5 Things I Love About EMDR

If you’ve spent any time on my website, or have worked with me, you probably know that I LOVE Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR. I’ve witnessed its incredible benefits both in my own therapy, and through the experiences of my clients. While there’s plenty of information about EMDR out there, I wanted to share five reasons why it holds a special place in my clinical toolbox.

1. Versatility: 

   What I love the most about EMDR is that it’s a highly versatile modality. Originally developed to treat trauma, EMDR has now been shown to be an effective therapeutic modality for a wide range of issues, including addictions, eating disorders, grief and loss, anxiety, etc. This adaptability means it can meet clients where they are, no matter their struggles.

   
   

2. Less Emphasis on Verbal Recounting:

   Many of my clients appreciate that EMDR does not require them to recount their trauma in detail. While some information is necessary, there’s no pressure to share more than what feels comfortable. For many people, this makes the process feel more accessible, especially for individuals who hold a lot of shame. This is also hugely beneficial for individuals who have experience pre-verbal trauma, where there may not be language to express the experience.  While a detailed recounting isn’t required, it’s welcomed if a client feels that is something beneficial for them. I really appreciate this flexibility and how client’s choose what is best for them. 

   
   

3. Client-Centered Approach:

   EMDR follows a structured eight-phase protocol, but what’s truly wonderful is how customizable it is. Each session can be tailored to fit the unique needs of the client and the style of the therapist. While the eight-phase protocol is integral to the success of EMDR, it is not a one-size-fits-all approach, it’s a collaborative journey that respects individual experiences and pathways towards trauma integration.

   
   

4. High Standards for Training:

   The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) sets rigorous standards and requirements for clinicians to be recognized as EMDR-trained. This ensures that therapists receive comprehensive, evidence-based training which includes a required number of consultation hours prior to training being complete. These measures protect clients and ensure they are receiving high-quality care.

   
   

5. The Brain’s Natural Healing Ability:

   One of the core principles of EMDR is the belief that our brains are naturally equipped to process trauma, is always working to bringing us towards balance and wellness. Through the use of bilateral stimulation, EMDR is theorized to “unlock” the brain’s the adaptive information processing system, allowing us to intentionally focus on specific memories to facilitate desensitization and re-processing. I’m a firm believer that despite the struggles and challenges we may have in life, we are not broken or defective; we may just need a little help to navigate towards healing and healthier patterns.

   
   

As both a clinician and a client, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful EMDR can be in achieving mental health goals. It might not resonate with everyone, and there are no guarantees in therapy, but I believe that EMDR is a groundbreaking trauma treatment. I hope some of the reasons that I love EMDR resonate with you, too.