Introduction to EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including substance abuse and addiction. At Forward Health, a substance abuse treatment center located in Columbus, OH, we understand the importance of utilizing various forms of therapy in order to provide the best possible treatment for our clients. EMDR is one of the many methods we use to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

EMDR is a type of psychotherapy that was developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the 1980s. It is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in the brain in a way that is incomplete and unprocessed. EMDR therapy helps individuals to process these memories and integrate them into a more coherent narrative. This can be helpful in reducing the intensity of negative feelings and beliefs associated with the traumatic event.

At Forward Health, our EMDR therapy sessions are led by trained and certified therapists who use a specific protocol to guide clients through the process. During EMDR sessions, clients will be asked to focus on a traumatic memory or event while the therapist guides them through a series of eye movements, sounds, or taps. These bilateral stimuli help to activate the brain’s natural healing process and allow the client to process and integrate the traumatic memories.

EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. It can also be helpful in treating substance abuse and addiction. Trauma is often a contributing factor in the development of addiction, and addressing traumatic memories and beliefs can be an important step in the recovery process.

One of the key benefits of EMDR therapy is that it can help individuals overcome feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame associated with their substance abuse. It can also help to reduce cravings and the risk of relapse by addressing the underlying emotional and psychological factors that may have contributed to the addiction.

EMDR therapy is also helpful in addressing co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety which often accompany addiction. It can help individuals to develop greater self-awareness and understanding of their thoughts and emotions, which can be beneficial in identifying triggers for substance abuse.

At Forward Health, we understand that every individual is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. Our team of experienced professionals works closely with each person to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their specific needs and goals. EMDR therapy is just one aspect of the holistic treatment program we offer. It is often combined with traditional therapies such as counseling and group therapy as well as alternative therapies such as yoga and meditation.

Our team of experienced professionals includes licensed counselors, therapists, and addiction specialists who are trained and certified in EMDR therapy. They are dedicated to helping individuals overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

We also understand the importance of continuing care and support after treatment, which is why we offer a variety of aftercare services to our clients. These services include ongoing counseling, support groups, and alumni activities, which can help individuals maintain their progress and continue to build a strong foundation for recovery.

At Forward Health, we are committed to providing the highest quality treatment to those struggling with addiction. Our EMDR therapy program is designed to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery, while also addressing underlying emotional and psychological factors that may have contributed to the addiction. We believe that EMDR therapy is a powerful tool in the recovery process and we are dedicated to helping individuals achieve this goal. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out to us at Forward Health.