Deeper Dive: Trauma-Focused Therapy
In my previous blog post, we explored the nature of trauma and its profound impact on our lives. These deeply buried experiences often require more than traditional talk therapy to address effectively. This is where intensive therapy can be a powerful tool. The intensive format provides the invaluable luxury of time, allowing for a deeper dive into healing. Crucially, it also allows for the focused application of trauma-specific modalities. In my practice, I mainly use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy).
What truly differentiates these modalities from traditional talk therapy? One key aspect is the use of Bilateral Stimulation (BLS).
What is Bilateral Stimulation (BLS)?
BLS engages both hemispheres of the brain, creating a unique state where the past and present coexist. This allows for a dynamic interaction between different brain regions, fostering malleability and change. Think of it as having one foot in the past and one foot in the present, enabling those parts to finally "talk" to each other.
Under the guidance of a trained clinician, BLS can be experienced through:
Eye movements: Following the therapist's hand as it moves rhythmically back and forth.
Butterfly tapping: Gently tapping on the collarbones, alternating sides.
Theratappers: Utilizing specialized devices that provide tactile BLS.
The Mystery of BLS: How does it Work?
While the precise mechanisms are still under investigation, several theories illuminate the potential benefits of BLS:
Distraction and Dual Attention: BLS acts as a gentle distraction, allowing you to remain grounded in the present while simultaneously processing challenging past experiences. This "dual attention" creates a safe space for healing.
Neural Network Activation: BLS may stimulate the brain's neural networks, promoting the formation of new connections and enhancing neuroplasticity – the brain's ability to change and adapt. This leads to improved emotional regulation and resilience.
REM Sleep Simulation: Some researchers suggest BLS mimics the brain's natural processing during REM sleep, facilitating the restructuring of traumatic memories.
Ultimately, BLS, combined with the specific protocols of EMDR or ART, enables the deep processing of unprocessed trauma.
How about EMDR and ART?
We've established that both EMDR and ART leverage Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) to help process trauma. But how do these methods actually work? Let's break it down:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): A Journey through Eight Phases
Think of EMDR as a structured exploration of your memories. It follows an eight-phase model, with the "processing" phase being where the real magic happens. Here's a glimpse:
Targeting the Memory: We start by identifying a "target" – a specific image, body sensation, or moment that triggers distress. It's often the worst part of the traumatic experience.
Measuring Distress: You'll rate the intensity of your distress on a scale of 0 to 10 (SUDS), with 0 being no distress and 10 being the most intense.
Exploring the Connections: We'll then explore the negative thoughts, intense emotions (like sadness or anger), and physical sensations linked to that target.
Following the "Thought Chain": Using BLS, you'll allow your mind to freely associate, following the "thought chain" wherever it leads. This might involve images, sensations, thoughts, and feelings.
Reprocessing and Reducing Distress: We'll revisit the target repeatedly, following new thought chains, until the distress level (SUDS) significantly decreases, ideally reaching zero.
Reinforcing Positive Beliefs: To solidify the healing, we'll develop and reinforce positive beliefs that counteract the negative ones.
ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy): Rewriting Your Story
ART, a relative of EMDR, offers a more structured and imagery-rich approach. Imagine directing your own movie:
The "Scene": In ART, we visualize the traumatic memory as a "scene" in your mind, like watching a movie.
You're the Director: You get to determine the beginning and, importantly, the ending of this "movie."
Guided Processing: With BLS, I'll guide you to focus on emotional and physical sensations, the scene itself, or other aspects of the process.
Reducing the "Charge": Like EMDR, ART uses a scale to measure distress. By working through the scene, we aim to reduce its emotional "charge."
"Keep the Knowledge, Lose the Pain": This is ART's core philosophy. It's about releasing the pain associated with the memory while retaining the valuable lessons learned.
What Does "Processed" Trauma Look Like?
"Processed" is a highly personal experience, varying from individual to individual. However, common indicators include:
Reduced Emotional Charge: The intensity of negative emotions associated with the traumatic event diminishes. Some describe this as the target feeling "faded" when they recall it.
Increased Relaxation and Lightness: A sense of relief and ease replaces feelings of anxiety and tension.
Shift in Perception: Some individuals experience a heightened sense of awareness, with colors appearing more vibrant and the world feeling more alive.
Remember that this is a highly individualized and non-linear journey. Healing from trauma requires time, patience, and acceptance of the inevitable ups and downs. If you're struggling with the effects of trauma, know that healing is possible! Exploring modalities like EMDR and ART, with their use of BLS, can offer a path towards greater emotional well-being and a brighter future.
Sources/More info: https://www.emdria.org/
https://acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com/