Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, also known as EMDR, is a therapeutic
technique used by counselors and therapists to address pain, grief, and emotional wounds caused by negative life events and traumatic experiences. Many people never properly process abuse, neglect, or other physical and emotional traumas. Far too often, this leads to compulsions and negative behaviors in adulthood that interfere with the daily and relationship functioning of these individuals. EMDR and the other forms of “bi-lateral stimulation” utilized by therapists in our practice are endorsed by both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association. This type of therapy has been shown to be effective for “reprocessing” past traumatic events leading to healthier psychological adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
EMDR is not for everyone but is very powerful in the lives of some sex addicts whose negative compulsions stem from past events. If you are struggling with sexual addictions, there could be a relationship between negative actions and a past life experience – whether you are aware of it or not. Contact your sex therapist for more information about EMDR and to find out if it could be right for you.
The average EMDR session lasts up to 90 minutes. During this session, you’ll watch as your therapist quickly moves his or her fingers in various motions close to your face. As you are following your therapist’s fingers with your eyes, you’ll be asked to recall a memory of a past traumatic event and the emotions or pain you felt when it happened. You’ll slowly begin to think of happier thoughts – all the while still following your therapist’s fingers with your eyes.
EMDR is not effective for everyone, but for those who do achieve results, it is not uncommon to experience a reduction in the strong emotions associated with past traumas. Dampened emotions can influence the power of addiction in your life. If you suffer from other symptoms of past traumas, such as panic attacks and eating disorders, EMDR may help with those too.
