How is EMDR different than traditional talk therapy?

You may have heard about EMDR and its profound impact on healing trauma and other mental health issues. If you’re asking yourself how it works, then you’re in the right place. EMDR is different from other psychotherapy approaches for a number of reasons.

First, EMDR is what’s considered a “bottom-up” approach while traditional psychotherapy or talk therapy typically involves a “top-down” approach. Bottom-up approaches focus on getting to the root of what’s causing you distress and pain by targeting more primitive brain areas. We know trauma (and information about stress and unpleasant life experiences) is stored at a cellular level in the body. EMDR helps to target these experiences by making changes to the brain at a structural level as it targets all of the sensory channels through bilateral stimulation. 

When a traumatic or adverse experience occurs, the part of our brain that ordinarily processes, interprets, and stores information doesn’t function in an optimal way. This is thought to be a consequence of the fight, flight or freeze response. Essentially, our brain’s capacity to use reason and logic is halted due to our brain and body being in a state of emergency.

EMDR capitalizes on the brain’s natural healing capacities and replicated much of what our brain is already natural at doing with a bit more intention, guidance, and support. EMDR conceptualizes symptoms (i.e., intrusive thoughts, avoidance, hyperarousal, flashbacks, nightmares, negative mood, etc.) as manifestations of memories that have been stored maladaptively and then go on to contribute distress and disruption.

EMDR therapy provides the opportunity for our brain to heal through connection of three vital components of our brain: the amygdala, hippocampus, and cerebral cortex. Bilateral stimulation conducted through visual, auditory, or tactile channels is the underlying mechanism that allows these parts of our brain to store memories in a more integrative and adaptive manner. EMDR does not erase memories, but rather allows one to relate to and recall them in such a way that no longer elicits distress and discomfort.  

Many people I’ve worked with have spent years in therapy and while finding it helpful, they still haven’t gotten the results they’re desiring. I often hear patients that have lots of insight and knowledge about their problems but continue to feel stuck. This can be both frustrating and defeating for the patient and their therapist. If you’re in this position, I’d encourage you to give EMDR a try. Locating a provider who has training and certification in EMDR can be done through the EMDR therapist directory.