Myths of EMDR
by Katherine Pica LCSW
Therapy can seem scary for someone who has never experienced it before. There are a lot of different techniques that can be incorporated because it is not something as simple as one size fits all. A lot of techniques include acronyms, which can seem alarming at first because you may not understand what they mean. For example, EMDR is a safe and effective form of therapy, but it is also associated with a lot of myths.
What is EMDR and How can it help?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is a therapy technique that was designed to help reduce the stress connected to traumatic events. It is used as a way to process memories and certain triggers that affect the way individuals perceive themselves and the world around them.
Any form of therapy, especially when discussing difficult situations, can be a positive as well as a negative experience. EMDR’s potential side effects include the following:
Discomfort during a session
Tiredness after a session
Altered dreams
Feeling more sensitive
Remembering and uncovering more memories
It is good to keep in mind that a therapist that is skilled in EMDR will work with you to help reduce any heightened or negative emotions during your session. EMDR is not a new type of therapy technique. It is just becoming more well-known in today’s world. It was actually developed over 30 years ago, which means that lots of research and studies have been done over the years.
Take a look at some of the common myths and misconceptions regarding this type of therapy technique to help you understand EMDR a little better and to see if it may be a good fit for you or not:
1. EMDR is hypnosis.
EMDR is not hypnosis. When experiencing an EMDR therapy session, you will never go into a trance-like state like you would during hypnotism. As a refresher, EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. The eye movement used during this type of therapy is often mistaken for hypnosis.
EMDR treatment actually uses movement as a way to stimulate the brain’s natural ability for processing information. Typically, the movement includes moving your eyes back and forth laterally. There are other forms of movement that is also effective as well called bilateral stimulation.
2. EMDR will make me crazy.
Therapy can be uncomfortable. Therapy, including EMDR therapy, will not make you crazy. People often associate EMDR to creating false memories, but the brain cannot create a memory that was not already there in the first place.
EMDR is a great way to work through the trauma that you may not feel comfortable fully discussing. Another common misconception is that you have to dig deep into all of the details of the trauma that you experienced. That is not the case for EMDR treatment. A trusted therapist will help you navigate your session. You are in full control, with their support during and after the session.
3. EMDR is only for PTSD.
EMDR and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are most commonly linked, but EMDR is also used to help treat other concerns. EMDR has been used to treat the following in addition to PTSD:
Grief
Dissociative Disorders
Trauma
Disturbing Memories
Stress
Sexual Abuse or Rape
Physical Abuse
Childhood Trauma
Emotional Abuse
Life Threatening Accidents
Car Accidents
Child Birth Trauma
Upsetting Events
How to get EMDR San Diego, CA
If you may be interested in EMDR therapy, Your therapist will be able to tell you if EMDR would be a beneficial therapy technique for you to try out. Keep in mind that you are always the one in control. Be open and honest with your therapist before, during, and after your session. Ask questions and give yourself grace as you navigate through a new process.
EMDR is an evidence-based and well-researched form of therapy. Despite the myths and misconceptions, EMDR can be a safe and effective therapy technique.
We have In Person EMDR therapy in San Diego, CA
Choosing the right therapy approach can feel overwhelming, especially when you are carrying the impact of past experiences. EMDR is a well-established therapy that helps the brain process distressing memories so they no longer feel as intense or disruptive in the present. Many people find that once memories are processed, triggers have less power and day-to-day life feels more manageable.
Resilience Counseling offers in-person EMDR therapy in San Diego, CA, with EMDR therapists who are trained in this approach and take time to understand your goals and concerns. Treatment is collaborative and paced thoughtfully, with an emphasis on safety, trust, and steady progress. We believe it is important to explore whether EMDR is the right fit before jumping in, and we are always open to having that conversation.
If you are curious about EMDR therapy and whether it may be helpful for you, we invite you to reach out. Resilience Counseling offers a free 15 minute phone consultation to talk through your questions and discuss next steps. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about EMDR therapy in San Diego.
Author Bio: Katherine Pica OCD Therapist - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica is the owner and Clinical Director of Resilience Counseling. She oversees the clinical work of the practice and provides training and supervision to the entire therapy team. Katherine has been in practice since 2007 and brings more than 19 years of experience to her work. She is trained in ERP for OCD and EMDR for trauma, and supports a team of EMDR therapists who specialize in anxiety and OCD treatment. Services are offered in person in San Diego, CA and virtually throughout California.
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