Understanding the Distinction: EMDR Therapy vs. Traditional Therapy

Within the therapy world  many treatment options exist for individuals grappling with mental health challenges. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has garnered significant attention in recent years as a unique approach, particularly popular in Fredericton. In this exploration, we will discuss the  specifics of how EMDR differs from more conventional therapy approaches you may already know of. 

What is EMDR Therapy?

Developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR therapy is an interactive technique designed to reduce  psychological stress. It has been shown to be especially effective for individuals dealing with trauma-related conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is often used to treat veterans Recognized by many professional counseling associations and the World Health Organization, EMDR therapy has gained acclaim in Fredericton and worldwide.

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

The primary objective of EMDR therapy in Fredericton and beyond is to fully process past traumatic experiences, minimizing their lingering impact on present-day life. 

The therapist guides the client in concentrating on a troubling memory or emotion while moving the eyes back and forth by following the therapist’s fingers.  This eye movement (as well as tactile and auditory stimulation) seems to jump start the brain’s ability to process dysfunctional memory information, something that happens naturally during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep. 

How Does Traditional Therapy Work?

EMDR primarily focuses on treating trauma and PTSD by processing distressing memories and alleviating associated symptoms. It aims to help individuals reprocess traumatic memories so that they become less distressing.

This is different from a common Emotion-Focused approach which focuses on emotions as central to psychological functioning and emphasizes the importance of understanding, expressing, and regulating emotions in therapy.

Additional therapies involve discussing one's condition and related issues with a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and others fall under this category. 

These therapies aim to help individuals gain a clearer understanding of their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. They provide coping mechanisms and tools for symptom management, well-being improvement, and behavioral change.

The Differences Between EMDR Therapy and Traditional Therapy

1. Focus on Trauma Processing: A fundamental distinction lies in the focus of EMDR therapy and traditional therapy. While both can address trauma, EMDR specifically targets the reprocessing of traumatic memories. Traditional therapy tends to have a broader focus on understanding feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.

2. Treatment Duration: EMDR therapy typically yields faster results compared to traditional therapy. Many patients experience significant improvement after a few EMDR sessions, while traditional therapies may necessitate ongoing sessions over an extended period.

3. Therapeutic Approach: Traditional therapy places a significant emphasis on emotions, cognitive restructuring or altering thought patterns. Conversely, EMDR utilizes physiological activation, such as eye movements, to facilitate trauma processing.

4. Homework: Traditional therapies often involve homework assignments between sessions for continuity and reinforcement of therapeutic strategies. In contrast, EMDR generally confines its therapeutic work to the session itself.

EMDR therapy in Fredericton presents a unique  approach to treating trauma-related disorders, differing significantly from traditional therapeutic methods. It serves as an alternative for individuals who have not responded well to other types of treatment or who prefer a more focused approach to trauma processing.  It is very important that the therapist be formally trained in EMDR as well as in the problem area the client is addressing.  EMDR is not a therapeutic magic wand, but must be seen as part of a larger therapeutic context.  Also, since EMDR is more of an experiential therapy rather than a verbal, “talking about” approach, any serious medical or psychological conditions must be addressed at the start.

Remember, seeking help is the initial step toward healing and recovery, whether through EMDR therapy in Fredericton or any other form of treatment that aligns with your specific needs.