Trauma EMDR Therapy: Healing from PTSD and Emotional Distress
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy approach developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987, widely used to treat trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and panic. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to help reprocess traumatic memories, allowing the brain to heal naturally. It’s grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which explains how trauma memories can get stuck, much like indigestion, and prevent natural healing.
For more details, visit the American Psychological Association (APA) or the EMDR Institute.
Who is it for?
EMDR is effective for individuals who have experienced both large “Big T” traumas (e.g., accidents, assaults, natural disasters) and “small t” traumas (e.g., emotional neglect, relationship issues). People suffering from flashbacks, anxiety, panic attacks, or unresolved emotional distress can benefit from EMDR. If you find yourself stuck in past trauma and unable to move forward, this therapy could help.
How does EMDR work?
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR involves using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or tones) while recalling traumatic memories. The therapy reactivates neural networks, allowing the brain to reprocess and integrate memories into a more adaptive state. A helpful analogy is the common phrase, “Roses are red, violets are blue.” But in reality, violets are not blue. EMDR helps your brain process and correct such distorted memories, much like how memory can be re-examined and reframed, turning “stuck” memories into less distressing ones.
EMDR is based on bottom-up processing, which focuses on how trauma is stored in the body and how memories can trigger emotional and physical responses. The therapy also involves top-down approaches, working with cognition to reshape beliefs and thought patterns.
How are the sessions structured?
EMDR follows an eight-phase approach:
History Taking & Treatment Planning
Your therapist takes a full history to identify key memories to target and builds a treatment plan.Preparation
Coping strategies are taught to manage emotions during sessions.Assessment
The target memory, emotions, and beliefs are evaluated for treatment.Desensitisation
Bilateral stimulation is introduced, and you reprocess distressing memories.Installation
Positive beliefs are reinforced to replace negative thoughts.Body Scan
Checking for any residual tension or discomfort in the body related to the memory.Closure
Each session ends with techniques to ensure you leave in a calm state.Re-evaluation
Reviewing progress and identifying new targets in future sessions.
For more on EMDR therapy’s process, check out PsychCentral’s guide on EMDR.
How many sessions are typical?
A typical EMDR therapy course can range from 6-12 sessions, though individual experiences vary. Some clients may experience relief after a few sessions, while others, particularly with complex trauma, may need more. Regular sessions (e.g., twice a week) help maintain momentum in the healing process.
How does EMDR differ from traditional talk therapy?
Unlike talk therapy, which focuses on verbal processing, EMDR engages both the body and mind through bilateral stimulation. It’s not necessary to talk in-depth about the trauma, which can be a relief for those who feel uncomfortable sharing. EMDR allows the brain’s natural processing system to do the work while you remain in a safe, controlled environment. The therapy can even be done in silence if you find discussing the trauma shameful or overwhelming.
How does EMDR view trauma?
EMDR recognises both “Big T” and “small t” traumas. Big T traumas are typically single, highly disturbing events like accidents or assaults, while small t traumas are more subtle and cumulative, such as childhood neglect or chronic criticism. EMDR helps process both types, making it a versatile treatment.
Why is EMDR safe?
EMDR is non-invasive and does not require detailed recounting of the traumatic event. It leverages the brain’s natural ability to heal, much like physical wounds. The structured nature of the therapy, combined with preparation and closure phases, ensures that you’re always grounded and in control. The bilateral stimulation mimics the brain’s natural processes during REM sleep, when it processes everyday experiences and memories, making it a natural and safe way to deal with trauma.
Why Choose Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. for EMDR Therapy?
At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., you will be guided through EMDR therapy by Karl deSouza, a highly experienced and compassionate therapist with over 13 years of EMDR practice. Trained by EMDR HAP USA, Karl has helped many individuals move past trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress using this powerful approach. His depth of experience ensures a safe and supportive environment where healing can take place at your pace.
With Karl’s expertise and the welcoming, inclusive atmosphere at Listening Ear, you can trust that you will receive a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique experiences and needs. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a significant trauma or seeking help for smaller, persistent emotional challenges, EMDR at Listening Ear offers a non-invasive, effective path to recovery.
For more information, visit the EMDR Institute.