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 855.773.0614 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.
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.
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 855.773.0614 to learn more about our EMDR therapy programs and learn more about our long-term care in beautiful North Carolina.