There are as many contributing factors for substance use issues as there are people who struggle with addiction. A family history of addiction, mental health struggles, and underlying trauma are just a few of the many elements that can lead to substance abuse. If you’re working toward recovery, it’s essential to not just treat the addiction but also address any underlying issues that may have contributed to it. Therapies that are specifically designed to address past trauma, for example, can be incredibly effective in helping individuals maintain their sobriety. At Texas Recovery Center, we offer eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as part of our approach to treating addiction.
This evidence-based therapy was originally developed to help individuals who have experienced trauma, but it has since been adapted to treat a variety of mental health conditions. As part of the addiction therapy programs at Texas Recovery Center, EMDR therapy can support lasting recovery.
Call 888.298.5468 today to start treatment that can give you a new path forward.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a special type of therapy used to ease the distress caused by traumatic memories. During EMDR therapy, the therapist guides the patient’s eye movements while they remember upsetting events. This process is thought to be similar to what happens during REM sleep. The goal of EMDR therapy is to help patients create new connections and pathways in their brains that can make their traumatic experiences less distressing. This therapy has great potential for people who have experienced trauma and are struggling with addiction, as it deals with the underlying cause of their substance use issues.
EMDR Therapy’s Role in Addiction Recovery
EMDR therapy serves a critical role in addiction recovery, especially for those whose substance use issues are tied to past trauma. The therapy can help in breaking the vicious cycle of addiction. Just a few of the many benefits of EMDR therapy include:
- Addressing underlying trauma – Many individuals turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with past trauma. By addressing and processing these traumatic experiences, the urge to self-medicate may diminish.
- Reducing cravings – EMDR therapy has been found to reduce cravings in people struggling with addiction. This can be incredibly helpful when it comes to maintaining sobriety.
- Improving self-esteem – Trauma can significantly impact a person’s sense of self-worth. EMDR therapy can help participants regain their confidence and improve their overall well-being.
- Managing triggers – The memories associated with past trauma can be powerful triggers for relapse. Through EMDR therapy, these triggers can become less distressing, making it easier to avoid turning to substances.
In sessions, participants will work with their therapist to identify and prioritize specific memories or events that may have contributed to their addiction. Together, they will reprocess these experiences using eye movements, sounds, or taps while the patient focuses on them. This process can help individuals let go of negative emotions attached to these memories and create new positive associations.
You’ll also be taught strategies to manage any distress that may arise during or after the session. In addition, your therapist may recommend other forms of therapy and support groups to complement your EMDR therapy sessions.
Call Texas Recovery Center Today to Get Started
At Texas Recovery Center, we understand that every person’s journey to recovery is unique. That’s why we offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including EMDR therapy, to meet the individual needs of our patients. Our experienced and compassionate team is committed to helping you overcome addiction and heal from past traumas.
To learn more about our EMDR therapy program and how it fits into our broader approach to addiction treatment, call 888.298.5468 or reach out to our team online today.
