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July 07 2024

Tips for Telehealth

Author AM Nelson Categories Therapy

In 2022, telehealth for mental and emotional health care became the most common type of telehealth being practiced in the United States. While telehealth is now common, practical, and widely accepted, it may be a new experience for you. If technology feels intimidating or if you don’t have much experience using web conferencing, preparation can be very helpful. For experts and those new to telehealth, here are a few tips to keep in mind to prepare for a positive experience. 

Prepare Yourself Before a Telehealth Therapy Session

  • Treat a telehealth session like an office session by reserving the time for yourself.
  • Prepare your body by planning meals and restroom use before the session.
  • Avoid multitasking during a telehealth session by refraining from other distractions, such as household chores, watching television, preparing meals, or smoking. 

Prepare Your Space Before a Telehealth Therapy Session

  • Locate yourself in a quiet space where you won’t be overheard or disturbed.  This may be in a bedroom, a private office, a parked car, or a walk-in closet. 
  • If you live with others, request that they do not disturb you during your session.
  • To reduce roommates or family members from overhearing your session, consider placing a white noise machine, a fan, or a music speaker outside the room you are utilizing for the session. 
  • Bring comfort items, such as water or a beverage, and tissues.
  • Some clients like to take notes for themselves in sessions.  You might want to have easy access to a journal or paper and a pen. 

Prepare Your Technology Before a Telehealth Therapy Session

  •  Test that your device has a working camera and microphone, whether that is your computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. For EMDR eye movements, a screen that is 20” diagonal or larger is best.
  • Set up your device where you can sit comfortably without having to hold or move your device.
  • Set up where a light source is in front of you, not behind you. Being backlit typically results in you being in shadows, and your therapist will not be able to see you. A light source may be a window, a lamp, a ring light, or a light built in your web camera.
  • Ensure your speakers and microphone are not directly next to each other to avoid audio feedback noise or use headphones. 
  • Headphones or earbuds with a microphone can be helpful to improve sound quality and maintain privacy. 
  • Ensure your device is either plugged into a power source or has a full battery.
  • Check your internet connection in your preferred space.
  • You can test your internet performance speed at Speedtest.net. Download speeds of 30 or more, and upload speeds of 8 or more, with low latency scores, provide better synchronization of web conferencing video.  
  • Closing other tabs, windows, or applications on your device can improve the speed performance.
  • Clearing browser history, cache, and cookies can increase your device’s performance. 
  • Request that others refrain from stressing the Wi-Fi system and delay tasks such as large downloads or streaming so that your internet connection is not slowed.
  • Check that your device has the latest version of the web conferencing software by either opening the program in your browser or your app store. 
  • Another way to test your software is to follow the link emailed to you for that session. Zoom web conferencing links are typically emailed at least one day prior to the scheduled session. You can follow the link before the session to test for the latest software updates. 

Prepare to Communicate During a Telehealth Therapy Session

  • Speak clearly without breathing directly into the microphone.
  • Make eye contact with the camera to look at the therapist, but don’t worry too much about where you look.
  • If you are bothered, distracted, or self-conscious about seeing yourself on the screen, place a small piece of paper over that part of the screen.  A sticky note can work well. 
  • Have your silenced phone handy.  In the event of an unforeseen technological hiccup, or an unexpected disconnection, your therapist will reach out to you by phone or text, even if it is at the end of the session time. 
September 09 2023

Can I Benefit From EDMR Without Having Experienced Trauma?

Author AM Nelson Categories EMDR, Trauma

Can I Benefit From EDMR Without Having Experienced Trauma?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach known for its effectiveness in treating trauma. But can you do EMDR without trauma? In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore the versatile world of EMDR therapy and how it can benefit individuals who may not have experienced trauma but still seek its therapeutic advantages.

EMDR: A Tool for a Wide Range of Concerns

One of the misconceptions about EMDR therapy is that it’s exclusively for individuals who have experienced trauma. However, a growing body of research highlights how EMDR can be beneficial for a wide range of concerns, even in the absence of trauma. 

No Trauma Required for EMDR

The beauty of EMDR therapy lies in its adaptability. Unlike some treatments that necessitate a specific diagnosis or trauma history, EMDR does not require you to meet these criteria. EMDR is designed to target the level of disturbance or discomfort an individual is experiencing, irrespective of whether it fits within a specific diagnostic label.

This means you don’t need to have a diagnosed condition or a traumatic experience to explore the benefits of EMDR therapy. Whether you’re grappling with stress, anxiety, phobias, or simply seeking personal growth and self-improvement, EMDR can be a valuable tool to help you navigate these challenges.

The Versatility of EMDR

EMDR therapy is like a multi-tool in the world of mental health. While its roots are in trauma treatment, it has shown remarkable adaptability in addressing various concerns:

  • Stress: Daily life can be filled with stressors, big and small. EMDR can help individuals manage and reduce stress levels by targeting the underlying sources of tension.
  • Anxiety: Whether you’re dealing with generalized anxiety or specific phobias, EMDR can assist in desensitizing anxiety triggers and promoting a sense of calm.
  • Depression: EMDR therapy can be a valuable addition to traditional depression treatment, helping individuals explore the emotional roots of their depression and develop healthier coping strategies.
  • Self-Improvement: Even if you’re not grappling with a particular issue, EMDR can be a tool for personal growth. It can help you address limiting beliefs, enhance self-esteem, and unlock your full potential.

The Power of EMDR for Unresolved Concerns

It’s important to remember that unresolved concerns or discomfort don’t always have to be tied to a specific traumatic event or diagnosis. Sometimes, we carry emotional baggage from past experiences or face ongoing challenges that impact our well-being.

EMDR therapy’s adaptive nature makes it suitable for addressing these concerns. It allows individuals to process and heal from emotional wounds, regardless of their origin. By doing so, EMDR can pave the way for a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Seeking EMDR Guidance

While EMDR therapy can benefit a wide range of concerns, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of a qualified EMDR therapist. A trained professional can assess your unique needs and tailor the therapy to address your specific goals and challenges.

In summary, EMDR therapy is not limited to trauma or specific diagnoses. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for anyone seeking emotional healing, personal growth, or relief from various concerns. If you’re curious about how EMDR can benefit you, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist to explore the possibilities.

September 09 2023

Exploring the Success Rate of EMDR Therapy

Author AM Nelson Categories EMDR, Pyschology

Unveiling the Power of EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, has gained attention for its remarkable effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions, especially post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But what exactly is the success rate of EMDR therapy? In this beginner’s guide, we’ll dive into the research and studies that shed light on the impressive outcomes of EMDR treatment.

Studies Showcasing the Effectiveness of EMDR Therapy

One of the most compelling aspects of EMDR therapy is the wealth of research backing its success. Numerous studies have examined the impact of EMDR treatment on individuals suffering from PTSD and related conditions.

The Power of EMDR for Single-Event Trauma Victims

A series of studies have shown astounding results for single-event trauma victims. In some cases, as many as 84-90% of individuals who underwent just three ninety-minute EMDR sessions were found to no longer exhibit symptoms of PTSD. Imagine the relief of individuals who, after a relatively short course of treatment, found their lives significantly improved.

Even more astonishing, another study reported a 100% success rate for single-event trauma victims. This means that every participant in the study experienced significant relief from their PTSD symptoms. While individual experiences may vary, this statistic highlights the potential for EMDR therapy to be a game-changer in the lives of those who have suffered trauma.

EMDR’s Impact on Multiple Trauma Victims

But what about individuals who have experienced multiple traumas? Can EMDR therapy be just as effective for them? The answer, according to research, is a resounding yes.

One study, in particular, shows success in 77% of multiple trauma victims after only six fifty-minute EMDR sessions. This finding suggests that even for those with complex trauma histories, EMDR therapy can offer significant relief and healing.

EMDR Therapy for Tinnitus: A Surprising Success

While EMDR therapy is commonly associated with treating PTSD and related disorders, it has also shown promise in unexpected areas. A study conducted by the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust in 2019 examined the use of EMDR therapy for tinnitus.

The results of this study were astonishing. It concluded that EMDR therapy, specifically tailored for tinnitus (tEMDR), resulted in clinically and statistically significant improvements in tinnitus symptoms for the majority of participants. Even more impressively, the positive effects of this treatment were still evident six months after treatment had concluded.

This study’s inclusivity, encompassing a diverse range of tinnitus patients, underscores the adaptability and potential of EMDR therapy in addressing various conditions beyond its more conventional applications.

Understanding the Success Rate

While these studies demonstrate the remarkable success rate of EMDR therapy, it’s essential to understand that individual experiences may vary. The effectiveness of EMDR can depend on various factors, including the severity of the trauma, the individual’s readiness for therapy, and the therapist’s skill.

Additionally, EMDR therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each person’s journey toward healing is unique, and the number of sessions required can vary significantly. Some individuals may find relief after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from a more extended treatment plan.

The Takeaway on EMDR Therapy’s Success Rate

In conclusion, the success rate of EMDR therapy is indeed impressive, particularly for individuals suffering from single-event trauma and, remarkably, even for those with complex trauma histories. The positive outcomes of EMDR therapy extend beyond PTSD treatment, as demonstrated by its effectiveness in addressing tinnitus symptoms.

However, it’s crucial to approach EMDR therapy with realistic expectations. While it has shown tremendous promise, individual results can vary. The best course of action is to consult with a qualified EMDR therapist who can assess your unique needs and create a tailored treatment plan.

EMDR therapy continues to offer hope and healing to those who have experienced trauma, showcasing its potential as a transformative therapeutic approach.

September 09 2023

What Conditions and Problems Does EMDR Treat? A Beginner’s Guide

Author AM Nelson Categories EMDR, Pyschology, Trauma

Understanding EMDR Treatment

When it comes to seeking effective mental health treatment, it’s essential to know your options. One lesser-known but highly effective therapy is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). While EMDR might sound complicated, it’s a versatile treatment method that can address a wide range of conditions and problems. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore what EMDR is and delve into the various conditions it can effectively treat.

EMDR for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

One of the most well-known uses of EMDR treatment is for individuals struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD can develop after experiencing traumatic events, such as accidents, abuse, combat, or natural disasters. People with PTSD often suffer from flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety related to their traumatic experiences.

EMDR helps individuals process and heal from these traumatic memories by using a structured approach. During EMDR therapy, a trained therapist guides patients through a series of bilateral stimulation techniques, such as following the therapist’s finger movements with their eyes. This process helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing patients to regain control over their lives.

EMDR for Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide. EMDR treatment has shown promising results in alleviating symptoms of various anxiety disorders, including:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder: People with generalized anxiety disorder often experience excessive worry and fear about everyday situations. EMDR can help them process the underlying causes of their anxiety.
  • Panic Disorder: Individuals with panic disorder have sudden and intense episodes of fear, known as panic attacks. EMDR can assist in identifying and addressing the triggers behind these episodes.
  • Phobias: Whether it’s a fear of flying, spiders, or heights, phobias can be debilitating. EMDR can be used to desensitize individuals to their specific phobias.
  • Social Anxiety/Phobia: EMDR can help those who struggle with social anxiety by addressing the root causes of their fears and helping them build confidence in social situations.

EMDR for Depression Disorders

Depression can manifest in various forms, and EMDR is a valuable tool in treating different types of depression, including:

  • Major Depressive Disorder: EMDR helps individuals with major depressive disorder explore the underlying issues contributing to their depression and develop coping strategies.
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder: Also known as dysthymia, this form of depression is characterized by chronic low mood. EMDR can help individuals identify and address long-standing emotional patterns.
  • Illness-Related Depression: Coping with chronic illness can lead to depressive symptoms. EMDR can assist in processing the emotional impact of illness.

EMDR for Dissociative Disorders

Dissociative disorders involve a disconnection between one’s thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. EMDR has been applied successfully to treat:

  • Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Amnesia: DID involves the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states, each with its own way of perceiving the world. EMDR can help individuals integrate these identities and heal from past traumas.
  • Depersonalization or Derealization Disorder: Individuals with these disorders often feel detached from themselves or their surroundings. EMDR can assist in reconnecting them to their sense of self and reality.

EMDR for Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can have devastating physical and psychological consequences. EMDR has been used in the treatment of:

  • Anorexia Nervosa: EMDR can help individuals address the underlying issues related to body image and self-esteem that contribute to this condition.
  • Bulimia Nervosa: EMDR can assist individuals in managing the impulses and emotional triggers that lead to binge-eating and purging behaviors.
  • Binge-Eating Disorder: EMDR can help individuals gain insight into the emotional factors driving their binge-eating episodes and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

EMDR for Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria occurs when an individual’s gender identity doesn’t align with their assigned gender at birth. EMDR can be used to help individuals explore their feelings, experiences, and challenges related to gender identity.

EMDR for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). EMDR can assist individuals in identifying and reducing the anxiety associated with these thoughts and behaviors, promoting healthier coping mechanisms.

EMDR for Personality Disorders

Personality disorders can profoundly affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, and relationships. EMDR has shown promise in treating:

  • Borderline Personality Disorder: EMDR can help individuals with borderline personality disorder manage their intense emotions and unstable relationships by addressing past traumas.
  • Avoidant Personality Disorder: Individuals with this disorder often experience extreme social anxiety. EMDR can assist in addressing the underlying causes of this anxiety.
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder: While EMDR may not treat the core traits of this disorder, it can help individuals address trauma and improve their overall well-being.

EMDR for Trauma Disorders

In addition to PTSD, EMDR can effectively treat other trauma-related disorders, including:

  • Acute Stress Disorder: Similar to PTSD, acute stress disorder can develop after a traumatic event. EMDR helps individuals process these experiences, preventing long-term distress.
  • Adjustment Disorder: EMDR can assist individuals in coping with major life changes, such as job loss or divorce, by helping them process the associated emotions and adapt more effectively.

EMDR Can Be a Game-Changer

In conclusion, EMDR treatment is a versatile and highly effective approach for addressing a wide range of mental health conditions and problems. Whether you’re struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or personality issues, EMDR offers hope and healing. It’s important to remember that EMDR is most effective when administered by a trained and licensed therapist. If you or someone you know is dealing with any of the conditions mentioned in this guide, consider discussing EMDR treatment with a mental health professional.

EMDR treatment can be a game-changer, providing a path to recovery, emotional well-being, and a brighter future.

December 12 2019

Dealing With the Holidays: Advice Can Make Anxiety Worse

Author AM Nelson Categories EMDR

The Holidays can be a time of joy and generosity, or it can exacerbate the dread and worry within us and challenge mental health. Along with the extra activities, travel, and spending, comes the additional social contact that can strike fear in the hearts of the anxious ones. In addition, those well-meaning friends and family members who attempt to fix us, advise us, and tell us what worked for themselves. Much of the advice for a case of “the nerves” can make anxiety disorders flare like the lights on a Christmas tree in flames (such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, or Phobias).

So these well meaning folks blow it! If someone tells you they are anxious, pause before you repeat what your mother has advised you to do…it may be more than a little bit of the jitters. If you have anxiety and have questioned why this “sound” advice hasn’t made a meaningful improvement, you are not alone. Remember, not everything will work for every person. Anxiety treatment is individualized and different people experience the fear and worry of anxiety in different ways. If you have struggled with anxiety, remember that psychotherapy is effective and a gold standard of care. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or EMDR therapy can be helpful when working with a licensed mental health therapist.

Tip 1: Ignore It and It Will Go Away

Unlike that bratty three year old on the train, ignoring anxiety will not make it go away. In fact, a big part of anxiety can be avoidance, which is a kind of ignoring. It takes a lot of energy to “not” think, to “not” do something, or to pretend that everything is fine…in the middle of experiencing anxiety or even a panic attack. Part of anxiety therapy treatment is to acknowledge the physical sensations (such as sweaty palms, and rapid heartbeat), identify thoughts (such as self-defeating self-talk), label emotions (such as fear or anger), and link social or situational triggers (such as people, places, or things) that contribute to the escalation of anxiety. Continued ignoring and avoidance of situations, thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations can contribute to increased anxiety and reduced overall ability to engage in life.

Tip 2: Be like the Nike slogan, and Just Do It!

Frequently difficult social or emotional situations are endured with great distress when a person has an anxiety disorder. While at times it might be required to endure the agony for safety or practical reasons, generally it is not helpful or healthy to continue the activation of your flight-or-fight system without remedy or repair. The more frequently a person practices a state of being, the better they get at it, and being in a chronically state is distress is simply terrible for all aspects of your health. Enduring an anxious event without any additional tools or skills can feed and reinforce the fear.

Tip 3: Try To Distract Yourself

Emotions are there for a reason, and distraction invalidates what your senses and being are trying to get across to you. Distraction is similar to ignoring, except that space is filled with a behavior or activity. This can lead to ongoing problems, such as binge TV watching, “nervous” habits, and substance problems, among others. Once the distraction is over, the anxiety is waiting for you, something with greater intensity. It may be a painful or difficult experience to investigate situations or experiences that are the root emotions, but resolution will reduce anxiety.

TIp 4: What’s The Worst That Can Happen?

Anxiety is fear and avoidance based, and can spark catastrophic thinking which further strengthens fear and worry. Asking a person who is suffering from anxiety this question, can actually increase anxiety as the person absolutely can imagine terrible outcomes, but doesn’t have enough positive coping skills or tools to manage their current situation. So it becomes like a snake eating its own tail, catastrophic thinking feeding anxiety which feeds more catastrophic thinking.

If you have anxiety that you haven’t been able to deal with on your own, visit a psychotherapist who is experienced and knowledgeable in reducing anxiety. Psychotherapy for anxiety can help reduce intrusive thoughts, worries, everyday fears, and that sense of internal nerves gone haywire. Effective treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and a psychotherapist can make a recommendation if seeing your physician may be a good idea as well.

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