Dissociative disorders are psychological conditions that result in an involuntary disconnection of thoughts, identity, consciousness or memory. These disorders can be debilitating and disturbing for those who suffer from them, affecting their daily life and mental well-being. There are various ways to address dissociative disorders, and one of the therapies that has been shown to be effective in its treatment is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR therapy is a form of psychotherapeutic intervention that combines elements of different therapeutic currents, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal and sensory processing techniques. It was developed by psychotherapist Francine Shapiro in the 1980s with the initial purpose of treating post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). However, over time it has been shown that EMDR therapy can be beneficial in the treatment of a wide range of disorders, including dissociative disorders.
Fundamental principles of EMDR therapy
EMDR therapy is based on the idea that traumatic memories are not adequately stored in memory and therefore remain disturbing and active in the person's mind. Through bilateral stimulation of the brain, whether through eye movements, sounds or touch, EMDR therapy seeks to desensitize and reprocess these traumatic memories, so that they lose their negative emotional charge and are more adaptively integrated into memory. of the individual.
How is EMDR therapy applied in the treatment of dissociative disorders?
Addressing dissociative disorders with EMDR therapy requires a specialized approach adapted to specific needs. of each individual. Since dissociative disorders can involve a fragmentation of identity and memory, it is important to work carefully and gradually to avoid reactivating traumatic memories without the resources necessary to process them properly.
The EMDR therapist who Working with dissociative disorders needs to have a deep understanding of the dynamics of dissociation and the impact it can have on the person's life. It is essential to establish a safe and trusting therapeutic environment, in which the patient feels comfortable exploring their past and present experiences, without fear of being judged or retraumatized.
One of the key aspects of EMDR therapy In the treatment of dissociative disorders it is the stabilization phase. During this phase, the therapist works on strengthening the patient's internal resources, such as the ability for emotional self-regulation, the sense of internal security, and coping strategies. This is essential to prepare the patient for the deeper work of processing traumatic memories that will take place in later stages of therapy.
EMDR treatment protocol for dissociative disorders
The application of EMDR therapy in the treatment of dissociative disorders follows a specific protocol that is adapted to the particular needs of each individual. Some of the key stages of this protocol are described below:
Preparation Phase
In this initial phase, the therapist works to establish a solid therapeutic relationship with the patient, in the that trust and collaboration are fostered. The patient's internal resources are explored and strategies are developed to manage anxiety and dissociation that may arise during the therapeutic process. It is essential that the patient feels safe and empowered to address traumatic experiences in a gradual and controlled manner.
Desensitization and reprocessing
Once the patient has acquired the necessary tools to manage anxiety and dissociation, the desensitization and reprocessing phase begins. During this stage, the therapist guides the patient through reviewing traumatic memories while performing eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. The objective is for the patient to be able to adaptively integrate the emotions and sensations associated with traumatic memories, so that they stop causing discomfort and dysfunction in their daily life.
Integration and closure
Once the work of desensitizing and reprocessing traumatic memories has been completed, the therapist and patient work on integrating the adaptively processed experiences into the individual's autobiographical narrative. Coping skills are strengthened, resilience is promoted and the patient is prepared to face the future with greater security and self-confidence. Finally, a closing of the therapeutic process is carried out, in which the progress made is reviewed and strategies are discussed to maintain the benefits obtained throughout the therapy.
Important considerations
It is important to note that EMDR therapy for the treatment of dissociative disorders must be performed by therapists who are properly trained and experienced in addressing these conditions. The complexity of dissociative disorders requires a careful and specialized therapeutic approach, taking into account the unique needs of each individual and respecting their recovery process.
In addition, it is essential that the patient feels comfortable and safe. with the EMDR therapist, as therapeutic work may involve the exploration of traumatic and emotionally intense experiences. Mutual trust between therapist and patient is essential to the success of treatment and to creating a therapeutic environment in which the patient can heal and grow.
In conclusion, EMDR therapy is a valuable tool in the treatment of dissociative disorders, which can help patients adaptively process traumatic memories and regain control over their lives. With the right therapeutic approach and a well-trained therapist, EMDR therapy can be a significant step on the path to healing and recovery from dissociative disorders.