EMDR therapy
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and it is a therapy that has been extensively researched. EMDR helps to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories and has been found to be particularly effective in reducing anxiety and depression in individuals who have post-traumatic stress disorder (Hudays, et. al. 2022). The American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association, World Health Organization, U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies are among the many national and international organizations that recognize EMDR therapy as an effective treatment (emdria.org).
EMDR intensives
Some clients who have already been engaged in therapy, have good coping skills and support, have minimal dissociation, and are ready to do intensive trauma work in a compressed time frame may wish to engage in EMDR intensive sessions. These generally involve 3 – 4 hours on two consecutive days to facilitate progress more quickly than in weekly one-hour sessions.
Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback is biofeedback using EEG brainwaves. During neurofeedback training, EEG signals are run through a computer program that teaches clients to modify their own brainwave activity and learn to regulate and improve brain function. This can be particularly useful for improvements in symptoms of PTSD.
Hudays A, Gallagher R, Hazazi A, Arishi A, Bahari G. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing versus Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Dec 15;19(24):16836. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192416836. PMID: 36554717; PMCID: PMC9778888.