.png)
Experiencing a traumatic event can leave a lasting impact, often creating challenges that affect daily life, relationships, and emotional health. For many people, these challenges are part of what is known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Fortunately, effective treatments are available, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). At Barcelona Counseling, EMDR therapy is used to help individuals process trauma and work toward healing.
What is PTSD?
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as an accident, natural disaster, or act of violence. Common symptoms include:
Intrusive memories: Flashbacks or nightmares about the event.
Avoidance: Trying to avoid reminders of the trauma.
Hyperarousal: Feeling “on edge” or easily startled.
Negative thoughts and mood changes: Persistent sadness, guilt, or shame.
These symptoms often interfere with daily life, making it difficult for people to feel safe or connected. PTSD affects people differently, and while some may manage symptoms independently, many benefit from professional support, including therapies like EMDR.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a structured therapy designed to help people recover from traumatic experiences. Developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with guided eye movements to process traumatic memories.
One key aspect of EMDR is that it does not require individuals to talk in detail about the trauma, which can make it more comfortable for those who find verbalizing their experiences challenging. Instead, it aims to activate the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing memories to be reprocessed in a way that reduces their emotional intensity.
How EMDR Works for PTSD
When a person experiences trauma, their brain may struggle to process the event properly, leaving the memory “stuck.” This can lead to flashbacks, intense emotions, and other PTSD symptoms. EMDR helps by:
1. Reprocessing Traumatic Memories
EMDR allows people to revisit traumatic memories in a controlled and safe environment. By doing so, individuals can work through unresolved emotions and restructure their thoughts about the trauma.
2. Desensitizing Emotional Responses
Through a series of guided eye movements, individuals can lessen the emotional impact of the memory. Over time, the memory becomes less distressing, and PTSD symptoms reduce.
3. Creating Positive Associations
After desensitizing the trauma, EMDR helps individuals form healthier associations with the memory, allowing them to move forward without the heavy emotional burden. This shift is empowering and allows people to build resilience.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR is a multi-phase process that helps ensure individuals are fully supported at each stage. Here’s what to expect in an EMDR session at Barcelona Counseling:
1. History and Treatment Planning
In the initial phase, the therapist gathers a complete history to understand the client’s background and identify the specific trauma or experiences they want to address. The therapist and client work together to create a plan that suits the individual’s needs.
2. Preparation
The therapist explains the process, answers questions, and builds trust. During this stage, relaxation techniques may be introduced, helping clients feel secure.
3. Assessment
The therapist and client identify specific memories and emotional responses to focus on in therapy. They will evaluate the intensity of these emotions using a scale, allowing them to track progress.
4. Desensitization
This is where the core work of EMDR happens. The therapist guides the client through eye movements while they focus on the traumatic memory. Over time, this reduces the emotional response.
5. Installation
In this phase, positive beliefs or thoughts are introduced. The goal is to replace negative associations with empowering, constructive ones.
6. Body Scan
The therapist checks for any lingering physical tension or discomfort that may be associated with the trauma. This step ensures that the memory has been fully reprocessed on both an emotional and physical level.
7. Closure
Each session ends with grounding exercises or relaxation techniques, ensuring clients feel calm and in control. If needed, clients can continue practicing these exercises outside of sessions.
8. Reevaluation
At the beginning of each new session, the therapist checks for any remaining issues related to the memory. This phase helps track progress and decide on the next steps in treatment.
Why is EMDR Effective for Treating PTSD?
Research has shown that EMDR is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms, often in fewer sessions than traditional therapy. It works well because it:
Targets the root of the trauma: By directly addressing traumatic memories, EMDR helps the brain properly “file” them, reducing their impact.
Avoids re-traumatization: Since EMDR does not require a detailed verbal recounting, it is less likely to cause the person to relive the trauma.
Encourages emotional healing: EMDR helps individuals develop healthier emotional responses, which can improve relationships, self-image, and overall quality of life.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?
EMDR has been proven to help a variety of individuals, including those with:
PTSD from combat, assault, or accidents
Complex trauma from prolonged exposure to stress or abuse
Anxiety and depression linked to past events
Emotional responses like shame, guilt, or anger tied to trauma
Is EMDR Right for You?
Deciding to seek therapy for PTSD can be challenging, but EMDR offers a scientifically-backed option that has helped many people find relief. It may be right for you if:
You feel overwhelmed by certain memories.
You struggle with flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety related to past events.
Traditional talk therapy hasn’t provided the relief you need.
Start Your Healing Journey with EMDR
At Barcelona Counseling, EMDR therapy is one of the many ways we help individuals overcome the effects of trauma and regain control over their lives. If PTSD has affected your ability to feel safe, connect with others, or find peace, EMDR could be an effective option.
Taking the first step towards healing can be difficult, but our team is here to provide the guidance and support you need. Call us today to learn more about our EMDR services and how we can help you move forward.