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- You want to delete something embarrassing or unpleasant from your memory? It works with eye movement therapy (EMDR)
- This is how the EMDR therapy works
- Everything just nonsense or does it really work?
You want to delete something embarrassing or unpleasant from your memory? It works with eye movement therapy (EMDR)
Delete negative memories with your eyes? That should work? Yes, with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing . This is a form of therapy in which the eye movement is supposed to cause the loss of memories.
The treatment method goes back to the psychologist Francine Shapiro . She developed the therapy for traumatized persons. The psychologist found the approach to therapy quite coincidental when she noticed that quick eye movements freed her from severe fears. In 1991, the form of therapy was introduced in Germany. Since 1999, there is the recognized German Association for EMDR, EMDRIA e. V.
This is how the EMDR therapy works
First, the patient's history of suffering is discussed. That forms the first phase . In the next step, a safe inner retreat for the therapy is sought, in which the patient can withdraw. That's phase two . Then a therapy goal is set, which should be forgotten. This can be a person or situation.
Then phase 4 comes into force. As the patient recalls the situation, the therapist moves his hand. The patient follows the hand movements with the eyes. If relief occurs at this moment, this should be anchored in phase 5 . Phase 6 tests whether the negative feeling at the thought of the situation has improved.
Everything just nonsense or does it really work?
EMDR is recognized worldwide as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. Especially after the tsunami in 2004, the treatment was used to desensitize traumatic situations in the memory of the patient.
In Germany, the treatment of health insurance is recognized. If it is performed by a medical or psychological psychotherapist with a license, the costs will be reimbursed.
Who is interested in the EMDR therapy: In this video the therapy is demonstrated.
