More about EMDR & EFT
Somatic therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) or tapping, can be highly effective for clients seeking relief from a wide range of psychological and emotional difficulties. These therapies work by accessing the body's somatic or bodily memory of experiences, which can be more enduring and visceral than conscious memory.
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EMDR involves recalling a traumatic or distressing experience while engaging in a specific bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds. This is thought to activate the brain's natural processing mechanisms and help desensitize the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional intensity. EMDR also includes components to help clients develop a sense of safety and resources.
EFT similarly engages the body's meridian points, where the body's energy flows, through tapping and can be used to address negative emotions related to a specific experience. The client is guided to verbalize their distress while tapping specific points on their body, which helps to calm the nervous system and reduce the emotional charge of the experience.
Both EMDR and EFT can be effective for a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and even physical pain. They are thought to work by reprocessing the memory or experience to reduce its impact and create new associations. They can also be used to promote positive emotional experiences and develop new positive associations with triggers related to the experience.
Somatic therapies can be particularly beneficial for trauma clients, as they can help address the autonomic nervous system's dysregulation often seen in this population. They can also help build resilience, restore a sense of safety and control, and promote overall well-being. Ultimately, somatic therapies can help clients lead more fulfilling lives by reducing distress and enhancing positive emotions and experiences.
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. EMDR is based on the idea that trauma can cause disruptions in the brain's natural information processing system, leading to persistent distressing symptoms.
During EMDR, the client focuses on a specific traumatic memory while following the therapist's hand movements with their eyes. This is believed to stimulate the brain's natural processing mechanisms, allowing the traumatic memory to be reprocessed in a way that reduces its emotional intensity.
Francine Shapiro is a prominent researcher and practitioner in the field of EMDR, and her work has helped to establish the effectiveness of this therapy for a range of issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In her book "Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures," she provides an overview of the theory and practice of EMDR, as well as a detailed description of the eight-phase protocol that is used in EMDR therapy.
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that has been shown to be effective for a range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, and depression. It is a relatively short-term therapy that can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other forms of therapy. Overall, EMDR offers a promising option for individuals seeking relief from the distressing symptoms of trauma and other psychological issues.
EFT
Evidence-based Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a form of therapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy and acupressure. During EFT, the client focuses on a specific problem or issue while tapping on specific points on the body. This tapping is believed to release energy blockages and balance the body's energy system.
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Peta Stapleton is a leading researcher in the field of EFT, and her work has demonstrated the effectiveness of EFT for a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. In her book "The Science behind Tapping," she provides an overview of the research supporting EFT and explains the mechanisms through which it works.
One of the key features of evidence-based EFT is the use of standardized protocols and the use of validated outcome measures to assess treatment effectiveness. This helps to ensure that the therapy is being delivered consistently and that its impact can be measured and compared across studies.
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Overall, evidence-based EFT has been shown to be an effective and safe form of therapy for a range of psychological and physical issues. It can be a valuable tool for individuals seeking relief from emotional distress and can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy or as a standalone treatment.