EMDR and depression
EMDR is best known for treating PTSD but it is also very helpful for a range of problems, including depression.
EMDR is based on the idea that we have memories stored in our network that link past experiences to present experiences. Events, conversations, thoughts, feelings and other things can trigger the past. This could include negative feelings, past images, self critical thoughts or negative self beliefs. EMDR focuses on reprocessing negative and unhelpful experiences and memories from the past. It helps to integrate them into more helpful and adaptive memory networks. This can help treat symptoms of depression. EMDR works on healing the past, to improve the present.
What does EMDR for depression look like?
An assessment would help you and your therapist understand what triggered and continues to trigger feelings of depression. An EMDR therapist considers whether current feelings link back to past negative memories, stored in the network. By processing and reaching an adaptive resolution of these memories, current distress can be reduced and new responses to triggers found. EMDR uses eye movements or left right tapping to help to stimulate the brain’s natural processing and to reach a resolution with these memories. Your therapist will tell you if EMDR might be a fit for you and whether EMDR is likely to help with depression. It could be that another approach, or a combination of approaches suits you better.
How many sessions of EMDR would I need for depression?
My answer here is that it depends. It depends on your goals and the memories you agree to work on. EMDR can range from 4-8 sessions to more.
What are the stages of EMDR?
The EMDR treatment plan will be unique to you. The content of sessions depends on your goals and what has been showing up for you in between sessions. You may be working on a recent event or you may be working on memories from childhood. When working on memories, here are 8 phases. This includes:
- Taking a history and planning treatment.
- Preparing by teaching coping, grounding and relaxation techniques.
- Assessment to identify and assess the memories, bodily sensations and beliefs that are important to work on. The therapist and client will also choose a positive statement to replace the negative belief associated with the memory.
- The next phase is desensitisation where we reduce the upsetting feelings linked to negative memory. The therapist asks the client to recall the memory at the same time as applying eye movements or left right tapping. If the client does not wish to, they do not need to describe the memory in detail.
- The therapist reinforces the positive memories and links them to the positive thoughts.
- A body scan then follows to check that the negative memories do not link to any uncomfortable sensations of physical responses to the trigger memory.
- The session would then be close with a reminder of relaxation and grounding techniques. At the next session, the therapist and client would reevaluate the trigger that was worked on.
If you would like to ask more about EMDR, please call 07870 241970, email hello@nepsychology-co-uk.stackstaging.com to contact us to arrange a free 15 minute consultation.
