Does EMDR Work for Anxiety?
Does EMDR Help With Anxiety, Even Without Major Trauma?
Many people have heard of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) as a powerful tool for healing trauma. But what if you haven't experienced a major traumatic event? Can EMDR therapy still help with anxiety?
As a trauma therapist in Oakland, CA specializing in EMDR for anxiety, I often hear this question. While EMDR is well-known for resolving trauma, it's also highly effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.
Let's explore how EMDR can help you overcome anxiety, even if you haven't experienced a significant trauma.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) was first developed by Francine Shapiro. While walking and thinking about a distressing event, she noticed that the emotional intensity lessened with the back-and-forth movements.
EMDR uses a technical process of bilateral stimulation (back-and-forth eye movements, or other forms) to help you maintain dual awareness. You'll focus on the present moment while simultaneously exploring and processing a past traumatic memory or experience.
This process allows your brain to rewire itself, removing the emotional intensity from the past trauma. By reducing the emotional charge, EMDR can also reduce negative associations or symptoms that stem from that memory or experience.
Want a deep dive? Check out this blog post for details on how EMDR works here.
Important Note: When seeking EMDR therapy, it's crucial to find a trained therapist with advanced training in effectively administering EMDR.
Does EMDR Work for Anxiety?
While the story of EMDR's origins is interesting, the real power lies in its research-backed effectiveness for treating various anxiety disorders. Studies have shown positive results for:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): A 2017 meta-analysis published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found EMDR to be as effective as exposure therapy, a gold-standard treatment for GAD.
Panic Disorder: A 2018 review published in World Journal of Psychiatry suggests EMDR can significantly reduce panic attacks and phobic avoidance in individuals with panic disorder.
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Research published in Depression and Anxiety in 2013 found that EMDR, combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), led to greater reductions in social anxiety symptoms compared to CBT alone.
It's important to note: While research is promising, EMDR may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Some studies suggest it might not be as effective for everyone. Finding a trauma-informed anxiety therapist with a multifaceted toolkit is an important consideration if you are looking for EMDR therapy for anxiety.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
There are many benefits to choosing EMDR for anxiety treatment. Some of those benefits include reduced anxiety symptoms, better ability to calm big emotions, increased confidence and self-compassion, and a better ability to use coping skills when you are feeling overwhelmed. Through processing any blocks or areas that you are feeling stuck in with EMDR therapy, you can begin to notice big shifts in how you think about yourself, how you feel, and how you show up in the world.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy?
EMDR's benefits extend far beyond treating PTSD and other major traumas. While it excels at helping people heal from those experiences, it's a powerful tool for anyone struggling with anxiety, no matter the root cause. If you are experiencing anxiety- EMDR is a helpful approach to consider.
This EMDR therapy can also address a wider range of mental health challenges, including depression, phobias, addictions, and other mental health conditions.
Considering EMDR for Anxiety in Oakland, CA?
As a trauma-informed anxiety therapist in Oakland, CA, I use a diverse toolbox of approaches to help you quiet racing thoughts and feel more present in your relationships. EMDR therapy can be a powerful tool for individuals with anxiety seeking inner peace.
If traditional therapy hasn't yielded the results you desired, EMDR could be a great option to explore.
If you're located in California and seeking an EMDR therapist, contact me here for a free consultation to explore if EMDR is a good fit for you.
EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) isn't just a trendy therapy; it's a powerful approach backed by research. This therapy can be a game-changer for anxiety treatment. EMDR helps you process past experiences and negative emotions that might be contributing to your anxiety symptoms. The results can be promising, leading to a significant reduction in anxious thoughts and feelings, allowing you to live a more peaceful life.
