EMDR Therapy: How Can It Help in Healing from Complex Trauma?

Learn more about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, how it works and what benefits it can provide for those who suffer from complex trauma.

EMDR therapy is a type of therapy that has been shown to be effective in treating complex trauma. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and it involves using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, audio, or tapping, to help the brain process traumatic memories and reduce the emotional distress associated with them.

Here are some ways that EMDR therapy can help in healing from complex trauma:

1. Processing traumatic memories: EMDR therapy helps to reprocess traumatic memories that have been stored in the brain in a way that allows them to be processed and integrated into the person’s life story. This can help to reduce the emotional distress associated with these memories and promote healing.

2. Changing negative beliefs: Traumatic experiences can result in negative beliefs about oneself, others, and the world, such as “I am not safe,” “I am powerless,” or “The world is dangerous.” EMDR therapy can help to identify and change these negative beliefs, promoting a more positive and adaptive outlook on life.

3. Addressing physical sensations: Trauma can be stored in the body, resulting in physical sensations such as pain, tension, or numbness. EMDR therapy can help to address these physical sensations and promote a sense of bodily safety and well-being.

4. Strengthening coping skills: EMDR therapy can help to identify and strengthen coping skills that can help in managing symptoms of complex trauma, such as anxiety, depression, and dissociation.

EMDR therapy can help individuals who have experienced complex trauma to process their traumatic memories, change negative beliefs, address physical sensations, and strengthen coping skills. Furthermore, it addresses the physical and emotional components of trauma, helping individuals to process their experiences and bring hope back into their lives more effectively. EMDR therapy also involves self-care, which can be a strong source of strength during difficult times.

Everyone's healing journey will look different, but EMDR therapy has proven time and again to be a helpful therapy for many who have experienced trauma. Despite all the challenges people have faced, EMDR therapy has been able to provide relief, hope and liberation from crippling symptoms. As with any form of treatment, it is important for individuals to remain open minded, take an active role in their own healing and speak up if necessary, about what works for them or if something does not feel right.