Therapy to release past wounds that impact the present.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a therapeutic approach developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987.
This approach is recognised for its effectiveness in treating psychological trauma and painful life experiences. It works through the neuropsychological action of alternating bilateral stimulation of the brain.
After a difficult event (accident, loss, assault, war situation, or any other emotional shock), the brain may be unable to “process” the experience.
Memories then remain ‘stuck’, accompanied by the negative emotions, sensations and thoughts experienced at that time.
These traces can be reactivated in the present, in the form of images, sensations, emotions or intrusive beliefs.
EMDR helps to reprocess these memories so that they no longer trigger distress in the present.
How does an EMDR session work?
After exploring the patient’s history and establishing a treatment plan, EMDR helps reduce the emotional impact of difficult memories and improve the individual’s coping mechanisms in the present.
First and foremost, in order for the reprocessing of memories to take place in a safe environment, it is imperative that the therapist explore the patient’s life history, their current issues, how these issues manifest in their daily life, what resources they have, etc.
Next, the therapist and patient will work together to establish a safe environment in which to manage the emotions that may arise when reconnecting with the painful memory.
These steps are essential for adapting the treatment plan and ensuring stability and respect for the patient’s timeline. These steps may take several sessions.
Only once all of this is in place is the person invited to briefly reconnect with the disturbing memory, while following alternating bilateral movements (often eye movements, sometimes tactile or auditory stimuli).
This process activates the brain’s natural ability to integrate and ‘digest’ information, much like it does during REM sleep.
Gradually, the memories lose their emotional charge: they remain in the memory, but no longer cause suffering.
For whom and for what?
EMDR is now successfully used for:
- Post-traumatic stress (conflicts, accidents, violence, natural disasters, etc.)
- Bereavements, breakups or painful losses
- Persistent stress, phobias and anxieties
- Feelings of shame, guilt or helplessness
- Self-esteem difficulties linked to early experiences
- Eating disorders
However, it can also be applied today to many other issues (anticipation of an examination, relationship difficulties, etc.). The approach adapts to each person, their pace and their current abilities.
A recognised therapy
EMDR has been validated by numerous scientific studies and is recommended by the WHO (World Health Organisation) and the Haute Autorité de Santé (French National Authority for Health) for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.
It is practised by trained and certified psychologists and psychotherapists.
It is a gentle, respectful and deeply transformative approach that helps people regain peace of mind, inner security and the freedom to be themselves.
Online EMDR
Online EMDR has been shown to be just as effective as in-person sessions. The results of an evaluation highlight the potential of EMDR and online EMDR as an accessible and effective approach.
Indeed, research and clinical practice show that, when the setting is well established and the connection is stable, the reprocessing process takes place in a similar way. Thanks to digital tools (eye movements or adapted alternating stimulation), it is possible to work in depth on traumatic memories, emotions and limiting beliefs, while offering the client the comfort and security of their own environment.
How can you better prepare for a session?
Before the consultation, test your camera and microphone, ensure you have a good internet connection, and make sure you are in a quiet and safe place.
The necessary conditions for online therapy:
- A computer with a webcam and microphone,
- A good connexion,
- A quiet place where you feel comfortable and can speak freely.