR therapy include:

• Rapid Results: Many clients experience significant improvement after just a few sessions.
• Holistic Healing: EMDR addresses the emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of trauma, promoting comprehensive healing.
• Minimal Reliving of Trauma: Unlike some traditional therapies, EMDR does not require clients to extensively recount their traumatic experiences, reducing the risk of re-traumatization.

Conclusion

​EMDR therapy offers a promising path to healing for individuals struggling with the lingering effects of trauma. By harnessing the brain's natural capacity for processing information, EMDR helps clients reframe negative memories, alleviate psychological distress, and build a more resilient, adaptive self. Kelly Mental Health is proud to offer EMDR therapy in Thunder Bay and across Ontario. Contact us today to set up an intake appointment.