Understanding EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a psychotherapy used for PTSD. It involves working with traumatic memories while attending to guided back-and-forth movements or sounds. The process is directed by a trained clinician, rather than practiced independently.
Considering EMDR in recovery
For a person experiencing both substance use concerns and trauma-related symptoms, treatment planning should consider both. A clinical assessment helps determine whether EMDR is appropriate and when it may fit within care. It is not a requirement for everyone and does not replace the rest of a substance use treatment plan.
Talk with the treatment team
Ask about clinician availability, readiness for trauma-focused work, and how therapy would coordinate with your other treatment needs. Decision Point Center addresses mental health conditions alongside a co-occurring substance use disorder; it does not provide standalone mental health treatment.
Trauma and substance abuse treatment
Learn more: VA National Center for PTSD: EMDR