Almost everyone will experience some form of trauma in their lifetime. Along with that may come anxiety, depression, fear, numbness, frustration, difficulty concentrating, and several other symptoms.
Fighting these feelings often proves unsuccessful, so the brain naturally goes into protection mode. The trauma gets buried down deep so you can move on with life. You’ve survived it, so why remember it?
The problem is, no matter how hard your brain tries to forget it, you may still end up with this uneasy feeling that you can’t quite put a finger on. Something triggers you, and you start to feel off. Details and memories may seem blurry, so you can’t make sense of it.
This is where EMDR can help you, even if memories are not fully present.
EMDR Basics
EMDR was created as a means to treat PTSD and promote healing and processing of trauma-related memories. Over the years, it has been expanded as a treatment option for multiple conditions and disorders.
During treatment sessions, you target a negative and triggering memory or feeling, reprocess it, and replace it with a more positive response. The process takes place over eight phases and incorporates bilateral stimulation.
Not Centered Around Talk
One of the unique things about EMDR is that it isn’t solely focused on talk therapy. It’s not necessary to keep a vivid memory about your trauma, nor are you expected to describe your experience in detail.
You will be asked about your history and whatever information you can provide. If you’re not instantly able to identify your trauma, your sessions will revolve around processing your emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations.
Your Therapist is Trained for This
If you’re using the EMDR approach during your sessions, your therapist has undergone training on properly and effectively implementing it. Unable to recall your trauma? Your therapist is trained for this specific instance.
You aren’t expected to recall all the nitty, gritty details of your experience. It’s completely understandable and accepted if you can’t. You only need to have a starting point to begin the session. If you start by giving details about your personal history, they can guide you when needed. You may surprise yourself with what you can remember.
The Process is Flexible
Another appealing aspect of EMDR is its flexibility. While EMDR is structured and follows eight phases, there isn’t a set timeline. The total treatment can be shorter or longer, depending on your needs.
If you remember your trauma experience, your total treatment time might be shorter. But if you’re having trouble recalling details, you can spend extra time working with the therapist to dive into the other components. Time isn’t going to work against you with this approach.
There is Still a Benefit
Don’t assume that you won’t find some benefit in treatment if you can’t remember your trauma. EMDR is different than many other options out there. Your healing and processing of your trauma aren’t linked to the clarity of your memory.
After experiencing a trauma, it isn’t uncommon to try to suppress it down deep and forget about it. Many people who have done this very thing have found positive results from EMDR therapy. Being open and honest about your history and anything you remember will lend itself to reducing your symptoms. Commitment is key. Plus, as you move along, you may find that some memories do start to surface. Your therapist will work with those if and when they do come up.
Does EMDR sound like something that could work for you? Are you interested in learning more? Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation and get you on the path to healing.
Learn more about EMDR and trauma therapy in Boulder, Longmont and Denver.
