At the Amazonite Treatment Center in Riverside, we are proud to offer EMDR Therapy, an evidence-based, effective in-person treatment for those seeking to overcome psychological stress and trauma. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing a path to healing and well-being through this innovative therapy.
Understanding EMDR Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a non-traditional type of psychotherapy that’s growing in popularity, particularly for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD often occurs after experiences such as military combat, physical assault, sexual abuse, abusive relationship issues, car accidents, and other traumatic experiences. Although EMDR is a relatively new therapeutic technique, it’s one that’s been rigorously researched and proven effective for treating trauma.
At its core, EMDR aims to replace negative or traumatic thoughts tied to past experiences with less distressing thoughts and beliefs. Instead of focusing on the traumatic event itself, it allows the brain to resume its natural healing process. For many, this can mean fewer therapy sessions, less talking about the distressing issue, and quicker relief when compared to traditional methods of psychotherapy.
Why Choose Amazonite Treatment Center for EMDR Therapy?
The Amazonite Treatment Center is a premier institution for EMDR therapy in Riverside. Our certified EMDR therapists are not only highly skilled and certified but also bring empathy and understanding to each session. We prioritize creating a treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs, considering their unique experiences and healing journey.
Our holistic approach combines EMDR therapy with supportive counseling to ensure the most effective treatment. Our goal is to provide a haven where clients can focus on their therapy without the distractions of everyday life, in a serene environment conducive to healing and improving overall wellness.
The EMDR Therapy Process
The EMDR therapy process is comprehensive and involves the following steps:
- History-taking session – Our therapists will discuss your history to better understand the challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve impacted you.
- Preparation – We’ll teach you several different ways to handle emotional distress to ensure you’re comfortable before proceeding with the treatment.
- Assessment – This phase involves discussing a specific traumatic memory and identifying the belief you hold about yourself in relation to this event (e.g., “I am powerless”).
- Desensitization – While focusing on the memory, you’ll engage in EMDR processing using bilateral stimulation, which could include eye movements, taps, or tones.
- Installation – The positive belief you’ve identified will be strengthened and associated with the memory.
- Body scan – After each set of bilateral movements, you’ll be asked to let your mind go blank and notice the physical sensations you’re feeling.
- Closure – Your therapist will help you return to a state of equilibrium, regardless of whether the distressing memory has been fully processed.
- Reevaluation – At the beginning of the next session, your therapist will check to ensure that the benefits of the last session have been maintained and to see if you’re ready to move on to the next traumatic memory.
EMDR Therapy for Addiction and Dual Diagnosis
Addiction is often a complex issue, intertwined with underlying psychological factors, including trauma. When an individual suffers from both an addiction and a mental health disorder—a condition known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders—treatment can be particularly challenging. EMDR therapy is a valuable tool in addressing the multifaceted nature of addiction and dual diagnosis.
Uncovering the Root Causes of Addiction
EMDR therapy is a trauma-informed therapy that helps individuals uncover and process the psychological traumas that may contribute to their addictive behaviors. These underlying traumas can be key contributors to the cycle of addiction, as individuals often use substances or addictive behaviors to self-medicate and numb painful emotions and memories.
Reprocessing Traumatic Memories
During EMDR therapy sessions at Amazonite Treatment Center, clients are guided to revisit traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment. The bilateral stimulation techniques used in EMDR specialize in reprocessing these memories and past trauma, diminishing their emotional impact and helping to reduce the reliance on substances or addictive behaviors as a coping mechanism.
Addressing Co-occurring Disorders
For those with a dual diagnosis, EMDR therapy provides a dual benefit—not only can it help clients in the treatment of addiction, but also addresses other mental health disorders simultaneously. By processing trauma and reducing the distress associated with it, symptoms of mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, and panic attacks, often decrease, which in turn can decrease the urge to use substances.
Enhancing Self-Esteem and Self-Control
A vital part of recovery from addiction is the rebuilding of self-esteem and the development of self-control. EMDR therapy fosters a relearning process, where clients can dissociate feelings of shame and guilt from their identities. As clients process their traumas and begin to see themselves as separate from their addictive behaviors, they often gain increased confidence and a sense of mastery over their choices.
Integrative Treatment for Comprehensive Recovery
At Amazonite Treatment Center, we recognize that addiction and dual diagnoses require an integrative approach to treatment. We often combine EMDR therapy with other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group therapy, and medication management, if needed, to provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the client’s unique circumstances.
Continuing Support for Lasting Change
ecovery from addiction and dual diagnosis is a journey that extends beyond the therapy sessions. Amazonite Treatment Center provides ongoing support to help individuals apply the coping mechanisms learned through EMDR in their daily lives, promoting lasting change and preventing relapse.
Through the specialized application of EMDR therapy, clients at Amazonite Treatment Center are not just treating symptoms—they are engaging in a transformative healing process that targets the root of their struggles, paving the way for a sustained recovery and a brighter future.
Integrative Approaches with EMDR
Our approach to EMDR therapy is integrative, meaning we often combine it with other therapeutic modalities. We believe this not only enhances EMDR’s effects but also addresses the person as a whole. Our therapists may incorporate mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other techniques that complement EMDR, ensuring a holistic path to recovery.
Embrace Transformation with EMDR Therapy at Amazonite Treatment Center
EMDR therapy at Amazonite Treatment Center is more than a treatment; it’s a transformative experience that facilitates profound psychological change. Our dedicated specialists, tailored approaches, and supportive environment are all part of our commitment to your healing.
Whether you are dealing with the effects of trauma or other psychological stresses, our EMDR therapy services are here to support you on your journey toward recovery. Get in touch with us to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
The EMDR therapy treatment approach is unique in its use of bilateral stimulation to directly affect the way the brain processes information. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses less on the traumatic event itself and more on the disturbing emotions and symptoms that result from the event. The goal of EMDR is to allow the brain to resume its natural healing process.
The rate at which you will see results from EMDR therapy can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of their issues. Some clients report relief from traumatic memories after just a few sessions, while others may require a longer period. Your therapist will work with you to set realistic expectations for your treatment.
Absolutely. While EMDR is well-known for its success in treating PTSD, it is also effective for a variety of other issues, including anxiety, depression, panic disorders, eating disorders, and addiction. The therapy helps individuals process and integrate traumatic or difficult experiences, which can be beneficial for many mental health conditions.
Preparing for your first EMDR session involves coming with an open mind and a willingness to engage in the process. It may be helpful to think about what issues you’d like to address and to gather any questions you might have about the process. Remember, our therapists are here to guide you through each step and make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Contact Amazonite Today
Amazonite Treatment Center cultivates a safe, comfortable environment for patients and families across California to be emotionally connected to their treatment provider. Our recovery management and alumni programs support a life-long recovery. Your journey to recovery doesn’t end with day treatment, outpatient, or another level of care, once you’re with Amazonite, you’re always with Amazonite.