Top 10 EMDR Myths
The first research article about EMDR therapy came out in 1989, not all that long ago. Since then, this form of therapy has taken the world of mental health by storm. Many people find it effective where other forms of therapy fall short.
Have you been considering starting EMDR therapy in San Francisco?
If you’re on the fence, it may be because you’ve heard some of the most common myths about EMDR. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and some of those myths sound believable!
What follows here are some facts, so you can decide if therapy is right for you. Read on to learn more.
1. EMDR Is Just About Moving the Eyes
EMDR can involve eye movements, but it also includes different forms of bilateral stimulation techniques like tapping or auditory cues.
In some cases, patients don’t even use eye movements. The bilateral stimulation is what’s important. People who struggle with eye movements or who find them distracting can still benefit from therapy.
2. EMDR Erases Memories
This is a common misconception among people who are unfamiliar with various types of therapy. They think that EMDR therapy can erase negative or traumatic memories.
EMDR doesn’t erase memories. It helps people process traumatic memories and the distress associated with them. This can make those memories less overwhelming so they don’t impact the clients’ day-to-day lives.
People may find that they don’t experience memory triggers as often post-EMDR which could make the memories fade just like normal non-traumatic memories.
3. EMDR Is Only for Veterans
Anyone can experience post-traumatic stress. There’s no trauma threshold for when treatment can be effective. Injuries, neglect, breakups, deaths of loved ones, and so many other events can cause trauma, even if they don’t seem “traumatic enough.”
EMDR can be effective for various types of trauma, from single incidents to complex trauma, and it’s not only for specific populations. Veterans can benefit from EMDR, but so can anyone who has experienced trauma.
4. EMDR Is a Quick Fix
While this type of therapy is very effective, it’s not an instant solution. It requires a structured process and may take a few sessions.
In the first session, the therapist will help the client develop a plan or road map for healing, as well as establish what the rest of the sessions will look like.
The following sessions will generally cover one main memory. Sometimes clients need multiple sessions for single memories.
EMDR does tend to be much shorter-term than other therapy options, and while the results are immediate, it often takes a few sessions to process the material.
5. EMDR Is Only for Trauma
While this is known for treating trauma, it can also be used for other issues like anxiety, depression, and phobias.
EMDR is an excellent option for people dealing with trauma, and because of that, it has the reputation of being “trauma therapy.” However, the
This process can also be applied to greater issues like anxiety at large, and depression. There is often a root cause where these issues began, and that will present itself through the process.
6. EMDR Is a Pseudoscience
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy with support from various studies and mental health organizations including the VA. While it may not be as popular or well-known as some other forms of therapy (like cognitive behavioral therapy, for example), it is not pseudoscience.
There is always new research coming out about mental health treatment
options. EMDR isn’t new and there has been plenty of research, citing high efficacy rates.
7. EMDR Is Hypnosis or Mind Control
Some people think that EMDR seems a bit “spooky,” and they equate it with old-school hypnotherapy.
EMDR is not hypnosis or mind control. Bilateral stimulation is thought to mimic REM sleep eye-movements and is very emotionally regulating and organizing for the brain. Clients remain fully aware and in control during the therapy session, and their brain is doing the healing.
8. EMDR Is Unsafe
EMDR is safe when administered by trained mental health professionals. It’s essential to work with a licensed therapist and not administer EMDR on your own.
EMDR cannot hurt you. It may unearth uncomfortable memories and you may need to participate in self-care after your sessions. However, the end goal of EMDR therapy is healing.
9. EMDR Only Works for Certain People
So, is EMDR for everyone? Perhaps not, but that’s where options like Neurotherapy can help. As we mentioned before, there are many people with different conditions that could benefit from EMDR therapy.
EMDR can be effective for many patients, but not everyone will respond the same way. Individual results can vary, but some people find it to be a game-changer.
10. EMDR Can Bring Up Too Much Trauma
EMDR is designed to help patients process trauma in a safe and gradual way. Therapists know how to manage distress and ensure a safe and steady pace.
Yes, EMDR may dredge up uncomfortable memories.
However, it’s for the purpose of reprocessing those memories so they’re no longer as harsh or painful. At the end of each session, the therapist makes sure that the client is emotionally regulated.
Do You Need EMDR Therapy in San Francisco?
These myths about EMDR therapy are unhelpful. They may get in the way of some people finally achieving true healing. We hope we’ve set the record straight so you can make an informed decision about your mental healthcare.
EMDR is an effective form of therapy, and it may be the right option for you.
If you’re in need of EMDR therapy in San Francisco, California, we’re here to help. At Breakthrough Neurotherapy, we use a variety of therapeutic modalities to help our patients heal from trauma, and we have found both LENS neurofeedback and EMDR to have high efficacy rates in healing deeper issues. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.