EMDR Therapy: A Powerful Tool for Healing Trauma

By: CHENGLU DING, M.S.ED., M.PHIL.ED.

Trauma can leave a lasting impact on our lives, affecting how we think, feel, and respond to the world around us. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based approach to treating trauma and other distressing life experiences. I am excited to share more about EMDR, as it might be the transformative solution you have been looking for.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy was developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since been recognized as one of the most effective treatments for trauma. It is widely used to address post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, phobias, and other mental health challenges that stem from overwhelming or distressing experiences.

How Does EMDR Work for Trauma?

Trauma often gets "stuck" in the brain in a way that keeps it from being properly processed. This can lead to flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, and emotional distress because the brain continues t respond as though the trauma is happening in the present.

EMDR is effective because it targets the root cause of distress rather than just the symptoms. It helps to reprocess these memories, reducing their emotional intensity and replacing negative beliefs with positive ones like "I am safe" or "I am strong," leading to healing and resilience.

Bilateral Stimulation (BLS): Following the finge

A central component of EMDR therapy is bilateral stimulation (BLS), which involves stimulating both sides of the brain alternately. This can be done through eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. BLS mimics the natural process of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, during which the brain processes and integrates experiences.

During EMDR sessions, BLS helps activate the adaptive side of the brain, allowing it to reprocess traumatic memories and store them in a more neutral, less distressing way.

What Does EMDR Therapy Look Like?

EMDR therapy begins with understanding your reasons for seeking support and gathering relevant background information. Before addressing the main issue, I will help you build skills to self-soothe and feel secure. This includes guided exercises like grounding techniques and guided meditation so you would have techniques in your toolbox. Processing only begins when you feel ready and equipped, which may take one or several sessions, depending on each client’s different situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy

1. Does EMDR work only for PTSD?

No, while EMDR is best known for treating PTSD, it is also effective for anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, chronic pain, and other issues linked to unresolved trauma.

2. Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?

Not necessarily. One of the benefits of EMDR is that you don’t need to share every detail of you trauma if you are not comfortable. The focus is on processing the memory internally.

3. Will I still remember what happened? How is EMDR different from hypnosis?

Yes, you will still remember what happened. EMDR does not erase or suppress memories but it helps you reprocess the memory to make it feel less overwhelming. You will be fully present and in control. All you have to do is focusing on both the memory and the bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, etc).

4. Is EMDR safe for everyone?

EMDR is generally safe, but it may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as active psychosis or severe dissociation. I will assess your readiness for EMDR during the initial phases.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing

If you are struggling with trauma or other distressing experiences, EMDR therapy can be a transformative path to healing. By reprocessing painful memories and gaining new perspectives, you can reclaim your life and move forward with confidence and resilience

As an EMDR-trained therapist, I am here to support you every step of the way. If you would like to learn more or schedule a session, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at chenglu@abetterlifetherapy.com.

CHENGLU DING, M.S.ED., M.PHIL.ED.

Chenglu provides in-person and online sessions at our Center City, Philadelphia location and provides online services to clients in New Jersey. She works with individuals, couples, and families to address depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and cross-cultural issues using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, EMDR, and the Gottman Method.

A BETTER LIFE THERAPY

A Better Life Therapy was founded in 2013 with a passion for providing warm, compassionate services to individuals and families in Pennsylvania. Our team specializes in relationship health as well as individual mental health. Our team has expertise in areas like anxiety, grief, depression, pregnancy related issues, sexual issues, substance use and trauma.

We currently have in person offices in: