What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, more commonly known as EMDR, is a non-invasive, psychotherapeutic method that was first developed in 1989. This therapeutic method centers around the idea that traumatic memories can be effectively processed when eye movements are controlled by a licensed EMDR specialist as the client focuses on external stimuli. In many cases, adverse life experiences – including unresolved trauma – contribute to the development of substance abuse disorders.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy in Addiction and Mental Health

Men and women who undergo traumatic experiences harbor this trauma in their psyches, and it crops up in a variety of complicated and self-destructive ways. Unresolved trauma creates a great number of issues later on in life, and many people who harbor trauma attempt to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. By directing lateral eye movements, trained professionals can help clients work through this trauma, which in turn diminishes the desire to abuse chemical substances.

While this therapeutic method might seem strange to some, it is an evidence-based approach to trauma and addiction recovery that has been studied extensively for decades. According to the official EMDR website, “More than 30 positive controlled outcome studies have been done on EMDR therapy.  Some of the studies show that 84%-90% of single-trauma victims no longer have post-traumatic stress disorder after only three 90-minute sessions.” To learn more about this therapeutic method, call us today.

EMDR Can Be Applied in Addiction Treatment and Co-occurring Disorders

There are many benefits to EMDR, including the following:

• This is a non-invasive treatment method, meaning that it does not involve medications or any other type of invasive treatment method.
• EMDR helps clients reform negative beliefs about self, instilling them with a greater sense of self-confidence and self-worth.
• This therapeutic method can be rapidly effective when it might have otherwise taken a client years to heal from his or her past trauma.
• Trauma causes emotional blockages that lead to a range of other issues, like mistrust in other people, trouble in interpersonal relationships, and low self-esteem. EMDR helps clients work through all of these issues in a safe and controlled environment.

Our Comprehensive, Therapeutic Program

EMDR is only one of the many therapeutic services we provide to our clients. In addition to EMDR we offer:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
• Rapid Resolution Therapy
• Brain Mapping Biofeedback Therapy

While all of these therapeutic methods are effective on their own, they can make a more lasting impact when utilized concurrently. At Agape Treatment Center we believe that therapy is the backbone of every effective addiction treatment program. Our program is fully staffed with several licensed and compassionate therapists and mental health specialists who have decades of combined experience. They have carefully developed a recovery program that focuses on equipping clients with the life skills they need to stay sober long-term and heal from the things that are keeping them stuck in a cycle of negative behavioral patterns.

Contact AGAPE for EMDR Mental Health Therapy

Agape Treatment Center is a drug and alcohol rehab center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Our program of recovery offers several distinctive stages of addiction treatment including Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP), and Outpatient Treatment (OP). We offer a comprehensive program of clinical care that includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), dual diagnosis treatment options, and 12 step program involvement.

We provide our clients with relapse prevention training, life skills training, and a range of holistically-based treatment options including mindfulness meditation and yoga therapy. EMDR is only one of the therapeutic methods we employ – a combination of treatment options is the most conducive to long-term sobriety. If you or someone you love is currently living in Southern Florida and struggling with a substance abuse disorder, Agape Treatment Center is available to help. Contact us today and we will begin developing a stress-free plan of action for your intake.