Have you ever wondered what EMDR therapy is? In this post, we’ll break down exactly what EMDR therapy is as well as how you can find a provider in Calgary.

What is EMDR therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven and highly effective therapy that relies on bilateral stimulation and dual-attention awareness to aid the brain in reprocessing traumatic and formative experiences that continue to affect both the mind and body. This evidence-based approach fosters insight into the origins of present negative beliefs, coping patterns, or physical discomfort, and then guides the brain in re-evaluating these experiences. Furthermore, EMDR therapy facilitates the release of long-held emotions and sensations within the body.

What can EMDR therapy help with?

There are many benefits to EMDR therapy. Addressing unresolved traumatic events is one of the top reasons EMDR therapy is utilized.

Unresolved traumatic events, whether major or minor, can linger and impact daily life because the brain has not associated the appropriate timeline with these experiences. As a result, the body may interpret these events as current, leading to disproportionate emotional and physical responses. EMDR therapy effectively addresses this by helping individuals reprocess these experiences and provide them with a new perspective.

What are the benefits of EMDR therapy?

The benefits of EMDR therapy extend to various mental health conditions and presenting concerns, including but not limited to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, chronic pain, childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, bullying, perfectionism, self-esteem issues, guilt, shame, and relational difficulties. This evidence-based approach offers a promising and holistic path toward healing and recovery for individuals grappling with the enduring impact of past experiences.

What does an EMDR therapy session look like?

During an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy session, your therapist will guide you through a process that aims to help you process and reframe traumatic experiences in a safe and supportive environment. The therapist will create a safe space for you to recall the traumatic event within the presence and safety of the therapeutic alliance. Through the use of bilateral stimulation, which can take the form of rapid eye movements, hand buzzers, or other methods, your brain begins to create a sense of distance between the present moment and the traumatic event. This helps you realize that although you are recalling the event, you are actually in a safe space, not reliving the trauma.

So how does EMDR therapy actually work?

EMDR treatment facilitates the reprocessing of the way you think of the traumatic event, as well as how you perceive yourself, others, and the world around you. This can lead to a shift towards a more adaptive perspective, helping you to better cope with the impact of the trauma. The benefits of EMDR therapy are wide-ranging and can include an improved sense of self, a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression, fewer flashbacks and nightmares, and improved functioning in relationships, work, school, and daily life.

EMDR treatment aims for relatively permanent benefits. The goal is for the reprocessed and integrated traumatic material to remain so, without the need for further intervention. However, it's important to recognize that every individual responds differently to treatment and may require varying lengths of therapy. Each person's experiences and needs are unique, so the process and treatment plan will be tailored to fit your specific circumstances. Your EMDR therapist will collaborate with you to create a treatment roadmap that feels comfortable and effective for your healing journey.

Where can I get EMDR therapy?

Here at Eclipse Psychology, we have therapists who specialize in EMDR therapy. Feel free to check out our EMDR therapy page and if you’d like to learn more, you can contact us or book now.