A Therapist Debunks 9 Common Myths About EMDR Therapy

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EMDR therapy is an effective approach for treating trauma and other emotional challenges. But like any therapeutic method, there are plenty of misunderstandings. The following are some common myths surrounding EMDR therapy. We'll help set the record straight and provide clarity to help you make informed decisions about your mental health.

Myth 1: EMDR Therapy is Only for Combat Veterans

One prevalent myth is that EMDR therapy is only for combat veterans dealing with PTSD. And sure, that's how it initially gained traction in the mental health world. Lots of research has been done on its effectiveness for veterans. But it is not limited to this group. EMDR is suitable for a wide range of individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma. It’s been studied in diverse populations and is effective for many people and issues.

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Myth 2: EMDR Therapy is a "Quick Fix"

Some believe that EMDR therapy offers a "quick fix" for trauma or emotional issues. Some might go so far as to imply that it provides immediate results. It's true that EMDR can be quicker than other treatment methods. But EMDR is a structured therapy that involves multiple sessions. The pace of progress can vary from person to person. Some people need a lot of preparation and resourcing. Others can breeze right through it. To read about the 8 phases of EMDR, see here.

Myth 3: EMDR Erases Memories

A common misconception is that EMDR therapy erases traumatic memories. EMDR does not erase memories at all. What is does is help process and reframe traumatic memories so that they are less distressing. There's not Spotless Mind trick we know of; and if you've seen Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, you know it's not a good idea to try.

Myth 4: EMDR is Hypnosis or Mind Control

Nope. Not at all. At any point during EMDR, you can get up and leave. EMDR is not about control. It's about assisting people in reprocessing traumatic memories to reduce their impact.

Some people report feeling they're in a meditative state. But this meditative state is voluntary. You can come back to normal alertness whenever you want.

Myth 5: EMDR Therapy Only Uses Eye Movements

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EMDR therapy originally only involved eye movements. But over the years it has evolved to include other forms of bilateral stimulation too. Therapists can use hand tapping, auditory tones, or other methods to facilitate the EMDR process. You can read more about that in this blog post about different types of bilateral stimulation.

Myth 6: EMDR Therapy Doesn't Work

There is a misconception that EMDR therapy is not effective or that it only works for some people. EMDR's effectiveness and explain that outcomes can vary based on individual circumstances. But the research is pretty clear: EMDR is an evidence-based treatment. If you’ve tried EMDR and it wasn’t effective, or you know someone it didn’t work for, there are many reasons for this.

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Myth 7: EMDR Doesn’t Work Online

This one has been debunked relatively recently, so it’s okay if you thought it was true. But the EMDR International Association took time during the pandemic to really study this. Turns out, it definitely works online. What matters is that you feel safe and understood by your therapist, and that your therapist has been properly trained. You can read more about the effectiveness of online EMDR here.

Myth 8: EMDR is a One-Size-Fits-All Approach

EMDR therapy is NOT a one-size-fits-all approach. EMDR is highly individualized, with therapists tailoring the treatment to your needs. Trust us, if we could create a one-size-fits-all approach, we’d create an app and retire.

Myth 9: Self-Help Apps Can Replace EMDR Therapy

Self-help apps cannot fully replace the need for EMDR therapy with a trained therapist. If you see apps or programs suggesting you can do EMDR on yourself, proceed with caution. Though the side-to-side eye movement or tapping is simple, the actual neurological process is complex. It's best left to a fully trained person instead of an app.

Truth: EMDR Is Safe and Effective When Done Properly By A Trained Therapist

EMDR therapy is a valuable and evidence-based approach for trauma and emotional healing. We hope you have a clearer understanding of what EMDR therapy entails. If you have questions or are considering EMDR therapy for yourself or a loved one, don't hesitate to reach out. After a free consultation, we can provide you with the guidance and support you need on your journey to healing and well-being.