Often it is thought as to how EMDR Therapy is done and what do the EMDR Therapists do? Well, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy is actually an interactive psychotherapy technique taken into account and used to provide ease from the psychological stress to the patient. During EMDR Therapy sessions, the patients go through the traumatic experiences whilst the therapist directs the patient’s eye movements.
Is EMDR Therapy Harmful?
Although there are misconceptions about this therapy that it is harmful, but in actual EMDR Therapy happens to be quite safe with only few side effects. In short, it is much safer than the prescription medications. Since the awareness of its benefits now prevails among the masses, the tendency of the people towards this therapy is now much vivid.
Side Effects Once May Witness While EMDR Therapy Goes on
As mentioned earlier that EMDR Therapy may cause few side effects, they are mentioned as under:
- The patient may witness an increase in distressing memories.
- Lightheadedness may be witnessed.
- The patient may also stumble upon physical sensations or heightened emotions during the sessions.
- Vivid dreams may emerge with the patient.
- The patient might also encounter the surfacing of the new traumatic memories.
When EMDR Therapy Should Be Avoided?
There are few instances, when the therapists should stay away from using this therapy such as in the situations when the patient is actively using drugs, alcohol or something to help him or her feel less. Additionally, a therapist should not practice EMDR phases 3-8 on those patients who are yet to experience a safer trusting relationship.
Reactions to EMDR Therapy
Well, numerous kinds of emotions take place while the therapy lasts. Often it is seen that the patients get tearful during the therapy sessions. Other reactions, which normally happen, include anger, grief and psychical sensation in their bodies.
An Ideal Candidate for EMDR Therapy
Many patients happen to be good candidates for this therapy, but an ideal candidate is the one who has had a single stressful or traumatic event.
How Long Does EMDR Therapy Last?
The average duration (session) of the therapy is 60-90 minutes. Not all patients react similar to this therapy, since each individual reacts differently. As for getting to the edge of a traumatic memory and utterly rewiring the patient’s brain may take anywhere between 3 to 12 sessions.
Success Rate of EMDR Therapy
Although it is relatively new integrative psychotherapy, it is an evidence-based practice which often shows around 80% success rate with post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD).
Does it Work Instantly?
It is seen that the patients start feeling relief from the condition almost instantly with EMDR Therapy. Nonetheless, it is advisable to complete all the 8 phases of the treatment to overcome the traumatic condition.
What Does Happen to the Patient after Therapy?
After the session of EMDR takes place, the patient start feeling emotionally sensitive or even physically tired. It is also witnessed that the people start feeling quite sensitivity to light and sound. People also like to find peaceful spot to spend time there.