EMDR for Anxiety [Why EMDR Works Series]

Thanks to Gabor Maté, we know that trauma isn’t just something that happens; it’s something that happens inside of you. So when something happens to us (or doesn’t happen, like in an omission of care) and we feel anxiety, that anxiety is a result of trauma.
Anxiety can come from so many things, like overextending ourselves and trying to do too much, divorce, job loss, and even things that some might perceive as positive experiences like an upcoming social event, wedding, or vacation. And often we feel this way not because we are anxious people, but because our relationship with anxiety has been wired a certain way. And we know that neuroplasticity allows us to rewire our relationship with emotions, sense of self and identity. How cool is that?
When we can expand the definition of anxiety or trauma outside of what the DSM and the American Psychological Association tell us it is, we can start to see the value of EMDR treatment for people who experience anxiety. This is a beautiful thing.
This week on the Zero Disturbance podcast, I’m talking about what anxiety and trauma actually are, and why professional associations in the psychological space need to expand their official definitions so that more people can easily access the support and treatment they need. And I’m sharing why EMDR is a great choice for people who have experienced anxiety or who have been told they “have anxiety.” This is especially important so we can create more hope for people so they don’t think they have to “have anxiety” forever, as part of who they are.
When something traumatic happens to us, it can be healing to have a therapist listen to and/or validate our horrible experience, especially if no one else has before. However, rehashing the details of that traumatic event can be retraumatizing. Brain-based therapies like EMDR teach us that we don't have to talk about the trauma or the details if we don't want to because the real healing doesn't focus on the traumatic event itself.
The Zero Disturbance podcast is for educational purposes and is not a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or individualized mental health or medical care.
@drgabormate9132
@DrMindyPelz
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With a Masters in Education from Vanderbilt, Kambria has been creating trainings and teaching adult learners for over 20 years. As the Director of Education and Quality Improvement at Stanford Medical School, she created ease in complex systems, thereby giving medical trainees successful learning experiences. Now, as a dedicated mom, therapist, and EMDR Consultant, Kambria knows what it means to do things efficiently, effectively, and in a learner-centered way. When she isn't podcasting or creating online courses, you can find Kambria playing with her twins on a beach in California.
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[@KambriaEvansEMDR]

Want to learn more about empowering yourself to experience therapy on your terms? Get access to our free client resource library for the most up-to-date tools and resources for your own journey. www.zerodisturbance.com/free-resources

[@meatmotorendurance]

Super helpful video.

[@suzettedenny888]

Yay

[@dealstalker]

I totally agree with you, that EMDR can work for anxiety and depression! I did have a trauma several, and EMDR really helped. But I know how much EMDR helped me heal and I’m now wanting to apply it to my anxiety and depression. Thank you for the video!

[@patriciagriffin1505]

Thank you very helpful I thought as others that it was only used for trauma resolution

[@KambriaEvansEMDR]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stacydoak5082]

Loved this!! Thank you for sharing! As an EMDR trained therapist, what does a session look like for anxiety with no trauma experience? I’d love to observe or see the protocol. Thank you!

[@KambriaEvansEMDR]

Great question. I'll add this to my list of future episode topics.

[@user-tk1rr5zp8z]

The Power threat meaning framework helps with the limits of dsm v

[@vincentolivieri4468]

i had so many changes at once. Had a new job, moves to a different area, got a GF. started driving lessons, also some stressors at home. First day at my new job i felt anxiety and kept going. Than after couple weeks a had a panic attack in public transportation. After that i didnt want to go to work anymore. Still able to do things outside the house. i told him i was ill (couple days ill, not knowing it was anxiety). First thing he said was, we need to call a absense organisation (dont know the english word sorry). It scared me so much and than i visited a psychologist. The moment i got the label anxiety disorder everything changes. From functioning anxiety (except work) to agoraphobia. CBT not really working and EMDR for just anxiety without trauma is new. Is there a protocol so i can do it myself or? I dont know my root cause.. open to try everything. Thanks in advance

[@lisasalmon5726]

thanks Kambria, you mentioned 'very few people can't change due to neuroplasty' - who are those people? Also i wondered about what you're thoughts are around EMDR and neurodiversity?

[@KambriaEvansEMDR]

Thanks for your questions! I'm adding these to my list of future podcast topics!

[@siobhanbeatty2427]

Does it work for ocd?

[@ViajandohaciaAdentro]

Yes it does