EMDR at Engelke Counseling: Why didn't we do this sooner?

I have been reluctant to become certified in EMDR for many years now so I am going to be very open and honest about this. ( Spolier alert: I am now offering EMDR at Engelke Counseling!)

Let's Start With The EMDR Facts:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and other emotional challenges. EMDR is an option for clients seeking relief from distressing memories, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Let's talk about why it might be a good fit for you or someone you care about.

Therapy room setup for EMDR sessions

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured approach that helps people process and heal from traumatic experiences and emotional difficulties. Developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess painful memories. This process reduces the emotional charge of those memories and allows clients to develop healthier perspectives.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require clients to describe every detail of their trauma. Instead, it focuses on how the brain stores and processes distressing information. By targeting the way memories are held in the brain, EMDR helps clients reduce symptoms such as anxiety, flashbacks, and negative beliefs about themselves.

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

EMDR therapy follows an eight-phase protocol designed to ensure safety and effectiveness:

1. History and Treatment Planning

   The therapist gathers information about your history and identifies specific memories or issues to target.

   
   

2. Preparation

   You learn coping skills and relaxation techniques to manage emotional distress during sessions.

   
   

3. Assessment

   The therapist helps you identify vivid images, negative beliefs, and physical sensations related to the target memory.

   
   

4. Desensitization

   Using bilateral stimulation (usually guided eye movements), the therapist helps you process the memory until it feels less distressing.

   
   

5. Installation

   Positive beliefs replace negative ones, strengthening your sense of self and resilience.

   
   

6. Body Scan

   You focus on any lingering physical tension related to the memory, which is then processed.

   
   

7. Closure

   The therapist ensures you feel stable before ending the session.

   
   

8. Reevaluation

   Future sessions assess progress and determine next steps.

   
   

This process helps the brain rewire itself, allowing traumatic memories to be stored in a less disruptive way. Many clients notice relief after just a few sessions, though the number of sessions varies depending on individual needs.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is effective for a wide range of issues, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Anxiety and panic attacks

• Depression

• Phobias and fears

• Grief and loss

• Stress related to medical conditions

• Negative self-beliefs and low self-esteem

  
  

For example, a client struggling with anxiety after a car accident might use EMDR to reduce the intensity of flashbacks and regain confidence in driving. Another client dealing with long-term childhood trauma could find relief by reprocessing painful memories and developing healthier self-perceptions.

Okay, Why was I skeptical at first?

I think it is important to include my thoughts on this because I hope it will help any of you with the same concerns! I hope this helps potential clients trust that I take careful consideration before implementing any treatment methods.

I was cautious about EMDR as some of my colleagues were becoming trained in the model several years ago. The rapid healing sounded dramatic to me, and I have always scrutinized any treatments that appeared to promise quick transformation. EMDR seemed almost too good to be true. It was marketed as a "miracle cure," universally appropriate, faster than all other trauma therapies, and usable without deep case conceptualization. However, I have learned in my research that experienced clinicians cannot implement EMDR without careful assessment, relaxation and coping skills training, following the pace of the specific client, and building a strong therapeutic alliance with their clients.

Like any therapy model, EMDR is not universally effective. Some clients report feeling overwhelmed, confused about the process, noticing only limited improvement, and some dissociation or emotional intensity. Some clients have reported feeling rushed into this trauma work.

All of these negative effects can be lessened with an experienced provider. The building of a strong, trusting relationship allows the clinician to determine whether EMDR is the right fit. There will be situations in which EMDR does not work effectively, no matter how many careful considerations are taken. It is important for the clinician to follow their client's lead and be attuned to their specific experience in the moment.

What to Expect During EMDR Sessions at Engelke Counseling

At Engelke Counseling, your comfort and safety are priorities. During your first session, I will explain the EMDR process and answer any questions. We will work together to identify the memories or issues to focus on.

Sessions typically last 60 to 90 minutes. You will be guided through the bilateral stimulation while focusing on specific memories or feelings. I will support you throughout, helping you stay grounded and safe.

Many clients describe EMDR sessions as intense but manageable. Some notice emotional shifts during or after sessions, while others experience gradual improvements over time. I will tailor the pace and approach to your needs.

Why choose EMDR with me at Engelke Counseling?

I was skeptical of EMDR years back and took careful consideration of all the research. I have looked through much of the research I could find and even searched for contradictory findings. I have been thoroughly convinced of EMDR's effectiveness in treating a wide range of client struggles. I offer experience and compassion while utilizing this specialized approach. This includes:

• Personalized treatment plans I will take careful consideration of your unique history and goals. We will determine this together.

• Safe and supportive environment My office is a warm and comfortable place to explore difficult memories.

• Integration with other therapeutic approaches for holistic care. I don't believe in a "one size Fits all" approach to psychotherapy and have been practicing with the most evidenced based approaches for over 25 years.

• Flexible scheduling I am fortunate enough to be able to keep my practice small so that I can be flexible and work around my clients' availability. I am able to make last minute changes when necessary.

• Focus on measurable progress I will be consistently checking in with you to make sure I am tracking the changes. I will be clear about how you want your life to change for the better as we work together.

  
  

Clients often report feeling more empowered, less overwhelmed by past experiences, and better able to manage daily stress after EMDR therapy.

Practical Tips for Preparing for EMDR Therapy wherever you may receive it

To get the most from EMDR therapy, consider these tips:

• Be open and honest with your therapist about your feelings and experiences.

• Practice relaxation techniques learned during sessions between appointments.

• Set realistic goals for your healing journey.

• Allow yourself time to process emotions that arise.

• Communicate any concerns with your therapist promptly.

  
  

Remember, healing is a process. EMDR therapy can be a powerful tool, but it works best when combined with your commitment and support from your therapist.

What Research Says About EMDR Therapy

Research supports EMDR as an effective treatment for trauma and related conditions. Studies show that EMDR can reduce PTSD symptoms as effectively as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), often in fewer sessions. The World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association recognize EMDR as a recommended treatment for trauma. There are more than 30 randomized controlled trials and 22 nonrandomized studies that show EMDR is an effective therapy for psychological trauma. Multiple studies show it is effective with age-appropriate children as well.

What stood out for me?

• positive changes are maintained over time

• there is continued post-treatment improvement when compared with Prozac

• meta-analyses of EMDR vs TF-CBT show comparable results but EMDR appears more efficient due to :

• fewer sessions

• little to no homework

• less exposure

• greater decrease in intrusive symptoms

• no need to narrate event in detail

• lower dropout rates

One study found that 77% of participants no longer met PTSD criteria after EMDR treatment. Another research review highlighted EMDR’s ability to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms linked to traumatic memories.

While EMDR is not a cure-all, it offers a scientifically supported option for many people struggling with emotional pain.