Today, therapists focus more and more on trauma treatment during addiction recovery. EMDR has become one of the most popular and effective tools for treating trauma in and out of rehab. This simple approach to trauma healing is a safe and easy tool for clients and therapists. While there aren’t many known side effects of EMDR, it’s important to remember that trauma healing work should always be done with a qualified therapist.
If you or a woman in your life is ready to try EMDR for trauma healing and addiction therapy, The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® can help. Call us now at 855.773.0614 to learn how our EMDR therapy program in North Carolina can help you.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a kind of experiential therapy that helps people process traumatic memories through eye movements. EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and focuses on changing eye movements and visual stimulation during memory recall. While EMDR is effective, there are still many things scientists don’t understand about how EMDR works. Studies show that during REM sleep, the eyes undergo rapid eye movement. When someone recalls a traumatic event or memory, their eyes may go through a similar movement. Studies in EMDR show that by changing visual stimulation during traumatic memory recall, EMDR can rewire the brain.
During EMDR, the therapist works with clients to recall traumatic memories. The therapist provides visual stimulation during memory recall by moving a pen, showing the client images, or using EMDR machines. This change in stimulus can help release and dampen the physical, psychological, and emotional responses to traumatic memory.
Side Effects of EMDR Therapy
All tools for trauma and addiction recovery come with side effects. EMDR is a slow and gentle approach that provides support for trauma healing without extensive side effects. During EMDR treatment, clients often recall painful memories or have disturbing dreams. This is a natural part of the EMDR treatment process; however, this can distress the client. Throughout sessions, clients may have changes in physical sensation and emotional sensitivity. These responses can be alarming, but they are also a natural part of EMDR trauma processing.
When someone undergoes EMDR during addiction therapy, these mild side effects and experiences can be heightened during detox and withdrawal. Studies show that unprocessed trauma and traumatic memory are often the roots of drug use and addiction. EMDR can be a powerful therapy to help clients recover. However, it’s important to remember that trauma processing can be physically, emotionally, and psychologically uncomfortable.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy for Addiction Treatment
Because EMDR has few significant side effects, it’s an excellent tool for addiction recovery. Benefits of EMDR in addiction treatment include:
- Medication-free therapy
- A designated number of sessions
- Safe trauma processing
- Pairs well with other therapies
- Individualized treatment
- Stress reduction techniques
EMDR begins with clients entering a safe mental and emotional space with their therapists. Over time, they build resilience and stress reduction techniques at home. In only eight steps, clients can see a significant shift in their trauma response, addiction triggers, and overall well-being.
Begin EMDR Therapy In North Carolina Today
If you or a woman in your life is ready to try EMDR, The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® can help. Our North Carolina-based addiction treatment programs give young women a safe and welcoming environment for recovery. We specialize in trauma recovery, addiction recovery, and dual diagnosis treatment for comprehensive, holistic healing, allowing you to rebuild your life and restore the home. With 12-step programs, relapse prevention, alumni programs, and other tools, the community at Willows at Red Oak Recovery® is here for you.
Learn More Today at The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®!
Ready to help a woman in your life with EMDR therapy? Call The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® now at 855.773.0614 to learn more about our EMDR therapy programs.
