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EMDR [Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing] Technique

Although its mechanisms are still not fully understood, EMDR [Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing] has demonstrated phenomenal ability to resolve emotional issues. In particular, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). shell-shocked battle veterans, victims of rape and abuse, and survivors of natural and man-made disasters have experienced quick and permanent relief with EMDR, often in cases where numerous other therapies, including hypnosis, have failed. EMDR is well researched and its clinical success has been demonstrated worldwide [See www.emdr.com]. Most recently (December, 2001) the Chicago Tribune reported that survivors of the attack on the World Trade Center agreed that EMDR was the most effective therapy in resolving their trauma.

Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., originator of the process, explains the effects as the breaking of a “neurological loop”, installed at the time of the traumatizing event. EMDR appears to activate a natural mechanism for dissipation of the dysfunctional loop enabling clients to integrate difficult life experiences and get past them. After EMDR, thinking about the events no longer triggers the trauma survivor into states of anxiety, depression or terror.

Technique

With EMDR, clients are asked to focus on the disturbing experience/images, physical sensations and/or thoughts. As the therapist hand moves from side to side in front of the client’s face, the client follows the hand movement with their eyes. These lateral movements seem to disperse the unresolved emotional charge associated with the distressing events, circumstances, or perceptions. EMDR procedures sometimes incorporate other methods of side-to-side lateralization [tones in alternating ears, tapping on alternate sides of the body] to activate hemispheric interactions.

The second phase of the EMDR procedure seeks to instill a positive thought process in place of the negative one that was associated with the distress. For example, the person who has lived through an earthquake might go from thinking, “I am vulnerable”, to recognizing that the danger is past and that, “I am secure and comfortable”.