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EMDR therapy for trauma

Ames82
Community Member

Has anyone had this therapy ? EMDR= eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy. My psych think this is a good idea but I’m not too sure. Never heard of it .

Scared of starting something new . Don’t want to fail.

Any advice would be good

thanks

4 Replies 4

Guest8901
Blue Voices Member
Blue Voices Member

Hi Ames. My psych has also mentioned EMDR therapy to me as a possibility of helping with my PTSD. Just one of a number of other therapies.

There are a few existing threads here which discuss the therapy. If you type EMDR into the search facility it will give you several options. Have a read of those. I have already done so.

Its pretty interesting stuff, and seems to be gaining more widespread acceptance lately as a very legitimate and successful treatment for PTSD.

One common theme from what I've read is that you need to ensure you work with a suitably qualified therapist who knows what they are doing.

If you go ahead with it, I'd be very interested to hear what you think.

Amanda

Hi,

I realise your post if from a while ago, but thought I’d reply to it anyway 🙂

i have had EMDR (and still do!). I have found it one of the most helpful therapies I’ve done (and I’ve done a LOT!) it can also be pretty intense. I would definitely recommend that before you venture into EMDR, that you ensure you have the skills and support for when times get tough. I’m not saying that to scare you, though! It IS an amazing therapy! I have Complex PTSD from years of severe childhood trauma. Since starting EMDR, I have definitely noticed that my flashbacks and nightmares have become less in frequency and intensity!!

Bobbie

I have been having EMDR now for a few months and totally agree with Bobbie1982, that it appears to be very helpful but is exhausting and at times confronting. I usually need 72 hours to recover from an EMDR session, but then I start feeling ok. If you are thinking of EMDR, have support available and be aware that EMDR will stir up emotions for a few days after the session. Consider a plan of activities that will help you remain calm and comfortable. Good luck!

Hi Everyone,

I have also used EMDR to deal with PTSD and the results are interesting.

The immediate experience was quite difficult, the first session ok but the last one was really intense and triggered physical sensations for me that felt exactly like when one experience of trauma was occouring. If you are going to do this you need to do it with someone who is well trained and you have a good relationship with. I would also suggest spending the night of the treatment with other people, it can trigger nightmares and having the next day off t process what you have been through in the treatment.

my personal experience is that the memories are still there and but they don't trouble me in the same way, I have however started experiencing flashbacks on occasion which i hadn't really had before, certainly not to the same degree that i do now.

i wish you all the best of luck