EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of therapy that has gained popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in treating trauma-related disorders. However, some individuals may be hesitant to try EMDR due to fear or misconceptions about the therapy. In this blog post, we'll explore the question "Should I be scared of EMDR?" and provide an answer for therapy seekers who may be considering this form of treatment.
First, it's important to understand what EMDR is and how it works. EMDR is a type of therapy that involves using eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain process traumatic memories and emotions. The therapy is typically conducted by a trained therapist who will guide the patient through a series of guided eye movements while they recall traumatic events or memories.
One reason why individuals may be scared of EMDR is because they may not fully understand what the therapy entails. However, it's important to note that EMDR is a safe and non-invasive therapy that has been extensively researched and has been found to be effective in treating trauma-related disorders. The beginning of the process of undergoing therapy is all about working at your own pace, building resilience and making sure that you’re ready for reprocessing memories.
Another reason why individuals may be scared of EMDR is because they may be worried about re-experiencing traumatic events or emotions during therapy. While it's true that EMDR can involve recalling aspects of traumatic memories, it's important to note that the therapy is conducted in a safe and controlled environment with a trained therapist who will guide the patient through the process. We’ll do it in a very specific way that’s meant to help your brain and body access safety. By the time we get to that part of the process, you’ll understand exactly what we’re doing and why
The vast majority of EMDR therapy clients are surprised at how much less scary the experience is than they anticipated. Most people feel relief and recognize how much easier it is that the triggers they experience in daily life. Living with trauma is incredibly painful, healing shouldn’t be if you have the right therapist.
