4 Types of Bilateral Stimulation in EMDR
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a unique and research-backed therapy that helps when more traditional forms of talk therapy are ineffective. What makes it so distinct is the role of “bilateral stimulation” in EMDR, which helps you process and manage distressing memories and perceptions of yourself.
While EMDR was created using eye movements, there are other types of bilateral stimulation in EMDR. Let’s explore 4 of them.
The Science Behind Bilateral Stimulation
Your brain is constantly processing information and experiences. When you experience a traumatic event, your brain processes it differently than other memories. Instead of integrating the memory smoothly, it might become “stuck” or unprocessed, leading to distressing symptoms like flashbacks or anxiety.
Bilateral stimulation in EMDR plays a special role in addressing these traumatic memories. Here’s how:
Dual Attention: Bilateral stimulation requires the brain to pay attention to two things at once: the distressing memory and the external bilateral stimulus. This dual attention might help the brain reprocess the memory more effectively.
Activation of Both Brain Hemispheres: Bilateral stimulation activates both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. By doing so, it allows for improved communication between parts of the brain responsible for memory, emotion, and rational thinking.
Stimulation of the Brain’s Adaptive Information Processing System: It’s also believed that the bilateral stimulation in EMDR could activate the brain’s natural ability to heal and reprocess memories. By tapping into this system, traumatic memories may become more adaptive and less distressing.
4 Types of Bilateral Stimulation
While EMDR was formulated using eye movements, studies have demonstrated that any type of bilateral stimulation can be effective–it’s about finding what works for you, under the care of an EMDR-certified clinician. Here are 4 common types of bilateral stimulation, how they differ, and their unique benefits.
1. Eye Movements
One of EMDR’s most distinctive features is the use of specific guided eye movements. Originally, this was the cornerstone of the technique. It’s the “E” in EMDR – Eye Movement.
So, how does it work?
During a session, your EMDR therapist will hold their fingers or another object about a foot from your face. They’ll then move it horizontally from left to right, guiding your eyes along. Your job is simply to follow the movement without moving your head.
The ultimate goal is to facilitate the bilateral stimulation in EMDR that can allow you to process distressing memories and negative beliefs about yourself. The eye movements are designed to mimic the natural rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep, which is associated with dream processing.
While engaging in these eye movements, you will process distressing memories and beliefs in a safe and controlled environment, allowing your brain to reframe and heal from traumatic events. This reframing can lead to a reduction in the emotional charge of these memories, promoting a sense of closure and emotional release.
2. Tactile Bilateral Stimulation
Another common form of bilateral stimulation in EMDR is tactile stimulation. It is also commonly called “tapping,” though tapping is not the only example of tactile bilateral stimulation.
Your EMDR therapist guides you to tap bilaterally, alternating between the left and right side, similar to the left-right movement of the eyes in the traditional method.
Tactile stimulation offers a direct, sensory connection that can be more grounding for some people. By physically engaging in the therapy process, you’re not just mentally reprocessing traumatic memories; you’re also feeling the therapeutic process in a tangible way.
For many, this tactile approach can help bridge the gap between cognitive understanding and emotional healing, enhancing the overall effectiveness of their EMDR experience.
3. Auditory Bilateral Stimulation
Auditory bilateral stimulation is essentially the strategic use of sound to facilitate the therapeutic process.
Here’s how it works: During a session, you might wear headphones or earbuds. Through these, you’ll hear sounds that alternate between your left and right ear. It could be a series of beeps, tones, or even gentle waves. The key is the alternating pattern, designed specifically to engage both hemispheres of your brain, much like the eye movements or tactile tapping.
For some, auditory stimulation feels less intrusive or simply more comfortable. It allows for a passive engagement; you only need to listen. Individuals who might be visually impaired, or those who find tactile methods distracting, often find this approach more accommodating.
The rhythmic nature of the sounds can be deeply soothing, potentially making the process of confronting traumatic memories a bit more manageable.
4. Bilateral Stimulation Devices
Specialized bilateral stimulation devices are tools developed to enhance the EMDR process. Here are some examples of devices:
A light bar that guides your eyes in that left-to-right movement without the therapist manually prompting you.
Headphones that are fine-tuned to deliver alternating sounds to each ear, ensuring that the auditory stimulation is just right for the session.
Vibrating hand-held devices that eliminate your need to tap. Instead of tapping, you just grip handles that vibrate, effectively activating both sides of your brain.
These devices offer varying speeds and intensity levels. Your therapist will adjust them based on your preferences and therapeutic needs.
Instead of relying on their fingers or external sounds, therapists can use devices that offer precision and consistency. This can be especially beneficial in ensuring that the bilateral stimulation in EMDR remains consistent throughout a session.
Combining Different Types of Stimulation
The human mind and its reactions are diverse. While one form of stimulation might resonate deeply with one individual, it might not have the same impact on another. Even within a single person, the response can vary based on the memory being addressed or the day’s emotional state.
By blending different stimulations – for example, eye movements with tactile tapping or auditory cues – therapists can tailor sessions to fit your immediate needs and responses.
Long-Term Benefits of EMDR
Here’s an overview of the EMDR’s long-term benefits:
Boost your confidence and self-worth
Foster a more stable emotional state
Alleviate the burden of distressing memories
Help you cope with challenges
Lessen symptoms of depression and anxious feelings
Enhance the quality of your sleep
Alleviate trauma-related physical discomfort
Increase your ability to handle future stress
Enrich the quality of your personal relationships
Rekindle a feeling of optimism and hope
Experience a heightened satisfaction with life overall.
How FITS, in Maryland and DC, Can Help
At Fearlessly Inspired Therapeutic Solutions (FITS) in Maryland and DC, we believe that healing is a deeply personal journey. Our approach is centered around your unique needs, taking the time to understand and determine the best form of bilateral stimulation for you.
We understand that navigating through traumatic memories can be deeply challenging. However, at FITS in Maryland and DC, our experienced team will provide you with guidance and support to safely process these experiences. Throughout our collaboration, your well-being will always be our top priority. We will utilize effective techniques that have proven to bring about meaningful and lasting change.
Reach Out Today
If you want to know more about EMDR, contact us so we can take the first step toward healing together! You can also call us at (301) 679-7753
