EMDR in Treating Childhood Trauma
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy that was designed to help treat trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The body and brain go into defense mode when a traumatic event occurs. This mode is known as the flight or fight response. Core functions of the body and brain are changed during this state to increase efforts on defending and protecting itself. This means that memories, thoughts, and emotions that occur during this time aren’t being properly processed. Instead, these associated memories stay stored or trapped within the body.
EMDR is highly effective in helping individuals learn how to process any traumatic memories that were unable to be properly processed during the time of the traumatic event. Releasing these stored memories can help to reduce and relieve these negative motions, which can lead to a positive and healthier view of oneself.
Let’s learn more about EMDR and how it can be used in the treatment of childhood trauma.
How EMDR Works
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is believed to work so well due to the bilateral stimulation that occurs during sessions. This bilateral stimulation differs from other, more traditional forms of talk therapy. Side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or various sounds are used during sessions while a person thinks about any past memories. The combination of the two is believed to mimic the processing of memories that occurs during the REM sleep cycle.
How EMDR Is Used for Childhood Trauma
Better Manage Emotions
EMDR helps to reduce the stress and anxiety that a person has towards memories relating to their past trauma. Emotional distress is reduced, especially with this form of therapy, because individuals can remember specific details about the traumatic event without feeling intense emotions or sensations or having to talk through every single detail.
Fast Results
The aftermath of the traumatic event didn’t happen overnight, and neither will the journey of healing. That being said, one of the major benefits of EMDR therapy is that it can work extremely quickly. Many people even feel and see the benefits of EMDR within the first few therapy sessions.
Improved Self View
Being able to reprocess negative memories gives individuals another chance to improve their self-view. Taking the time to address and process feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness, or worthlessness can help them gain a healthier and more positive view of themselves, which can increase their self-worth and self-perception.
Long-Term Healing
Another huge benefit of EMDR, especially for adults who underwent childhood trauma, is that it can help long-term healing and recovery. For something like childhood trauma, finding any type of relief is considered a benefit. Long-term healing allows individuals to actually move forward and live their lives to the fullest again.
Versatile
EMDR is a highly effective and versatile form of treatment for both children and adults. No matter how old someone is or what their specific trauma is, EMDR could be a well-suited option depending on an individual’s preferences and overall goals of treatment.
Next Steps
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a highly effective form of treatment, especially when it comes to trauma. If you or someone you love is struggling with past trauma, we encourage you to reach out for additional support sooner rather than later.
You may not be able to go back and change your past, but you can work towards changing your future. These symptoms you’ve been struggling with don’t have to continue. Working with a mental health professional can help you take back control, reduce the effect of trauma, and move forward more positively and healthily. Reach out today to learn more.
