The mental health realm, specifically where trauma recovery is concerned, continues to evolve. Therapeutic options are expanding to offer individuals a diverse spectrum of possibilities for healing.
Two of the more prominent methods you may be familiar with are eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and hypnosis. These approaches may get confused with each other due to their unique engagement with the mind, but they are fundamentally different in the structure of their practice.
When exploring these options for your healing journey, understanding the difference between them is essential so you can make the most informed decision.
Understanding EMDR
EMDR has gained popularity in recent years for its transformative capabilities. Originally designed for the treatment of PTSD, it has become a go-to practice for a variety of mental health concerns.
EMDR works by helping your brain reprocess “stuck” memories that are associated with a past trauma or other negative experience. While you focus on a target memory, a therapist guides you through a series of bilateral stimulation. These often include guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues.
The goal of EMDR isn’t to erase these memories. Instead, it helps you process them correctly and reduce any negative emotional charge they have.
The Structure of EMDR
EMDR consists of eight phases, going through the cycle for each individual target memory. Incorporating bilateral stimulation works to simulate your brain’s natural REM sleep state, during which healing and recovery occur.
This approach helps to work through negative experiences from a different perspective rather than reliving them all over again. In some instances, EMDR can even be used for positive experiences to reinforce them most effectively.
Understanding Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a voluntary state of heightened sensitivity and focused attention. During a hypnosis session, you’re transitioned into a trance-like state where your conscious mind becomes more relaxed. In doing so, you’re allowing your subconscious mind the opportunity to be more receptive to change.
Contrary to what is often depicted in movies or television, when under hypnosis, you’re still involved and in control of your situation. You won’t be forced into doing anything you don’t want to do.
What Happens During Hypnosis
Getting into the relaxed state often involves guided breathing techniques and visualization. Once you reach the desired point, the real work begins. With your therapist, you’ll begin:
Changing negative thought patterns
Reducing anxiety
Addressing specific behaviors you’d like to change
Key Differences Between EMDR and Hypnosis
Interaction with Your Mind
The main difference between the two approaches is how each one works with your mind. EMDR helps you process your existing memories that became stuck during the traumatic/negative experience and were never filed appropriately.
Hypnosis works by way of suggestion — giving hints to your subconscious mind to create new cognitive patterns and behavioral responses.
Level of Awareness
During EMDR, you are fully aware throughout the process. You’re an active participant in the reprocessing of your memories.
With hypnosis, you’re still alert, but you do enter into an altered state. During these sessions, you may be less aware of your surroundings.
Approach to Trauma
With trauma, EMDR will directly target the actual memories themselves. You actively work with a selected memory during your sessions.
Hypnosis, on the other hand, doesn’t generally require you to focus directly on your trauma. Instead, you focus your efforts on how you respond and on making proactive changes to your reactions.
Which Approach Is Right for You?
The choice between EMDR and hypnosis is personal and depends on several factors, including specific concerns, comfort level, and desired goals. No matter which you use, the rapport you build with your therapist and ensuring that you feel safe during your journey are also important.
If you’re ready to explore how EMDR Treatment might help you process trauma and build resilience, I’m here to support you on that journey.