By April Lyons MA, LPC
When you’re looking at different therapy options, there isn’t one perfect choice out there. You don’t need to search for one that wins compared to the rest. What you want to find is one that meets your needs and allows you to feel comfortable while seeking treatment. This all starts with gaining a good understanding of the approach.
Let’s look at eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and hypnosis or hypnotherapy, for example. Both are great options utilized by specially trained therapists in addressing mental health concerns.
On a basic level, you may view the two as very similar concepts. EMDR is a type of psychotherapy that originated in trauma intervention but has expanded to many other uses. Hypnosis, on the other hand, is more of an alternative approach. It uses certain meditation and guided imagery to achieve a mental state where you can process things more effectively.
As much as the two do share some similarities, their differences are worth noting.
Basic Differences
EMDR’s unique central focus is on bilateral stimulation. The premise of this approach is that negative memories don’t always get processed correctly, thus becoming stuck.
A series of taps, auditory stimuli, and side-to-side eye movements are used to mimic your REM sleep cycles. Once this state is achieved, you’re able to tap into your negative memories and process them correctly.
With hypnosis, you’ll practice breathing exercises, go through meditation exercises, and participate in guided imagery to reach a state of suggestibility. This is a great tool to process certain thoughts or emotions you may be experiencing.
EMDR and Goals
The use of EMDR typically will address more goals compared to hypnosis. At the surface level, hypnosis will most likely target one very specific goal. It’s a relatively short process.
EMDR requires a structured therapy session and will tackle bigger, broader goals. Not only is the approach aimed at processing targeted memories, but it also alleviating symptoms and managing trauma or another condition.
The Focus
Either approach is going to work with negative or traumatic elements, whether it’s memories or thoughts. EMDR is more of an external approach. Yes, you’re targeting a memory, but much of the method comes from bilateral stimulation. These eye movements, taps, and/or sounds are used to help keep you grounded while accessing a specific area of the brain.
Hypnosis is more of an internal approach. You’re being directed towards a calm state of mind using imagery and internal thoughts.
The Approach to Treatment
EMDR is known to be a “faster” approach than other traditional talk therapy methods, however, it does follow a protocol. There are eight phases and that includes taking a history, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scanning, closure, and reevaluation.
Typically it takes as few as six to 12 sessions for this to be effective. In order to utilize EMDR, the therapist has to have special training in EMDR practices.
Hypnosis, as an alternative method, does not have a standard approach. You may see a variance in implementation from therapist to therapist. There isn’t a structure it follows and no expected timeline.
Level of Awareness
When you’re participating in EMDR, you’re in a state of conscious awareness at all times. You’re actively involved in the process, interacting with the bilateral stimulation to reach the point where you can process your stuck memories.
During a hypnosis session, you’re still aware of your surroundings, but you’re guided to a deeply relaxed state where your mind can let its guard down. You reach a point of heightened suggestibility where you’re more open to positive beliefs to shift negative behavior.
Ready to Learn More?
Are you interested in learning about the benefits of EMDR therapy or hypnosis for your personal circumstances? Reach out to us to today and schedule your first appointment.
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