Candidate For Emdr

[Ayriad]

My therapist wants me to try emdr. My problem is she wont be the one doing it. They have another therapist in the office who does. It took me forever to trust my therapist. I will be so scared going to someone i don't know and trust. I am scared of new people, can't stand to be touched, or even close to a new person. Heck I won't even sit near some family members. I have to stand up. Hubs and I are concerned about the flashing lights. I had a seizure disorder due to a med awhile back. I have been seizure free for 3 years, one of my triggers is flashing lights another is sound. I font know what to do! I dint want her to think I dint want to get well, but I am terrified if seeing a new person!

 

[watundah]

If you have doubts, dont do it. You hold the reins and no one can force you. My spouse has a seizure disorder so I understand your hesitation. EMDR is not your only path to recovery. Fear and mistrust are also huge speed bumps. Maybe later? It's ok to not be ready.

 

[Marymickaela]

My therapist wants me to try emdr. My problem is she wont be the one doing it. They have another therapis...

I just started EMDR recently with a new therapist (since April). We spent the 1st two months just getting to know each other. She doesn't do traditional EMDR. I put headphones on and listen to tones which go back and forth. R ear, L ear. I set the speed and volume of the tones. She never touches me. I am able to close my eyes and immerse myself in the session.

I tried EMDR with someone else about 3 years ago and she used her finger in front of my face. First of all we weren't a good fit and it annoyed the hell out of me to have her finger waving in front of my face which meant I had to keep my eyes open. I didn't stay with her very long and returned to traditional therapy for the next two years. But all we were doing was checking in once a month. I knew I needed more.

I love my current therapist. While we're doing EMDR she sits in a chair to my left and talks as little as possible. Like if I get stuck or start having anxiety she'll tell me to just notice it or asks me where in my body am I feeling the anger and says to just notice the anger. Last week I was able to get in touch with the 4yo me. I was actually that little girl lying in bed listening to my dad beat my mom. I was so afraid. My therapist asked if the adult me could comfort that little girl and I said "yes", and I did. There's a lot more to it, but you get the picture. When I took the headset off tears were flowing down my face. EMDR for me, with this therapist is amazing.

I think you should at least give it a try. I've probably gotten more out of the last 4 months then the last 10 years of traditional therapy.

So ask this new therapist if she has a less intrusive way to do EMDR. Tell her about your concerns. If she's good, she'll listen. Good luck.

 

[Joan]

I would be scared to do with a new one as well and would definitely ask if you would start right in or build a relationship of trust first. Another option to light or sound is buzzers held in your hands that you can control speed or the light buzz. There is absolutely no need for her to touch you
It is a method that is great for some, but definitely not for all. Best wishes.

 

[Truthful_Whispers]

Maybe this video will help you see ahead of time what a session can be like. My sessions used the light bouncing back and forth, with audi cues. But, I believe not everyone uses the light.

 

[seedling]

That video is similar to my current EMDR sessions. I use the thera-tappers as well has have headphones on with the sound of waves. I get to pick what audio recording I want and I set the volume myself.

My therapist sits in a chair next to me and quietly takes note. I close my eyes the whole time and am immersed in the memory. I do that for a few minutes then tell her what was going on. Right now I am working on a memory from when I was 3. It has so many layers to it. My negative cognitions are losing their hold.

My therapist will suggest that my "Self" be there and help me in the memory. We are also doing parts work - where I am in the memory as my different parts, esp. the ones experiencing the pain in all its different ways from back then. Other parts can help or take charge if needed.

Has your therapist offered to be there with you while doing (or going for a consultation about) the EMDR? I think she would want to address every barrier you might have to doing EMDR successfully before you try it.Try to overcome your fear of telling her what you need. There's no shame in not being able to do therapy a certain way if it's not a fit for you.

That's great that you have your husband's support and can talk to him about your reservations. Can he go with you to discuss things with your therapist? You have your own special considerations to take into account no matter what therapy you try.

 

[Ayriad]

I know some are trying to reassure me, but the thought of somebody sitting beside me is terrifying!!! I can't stand anyone but hubs within 4 feet of me. We have decided to forego it for now. He is very supportive and does not want me to be hurt.
Thanks to all for your input.
Ps. If you had a successful emdr are you cured of ptsd?

 

[Truthful_Whispers]

I know some are trying to reassure me, but the thought of somebody sitting beside me is terrifying!!! I c...

Currently, as far as I know, there is no cure for it. EMDR helps someone to manage the illness better and alleviate some of the symptoms.

 

[Joan]

not trying to sway your opinion, but my therapist sits across the room, not next to you.
You have to do what feels right for you at this moment and that is not to say that down the road it might be something you try. Take care of you,