EMDR for Addictions: Treating Unconscious Attachments of Desire
EMDR is fast becoming a standard part of the major addiction treatment programs. That is because EMDR works directly with the mid-brain to desensitize touchstone traumas and desensitize current triggers which drive current addictive behavior. EMDR goes to a deeper processing level than teaching and cognitive-behavioral therapies, which don’t impact the way the memories are stored in the body/mind.
When using EMDR:
- We help define current triggers that cause relapse and acting out
- We select which triggers to use as targets for desensitization
- We use EMDR to let the current triggers guide us to ‘touchstone’ events that are the source of static, maladaptive memories
- EMDR can be used directly to address the ‘arousal template’ and to reduce its charge
- We teach state change techniques for relaxation and to help shift brain states
- We use EMDR to build and expand positive, adaptive neuro-networks to provide and interal source of strength and support
- EMDR teaches the ability to stay with uncomfortable feelings and emotions so they can resolve and integrate