At WisHope Recovery, we recognize that treating addiction is not just about addressing the use of a substance, but to treat the root causes for a substance use disorder, or other addictive behavior. One of the most powerful therapies we have is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR Therapy. Get ready for a therapy with a strong research base that is able to change lives and support recovery from trauma, emotional pain, and addictive behaviors.
Addiction may develop from trauma, anxiety, depression, or painful experiences that may figure into a person’s life. EMDR therapy focuses on reprocessing the memories that currently, and potentially could in the future, affect your quality of recovery. This therapy is exciting, and offers people real hope and healing, especially for those in recovery.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) offers a unique approach to psychotherapy, specifically aimed at helping individuals with trauma-related disorders access cognitive processes to resolve traumatic events. In a typical EMDR therapy session, your therapist will guide you to perform specific bilateral actions, such as eye movements or tapping, while you concentrate on a particular traumatic memory.
This method aids people in reshaping the way the brain preserves memories so as to reduce emotional suffering, anxiety, and the incitements of addictive behaviour.
Reasons Why EMDR Therapy for Addiction is Effective
Many addicted individuals have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health challenges. EMDR therapy is particularly helpful because it helps individuals:
- Target the Source of the Addiction: EMDR does not just target the surface symptoms of the addiction but rather, the traumas and emotional triggers.
- Rewire the Brain: It alters the way through which we store our traumatic memories and ultimately helps reduce the need to self medicate with drugs and alcohol.
- Provide Fast Results: Almost all of my clients were able to see the changes in their emotional responses much quicker than they would through traditional talk therapy.
- Support Emotional Self-Regulation: EMDR develops resilience and coping strategies with many stresses and cravings.
- Empower Long-Term Sobriety: Once the emotional pain is resolved, EMDR provides the individual with a great foundation to establish sobriety or long-lasting changes in their lifestyle.
The Benefits of EMDR Therapy in Recovery
At WisHope Recovery, we have witnessed amazing changes facilitated by EMDR therapy. These are just a few of the benefits:
- Reduced anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms
- Tremendous decrease of potential for relapse through improved emotional regulation
- Improved self-esteem and confidence in recovery
- Increased ability to cope with craving and triggers
- Provides for a safe and structured healing process
How WisHope Recovery Uses EMDR Therapy
We use EMDR therapy as part of a holistic treatment plan alongside other evidence-based therapies, support groups and wellness care. EMDR therapy can and will be individualized for your unique needs and goals whether it be trauma, mental health disorders or substance abuse issues.
Common Questions About EMDR Therapy
- How soon after starting EMDR therapy could I expect to see results?
This depends on the individual. Many clients report a noticeable difference in their lives after just a few sessions of EMDR therapy. Our therapist should develop a plan specific to your requirements.
- Is EMDR therapy safe?
Yes. EMDR therapy is a researched-based, evidence-based therapy that has been endorsed by such organizations as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
- Can EMDR therapy help with relapse prevention?
Absolutely. By working on the trauma and emotional triggers, EMDR will help you lessen the risk of relapse and continue your sobriety journey.
- Do I have to talk about all the details of my trauma?
Not necessarily. EMDR uses a reprocessing approach for memories, and typically you don’t need to talk about every detail for it to be effective.
- Who is EMDR therapy beneficial for?
EMDR therapy can be beneficial for anyone who has an addiction problem stemming from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or other mental health conditions that contribute to substance abuse difficulties.
Conclusion
At WisHope Recovery, we have witnessed many lives change for good through the use of EMDR therapy. Addiction is usually more than just a physical dependence. Instead, addiction is an emotional battle associated with some type of unresolved pain. EMDR therapy provides a possible solution to healing at a deeper level to allow individuals to overcome their addiction, and reclaim their lives full of hope.
If you or a loved one is battling addiction, don’t hesitate to contact WisHope Recovery today. You don’t have to go through addiction alone, you can heal!