When bad things like sexual abuse happen, it can be tough to handle. Many people don’t know how to deal with the hurt and end up feeling scared and ashamed. They might not tell anyone what happened, which just makes things worse. Over time, it can lead to feeling really sad and worried. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help with all of that. It’s like a special way of helping your brain deal with the bad stuff so you can start feeling better.
Let’s learn more about how it works and how it can bring hope to those who need it.
Table of Contents
What is Sexual Trauma?
Sexual trauma is when someone experiences physical and emotional challenges after unwanted or forceful sexual contact. It affects both women and men, and even children can be affected. Survivors may show signs of stress, such as difficulty sleeping, headaches, trouble concentrating, or emotional outbursts. This trauma can lead to conditions like PTSD and may require treatment to help survivors cope with their experiences. The body’s response to sexual trauma involves producing stress hormones like cortisol, which can result in a constant state of fear and anxiety, even without triggers. This can cause both physical and psychological symptoms, such as chest pain, stomach issues, difficulty concentrating, and self-harm.
It’s important to remember that everyone reacts differently to trauma. There is no right or wrong way to feel.
Related Article : Exploring EMDR Therapy For Eating Disorders
Inside an EMDR Therapy Session
In the therapeutic sanctuary of an EMDR session, envision yourself enveloped in a space of safety and support, guided by a therapist. The journey of EMDR therapy typically embarks with the essential foundation of trust and mutual understanding being established between you and your therapist, fostering an environment conducive to healing.
As the session progresses, the therapist gently facilitates a series of bilateral stimulation exercises, designed to engage both hemispheres of the brain. These exercises may entail tracking the therapist’s finger movements, following alternating sounds, or sensing gentle taps. Amidst these stimuli, you are encouraged to explore distressing memories or sensations that have been haunting you.
Through this intricate process, the aim is to unlock the hold that traumatic experiences have on your psyche, allowing for reprocessing and integration within a safe context. By alternating focus between the external stimuli and your internal experiences, the therapy facilitates the natural healing mechanisms of the brain, fostering adaptive resolution of past traumas.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy helps people heal from trauma by mimicking the brain’s natural way of processing information. During a traumatic event, memories can become fragmented and stuck, leading to emotional distress. EMDR helps to unblock these stuck memories and reprocess them in a healthier way.
Here’s the Breakdown:
- Bilateral Stimulation: This is the core technique of EMDR. It involves following back-and-forth eye movements, hand taps, or auditory tones. This bilateral stimulation is thought to stimulate communication between both hemispheres of the brain, similar to what happens during REM sleep when we naturally process emotions and consolidate memories.
- Reprocessing Memories: By focusing on the disturbing memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, the brain can begin to connect the memory to more positive thoughts and feelings. This reduces the emotional intensity of the memory and allows for a more balanced perspective.
- Empowerment: Through EMDR, individuals gain a sense of control over their past experiences. They can integrate the traumatic memories into their overall life story without feeling overwhelmed by them.
Finding An EMDR Therapist
Finding the right EMDR therapist is crucial for effective treatment. Start by seeking referrals from trusted sources, such as your primary care physician or mental health professionals. Look for therapists who are certified in EMDR and have experience working with sexual trauma survivors.
It’s essential to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and discuss your concerns before starting therapy.
In conclusion, EMDR therapy offers hope and healing for survivors of sexual trauma. By understanding the nature of trauma, experiencing the process of EMDR therapy, and finding the right therapist, survivors can embark on a journey towards reclaiming their lives and well-being.
Remember, healing is possible, and you deserve support every step of the way.
Ready to Make Change?
If any piece of this resonates with you, and you are ready to become more intentional about how your relationship and conflict, reach out to me at naami@centericc.com