Addiction is a complex disease that can cause physical, mental, and emotional damage. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you may be feeling hopeless or helpless. However, there is hope. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for addiction is an effective, evidence-based approach to the treatment of substance use disorders.
The EMDR therapy program at Hammocks on the Edisto provides comprehensive, individualized care for women who are ready to break free from addiction. Our highly trained and experienced clinicians use EMDR to help those in our care process and heal from the trauma that often underlies addiction. This approach can help address the root causes of addiction and promote long-term recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out for help. The first step is to call us at 833.793.0191 or reach out online. Help and support are waiting—begin your journey today.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy was first developed in the 1980s by Francine Shapiro. EMDR therapy is based on the idea that the brain is able to process information more effectively when in a state of heightened emotion. This means that during EMDR therapy, clients are able to work through and process difficult experiences more effectively than if they were just talking about those experiences in traditional talk therapy.
Sessions involve the clinician guiding the client through a series of eye movements, taps, or tones while the client focuses on a distressing memory. As the client processes the memory, they may experience a range of emotions. These emotions are normal and are a sign that the therapy is working.
During EMDR therapy, the clinician will help the client process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. The goal is for the client to eventually be able to think about the memory without feeling distressed.
How Does EMDR Therapy Help with Addiction?
EMDR therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for addiction because it helps to address the underlying causes of addiction. This therapy can help to heal the emotional damage that addiction has caused. It can also help to break the cycle of addictive behaviors by teaching new coping skills.
Benefits of EMDR therapy for addiction include:
- A decrease in cravings – Cravings can be intense and overwhelming. They can make it difficult to stick to your goals and may lead to relapse.
- Improved sleep – Addiction can cause sleep problems. This can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to focus on recovery.
- A decrease in the frequency and intensity of flashbacks or intrusive thoughts – Past trauma can be a trigger for relapse.
- An increase in feelings of self-esteem and self-efficacy – Discovering your own strength and ability to overcome addiction can be empowering.
- An increase in the ability to cope with stress – Stress is one of the leading triggers for relapse. Learning new coping skills can help to reduce the chances of a return to use.
Building healthy coping skills is an important part of addiction recovery. EMDR therapy can help clients to develop these skills and promote long-term recovery.
How Hammocks on the Edisto Can Help Women with Substance Use Disorders Heal
Hammocks on the Edisto is a holistic treatment center for women with substance use disorders. We offer individualized treatment plans that incorporate EMDR therapy and other evidence-based treatments. Our goal is to help women heal physically, mentally, and emotionally so they can lead fulfilling lives in recovery. Every woman in our care is treated with compassion and respect.
We know that seeking treatment for addiction can be daunting. We’re here to offer support and guidance every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the first step on your journey to recovery, we encourage you to reach out today at 833.793.0191 or connect with us online.
