Is EMDR the same as hypnosis?
One of the most frequent questions I hear from clients as we begin EMDR is… “is this hypnosis? Is it like hypnosis?”. The short answer is no - EMDR is not hypnosis! There are a multitude of different defining characteristics; if you're curious about how they work and what sets them apart, you're in the right place. Let's dive into the basics and clear up any confusion!
What is EMDR?
EMDR is mainly used to help people who are struggling with traumatic memories. The idea is that when something really bad happens, sometimes our brains don't process the memory correctly, and it can cause ongoing distress. Our brains try to heal properly on their own, but sometimes they need some help. You can think of this like a broken bone that hasn’t been set right - it’s still going to heal, but it’s going to keep causing discomfort and might not function the way you need. EMDR helps reprocess these memories so they don't bother us as much.
Here's a quick rundown of how an EMDR session works:
History Taking: The therapist learns about your past and figures out which memories or experiences need work. (Note that even if you don’t have a specific experience, EMDR can still help you!)
Preparation: You and your therapist build a trusting relationship and talk about how EMDR works.
Assessment: You identify specific memories and the negative thoughts associated with them.
Desensitization: Using eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, you process the traumatic memory.
Installation: You strengthen the positive thoughts, and the negative thoughts feel less distressing.
Body Scan: You check if any physical tension remains and address it.
Closure: The session ends with making sure you're feeling okay and calm.
Reevaluation: At the start of the next session, you review your progress.
What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis, or hypnotherapy, is a bit different. It's all about getting into a trance-like state where you're super focused and relaxed. Hypnosis has been around for ages and is used for everything from pain management to changing bad habits. Hypnosis is not about moving your brain toward healing, and it doesn’t help your brain move in this direction.
Here's what happens in a typical hypnotherapy session:
Induction: The therapist helps you relax and enter a hypnotic state.
Deepening: You relax even more to deepen the trance.
Therapeutic Intervention: The therapist uses suggestions and imagery to address your specific issues.
Termination: The therapist gradually brings you out of the hypnotic state.
How Are EMDR and Hypnosis Different?
How They Work:
EMDR: Uses bilateral stimulation (like moving your eyes back and forth) to help you process traumatic memories.
Hypnosis: Puts you in a trance-like state to access your subconscious mind and make therapeutic suggestions.
Your Awareness:
EMDR: You're fully awake and aware the whole time. You actively participate in processing your memories.
Hypnosis: You're in an altered state of consciousness, more focused inwardly and open to suggestions.
Evidence and Acceptance:
EMDR: Backed by a lot of research and recognized by big organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for treating PTSD.
Hypnosis: While effective for some conditions, it doesn't have the same level of research support for treating trauma, or even for other challenges like phobias, OCD, and anxiety.
The Therapist's Role:
EMDR: The therapist guides you through a structured process, keeping you engaged and present. The therapist is not suggestive.
Hypnosis: The therapist helps you enter a trance and then gives you therapeutic suggestions.
Both EMDR and hypnosis offer unique benefits, but if you're dealing with trauma or PTSD, EMDR stands out as the more evidence-based and effective option. With extensive research backing its success, EMDR is recognized by major organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for its ability to deeply heal and reprocess traumatic memories. EMDR's structured approach ensures that traumatic experiences are thoroughly addressed and processed. If you're seeking deep healing and long-term relief from distressing memories or mental health struggles like anxiety, EMDR is likely your best bet. If you’re interested in EMDR treatment or learning more about the process, let’s chat.
