What is EMDR therapy? How can it be of help to you? The letters stand for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Used in the beginning to relieve symptoms of PTSD and its related anxiety, stress, trauma, and panic, it has since been used effectively with other issues.

EMDR therapy is a focused method that allows the client to reconnect in a better way with the self-thoughts, images, and emotions that have been associated with the trauma.

It does not rely on talk, as many other therapies, but uses a series of tapping movements or sounds as well as rapid eye movement, which gives EMDR its name. The eye movements dampen the power held by traumatic memories that are full of emotion.

The therapist might ask you to recall a disturbing event while following her or his fingers as they move back and forth before your face. Your eyes will be moving as you recall this event, and then more pleasant ones. Toe-tapping or musical tones can also be used instead of a finger moving.

What Is EMDR For Substance Abuse?

Those who abuse drugs or alcohol often face mental health issues and require psychiatric services after the cessation of the substance abused. We offer EMDR for addiction issues as a type of therapy.

EMDR changes negative thoughts through the use of a series of lateral eye movements. Meanwhile, the client is asked to create a picture of the danger and associated pain. Processing the memory safely is the goal; sessions usually last about an hour. Resolution, as well as insight, is gained, as negative thoughts surrounding the event or events and the self are resolved.

Because the brain has been overwhelmed by negative or challenging issues, the safe space of the therapist’s office is where healing can begin. While re-experiencing the trauma in a controlled environment, the client can gain awareness and begin the natural healing process. Flashbacks, self-medication, isolating behavior with drugs and alcohol all benefit from new coping behaviors that replace those that have proved harmful.

EMDR has proved to be a very effective type of addiction treatment therapy on the road to long-term healing.

Therapy at Liberty Bay Recovery Center

At Liberty Bay, we offer a variety of therapies to help you overcome your addiction after you have completed the detox process. Group therapy and an array of psychological services can be combined in a dual diagnosis program, customized to your needs.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy and other therapies can be combined with EMDR therapy. Managing stress and learning to communicate can be done through CBT; those with addiction problems may use it to reduce dependence on drugs or alcohol.

Liberty Bay Recovery Center in Portland, Maine has a commitment to help you achieve lasting sobriety. We offer a variety of services that include:

• Detox
• Residential treatment
• Partial hospitalization
• Intensive outpatient programs
• Men’s treatment programs
• Women’s treatment programs

Our facility includes a kitchen that provides patients with wholesome, nutritious meals and snacks. Recovery includes knowing how to eat healthy as well as giving up old eating habits. Allowing clients to maintain their dignity in recovery is one of our goals. Along with this, our caring individual and group counseling programs instill the idea that recovery is a lifelong process. Our counselors and advisers collaborate with individuals, helping them understand the necessary steps for reaching both their short- and long-term goals.

Don’t let an addiction be in control. With the help of EMDR therapy, you can overcome your addiction. Contact Liberty Bay Recovery Center at [Direct], and we’ll get you on the path to recovery and a better life.