As a therapist trained in psychodynamic and EMDR therapy, I do not spend time trying to convince clients that one is better than the other; I simply explain the options. There are many therapeutic approaches. For most clients seeking professional help, for trauma, anxiety, depression, or other life stressors, any form of talk therapy (also called psychotherapy), will help. However, EMDR is an option that does not require extensive talking.
What is EMDR therapy?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was founded by Francine Shapiro (Shapiro, 2018). EMDR allows clients to focus on traumatic or other stressful events briefly while undergoing bilateral stimulation, or BLS for short. One of the most common forms of BLS is eye movements, but there are others, for example, the “butterfly hug.” Using BLS applies tension to one’s working memory and brings about a reflex similar to the experience of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
EMDR Requires Less Talk
Some people can overcome personal problems or mental illness on their own. Still, research indicates that people who seek psychotherapy feel better faster, stay better longer, and generally have better results than those who do not engage in therapy (Wampold & Imel, 2015). Seeing a therapist helps for several reasons. Therapists have been trained to hold emotional space for others in such a way that is not judgemental, among other things. Sometimes individuals may feel judged or embarrassed when talking to a friend or family member, especially when their family or friends have strong opinions about a topic. Let’s face it; some individuals may not want to “talk” to a professional, which makes EMDR a great option. As previously mentioned, EMDR uses BLS instead of extensive talking. BLS allows the brain to process maladaptive information, similar to what occurs during REM sleep. As a result, EMDR allows the brain to move to a more adaptive state in a shorter time than traditional talk therapy. New insights are often gained quicker with little talking.
EMDR is Recognized and Recommended both Nationally and Internationally
EMDR may be popularly known as a well-researched and effective therapy for recovery from trauma and PTSD symptoms. However, it is also effective for treating other symptoms such as anxiety, panic, phobia, and behavioral symptoms (Shapiro, 2018; Yunitri et al., 2020). Moreover, EMDR is recognized by a number of national and international organizations as an effective treatment (EMDRIA, n.d.), such as the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the US Department of Veteran Affairs, the World Health Organization, the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
EMDR is not Hypnosis
EMDR therapy is very different from hypnotherapy. One of the most basic distinctions is that hypnosis involves a trancelike state where suggestions are imposed upon a person. According to Merriam-Webster, hypnosis “is a trancelike state” which is “induced by a person whose suggestions are readily accepted by the subject.” During EMDR therapy, the client is awake, aware, not in a trance, and even has the option to stop the bilateral stimulation process at any time.
EMDR Requires No Homework
Whereas other therapies may suggest using logs, behavioral practices, or other assignments to complete outside of the session, EMDR does not require this.
It’s Nice to Have Options
Although EMDR therapy alone is a complete therapeutic process, a number of therapists integrate EMDR with talk therapy. While there are clear advantages to EMDR, it is not necessarily for everyone. Some clients prefer the experience of traditional talk therapy. Some want EMDR therapy only or a combination of the two. But isn’t it great to know that you have options?
References
EMDR International Association (n.d.). About EMDR therapy. Retrieved April 2, 2023 from
https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/
Hypnosis. In Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved April 2, 2023 from
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles,
protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Wampold, B. E., & Imel, Z. E. (2015). The great psychotherapy debate: The evidence for what makes
psychotherapy work (2nd ed.). Routledge.
Yunitri, N., Kao, C. C., Chu, H., Voss, J., Chiu, H. L., Liu, D., Shen, S. H., Chang, P. Kang, X. L., & Chou,
K. R. (2020). The effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing toward anxiety disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 123, 102-113.
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