Working through difficult experiences with support
Some experiences stay with us long after they have happened. You may understand that something is in the past and still find yourself reacting to reminders, feeling on edge, or struggling with memories and emotions that seem difficult to settle.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, commonly known as EMDR, is a structured psychotherapy approach used to help people process distressing experiences. At Anchored Hope Therapy, EMDR may be incorporated into trauma-informed treatment based on your history, needs, and therapeutic goals.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a psychotherapy approach that uses a structured process to help people work with distressing memories and experiences. It includes bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or other forms of alternating stimulation, within an established treatment protocol.
EMDR is often associated with trauma treatment, including PTSD, but a therapist will consider your individual circumstances when determining whether it may be appropriate. EMDR is not simply about revisiting painful memories. Preparation, pacing, and the therapeutic relationship are important parts of the process.
How Can EMDR Help With Trauma?
Distressing experiences can continue to affect how we feel, what we believe about ourselves, and how we respond to reminders in everyday life. EMDR aims to support the processing of targeted memories so that they may become less distressing and less disruptive.
The process looks different for each person. Your therapist will work with you to understand your history, identify treatment goals, and determine when and how to approach particular memories. You do not have to rush into discussing or processing difficult experiences before you are ready.
What Happens in an EMDR Session?
EMDR generally involves several phases, including history-taking, preparation, identifying treatment targets, processing, and reviewing progress. Your therapist will explain the process and work with you to develop strategies for managing distress before beginning memory processing.
EMDR is not appropriate in the same way or at the same time for everyone. Your therapist will consider your needs, resources, and circumstances throughout treatment.
Is EMDR Right for Me?
If you are interested in EMDR, you do not need to know in advance whether it is the right approach. A conversation with a trained therapist can help you understand what it involves, ask questions, and explore alternatives.
Some Anchored Hope clinicians also use approaches such as somatic therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Brainspotting. These approaches differ, and your therapist can help you consider what fits your goals.
How Is EMDR Different from Brainspotting?
EMDR and Brainspotting are both used in trauma-focused therapy, but they guide the therapeutic process differently. EMDR typically follows a structured approach that includes recalling aspects of a distressing experience while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or other alternating sensory input. Brainspotting Therapy places greater emphasis on eye position and the relationship between visual focus, bodily sensations, and emotional experience. The therapist helps the client identify an eye position, or “brainspot,” that may be associated with what they are experiencing.
Both approaches can offer a way to work with difficult experiences beyond talking about them alone. Neither is the right fit for everyone, and your therapist can help you explore which approach may best support your needs and goals.
Find an EMDR Therapist in Annapolis
Anchored Hope Therapy offers integrative, trauma-informed psychotherapy in Annapolis, Maryland. Explore our therapist bios to learn which clinicians offer EMDR and what age groups they work with.
Further reading: Introduction to EMDR Therapy Video