EMDR therapy is a type of treatment that many individuals do not have a lot of knowledge about. It is a relatively new type of psychotherapy compared to other techniques, so it makes sense that people will have a lot of questions regarding the treatment. Luckily, experts like our team of therapists at AlphaMind Brain Centers PLLC in Cary, North Carolina, have the answers for all of your EMDR therapy questions.
We know that EMDR therapy is an effective style of treatment, but one question that is frequently asked is about how long these effects of EMDR therapy will last. After all, it is normal to want to find the most long lasting treatment to help you with improving your overall quality of living for years to come. Keep reading to learn more about the long lasting effects of EMDR therapy.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy was originally developed in the 1980’s by Francine Shapiro, a clinical psychologist. It is a type of psychotherapy that is used to treat anxiety, stress, and trauma. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Since it was only just developed in the 1980’s, EMDR therapy is considered a relatively new form of therapy. However, despite this, it has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of psychological disorders.
EMDR therapy works by helping the individual process and reprocess traumatic memories. The therapist will guide the individual through a series of eye movements, which are thought to help the individual access and process buried memories. EMDR therapy is a short-term form of treatment, and it typically lasts for 8-12 sessions. EMDR therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, or trauma, EMDR therapy may be an effective treatment option for you.
What are the Benefits of EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy can be an effective treatment for many different types of mental health conditions. Some of the conditions that EMDR therapy has been shown to be helpful for include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety disorders, and phobias. EMDR therapy can also be beneficial for people who have experienced a traumatic event, such as a car accident or a natural disaster. EMDR therapy has also been shown to be helpful for people who struggle with chronic pain or have difficulty sleeping. In general, EMDR therapy can be a helpful tool for anyone who struggles with overwhelming emotions or intrusive thoughts.
The Stages of EMDR Therapy
There are eight stages of EMDR therapy. This eight-stage treatment involves both cognitive and emotional components. The first stage of EMDR therapy is history taking, which helps the therapist to understand the client’s experience and develop a rapport. The second stage is called preparation, in which the therapist will explain EMDR therapy to the client and help them to develop a sense of trust. The next four stages are called assessment, desensitization, installation, and body scan. These stages involve the use of eye movements or other forms of stimulation to help the client process their memories and experiences. The final stage is called closure, in which the therapist will help the client to develop coping skills and strategies. EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating PTSD, and it can also be helpful in treating other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
How Long Do the Effects of EMDR Therapy Last?
EMDR therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. But how long do the benefits of EMDR therapy last? A recent study followed a group of EMDR therapy patients for three years after treatment. The findings showed that the majority of patients continued to experience reduced symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Even more importantly, the EMDR therapy patients who continued to experience benefits also reported increased levels of satisfaction with their lives. These findings suggest that EMDR therapy can have lasting effects for patients suffering from mental health conditions.
In another study, participants who received EMDR therapy showed significant improvements in symptoms immediately after treatment, and these improvements were maintained at follow-up appointments 6 and 12 months later. EMDR therapy may also be more effective than other forms of psychotherapy in reducing symptoms over the long term. In a different study, EMDR therapy was found to be more effective than cognitive behavioral therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms at a 6-month follow-up. These studies suggest that EMDR therapy can provide lasting benefits for those who receive it.
Contact AlphaMind Brain Centers Today
Now you know that EMDR therapy can have beneficial effects for years after treatment. If you are looking for EMDR therapy near the Cary, North Carolina area, contact us here at AlphaMind Brain Centers! Our staff understands that therapy is not a one size fits all situation – everyone has different needs and goals for what they are looking to get out of their treatment. When you work with AlphaMind Brain Centers, you know that you are getting a plan that is personalized to your individual needs and requests. This way, you can set yourself on the path to ultimate wellness in mind and spirit. Contact us today and let’s get started on your EMDR therapy.