Finding the right therapeutic tools can be overwhelming. With therapies like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, otherwise known as EMDR, it can be hard to know if this simple, medication-free approach to trauma healing is safe. Like all therapeutic tools, EMDR can have mild side effects. Unfortunately, many people avoid EMDR because they are afraid it will trigger seizures. In reality, EMDR is a safe, effective tool for deep healing.
Are you worried about EMDR and seizures? The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® can help. Our holistic treatment programs provide women ages 18-30 with EMDR and other therapies for holistic healing. Call us now at 828.518.6941 to learn how our EMDR therapy program in North Carolina can support you.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a therapeutic approach to processing traumatic memories. While it may seem complex, EMDR uses visual stimulation to help clients process traumatic memories. When you sleep, your eyes undergo rapid eye movement. They move similarly when recalling difficult memories. Your body may store adrenaline and cortisol instead of processing them during a traumatic event. This is how a life event becomes a traumatic memory rather than an unpleasant one. While scientists are still researching EMDR, evidence-based practice shows that traumatic memories decrease in strength by changing eye movement when you are triggered. This can lead to fewer triggers of trauma and addiction as well as higher stress tolerance.
Over the treatment sessions, therapists create a safe space for clients to recall memories. They will use a pen, light, or EMDR machine to guide clients’ eye movements as they recall their memories. This process can rewire the brain for deep healing. Sessions also provide clients with stress-coping tools, helping reduce trauma triggers for long-term success.
How EMDR Empowers Women
Trauma can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental health, causing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For women specifically, there are unique challenges that can arise from experiencing trauma.
Women may face societal stigmas surrounding assault or abuse, which can lead to feelings of shame and self-blame. Additionally, women may be more likely to experience sexual violence, which can further compound trauma and its effects.
Can EMDR Cause Seizures?
While many people worry that EMDR causes seizures, this condition is rare. Among major studies, only a few people have experienced seizures from EMDR therapy. These clients had epilepsy and used a light tool while EMDR. The risk of seizures is very low, especially when using a simple tool like a pen instead of a light. If you are epileptic or worried about seizures, talk to your EMDR therapist about alternatives and know the risk of seizure is very low.
While any therapy comes with side effects, the risks of EMDR are very low. Clients may experience symptoms such as:
- Emotional discomfort
- Physical sensations
- Sensitivity
- Disturbing dreams
As they continue to process traumatic memories, these side effects lessen and dissipate. In most cases, side effects only last a couple of days. EMDR can normally be done over several sessions, which can be spread out as necessary for a client’s needs, tolerance, and trauma history. Most people can return to normal life the day after a session, if not the same day. EMDR is a non-invasive, medication-free tool that does not have a significant risk of seizures or other health complications.
Benefits of EMDR for Women
For women specifically, EMDR can be particularly empowering in the following ways:
- Reducing stigma and shame – Through the use of EMDR, women can reprocess their traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment. This can help to reduce feelings of shame and self-blame by reframing the traumatic event as something that happened to them rather than something they caused.
- Empowering control and agency – Women who have experienced trauma may feel a loss of control over their own lives. EMDR can help individuals regain a sense of control by allowing them to actively participate in the therapy process and make choices about which memories to focus on.
- Addressing gender-specific challenges – EMDR therapists are trained to understand and address the unique challenges that women may face when dealing with trauma. This can include addressing societal stigmas, exploring issues related to gender roles and expectations, and providing support for any additional concerns or barriers that may arise.
- Improved self-esteem and self-awareness – Trauma can greatly impact an individual’s self-esteem and sense of self-worth. EMDR can help to rebuild a positive sense of self by processing traumatic memories and addressing any negative beliefs that may have developed as a result.
EMDR is a powerful tool for women who have experienced trauma. It has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression and can also help individuals feel more empowered and in control of their own lives.
Learn More at The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®
EMDR can make an enormous impact on trauma, mental health, and addiction with little risk. At The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®, we know starting a new therapy and healing trauma can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help every step of the way. If you or a woman in your life is ready to learn more about EMDR therapy, The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® can help. Our holistic clinic pairs EMDR with other experiential and evidence-based therapies for long-term treatment and recovery. Whether you need support for disordered eating, trauma, addiction, or co-occurring disorders, The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® can help.
Call The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® at 828.518.6941 or reach out online to learn more about our EMDR therapy programs and learn more about our long-term care in beautiful North Carolina.
