Secret Weapon to Success | Understanding Thought Experts and Types of Therapy with Dr. Mcayla Sarno - 021

Origins

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, was discovered by Francine Shapiro during a serendipitous moment on a walk, leading to its development as a therapeutic method for trauma. Mcayla Sarno explains that Shapiro noticed a change in her traumatic memories after her eyes twitched during a walk, sparking the idea for EMDR 1. Initially used on war veterans and individuals with phantom limb pain, EMDR has evolved into a popular therapy for various traumas. Sarno emphasizes the importance of knowledge in therapy, stating, "I really feel like knowledge is huge" 1.

   

Mechanics

The mechanics of EMDR involve bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, which activate the brain's hippocampus to facilitate emotional processing. Mcayla Sarno describes how these movements distract the frontal cortex, allowing subconscious material to surface 2. This process is likened to a dream state, where seemingly disconnected thoughts emerge, aiding in the integration of fragmented memories. Sarno explains, "It's all coming from the subconscious mind" 3.

   

Application

EMDR therapy is applied to reprocess negative beliefs, replacing them with positive ones, akin to uninstalling unwanted apps from a device. Mcayla Sarno highlights the difference between talk therapy and EMDR, noting that the latter accesses the subconscious mind 4. The therapy's impact is profound, as it addresses deep-seated issues by following memory networks, ensuring targeted and effective treatment. Sarno states, "We decide based on which one's more disturbing, earliest and or most disturbing" 5.