Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic technique that was originally created to help people suffering from the after-effects of trauma. Unlike unstructured forms of therapy that rely on freeform discussions, EMDR therapy utilizes a set modality wherein clients are guided through body scanning exercises and guided eye movement sessions. EMDR can help people to overcome their trauma. It can also help people who suffer from other types of anxiety disorders. These are three mental health conditions that may be improved through the use of EMDR therapy:
1. Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder with distinct features. In addition to experiencing generalized anxiety, people with this condition suffer from frequent panic attacks and may develop agoraphobia due to a fear of panic attacks occurring. Panic disorder can become increasingly debilitating if it is not addressed because the experience of panic attacks themselves can be traumatic.
An EMDR therapist may direct patients with panic disorder to recall instances of anxiety during eye movement exercises. The body scanning and reprocessing techniques utilized during EMDR therapy can help patients begin to decouple harmless experiences from their feelings of fear. This can retrain the brain and help to prevent the types of avoidant behaviors that can eventually manifest as agoraphobia.
2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) doesn't always occur after traumatic situations, but it can affect people of any age and mental constitution. People with PTSD often re-experience their trauma when they encounter certain triggers that remind them of their experiences. EMDR can help people with PTSD reprocess their memories to neutralize their effects. Ruminating on traumatic memories isn't always helpful, but what therapists do with their clients is different; the process of recalling these painful memories in therapy is not to dwell on them unnecessarily but rather to heal from them.
3. Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Like PTSD, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) can occur after trauma. When PTSD occurs, the inciting factor is usually a singular incident, but CPTSD may be more likely to develop after a sustained period of trauma in a person's life. People who have suffered from child abuse or domestic partner abuse may develop CPTSD and exhibit symptoms such as depression and challenges in interpersonal relationships. Although CPTSD manifests differently than PTSD, people with this condition can still benefit from EMDR therapy. An EMDR therapist can help patients work through feelings of guilt and self-blame that they may experience as a result of their trauma.
Contact a local EMDR therapist to learn more.
