Key Takeaways

Effective for trauma and more

Helps with PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, and other distressing experiences.
Reprocesses painful memories

Uses eye movements, sounds, or taps to reduce intense emotional and physical reactions.
Not for everyone

May not suit people with certain severe mental illnesses, seizure history, some medications, or strong skepticism.
Structured and supportive

Led by a licensed, EMDR-trained therapist in a safe, step-by-step process.
Proven, non-invasive, empowering

Backed by research, drug-free, and helps clients take an active role in healing.
Works quickly for many

Can produce noticeable improvements in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a unique and effective form of psychotherapy that has gained popularity in recent years. It has been used to successfully treat various mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression. EMDR therapy is also used to treat many other conditions, such as obsessive compulsive disorders, dissociative disorders, and more. In this article, we will discuss who can benefit from EMDR therapy and who may not be suitable for this type of therapy.

What is EMDR Therapy?

This therapy works by helping patients to process their traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment, which can help to reduce the intensity of their emotional and physical responses to these memories. During an EMDR session, therapists use a series of eye movements, sounds, or taps to stimulate the brain’s natural healing processes, which can help patients to reprocess their traumatic memories and develop more adaptive coping mechanisms. EMDR sessions follow a structured, multi-phase process designed to help clients process distressing memories.

While there is ongoing discussion about exactly how EMDR works, research supports its effectiveness in helping people recover from trauma and related conditions.

Who can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?

Individuals with PTSD

People with PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, experience persistent and severe psychological symptoms after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and hyper-vigilance. Intrusive memories are also a common symptom of PTSD, where distressing memories re-emerge involuntarily, causing emotional and psychological difficulties that EMDR therapy aims to address. PTSD can significantly impact an individual’s ability to function daily and lead to disruptions in relationships, work, and other areas of life.

2. Individuals with Anxiety Disorders

They experience excessive and persistent worry or fear that can interfere with daily life. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms vary but can include sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty sleeping. Seeking professional help can greatly improve an individual's quality of life and ability to manage their anxiety.

3. Individuals with Depression

People with depression experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may also have difficulty sleeping, concentrating, and making decisions. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and can be caused by various factors such as genetics, life events, and brain chemistry.

4. Individuals with Addiction

They have developed a dependence on a substance or behavior that they cannot stop despite negative consequences. Addiction can take many forms, including addiction to drugs, alcohol, gambling, or technology. These individuals often experience physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit and may require professional help to overcome their addiction.

Addiction can significantly impact an individual's health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Understanding addiction as a medical condition and providing support and resources to struggling people is important.

5. People with Chronic Pain

Individuals with chronic pain face a range of challenges in their daily lives. Various conditions and injuries can cause chronic pain and impact a person's ability to work, socialize, and engage in activities they enjoy. Emotional and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and stress, can also accompany chronic pain. Finding effective treatment and support can be a long and difficult process for many people with chronic pain.

6. People with Phobias

They experience intense and irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities. These fears can be so severe that they interfere with their daily lives, making it difficult for them to function normally. Common phobias include fear of heights, spiders, enclosed spaces, and social situations.

7. People with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome

Autism and Asperger's Syndrome are two related developmental disorders that affect social interaction, communication, and behavior. Autism is a more severe form of the disorder, while Asperger's Syndrome is a milder form. Both disorders are characterized by difficulty in socializing, understanding social cues, and making eye contact. Individuals with these disorders may also have repetitive behaviors or interests and struggle with change. While there is no cure for autism or Asperger's Syndrome, early intervention and therapy can help individuals learn social skills and improve their quality of life.

How Does EMDR Work?

1. Rapid Results

One of the main benefits of EMDR therapy is that it can produce rapid results. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which can take months or even years to improve significantly, EMDR therapy can often produce noticeable changes in just a few sessions.

2. Non-Invasive

EMDR therapy is a natural and non-invasive treatment that doesn't involve medication or other invasive procedures. This makes it an appealing choice for individuals who prefer a more holistic approach to healing.

3. Evidence-Based

This evidence-based treatment has been extensively researched and is effective in treating a range of mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias.

4. Holistic Approach

EMDR therapy takes a holistic approach to healing, addressing the symptoms of mental health conditions and their underlying causes. This can result in more long-lasting and sustainable improvements in mental health.

5. Self-Empowerment

It empowers patients to take an active role in their healing process. By helping patients identify and process negative emotions associated with traumatic events, EMDR therapy can help patients build resilience and develop coping strategies for dealing with future challenges.

What to Expect in an EMDR Therapy Session

When you begin EMDR therapy, you can expect a structured and supportive process designed to help you address traumatic memories and other distressing life experiences. Each EMDR session is led by a certified EMDR therapist—an experienced mental health professional with specialized training in this therapy and a graduate degree in a related mental health discipline.

Your first session typically starts with the therapist gathering your history and working with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This initial phase helps your EMDR therapist understand your unique needs and identify the specific traumatic experiences or distressing memories you want to address.

Once treatment planning is complete, your therapist will explain the EMDR process and help you prepare for the work ahead. During the core part of the session, the therapist will guide you in activating the memory or experience you wish to reprocess. Using techniques such as eye movement desensitization or other forms of bilateral stimulation (like tapping or auditory tones), your therapist will help you process the traumatic memory in a safe and controlled environment.

Throughout the session, the goal is to reduce the emotional distress associated with these memories and help you integrate new, healthier perspectives. EMDR therapy is designed to empower you to reprocess traumatic experiences, so they no longer have a negative impact on your daily life. Each step is carefully guided by your EMDR therapist, ensuring you feel supported and understood as you work through your healing journey.

Who May Not be Suitable for EMDR Therapy?

Individuals with Severe Mental Illness

People with severe mental illness face significant challenges in their daily lives. They may experience symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking, which can make it difficult to maintain relationships, hold a job, or even complete routine tasks.

2. Individuals with dissociative disorders

They experience a disruption in their sense of self, memory, consciousness, or perception of the environment. These disorders can be caused by trauma, abuse, or other stressful events. Symptoms may include amnesia, depersonalization, and dissociative fugue.

3. Individuals with a History of Seizures

People with a history of seizures are those who have experienced episodes of uncontrolled electrical activity in their brains. Various factors, including genetics, head injuries, infections, and other medical conditions, can cause this neurological condition. Seizures can range in severity and duration and affect a person's physical, emotional, and cognitive functions. Those with a history of seizures may require ongoing medical treatment and monitoring to manage their condition and may need to take precautions to avoid triggers that can lead to seizures.

4. People Taking Certain Medication

EMDR therapy is an effective treatment for trauma and related mental health conditions. However, people taking certain medications may not be able to benefit from this therapy fully. Medications that block EMDR therapy include benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and certain antidepressants. These medications can affect the brain's ability to process information and interfere with the effectiveness of EMDR therapy.

5. Skeptical People

EMDR therapy is a highly effective treatment for most people. However, the success of EMDR therapy is not solely dependent on the therapeutic techniques used by the practitioner. The attitude and mindset of the client also play a crucial role in achieving successful outcomes.

Finding an EMDR Therapist

Choosing the right EMDR therapist is a crucial step in your healing process, especially if you are seeking treatment for post traumatic stress disorder or other traumatic experiences. EMDR therapists are mental health clinicians who have completed specialized EMDR training and hold a valid mental health license in their state or country. These professionals may come from various backgrounds in the mental health field, including social work, psychiatric nursing, marriage and family therapy, or even medical doctors with additional training in psychotherapy.

When searching for an EMDR therapist, it’s important to verify that they have at least a master’s or doctoral degree in a related mental health discipline and have completed EMDR basic training. You should also ensure that the therapist holds a full license and is in good standing with their state board. Some therapists may have a substance abuse license or other specialty licenses, but all qualifying mental health clinicians must have completed the necessary EMDR training to provide this treatment.

To find a qualified EMDR therapist, you can start by searching online directories, reaching out to your local professional association, or asking for referrals from your primary care provider. The World Health Organization recognizes EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD, and many mental health professionals are trained to help individuals reprocess traumatic memories and other distressing life experiences.

Before beginning therapy, don’t hesitate to ask potential therapists about their credentials, EMDR training, and experience working with issues similar to yours. Taking these steps will help ensure you find a skilled and compassionate EMDR therapist who can support you on your path to healing.

Making Informed Decisions About EMDR Therapy

In conclusion, EMDR therapy is a highly effective treatment for trauma-related mental health conditions. However, its suitability varies from person to person, and it is essential to work with a qualified mental health professional to determine if it is the right treatment option for you. Only those with a master's degree or higher in a mental health field, such as social workers, are eligible for EMDR training, and graduate students in related fields may participate under supervision. Participants in EMDR training must also be licensed for independent practice in their state or country. An EMDR certified therapist has completed advanced training and certification in administering EMDR therapy, ensuring expertise in guiding clients through the structured process and managing emotional responses. The Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes EMDR therapy as a best practice for treating PTSD in veterans. Carissa Keeter, LCSW specializes in EMDR therapy and can help you explore whether it’s the right fit. Understanding the factors that impact the effectiveness of EMDR therapy can help individuals make informed decisions about their mental health treatment.

At South Denver Therapy, we offer a range of specialized counseling services to support you in your mental health journey. Our services include couples therapy, individual counseling, couples intensives, and EMDR Therapy, which can be particularly effective for those struggling with trauma-related mental health conditions. Our team of qualified mental health professionals can work with you to determine the best treatment approach for your unique needs. Book a free consultation today!

If you’re not able to start therapy right now, check out our free resources like our Depression Workbook or Couples Journal and Worksheets, which you can download to help you on your path.

Who Can Do EMDR Therapy: Who Can Benefit and Who Cannot