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Processing Trauma for Lasting Recovery
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful therapy that helps you process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact, supporting lasting recovery from addiction.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences. Originally developed to treat PTSD, EMDR has proven highly effective for addiction treatment because trauma often underlies substance use disorders.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—typically guided eye movements—while you recall traumatic memories. This process helps your brain reprocess these memories, reducing their emotional charge and the negative beliefs associated with them.
At Amity San Diego, our trained EMDR therapists integrate this powerful technique into our addiction treatment programs, helping clients address the traumatic experiences that may have contributed to their substance use.
EMDR follows a structured eight-phase approach that guides you safely through trauma processing.
Your therapist gathers background information and identifies target memories for processing.
Learn coping techniques and establish safety measures to manage any distress during sessions.
Identify the specific memory, associated negative beliefs, and desired positive beliefs.
Process the memory using bilateral stimulation while noticing thoughts, feelings, and body sensations.
Strengthen positive beliefs and ensure you leave each session feeling stable and grounded.
Trauma doesn't have to control your life or your recovery. Our EMDR-trained therapists can help you process painful memories and build a foundation for lasting sobriety.
Confidential. Compassionate. Available when you need us.