What is EMDR Therapy and How Does it Work? 

Curious about EMDR therapy and how it works? Well, let me break it down for you. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a type of therapy that helps people process traumatic or distressing experiences. It's based on the idea that when we experience something traumatic, our brains don't always process the experience in a healthy way, which can lead to ongoing symptoms like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. EMDR therapy uses eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help reprocess those experiences in a more adaptive way so that the negative symptoms can be reduced or eliminated. Think of it like giving your brain a software update - it helps your brain process the experience in a healthier, more integrated way. Cool, huh?

How to Find the EMDR Therapy That Is Right For You

If you have been searching for EMDR Therapy you may have come across options for both in-person EMDR therapy, like our offerings at our Los Angeles office, or you may have seen options for online EMDR therapy. At Flourish MIndset, we offer both in-person and online EMDR therapy. Both types of EMDR therapy are provided by a highly trained EMDR therapist, and use the same 8-phase protocol approved by EMDRIA, the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing International Association. You may be wondering does online EMDR therapy work? The answer is yes!

Technological Advancement for Online EMDR

There are loads of technological advances that have been created since EMDR became available. Historically the only way to activate the desensitization of disturbing past events was through eye movements, in which the therapist moved their hand back and forth for the client to follow with their eyes. The next phase of technological advances produced the light bar, a large horizontal bar with the ability to move an led light from one side to the other for clients to follow. Now, there are HIPPA-compliant software platforms that create a dot for clients to follow on their computer screens. This integrates with video with your therapist and you are able to have an at-home EMDR session. 

Tapping is another form of bilateral stimulation used in the desensitization phase of EMDR therapy. For in-person EMDR Therapy, hand tappers are held in each hand and produce alternating vibrations creating the side-to-side (bilateral) effect which activates the reprocessing of disturbing events. Self-tapping is an alternative method used for online therapy in place of eye movements.

Online EMDR Therapy Vs. In-Person EMDR Therapy

Let's talk about online EMDR therapy versus in-person EMDR therapy. Both are effective forms of treatment, but which one is right for you? Well, if you're someone who has access to reliable internet and feels comfortable with technology, online EMDR therapy may be a great option for you. It allows you to receive therapy from the comfort of your own home, which can be particularly helpful for those who live in remote areas or have mobility issues. Plus, online therapy can be more flexible and convenient, as you don't have to worry about travel time or fitting appointments into your schedule. If you have a crazy packed schedule, and struggle to carve out time for yourself, the ease of at-home EMDR therapy, can help you prioritize yourself and engage in therapy. For more information about the benefits of online EMDR therapy read our Blog Post, EMDR Therapy Online: What to Expect.

Ensure Your Therapist Has Experience

However, it's worth noting that not all therapists are trained in online EMDR therapy, so be sure to find a provider who has experience with this modality. At Flourish Mindset, we specialize in both online and in-person EMDR therapy, and our therapists follow the treatment protocols to the highest standards.

Benefits of In-Person EMDR

What are the benefits of finding an EMDR therapist who works in person? If you find yourself struggling with being on screens or do not have a quiet private space at home to do your sessions, then in-person EMDR therapy may be right for you. Similarly, if you prefer the in-person experience and find it easier to connect with your therapist face-to-face, in-person EMDR therapy may be a better fit for you. It's also important to consider the environment in which you receive therapy - some people may find it easier to open up in a private office setting, while others may feel more at ease in a virtual setting. Ultimately, the decision between online EMDR therapy and in-person EMDR therapy comes down to your personal preferences and needs, so take some time to consider which option feels best for you.

What to Expect in EMDR Therapy

If you're curious about what to expect in EMDR therapy, let me walk you through the process. First, you'll meet with your therapist for an initial session to discuss your treatment goals and gather information about your history and symptoms. From there, you'll begin the EMDR therapy process, which typically involves a preparation phase where you will learn tools to self-regulate and establish and strengthen your internal resources. This means that you will bolster your ability to manage difficult emotions and stay centered despite what is going around you. Then you will begin the next stage of treatment which involves, a series of sessions focused on specific memories or experiences that are causing distress. During these sessions, your therapist will guide you through a series of eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, while you focus on the memory or experience in question.

The Goal of EMDR Therapy

The goal of EMDR therapy is to help you reprocess the traumatic or distressing experience in a way that reduces or eliminates negative symptoms. This may involve exploring any negative beliefs or emotions that are associated with the experience and replacing them with more positive and adaptive beliefs. Throughout the process, your therapist will be there to provide support, guidance, and validation as you work through the memories and emotions. Overall, the EMDR therapy process can be intense, but it's also incredibly effective for many people who have struggled with trauma and PTSD.

Prioritize Yourself

Taking the step to prioritize your mental health and starting EMDR therapy can be a game-changer for many people. By working through past traumas or experiences that have been causing distress, you can begin to let go of the past and move forward with a sense of freedom and empowerment. EMDR therapy can help you reprocess those experiences in a way that reduces or eliminates negative symptoms, so you can feel more in control of your thoughts and emotions.

One of the most empowering things about EMDR therapy is that it allows you to take an active role in your healing journey. Rather than feeling like a victim of your past experiences, you can begin to see yourself as a strong, capable survivor who is taking steps toward a brighter future. By working with a trained therapist who can provide support and guidance, you can gain the tools and insight needed to overcome even the most challenging experiences. So if you're ready to take the first step towards greater mental health and freedom, know that EMDR therapy, whether online or in person, can be an incredibly transformative journey.

Begin EMDR therapy in Los Angeles or Online Today

If you are struggling with feeling pulled into the past or feel stuck and unsure how to move forward, we can help. Flourish Mindset can help you find the EMDR therapy that is right for you to help you break free from trauma, anxiety, or depression. If you are ready to take the next steps in your journey with online or in-person EMDR therapy follow the simple steps below!

• Get to know our therapists here

• Book a Free 20 Minute Consultation

• Begin your new and exciting journey to healing