While you’re probably aware of the benefits of acupuncture, massage, and fitness during addiction recovery, one of the lesser-known holistic addiction therapies offered by AToN Center is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Founded by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR therapy uses eye movements to help clients recover from the traumatic experiences that can have a detrimental impact on brain circuits.
If you began using drugs or alcohol to dull the pain of a debilitating trauma, you’re not alone. Over half of those recovering from addiction have experienced trauma. EMDR is a proven method accepted by the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This advanced technique is now offered by cutting-edge addiction treatment centers as a way of dealing with difficult memories and “rebooting the brain” to think about them in a healthier way.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a form of psychotherapy. During an EMDR session, clients are prompted to revisit traumatic moments and remember their feelings and thoughts. Credentialed addiction therapists then stimulate the mind and eyes with tapping or finger movements while they lead you think about pleasant memories and experiences. During the eye movements that take place in EMDR sessions, clients are thought to “reprocess” painful experiences and exchange feelings of anxiety or anger for a more peaceful, healthy outlook. EMDR has shown to help first-time clients as well as those struggling with routine relapse issues. According to the California Mental Research Institute, this cutting-edge therapy is “an important addition to the treatment of substance abuse.”
Is EMDR for Me?
AToN Center believes in the power of holistic therapy: for managing withdrawal symptoms, handling stress, and improving overall well-being. While EMDR is not for everyone, we offer it as part of our customizable treatment packages. Our luxury San Diego addiction treatment facility is committed to helping clients address past traumatic experiences so they can live free from the fear and sadness that drives them to addiction. To speak with a therapist about EMDR or begin your drug and alcohol addiction program at AToN Center, call 888.535.1516 today.
