Exploring the Benefits of EMDR Therapy Online for Healing and Post-Traumatic Stress
Traumatic experiences such as accidents, assaults, losing a loved one, or experiencing war can significantly impact an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Getting help is a crucial step toward regaining normalcy in life, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy can be a way for individuals to process and heal from the trauma.
Continue reading to learn more about accessing EMDR therapy online and how it can help you heal and manage post-traumatic stress.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a modern psychotherapy methodology for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This type of therapy is based on the proven theory that memories of traumatic events, such as car accidents or military combat, can become stuck in our brains, causing distressing symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares and severe anxiety. If you’re struggling with PTSD, EMDR therapy may help you process your traumatic memories and reduce or overcome the associated negative emotions and physical sensations.
EMDR sessions involve rapid and rhythmic eye movements to create bilateral stimulation that allows the brain to process traumatic memories, making them less distressing and more manageable. EMDR therapy requires the help of a qualified and licensed therapist who has received specific EMDR training. When choosing a therapist, pay special attention to their qualifications, licensing, and any reviews or recommendations provided by their previous clients.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy for Trauma
Here’s why EMDR therapy is a popular method of dealing with PTSD:
It’s Effective At Reprocessing Traumatic Memories
When dealing with trauma, the memories and flashbacks of the triggering event end up haunting victims. Patients with PTSD typically have very little control over how these memories are triggered or how the memories manifest. EMDR therapy helps to repossess and manage these traumatic memories, ensuring they become less distressing over time. EMDR therapy involves guiding patients through traumatic memories, gradually desensitizing them to reduce the impact of the trauma. In other words, EMDR therapy gives patients resolution and emotional relief from past experiences.
It Helps Reduce PTSD and Trauma Symptoms
There are various reactions to and symptoms of trauma. Symptoms can range from intrusive memories and negative changes in thinking and mood to disruptive emotional and physical reactions. All symptoms depend on the individual and the specifics of the traumatic events causing them distress. For example, sexual assault survivors may experience crippling anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. EMDR therapy helps reduce these symptoms, allowing patients to regain control over their lives.
It Helps Improve Self-Perspective
Trauma can cause someone to develop negative thoughts about themselves and self-blame. Some patients may find themselves saying things like, “I am worthless” or, “I am to blame.” EMDR can help patients reframe these unhelpful thoughts. Your therapist will help identify and challenge negative self-beliefs and guide you toward developing a more positive self-image and greater self-esteem.
It Doesn’t Require Much Talking
Unlike most therapy sessions, where you and your therapist discuss your feelings in detail and actively communicate, EMDR doesn’t require much talking. You’ll only need to describe your symptoms. The central focus of EMDR sessions involves improving internal awareness and meditating on negative thoughts and trauma triggers while the therapist guides you through physical movements. This aspect makes EMDR an ideal therapy method for patients struggling with trauma, as trauma patients often find it challenging to express their emotions verbally.
EMDR Therapy Online
Technology has made getting access to healthcare easier, and you can attend EMDR therapy sessions online through a variety of telehealth platforms. These platforms provide secure video conferencing options where professional therapists conduct initial assessments to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for virtual EMDR therapy. They will then remotely guide you through a moment simulation by tracking a moving cursor or using other visual stimuli to help you recall, repossess, and overcome traumatic memories.
Online EMDR therapy has the following benefits:
- Consistent Progress Tracking: EMDR telehealth platforms have a structured way of recording your sessions. You can easily track the progress of your recovery via progress logs shared by your therapist.
- Enhanced Convenience And Accessibility: Discussing traumatic memories can be emotionally and physically uncomfortable for some patients, which may discourage them from attending in-person therapy sessions. Online EMDR eliminates these logistical barriers, as you’ll get the same quality treatment from the comfort of your own home. Getting treatment at home also promotes comfort and safety, making opening up with your therapist more manageable and resulting in more productive therapy sessions.
- Increased Therapist Options: Virtual therapy doesn’t limit you to choosing a therapist within your geographical vicinity. You can work with specialists worldwide, increasing the likelihood of finding someone with experience in handling the specific trauma you’re dealing with.
- Greater Flexibility: You can schedule therapy sessions that will fit your lifestyle. This flexibility is invaluable if you have a busy lifestyle, e.g., a demanding job, family responsibilities, or other commitments.
Online EMDR therapy is as effective as in-person sessions when conducted by qualified therapists.
Key Takeaway
EMDR therapy offers hope for those on the journey to healing and achieving relief from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Attending EMDR therapy online is convenient and gives you access to a broader pool of therapists. With the right platform and a skilled therapist, virtual EMDR is as effective as in-person sessions. If you or someone you know is dealing with trauma or PTSD, consider starting EMDR therapy today.
