Re:How EMDR Works

Marcy
From my experience, I was in total control. My Therapist was directing the right/left bilateral stimulation’s by moving his fingers and my tracking them. While doing this I then focussed on a specific target such as a memory or a piece of one. As I was tracking his finger I was also aware of the memory and how it was incorporating other parts, such as a feeling, or physical sensation. After a set of finger movements my Therapist would ask what came up and what changes did I see happening to the originally target. He also asked about the level of my distress. As for the panic… Yes at times that did happen, BUT MY THERAPIST then reminded me that I was safe and we used the following sets ( a set is a series of finger movements) to contain the new feelings. This is why having a safe place is so important before beginning. In between sessions I had a few new panic reactions that came up, but my therapist and I had arranged for extra contact to deal with this.

AT ALL TIMES I WAS IN CONTROL… My Therapist was there to guide me, and help me if I felt overwhelmed. The long-term benefits for me have been very helpful. I don’t know if this answered your questions. There is an online web site for clients, where other clients (about 125 or more)share their reactions. I am not a member there, but I know you will find more answers there.

This is their site address:
http://www.egroups.com/group/EMDR
"For persons who are using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as part of an overall therapeutic treatment. A place to share experiences, questions, concerns, and support for one another. EMDR treatment should only be administered by professionals appropriately trained in EMDR as approved by the EMDR Institute. This listserv is directed at persons who are using EMDR for personal growth. Professionals trained in EMDR are also welcome to participate."

Good luck Denise

Replies:

Re:How EMDR Works, by Marcy, 10/25/00

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