What is Somatic EMDR?

Somatic EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an integrative therapeutic modality that combines traditional EMDR techniques with somatic, or body-centered, awareness. This approach is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced sexual trauma, as it addresses both the psychological and physiological impacts of trauma.

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Traditional EMDR focuses on processing traumatic memories and the negative beliefs associated with them by using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping. Somatic EMDR enhances this process by incorporating a focus on physical sensations and bodily awareness. This helps clients connect the mind and body, allowing them to process trauma more holistically.

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How is Somatic EMDR Helpful for Sexual Trauma?
Sexual trauma often leaves both psychological and physical imprints. Survivors may experience symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, and physical discomfort. Somatic EMDR helps by:

• Releasing Stored Trauma: It helps release trauma stored in the body, which can manifest as tension, pain, or numbness.

• Regulating Emotions: By addressing bodily sensations, clients learn to regulate overwhelming emotions that are often triggered by traumatic memories.

• Reclaiming Body Awareness: It helps clients reconnect with their bodies, fostering a sense of safety and control over their physical experiences.

• Reducing Symptoms: It can alleviate symptoms such as flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, and hyperarousal, improving overall well-being.

 

How Do I Use Somatic EMDR?
Doing EMDR with me is very different from my traditional Life, Sex, and Relationship coaching. While I may incorporate somatic skills into coaching sessions, I do not use EMDR casually during coaching (unless the client has already gone through EMDR sessions with me and specifically asks to incorporate it). A lot goes into Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. There are rumors out there of people being “cured” after 4 sessions of EMDR. While it is a transformative modality, it’s not a miracle. For the average person, 8 sessions can help you feel significant progress with 1 - 3 presenting issues.

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What Does an 8-Session Plan Look Like?
An 8-session plan for somatic EMDR typically follows a structured but flexible framework:

Session 1: Assessment and Preparation

• Establishing a safe and supportive environment.

• Understanding your history and trauma-related symptoms.

• Introducing the basics of EMDR and somatic awareness.

Session 2: Developing Coping Skills

• Building coping strategies and resources for emotional regulation.

• Practicing grounding techniques and body awareness exercises.

Session 3: Identifying Target Memories

• Identifying specific traumatic memories or negative beliefs to work on.

• Beginning the desensitization process with bilateral stimulation.

Session 4-7: Processing and Desensitization

• Processing target memories through a combination of EMDR and somatic techniques.

• Monitoring and addressing bodily sensations and emotional responses.

• Continual reassessment and adjustment of the treatment plan as needed.

Session 8: Integration and Closure

• Reviewing progress and reinforcing positive changes.

• Developing a plan for continued self-care and coping strategies.

• Discussing next steps or additional support.

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Bilateral stimulation (BLS) is a core component of EMDR. It involves stimulating both sides of the body alternately to engage both hemispheres of the brain. This stimulation can be done through various methods, such as: eye movements, tactile stimulation, and/or auditory stimulation. I usually work with the client to find what method works best for them. People tend to think BLS is EMDR, though as you can see, we don’t just jump into it during the first session. Unless I have a previous history with the client, I won’t start BLS with them until session 3 or 4. We need to build trust and resources before diving headfirst into traumatic memories or averse bodily sensations.

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What Are Individual Sessions Like?
Individual somatic EMDR sessions are tailored to the client's needs and progress. A typical session may include:

• Check-In and Grounding: Starting with a check-in on your current state and any significant events since the last session. Grounding exercises may be used to center and calm you as well.

• Bilateral Stimulation and Processing: Using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones) to process traumatic memories. I will guide you to focus on specific memories while noticing associated thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. After exploring the intricacies of these memories, sensations or beliefs, we’ll work on replacing them with positive cognitions instead.

• Somatic Awareness: Incorporating body-focused techniques, such as deep breathing, mindful body scanning, or gentle movement, to help release physical tension and connect with bodily sensations.

• Reflection and Integration: Reflecting on the session's experiences and insights. I’ll help you further integrate these new understandings and sensations, reinforcing positive beliefs and emotional stability.

• Closing and Homework: Ending with grounding techniques to ensure you leave the session feeling safe and stable. Homework may include self-care practices, journaling, or mindfulness exercises to continue the healing process between sessions.

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Somatic EMDR offers a compassionate and comprehensive approach to healing from sexual trauma. By addressing both the mind and body, it empowers survivors to reclaim their sense of safety, agency, and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of sexual trauma, this therapy could be a transformative path to recovery.

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A Quick Note
It's important to clarify that, as a coach, I am not a therapist and do not work with insurance. While my background includes training in psychology and mental health, as well as specific modalities like Somatic EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Parts Work, my role is distinct from that of a talk therapist.

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We will dive into traumatic memories and the past in sessions with EMDR and IFS, but I require clients to have already gone through traditional therapy and/or have a high level of self-awareness about their trauma, behaviors, mental health conditions, and patterns. While I may use therapeutic techniques to support your journey, my work is not about diagnosing mental health conditions but about guiding you toward personal and emotional growth and success. This distinction ensures that our sessions are a collaborative and dynamic process, tailored to help you create the life you desire.