Is EMDR therapy a quick fix?
Some people have the impression that EMDR is a “quick fix. It is important to remember that each client and each set of presenting issues have their own unique fingerprint and time frame. For instance, treatment time for resolving one traumatic incident like a car crash will be different than treatment for recurring childhood abuse. In addition, there may be personal differences in how two different clients who experienced the same type of incident perceive the impact of that incident. The focus of EMDR treatment for a person who just experienced a traumatic incident (like a natural disaster) is different than for a person who repeatedly experienced abuse during childhood.
It is important to understand that there are 8 phases to EMDR, and they are all equally important.
The eight phases are 1) history taking and treatment planning, 2) preparation, 3) assessment, 4) desensitization, 5) installation, 6) body scan, 7) closure and 8) re-evaluation.
Is the therapeutic relationship important in EMDR therapy?
The therapeutic relationship is a key factor and will influence the outcomes for the client. Developing a trusting and intentional relationship between the EMDR therapist and client will help the client feel supported through the difficult moments of reprocessing. The therapeutic relationship helps the client develop trust in their own mind and body’s capacity to handle distress and regulate emotionally.
The therapist is able to attune to the client and observe and respond to client cues. This attunement happens within a therapeutic relationship.
Is EMDR therapy only for Big T trauma and do I have to address all my traumas?
Trauma isn’t necessarily about having experienced an extreme event. Trauma has more to do with the impact it has on the person. Some people talk about big T trauma such as car accidents, violence, war, serious illness etc. However, many people do not realise that the little T trauma such as bullying at school, parental conflict, abuse, neglect or bereavement can still be deeply impactful to a person who experiences them.
Will EMDR therapy make me feel worse?
Some initial discomfort may happen and it is important to maintain the stability of the client. That might be some additional support and would be discussed as part of the process.
However, following an EMDR session, a lot of clients will often express that they feel ‘lighter’ or ‘relieved’. That is often because the memory that caused distress has lost most of its sting. This allows clients to leave the session feeling empowered.
