Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that can be difficult to manage. There are a variety of treatments available, including medication and therapy. EMDR therapy is a relatively new form of therapy that has been shown to be effective in treating bipolar disorder. In this blog post, we will discuss what EMDR therapy is, how it works, and who can benefit from it.
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What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a type of psychotherapy that uses eye movements, or other forms of bilateral stimulation. This help relieves psychological distress related to traumatic life experiences. EMDR helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories and beliefs that are often at the root of bipolar disorder symptoms.
How Does EMDR Therapy For Bipolar Work?
During an EMDR session, the therapist will use different forms of bilateral stimulation. This can include side-to-side eye movements (as in traditional EMDR therapy), tapping, or sound pulses. The client follows these stimuli with their eyes while focusing on a particular memory or thought. As the person focuses on this memory or belief, they may begin to experience feelings and body sensations related to the experience. The therapist will then help the client process these feelings and thoughts in a safe and secure environment.
Benefits Of EMDR Therapy For Bippolar
Here are the potential benefits of EMDR therapy for bipolar:
- Improved mood stability: EMDR helps individuals to process traumatic memories and experiences which can reduce the severity of manic or depressive episodes.
- Increased self-awareness: EMDR allows individuals to gain insight into their own thoughts and feelings which can lead to greater self-understanding.
- Improved communication skills: EMDR helps individuals to communicate better with others, which can lead to improved relationships.
- Reduced anxiety and depression: EMDR can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression that often accompany bipolar disorder.
8 Phases Of EMDR Therapy For Bipolar Disorder
Here are the 8 phases of EMDR therapy for bipolar disorder:
History Taking
The therapist will obtain a detailed history of the client’s life experiences and any associated symptoms. In this, the therapist will explore any potential triggers or experiences that may be contributing to the client’s current situation. This includes the patient’s behavioral and emotional health.
Preparation
The therapist will provide the client with education on how EMDR works and help them to identify a target memory or belief related to the disorder. This includes strategies to manage distress and stressors when they arise.
Assessment
The therapist will assess the target memory or belief by asking about the intensity of associated emotions, images, and body sensations. They will also determine whether the client is ready for the reprocessing phase. This includes cognitive and emotional assessments.
Desensitization
The therapist will then use bilateral stimulation to help the client reprocess the target memory or belief. This can include eye movements, tapping, or sound. In this phase, the therapist will help the client to identify any new insights or changes in their feelings related to the target memory or belief.
Installation
The therapist will then help the client to install any new insights or changes in their feelings related to the target memory or belief. This can include visualization, positive affirmations, or talk therapy.
Body Scan
The therapist will use a body scan to identify any physical sensations that are associated with the targeted memory or belief. This can include muscle tension, tightness in the chest, or headaches.
Closure
The therapist will provide closure and review any new insights or changes that the client has experienced during the session. They will also provide techniques for managing distress and stressors in day-to-day life.
Re-evaluation
The therapist will re-evaluate the target memory or belief to determine if there have been any changes in the intensity of associated feelings, images, and body sensations. This can include further EMDR sessions if needed to further process the target memory or belief.
How To Start The EMDR Therapy For Treating Bipolar?
Here are the steps to begin EMDR therapy for treating bipolar:
- Find a qualified therapist: It is important to find a licensed mental health professional who has experience in providing EMDR therapy for bipolar disorder.
- Prepare for the session: Before your first session, it can help to gather information about your experiences and feelings related to bipolar disorder. This can include any triggers or events that have affected you.
- Discuss your goals with the therapist: During the initial session, let your therapist know what you would like to achieve through EMDR therapy. The therapist will be able to provide guidance on whether EMDR is suitable for you and how it can help you achieve these goals.
- Set up a regular treatment plan: After the initial session, you and your therapist can come up with a regular treatment plan. This will include how often you will meet, what techniques will be used in each session, and any other goals or objectives that you have discussed.
- Make sure to follow through: Throughout the EMDR therapy process, it is important to continue participating and engaging in the sessions. This can help ensure that you get the most out of the therapy experience. This helps you to make progress toward achieving your goals.
Can EMDR Cure Bipolar?
It is possible, around 85 percent of individuals with bipolar disorder can be successfully treated with EMDR, but it should not be seen as a ‘cure’. The symptoms of bipolar disorder may appear to improve and the intensity of associated emotions or thoughts may lessen; however, it is important to note that complete recovery from bipolar disorder cannot be guaranteed.
It is important to speak to your mental health professional. Whenever you consider using EMDR therapy as part of your treatment plan for bipolar disorder.
Conclusion
EMDR therapy for bipolar can help individuals to manage symptoms associated with the disorder. This also helps to gain insight into their own thoughts and feelings. The 8 phases of EMDR therapy are essential in providing a safe and secure environment. This helps in processing memories or beliefs related to bipolar disorder. With the right support, individuals can make progress towards feeling more stable and empowered within themselves.
For more information, please contact MantraCare. Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. If you have any queries regarding Online Bipolar Disorder Counseling experienced therapists at MantraCare can help: Book a trial Bipolar Disorder therapy session
