HOW DOES EMDR ACTUALLY WORK?
EMDR is an extensively researched psychotherapy and has been found effective in treating a variety of conditions including PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, and dissociation. Some feel skeptical, however, that thinking about a distressing memory while moving your eyes back and forth (or tapping side to side) can actually be helpful. Fair enough; it is a bit odd conceptually. Why does this process actually work? Here’s what we know.
The Adaptive Information Processing Model
Francine Shapiro, the creator of EMDR therapy, also developed a theory as to how EMDR works and why it is effective. This theory is called the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model.
The AIP model proposes that human brains have a built-in mechanism that allows them to dynamically process and integrate life experiences into adaptive memory networks. Disturbing or traumatic experiences, however, can interrupt the brain’s natural healing capacity. Because these types of memories overwhelm the brain’s ability to cope, they remain as fragmented images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations stored in isolated memory networks that do not incorporate into a person’s life narrative as a whole.
Because these memories have not been processed, they can be easily reactivated and continue to feel present and emotionally intense even if significant time has passed since the event itself. These unintegrated memories are thought, in the EMDR model, to be the source of mental health symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation, hypervigilance, avoidance, and persistent negative emotional states (anxiety, fear, shame, etc.).
In EMDR therapy, the isolated networks that hold traumatic memories are tapped into through a safe, structured procedure that allows for their reconsolidation. Activating the components of a traumatic memory while engaging in sets of bilateral stimulation reduces their emotional impact and allows them to integrate into existing adaptive memory networks. Psychological symptoms reduce and a person is able to access a deeper level of resilience.
Bilateral Stimulation
As noted above, bilateral stimulation is a core part of EMDR therapy. Bilateral stimulation involves rhythmic activation of the right and left sides of the body. This is achieved through side-to-side eye movements, back and forth audio tones, or tactile means like tapping or holding buzzers that vibrate back and forth.
What does bilateral stimulation actually do? Through activating both sides of the brain at the same time, bilateral stimulation has a number of effects that facilitate emotional processing and healing. These include (Knipe, 2019):
Reduced sympathetic (i.e., “fight or flight) activation
Expanded associations, meaning that a person is able to bring new and more helpful information into the memory (e.g., “It wasn’t my fault.”)
Reinforcement of present safety (e.g., “I am safe now.” Or “It is over.”)
Heightened ability to view the memory from a distance rather than reliving it
Decreased vividness of traumatic memories
Promotion of neurological changes that support reduced emotional disturbance
Conclusion
I hope this information helps demystify the EMDR process. A lot of people feel weird when they first try EMDR. Common questions I hear are, “Am I doing this right?” or “Is this actually doing anything?” The answers are yes and yes, and with the help of a skilled EMDR therapist you can navigate this process in a safe, effective, and empowering way.
Source: Knipe, J. (2019). EMDR Toolbox: Theory and Treatment of Complex PTSD and Dissociation (2nd Edition). Springer Publishing Company, LLC.
Please note: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a licensed mental health provider or other healthcare professional for guidance related to your specific mental health or medical concerns.
