Are you considering EMDR therapy but holding back because of the myths you've heard? Maybe you think it's some kind of new-age therapy only used on the ultra-sensitive. Or perhaps you think it's a last-resort treatment that can only help people with severe trauma.
Well, this blog post is for you!
We'll debunk the five most common myths about EMDR and explain why they're wrong. So read on to learn more about what EMDR really is - and isn't!
#1 “It can bring up repressed memories.."
One of the most common myths about EMDR therapy that you might hear multiple times now is that it can bring up repressed memories. People say that during the process, the client will suddenly remember a long-buried memory that they have been subconsciously suppressing.
Wrong! EMDR doesn't dredge up buried memories. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Instead, studies have shown that it can actually help you to let go of painful memories and move on with your life. It more likely helps you process and understands your trauma differently.
You might say, “That’s kinda difficult and emotional.”. Well, that is true, but it does not involve retrieving new or forgotten information. Instead, it enables you to process them more efficiently–our primary goal.
So, if you're worried that EMDR will dredge up long-buried secrets, you can rest assured that this is not the case!
#2 “It causes false memories.."
Another persistent misconception we always hear from our clients is that it can cause people to "create" false memories. They are worried that this technique might generate made-up memories since it deals with memory reprocessing. Well, our consistent answer is– Nuh-uh. Not true. Not at all.
EMDR does not have the ability to produce a memory; it cannot create a new one! It just works with existing ones. Tho it may be hazy or incomplete, that memory has to be there for EMDR to work.
Again, no false memories will be made through this therapy.
#3 “I need to discuss my trauma in detail."
Some of our clients are unwilling to engage in specific therapies because they fear dredging up old, painful memories. Maybe you are not a fan of that, too. Well, the good news is that you are not obligated to share every last detail of your trauma in EMDR.
We will only need a few key pieces of information to help the memory reprocess. The bottom line is you will still get to choose how much information you want to disclose to us about the event(s).
#4 “It will cause me to lose control."
People may think that engaging in EMDR therapy can cause them to get so emotional that they lose control. This is simply not true!
EMDR is a highly effective, well-researched therapy for treating trauma and other mental health conditions. It does not cause people to lose control or behave in any way they wouldn't normally behave.
In fact, the opposite is true. The entire point of it is to help you gain control over your memories and your reactions to them.
During our session, you will be in control at all times. You will be able to stop the therapy at any time if you feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed.
Also, we will always be there to support you and guide you through the process. We will ensure you are thoroughly prepared for the reprocessing stage and equipped with the tools and coping skills to manage any discomfort.
So, if your feelings become too strong, you can ask for a break to recover.
#5 “It is a form of hypnosis."
Another common misconception is that it is a form of hypnosis. Nuh-uh!
The trance-like state of consciousness often attributed to hypnosis is NOT present in EMDR.
While hypnosis is a deeply relaxed state in which the client is highly suggestible, EMDR is a highly structured therapy in which you remain aware and in control throughout the session. This difference allows it to focus more on addressing positive emotions and sensations while remaining grounded in reality.
Wrapping It Up
Here at The Wise Self, we witnessed that EMDR has proven to be an effective therapy for mental health issues, even if you have not experienced a traumatic event. So, if you're battling depression or anxiety, among other things, don't rule out EMDR because of some myths that you may have heard. Don't let this false information stop you from trying it! This treatment could be exactly what you need to get better!
And if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask! We only want the best for our clients, and that means ensuring that you feel comfortable and safe during your session.
With that in mind, we made sure that all our therapists are highly trained and experienced to guide you through the process safely and effectively. In addition, our team will work with you to tailor the session to your specific needs and goals.
So, are you ready? Start your path toward healing. Contact Talieh Bakhshai, one of our best EMDR Therapists!