The best addiction therapy services provide patients with access to a wide range of therapy models. One of the most important aspects of treating addiction is the consideration of underlying trauma. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) trauma therapy is an effective method of helping a patient heal from the trauma that may be a contributing factor to addiction.
Woodland Recovery Center is a leading provider of addiction treatment services in Mississippi. We offer EMDR therapy in Mississippi as part of our inpatient addiction treatment program. Call 662.222.2989 today to learn more about EMDR therapy for addiction at Woodland Recovery Center.
What Is EMDR Treatment?
This unique treatment method is one of the few types of therapy designed specifically for treating trauma. As the name implies, EMDR treatment utilizes targeted eye movement and other therapy techniques. The specific eye movements used in EMDR trigger the brain’s memory system.
Over a series of EMDR sessions, traumatic memories are released and reintegrated in a safe, supportive setting. This process allows patients to gain control over their traumatic memories, reducing their impact on daily functioning.
EMDR therapy is effective in treating a variety of mental health issues, including addiction. The theory behind EMDR is that unresolved trauma can manifest in self-destructive behaviors, such as substance use. By addressing and processing the underlying trauma, individuals can find relief from their addictive behaviors and achieve long-term recovery.
The Benefits of an EMDR Therapy Program
Patients who participate in EMDR experience significant long-term benefits. One of the key outcomes of an EMDR session is that a patient’s trauma response is significantly reduced.
Some of the most common symptoms of PTSD include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Intrusive memories
- Sensitive startle response
- Memory issues
- Mood swings
An EMDR therapy program can significantly decrease or even stop these common signs of PTSD. As the patient’s brain can reintegrate the traumatic events, they encounter a sense of healing and resolution.
How EMDR Trauma Therapy Supports Addiction Recovery
Addiction is a highly complex health condition. No two individuals have the same relationship with substance use or the same combination of life events that have led to substance use.
However, certain life experiences can significantly contribute to the chances of an individual developing a substance use disorder. Unresolved trauma is one of the most common life experiences associated with addiction.
Common situations that lead to the development of trauma include:
- Abuse in childhood
- Domestic abuse
- Sexual assault
- Car accidents
- Witnessing violence
- Experiencing a severe illness
- Losing a loved one
- Working as an emergency responder
- Serving as an active-duty member of the military
For many individuals, substance use disorder develops as a means of coping with the thoughts, feelings, and memories associated with a traumatic event. EMDR therapy for addiction aims to help patients heal from trauma.
EMDR offered at an addiction treatment center helps patients explore how trauma has contributed to addiction and how they can choose different, healthier responses if they find themselves struggling with trauma-related challenges in the future.
What to Expect from Our EMDR Trauma Therapy
The EMDR trauma therapy program at Woodland Recovery Center is designed to help patients heal from trauma as one element of a comprehensive treatment program.
We offer initial assessment and diagnosis, helping patients identify whether EMDR therapy would be an effective form of treatment. If a patient appears to be living with unhealed trauma, we recommend that they undergo EMDR therapy as part of their inpatient treatment program.
EMDR is a short-term therapy. When patients begin treatment, they meet with a therapist to discuss session goals. This typically involves identifying the traumatic events and any possible impact on mental, emotional, or behavioral health. Most patients report experiencing significant lasting benefits after undergoing just a few sessions of EMDR therapy.
What Is the Role of an EMDR Therapist?
An EMDR therapist plays a crucial role in guiding patients through the intricacies of EMDR therapy. They are specially trained to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can address their traumatic experiences.
The therapist facilitates the EMDR process by helping patients identify specific traumatic memories and teaching them the eye movement techniques used during sessions. Additionally, an effective EMDR therapist will monitor the patient’s emotional state and adjust the pace of the therapy according to their needs.
Key responsibilities of an EMDR therapist include:
- Conducting thorough assessments to determine the appropriateness of EMDR for the patient
- Establishing a strong therapeutic alliance to foster trust and safety
- Educating patients about the EMDR process and what to expect
- Assisting patients in processing traumatic memories using guided eye movements
- Monitoring and managing emotional responses during sessions
- Supporting patients in developing coping strategies for traumatic triggers
- Evaluating progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
EMDR therapy is a valuable tool for helping individuals overcome addiction and heal from trauma. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, consider seeking support from Woodland Recovery Center’s EMDR therapy in Mississippi.
Call Woodland Recovery Center to Begin Our EMDR Therapy in Mississippi
At Woodland Recovery Center, we understand that treating addiction without treating underlying trauma is unlikely to produce lasting results. Our inpatient treatment programs offer holistic support, simultaneously providing treatment for both substance use and untreated trauma.
Call us today at 662.222.2989 or contact us online to learn more about addiction treatment and EMDR therapy at Woodland Recovery Center.
