Why EMDR doesn’t work for complex PTSD and what actually does

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

There has been some debate among clients and clinicians alike as to the efficacy of EMDR when it comes to complex PTSD. Sound off below to let me know what your personal experience has been with EMDR.

[@SheFoundHealth]

No experience...but interesting topic! Thank you for broaching it!

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@SheFoundHealth Thank you for responding. I appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment.

[@TechAndStartups]

thank you for sharing your expertise - liked and subscribed!

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I appreciate it very much. Thank you for your support.

[@DrJenniferFee]

As a Psychologist and survivor of complex trauma, I appreciate what you are saying here. EMDR was life-saving for me, but I also needed all the other therapy that I had. I love using EMDR, but none of our modalities/tools will ever be a "be all end all" approach.

[@BigIndianBindi-jy1cz]

I'm unbothered by trauma memories. I remember my trauma very well. I could write a book about it. So many heinous things that happened to me. However, thinking about it, remembering it, talking about it... it doesn't bother me. I like talking about it. My problem is my nervous system and body reacting the way it does. Like if I spill food or drink on the floor, I'll feel scared and think I'm gonna get in trouble. Even though my rational thinking says "No, I'm an adult, and no one is even here." my body still reacts badly.

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

I know what you mean

[@zainabmjm]

You dont FEEL bothered by it because you dissociate and are disconnected from it as a trauma response. But it is lurking in your system nevertheless and can later manifest as unrelated physical symptoms/disease

[@BigIndianBindi-jy1cz]

​@@zainabmjm Triggers have to happen in real time in order for me to be bothered. If there is nothing going on, I won't have any reaction to memories or reminders. My body is focused on "What is happening right now." And if something happening right now, is a reflection of past trauma, then I "Feel it" For instance, I won't ask anyone for help, or for things I need, and I just "accept" what I have, and don't try to change it to what I prefer. I'm afraid I'll be told "no". Where did that come from? When I was about 5 years old. I was at some food drive and they were giving out drinks to all the kids. I had choices for which drink I wanted. I asked for the orange juice, but I was handed a grape juice. I tried to change it switched, but the man was busy and there were lots of kids crowded around. I kept asking him "I want orange!" I was trying to get his attention. Then he screamed at me "DONT DRINK IT" and I ran home crying. When I think of this memory and its details, I don't feel anything. I will only feel it, if I am presently in a situtation where I need to ask for something/or have something switched. Even if I know I won't be yelled at, I still feel the vibration of "No" and it is a type of rejection, and I am avoidant of experiencing it.

[@eugeneano285]

@@BigIndianBindi-jy1cz This is very similar to what I am experiencing. Some experienced EMDR consultants suggest that the triggered stuff IS the memory. There are different forms of memory. And if it's so strong then it should be a target for treatment. Recently I am trying to feel myself, going through the long past event. Same as you, if I think about that event then no significant activation. BUT if I try to feel it and it will take few times to walk through it then I am noticing activation. I proceed carefully, I am happy to experience some and do BLS. It's interesting why EMDR does does not talk about trigger based symptoms. Let me know, I think we are on the same page.

[@BashartAli-l7h]

​@@eugeneano285update

[@FireSilver25]

I’ve suffered from CPTSD for much of my life and EMDR has helped me alot. But I also use Emotion Code, acupuncture, EFT, self hypnosis, talk therapy, self help books, n somatic yoga. EMDR has helped me have many breakthroughs when I make progress in my life. Especially the few YT vids up. This is still helpful though! Thanks❤

[@Detritis]

I have been healed by EMDR with cPTSD and feel very fortunatE BUT this was so insightful! I definitely went through years of therapy before, which I think was imperative for EMDR to work for me. We have to teach people skills and give them the tools needed before EMDR, it's very intense.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Thank you for your comment, and I agree.

[@CassieWinter]

My therapist combines EMDR with somatic experiencing and internal family systems therapy and other modalities, and I know I'm healing because she has all of those tools in her pocket and isn't depending on just one. Great video. Thanks for talking about the nuances of this complex topic.

[@Maryjoe1113]

Hi, wondering how she combines this. Do you do different things every time you go to therapy?

[@CassieWinter]

@@Maryjoe1113 It depends on what we're working on during an appointment. Most of the time we do EMDR with paddles (because it hurts my eyes to watch her fingers go back and forth), but sometimes a topic will be SO triggering for me that she'll try a different modality that's safer on those instances.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

You're so welcome! It sounds like your therapist is doing a wonderful job.

[@samsnyder1192]

I’ve tried both for the first time with my current therapist. Ifs is interesting & seems to be really helpful for me

[@Jammingonlinewithanyone]

Yeah but how the heck do you heal these inhearently ingrained beared down apparent protector firefighters and how in an eternity of years could you put them exactly we’re they are perfectly ment to be like some pure holy child?

[@Thilindel]

Worse than having CPTSD and not being able to keep a job is the fact that Disability keeps denying and saying 'adapt and find a different job'...

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I'm so sorry to hear that. ❤❤

[@ArtTheSinger]

Your right. I started my own business 4 years ago to work alone and it slowed down. Now I’m back working and I can’t connect or even have a full conversation with co-workers. It’s very difficult working like this but I’m also lonely and what to have experiences again.

[@micheleinmiami1807]

Thank you! This is a great video! My heart dropped when I saw the title because I believe in EMDR so much and seeing the title was like whoa! But after watching it, I know for sure that the way I was trained in EMDR is the best. I was trained by Rebecca Kase and she addresses all of the shortcomings you mentioned and includes them in her trainings. Dissociation for example, this is a big chunk in her training, so is dealing with the future. Maybe if the title was "EMDR can help complex PTSD if...." 😋. Thanks so much, Sophilia! I have now subscribed!

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Hello, and thank you so much for your feedback. Yes, I have received a lot of feedback about the title, and I believe an updated video and title would help to reduce some of the shock. You are right, I'm not at all saying it does not work, I'm just saying that for CPTSD, it is not enough by itself. I will certainly take your suggestion about the title, and when I update the video, hopefully the intention of my message will be clearer. Thank you so much. 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@shebaandrew4409]

I agree with you 100% Michele. EMDR does address disassociation and other issues.

[@SummumBonum.]

Then it wouldn't be deceptive clickbait though...

[@theanonymoushelpline7248]

@@SummumBonum.lol which just sucks people play on other’s emotions like this

[@jacquesesouthern858]

I would like to add that EMDR is not for everyone. If you are properly trained, I would hope clinicians would know that phases 1 and 2 of EMDR is exactly what she is talking about. Stabilization of the client is a must. It can take a few session to a few years. And again, EMDR is not for everyone. Do your research, I have had clients that had horrible clinicians, I honestly feel like some therapist watched an EMDR video and stated that they were properly trained.

[@princesanomada]

I am worried about those clients who have clinicians that get so defensive when someone says that EMDR is not enough 😬

[@jacquesesouthern9920]

@@princesanomada It may not be enough or it can be too much. For those new to EMDR, I try to start with a small t trauma, so they can see how the process works. There is also flash technique and four blinks to aid with taking the charge out of whatever they are wanting to process. It would be interesting to explore what the client mean by not enough, I find that it's more of too much and they are not ready to tackle what has come up with their reprocessing.

[@goodintentions1302]

What you've said makes more sense than all the others I've heard. All the time & money I spent on EMDR was for nothing. I'm 74 & have given up on ever truly recovering from years of childhood sa & put downs from a mother who only wanted redheads. I've had a life full of experiences & I've been good to plenty of people who weren't even decent to me. I'd rather be me than be them.

[@jogoat]

The headline of this video is a bit misleading stating that EMDR doesn't work for CPTSD, but of course it summons the views and clicks needed to make the channel more prevalent. I have personally found EMDR to be healing with my CPTSD related to childhood abuse/neglect. I became a therapist and EMDR practitioner because of the success I had with it. I have had great success with my clients who have CPTSD. When I am doing my 8 phase EMDR process, safety and stabilization can last up to one to two years before we ever get into processing. During that two years we do resourcing with slow bilaterals called RDI. We work on emotional regulation, grief, etc. That's why it's an 8 phase process with no specific time frame. If you are seeing the right practitioner they will be taking it slow, and will have tools to address the complex nature of the trauma, as you build a solid foundation before getting into processing. We also assess for dissociation, and have protocols for that as well. But hey, everyone has their own flavor they prefer when it comes to modalities, and if you are trying to make passive income on youtube, creating a polarizing headline like this probably helps.

[@lauraf9576]

Was diagnosed with CPTSD and ASD 2 years ago. Long history of depression and anxiety. NEVER dissociate (I wish! I remember everything!) Was bullied from early childhood until high school. I am 60, in the US. Have been in CBT on and off for 35 years. History of psychoemotional child abuse/neglect at the hands of a mother with BPD/narcissism. Went NC with her when I was 50 (figured half a century was enough already). Had major depression and suicidal ideation by age 8. Have had episodes over the years, always caused by external factors/people. I have had autoimmune disorders since infancy that were not even acknolwedged til I was in my 30s. My spouse is a recovering addict, 20+ years clean, but refuses to engage in talking therapy to address underlying issues. My adopted child suffers from executive dysfunction, anxiety, depression. I've spent my whole life mired in mental illness. 14 months ago I began EMDR therapy with a certified therapist, but online video only (she won't see me in person even though she's nearby). Initially it worked a bit, as exhausting as it was. She wanted to do parts work, which I have done in the past, so I agreed. For the last 5-6 months I have plateaued - no improvement. My spouse and child are not abusive but extraordinarily thoughtless and inconsiderate, so I'm constantly triggered and stressed. My autoimmune disease continues to worsen too. I think I've gone as far as I can with EMDR and plan to quit next week. Why spend all this time and money revisiting what are HUNDREDS of traumatic events. My life is getting shorter by the day and the EMDR just isn't working. I think 14 months is a fair amount of time.... time to move on.

[@durkdiggler4346]

I’m trying ketamine therapy soon, I’m 28 and have Cptsd and asd also

[@lynnlorien]

As someone who has significant CPTSD, I do have to say how important psychoeducation and stabilizing the system is. However, I have found that EMDR has been the most effective treatment yet. Again, this is my experience. I tried to cognitively restructure negative beliefs but it wasn’t effective until we addressed the negative belief attached to memories themselves. Cognitive therapy is great but if your body doesn’t believe it, it doesn’t hit. That was my issue for 20 years. Of course, I’m sure that all EMDR therapists are different and I am so grateful to have found an amazing one on BetterHelp. My issue with CPTSD is that I have the same negative core belief tied to so many memories so we have worked on tracks. Thank you for this and information. As an abuse and intimate partner betrayal trauma survivor, EMDR has been life changing so thank you for bringing awareness to it.

[@MEF7]

What is the name of this amazing therapist?

[@lynnlorien]

@@MEF7 The therapist on Betterhelp who has helped me with CPTSD symptoms using EMDR and understands my delayed processing skills is Charesa Alphin - She works with people in Texas.

[@frontporchfamilyservices8811]

I wanted to tell you about my experience today watching your video. I cried tears of joy through the whole video. You are a godsend and a blessing to me today. You are a wise women and your voice is sooo soothing. Thank you x 100!!! -Melissa

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Thank you so very much for your kind words. I appreciate you reaching out and letting me know how much the video helped you. It is my joy to do the work that I do, and I glad that it is helping others live more fully.

[@rsgreen30]

I saw this video before I started EMDR, and I didn't like it. And then I did EMDR for my persistent CPTSD and after one good round, it went completely sideways in the second. It has taken me a year just to figure out how to stabilize myself enough, resource in relationships and internally, to be able to try it again. And we're putting it on hold, looking at some other modalities ... CPTSD cannot be handled like a one-and-done PTSD type trauma. It's dangerous.

[@danlebofsky7908]

My girfriend and I had been drinking, we got into an argument, and she locked herself in the bathroom (not the first time she'd done that). Not wanting to argue I went to sleep. I woke up startled, found the bathroom door was still locked, went out to the patio and opened the bathroom window to find that she'd hung herself from the shower rod with a pair of my sweatpants. EMDR was FUCKING STUPID! Not only did it not help, but at this point I think it's actually made things worse.

[@a2jettagli]

Sorry to read this. I hope you are okay man. 😢

[@4everu984]

I’m so sorry, sending love. 💚

[@luckyduckydaisyflower2344]

So sad. Oh im so sorry;(

[@cassiopee26]

My dear Lord! You're an angel sent from above! I've been doing therapy for more than 15 years and still don't see the light at the end of the tunnel, but now I have new hope! I haven't been diagnosed with Complex PTSD, but I started to look at myself differently recently and wondered if I could suffer from PTSD and that's how I found Complex PTSD and think I just put my finger on the right spot! I changed a few times my therapist as I felt there was not much progression being made and lately my actual psychologist told me she didn't know what to do with me anymore (she's doing mostly EMDR and hypnosis) as EMDR doesn't change a thing in me. Although she said she would try her best to find a solution, I thought that nothing could be done for me and that I could never get my happy self again. And I think this video answers everything's that's been wrong in my treatment. I recognize myself so much in what you're saying and Complex PTSD, it is quite impressive. I will try to have a chat about that with my therapist and I hope she will be open to it. *fingers crossed* Thank you so much again!

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I'm so happy this video helped and I'm wishing you all the best on your journey toward healing and wholeness.

[@cryptobull2493]

Consider seeing a therapist trained in internal family systems (IFS) therapy

[@froufroudeluxe]

I’m an autistic trauma survivor and only recognized my mental anguish as a result of complex trauma since yesterday. In this 1 day I learned more about myself than years of therapy did. Thanks

[@Jammingonlinewithanyone]

Interesting would love to know what happened during that one day?

[@lynnlorien]

I'm just learning that I am autistic at the age of 45. I'm so sorry for what you have been through and I hope that you continue to learn more and more about yourself. As a trauma survivor as well, it's surprising how simply discovering small pieces of your personal puzzle can change everything. Complex trauma is an uphill battle but you are worth it! Congratulations on your victory and praying for many more to come

[@emmelinesprig489]

I am researching therapy types because I desperately need therapy but I’m afraid of going to a therapist who doesn’t know how to help me and might end up hurting me more. I think I may have CPTSD, and possibly other co-morbid conditions (of course I’m not self-diagnosing, just looking for possible answers to help me cope and heal). I learned about EDMR, but I felt completely overwhelmed by the idea of processing my many traumatic experiences like that. Your explanation makes so much sense and validates my concerns. Thank you for outlining a more appropriate series of treatments. This has helped me so much!!

[@acertree1980]

This was really helpful as my psychotherapist said that he didn't think EMDR would help my cptsd but he didn't explain exactly why. Thanks for the clarification ☺️

[@ordinarypigeon6918]

6 years of therapy and I’ve accidentally opened Pandora’s box. Hyper focused on it for, so I’m very thankful for the video.

[@maximilianankerlev1385]

I am struggling with Complex PTSD from childhood trauma and i collapsed two years ago now and i am struggling with my memory. I felt that i completely lost the connection with my self and all i want is to get back to the person i was. I am Norwegian 48 years of age

[@danielle6228]

Today I’ve learned that I’m not faking it, I’m not broken and there is actually a reason why it wasn’t working. Thank you! I just feel like America has better ways of treating mental health. Somehow I always hope for what I see or hear from people and the reality is that it’s not happening like that here.

[@mariesmith5670]

It’s not happening like that here in US either. Lol. Only on KZbin or with very few exceptional people. Most mental health resources here are sub par and even detrimental. It’s a crap fest. Probably the rich have access to the best and there probably are not very many even for them.

[@savinggeorgie2100]

Really clear explanation of thr process, thank you!

[@samsnyder1192]

I definitely notice my therapist has been very relaxed with protocol. I think she picked up quick that ratings are distracting. She focuses on body language & also incorporates IFS and talk therapy. I go once a week so we have a lot of time to practice variation in the sessions we have. We’ve been working together for 2 years & have about 4 months together to continue working & I’ve just gotten back to bilateral stimulation & emdr after a break for a few months.

[@decklanquow9709]

The title is misleading but I understand and totally agree with you. EMDR by itself would be ineffective if the proper foundation isn't laid. Especially where self awareness is concerned.

[@katherinel1801]

I am a complex trauma survivor and a therapist. I also do EMDR. There are specialized protocols weekends for attachment focused EMDR for those with developmental trauma. There is attention to resourcing. There is a great book on helping those with dissociative disorders in the context of EMDR. Having a certified and specialized practitioner is essential. I’m sad you put this out there because I think it speaks to perhaps receiving EMDR that is not adequately trained and is only familiar with the standard protocol. I know it’s made a huge difference with maladaptive reliefs and reducing reactivity.

[@2bugsmama]

so glad to find this video. I'm on session # 4 of emdr and it doesn't seem like any of phase 1 was done. The therapist compiled a list of some traumatic events and I rated them 1-10 then we just dove into emdr on appt #2. At the last appointment I couldn't separate past and current traumas emotionally because they have the same under current theme. Therapist said emdr won't work if I keep allowing "unrelated" thoughts to intrude on the one specific traumatic memory we are working on. To me this made my trauma feel invalidated. It was as if since I don't fit into the mold of the strict emdr protocol that they learned in a weekend seminar 10 years ago, then sorry you're a hopeless case. I think I need to find another way. I've tried so many therapists that can't seem to grasp what even is cptsd. How can I find a good therapist that can help?

[@benday1218]

just to offer some virtual support, I find it hard to separate my current day to day anxiety from the past feelings we are trying to access. So when I'm asked 'how do you feel in your body about going back to that memory' I can't tell if my feelings are from back then or now.

[@jclyntoledo]

Complex PTSD is still pretty new and I don't think it's in the DSM. You'll probably have to explain to your therapist what it is and where you learned about it.

[@happygucci5094]

I really like that you outlined and detailed what the different phases are asking of you ( the client) and showing where and why there may be roadblocks. You disseminated a lot of information in aanner that was easy to grasp. Thank you- new sub ! 😊

[@artemisian42]

Thank you so much, Sophilia. This is very clear and makes very good sense from so many perspectives. I actually did about 14 years of intensive self-healing (and somewhat guided healing) before needing to use EMDR. Honestly, it was 14 years before I could afford/access any therapy at all, and I could have tried this as soon as I realized I needed something like it, but as you are pointing out, that may have been too early. As a result, I came into the reprocessing with a very strong love for myself, strong grounding in the generative, nurturing parent of myself and find I am able to move relatively quickly through some extremely difficult terrain. I may actually never fully "recover," but I am at deep peace with that....because I did so much wholing and healing work prior to discovering just how awful things had been. It actually could have been a major setback and profoundly disruptive or retrograde to go into this territory prior to doing a lot of wholeness weaving. It is very hard for fragments to integrate fragments, if that makes sense in the way you view psychology. Thank you again for this video, I do hope it reaches everyone who could benefit from it.

[@IsakTougaard9]

Phenomenal video full of insights

[@ayuanggraini2436]

This title is misleading, as someone with a very severe CPTSD that has been suffered a lot from a tremendous amount of trauma, neglect and abuse from toxic narcissistic family who have BPD and NPD, EMDR therapy is a life changing for me. I don't even have the chronic pain anymore that caused me to not able to wakeup and do my activities. It's helped me to heal and unlearn my unconscious pattern as I keep watching my own emotions and feelings and process the dysfunctional pattern with EMDR, it needs a lot of combination of teraphy methode like how I get inner peace through the positive and negative energy, I combine a quantum awareness healing and it's all helps me to be highly conscious, raise my vibration and conscience! Emdr therapy helps me to neutralize my perception bout guy,woman,money,even help me healed my trauma from 5-13 years old age of me which is 15 years ago! It's help my brain to remember better and raised my intelligence as my brain was very slow due to a tons of unresolved trauma. So thankful for Emdr and GOD

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with EMDR. I have had a lot of feedback on this video, and I generally agree that the title of the video and the message in the video are at odds. I didn't mean to say that it doesn't work at all; I only meant to clarify that for CPTSD the process usually requires a number of approaches to heal, which could include EMDR as one of the approaches, especially since it targets somatic symptoms. I appreciate your feedback.

[@rebeccahayhurst442]

Thank you. This video is so helpful. I have CPTSD and healing from an abusive marriage. My therapist did create and safe internal space for me and explained a lot of how trauma has impacted me but the EMDR sessions were si painful I could barley handle them emotionally. She seemed confused or possibly I was overreacting. It’s painful when your therapist doesn’t fully understand your condition. We finally modified the EMDR so that it wasn’t so triggering and that helped. What you said about dealing with the disassociation and the negative beliefs is very helpful. For me talking about my journey and hearing her input to help me sort through my internal pain is very healing and empowering for me. She is wanting to go back to EMDR which has helped with some symptoms but I keep feeling like we are missing some pieces.

[@rajab6695]

I liked the part about behaviors associated with CPTSD being learned and they can be unlearned. To survive in the torture camp I was raised in I had to learn to be powerless and helpless. Now that I live outside that torture camp I can learn that I have power and am not helpless. Then I learned to be critical of self to survive,, now I can learn to support the self to survive.

[@wanderingIvy67]

Unfortunately even with all this preparation it still doesn't always work

[@_Julie_Bee]

Wow. I'm sort of overwhelmed. I'm starting my "healing" journey into c-ptsd. And as I see it all laid out in front of me I feel like hiding inside myself more than ever. Your video really helped me. I was looking at emdr and it felt terrifying. Actually, just leaving the house to see my psychiatrist is by itself still very hard and draining. But knowing what is coming helps I guess. Thank you.

[@Karla-mu6hn]

I hope you're doing better!

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

Also Pete Walker book might help

[@nickolasemerson2092]

Thanks for breaking that down, Sophilia - very helpful. I'm getting EMDR as an adjunct to all those other aspects and modalities you mentioned; it's been very helpful taking a measured and holistic approach to it like that.

[@126769]

C-PTSD clinical specialist here and I find it to be highly effective if modified with an alternative protocol. It needs to be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

[@zelloyello6303]

EMDR does many things. Part of it addressing the negative core beliefs. As someone who recently went through the EMDR training through EMDRIA stabilization is absolutely emphasized. And I did my training with EMDR Consulting and were were trained on containment, how to deal with disassociation, etc. Like every other model, skill and knowledge, ethics etc play a huge role in the success. I do think EMDR is one valuable piece to the healing journey of CPTSD. I also have CPTSD and my is preverbal so my symptoms are almost always fully somatic. Talk therapy does nothing for me for this.

[@iwillhissatyou]

For everyone with CPTSD: Look into Somatic Experiencing & NARM therapy

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Yes. Those are great! I used a combination of those techniques along with DBT interventions.

[@iwillhissatyou]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury oh thats great! Could you maybe do a video about your experience with SE & NARM? :D

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@iwillhissatyou it's possible. Right now I'm focused on a particular topic, but maybe in the future.

[@maximilianankerlev1385]

I feel like i have pressure in my head and everything triggers me. My stress levels are in constant flight mode and even when im out walking. I cross the street when people are walking behind me and cross the street to avoid that. My cognitive function is impacted

[@karenconstantine334]

You answered all questions what I couldn’t .. ♥️

[@rynezuzinec688]

This is a very general statement. And it seems like you’re saying it doesn’t work at all. This is NOT the case. As an EMDR therapist, EMDR can and does reach far enough into CPTSD. There is an attachment based EMDR protocol which does address attachment wounds. The preparation state can be very long and drawn out and addresses ALL of this. Any EMDR therapist worth their salt will be able to address these concerns.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Ryne, thank you for taking the time to watch and comment on my video. I was also an EMDR therapist and I would say it depends on what kind of population you're working with. For people with significant social, racial, and political trauma, EMDR does not work by itself, because there is also a need for social justice interventions to address systemic and institutional barriers that perpetuate trauma. How can you heal trauma that is institutionally designed to perpeutate itself against you? EMDR is not a be all end all for trauma recovery. It can be used in conjunction with other interventions that address complex forms of traumatic oppression, but by itself, it is useless. I'm actually getting ready to make an updated video to this one that addresses the social, racial, and political trauma factors.

[@debbiesunlight7047]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury yes but what you have said istands to reason. Of course emdr can’t heal a social issues. With imagination it can I believe allow for the emotions to become less painful for an individual while the system continues to heal inside and out.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@debbiesunlight7047 yes, I understand that it cannot heal social issues. The point I was making was that certain situations require an all levels approach, which could include EMDR, in order to be effective, especially when dealing with complex trauma, not single event traumas, which is what EMDR was designed for. Hope that makes sense.

[@debbiesunlight7047]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury yes I agree

[@luvsadam2009]

Thank you for saying this. As an EMDR therapist myself who has also done EMDR to address their own C-PTSD, I can say it does work. Like you said the preparation phase is longer and you sometimes have to combine EMDR with other modalities which is the beauty of it because it is a treatment modality that easily can be incorporated into other modalities to address C-PTSD. A lot of clients I have found try to rush the process because they're "ready to be done with and get on with their life."

[@ivadedeva7005]

I have been to many therapist for the last 7 years- CBT, analytical, EMDR, positive, inner child work all failed me. Therapist are not equipped, not judgement all, not taking the side of the innocent client but rather rationalize trauma! There is nothing rational in trauma. They excuse abusers behavior because they do the same or they have been victims themselves and believe to have expectations is wrong and bad! They are afraid to put the responsibility of abuse onto the abuser but rather prefer to take A-moral position, which invalidates the moral wound by itself. IF WE TAKE THAT APPROACH TRAUMA WILL NEVER BE SOLVED! The message is clear. Morality is not on the table which is not helpful, it is traumatic and prevents us from seeing our identity and abusers identity as having nothing in common. I have discovered that morality is what can be helpful to boost our self esteem and help us move on. All therapeutic paradigms ARE NOT HELPFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!! PERIOD! DOT! END OF STORY!

[@mapoony]

Good info thanks!

[@deanjones6878]

I have worked with multiple clients with C-PTSD using EMDR and it works wonderfully. I have removed TICs, disassociations, and substance abuse all in clients with C-PTSD using EMDR. As an EMDRIA Approved Trainer, I will say this, it's not just what you do, it's how you do it. There are lots of dentists out here but not all are good dentists. Get my point?

[@keriotto8182]

My therapist has me trying to do all the post EMDR support pieces first… I’m finding it very difficult because we haven’t done the pre work you mentioned ton about IFS, etc.

[@Wakennie]

I’m so glad I stumbled across this video. Really struggling, I have done cognitive, I believe dbt. Decades of therapy. Now it’s EMDR, reading about it I just don’t think I can handle it. Really going to try Psych-k on my own.

[@jolindo6724]

Whilst you are discussing EMDR (eye scramble pattern in NLP) you have absolutely nailed the complexity of CPTSD with clarity and precision. I was aware of all these bits in my therapy journey as they related to me but the trainers/therapists did not. Thank you for your clarity and that this form of trauma has been identified. I wonder if kynesthetic processors are prone to this due to the natural synesthezia method the brain and nervous system uses to process stimuli

[@morecroutonsplease4582]

Best is to combine resources. I agree that asking for scores breaks some of the flow of emotions. I had EMDR therapy for cptsd. It helped, but I think its incomplete indeed. Once I learned somatic therapy, tapping, and other resources the biggest results came.

[@JennysTubeHere]

I"ve tried EMDR in the past but I stopped that treatment because it was too overwelming. It felt more like torture in the sense that I couldn't cope with it and it was a trigger into a dissassociative state, so been there done that for a bit and it wasn't succesful for me.

[@iwillhissatyou]

I’m so sorry to hear…. What therapy have you tried since? What did help?

[@Naydeen53]

Hi, I have CPTSD. Years ago I met with a EMDR therapist. After a few weeks of history taking she was pushing to start the processing No coping skills.. She said we would target something easier and not a trauma....? It was a cognitive belief that I was not good enough. We went through the EMDR session. I felt funny afterwards just dizzy. Anyways for two weeks I was unable to sleep. Years later and learning what I know now. That therapist had no business doing EMDR. What I learned that thought/memory was not properly closed and why I was in such distress. I still am on my quest to find a therapist who gets CPTSD and how to treat this. Your video has been really enlightening. I do have a question - You mentioned therapies to address things such as emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, self esteem, and negative beliefs? What therapies are they??

[@FionaFlyte]

I have tried EMDR and it didn't seem to do anything at all...

[@littlebitmonster5502]

Can u explain i feel my tharopyst have traumatized me in ways of lies and cruel treatment using my disability of not reading and writing to force me into things with out explaining and making me guess my "inner self" that's has keep me safe that screams leave this is bad they messed with that part and are pushing to take my medication from me to where petrified is all I feel I have come so far off in less then a year but this is becoming not ok what are other things u suggest treatment im very poor lil to no $ but I lost trust in my programs I dont even want to recommend them anymore

[@heliyabadakhshan6833]

@@littlebitmonster5502 hey how are you doing now? I just read your comment, have you found anything better? you need to find a person who you trust it can every hard, cuz if you have CPTSD you know that trusting anyone is just feels like impossible, I have done EMDR I am much better , but I haven't fully recovered , Im going back to do more, but I also do yoga and meditation on the side to help, do you do anything by yourself to help you? hope you are doing good :)

[@iwillhissatyou]

Brilliant video. Thank you so much for this!

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

You're welcome. Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@maxbelizaire9261]

Good afternoon ma’am back in 2020 I saw a video of my friend little brother shot and killed he was 20 years old , I attended the funeral saw his body and saw bullet holes, last year around may I had panic attacks, can’t sleep, nightmares, now it’s much better panic attacks stop, I’m sleeping again, but sometimes my mind would wonder off and feels like ohh snap I’m bout to die, I know it’s my mind playing tricks on me, and also I would get weird scary thoughts pop up in my mind, I’ve been to funerals before and nothing happened until I went to that funeral in all honestly I wish I never went

[@sallyann985]

Sounds like ptsd to me (I'm not a professional).

[@yefonmartha6190]

That was very useful info for me, eye opening, preparing me to discuss more with me therapist about the effectiveness ornot, of EMDR in my case of CPTSD!

[@carolrumfelt9946]

Thank you for this video I have been treated with emdr and you have been the only one to explain it and the process I hope to find a therapist that will listen. Thanks 😊

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

You're welcome. I'm glad the explanation was helpful for you.

[@ThePancakeJedi]

This video is great. Thank you.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I appreciate your feedback. Thank you for letting me know.

[@happygucci5094]

Thank you for this- because it hasn't worked for me. 🙏🏾💗

[@holistictraveller4217]

Kindly recommend some self therapy books or resources on complex ptsd and inner child healing..

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Some self-therapy resources some of my clients have used in conjunction with therapy include: "The Complex PTSD workbook" ~ Arielle Schwartz "Getting Past Your Past" ~ Francine Shapiro "The Complex PTSD Coping Skills Workbook" ~ Tamara McClintock Greenberg "The Pain We Carry" ~ Natalie Y. Gutierrez "Set Boundaries, Find Peace" ~ Nedra Tawwab "Recovery of your Inner Child" ~ Lucia Capacchione "Inner Child Recovery Workbook" ~ Linda Hill "The Vagus Nerve Gut Brain Connection: Heal Your Vagus Nerve and Improve Gut Health" ~ Wendy Hayden Please be aware that in providing such resources I am in no way intending to provide mental health treatment to you, and my sharing of these resources does not constitute a client/therapist relationship. I also must state that sometimes self-therapy resources on trauma and inner child work can be difficult to implement and navigate without the guidance and insight of the licensed therapist, so be aware of how you're feeling when you're engaging with some of the self-help exercises you may encounter in the books/resources/ workbooks. I hope this helps.

[@aemcapello]

Thank you so so much🙏

[@sweetvictory3100]

Help, complex PTSD and trauma ongoing due to severe health issues scared of dying gaslit by medical community, body kicking out and reacting bad to everything, scared of drs hospitals , spouse was narcissistic abusive and my caregiver he left me sicker with a family member now that reminds me of spouse doesn't want to help no support not sleeping but a few hrs a night suffering intensely mentally physically spiritually autonomic nervous system won't stop or brain in survival mode and can't find help need safety and love and to connect with God to get thru and don't have that idk what help looks like and it's heard to find period feel like I have brain damage from all I've been and continue to go thru it's too much

[@pam7949]

Why is it that during my sessions I don't feel anything but pain for the current stress, but no memories from the trauma? I don't feel anything when I do EMDR? I'm getting discouraged?

[@SarahElise-so3sy]

I completely agree with the advice in this video. And I relate to everything she is saying. This explains why all the other therapies- including any cognitive- based therapies like exposure therapy and DBT haven't helped for me, and wouldn't help for many other survivors either. Complex ptsd has many layers, affecting not just the mind, but the body on many levels, requiring an integrative approach to treatment.

[@greekmamalife]

Hmmm this is interesting! Thanks for sharing. I have not been familiar with EMDR

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

You're welcome.

[@moowens3886]

I had emdr session number 3 and I flatlined. No more emotion. Weird!! I’d been living in such a reactive state for so long that I felt I was in a space of nothing. At first it felt good and calm but then I thought. “That can’t be healthy can it? I felt short-changed, even cheated.” I thought, “Is that it? It’s all over?” I didn’t even feel anything. I think I dissociated possibly because later I was distressed about not feeling any emotions anymore. I thought I had disappeared?! I had old GAD symptoms from the past creep in. Stuff from 20 years ago. I was searching for the unexpressed grief. I listened to music and it started coming back. Every time I felt like I was floating away I listened to music. “Ahh, I was back! My spunk and drive were back!” My emotions were back! I was distressed more every hour. I wondered what was next. I felt fragmented. I googled, What if EMDR doesn’t work, and I found your video. As I listened to what you said I felt overwhelmed like a flood of understanding and joy all at the same time! I had my answer or I was at least closer to it now. I have fully regulated now. Whew that was rough. I believe I need cbt trauma work of some kind first or something. I will talk to my therapist this coming Tuesday and share my experience and your video! Thank you so much!

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I'm so glad that the video was helpful for you. I hope you continue to gain insight into the problems you're struggling with and get to a more integrated place. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment on my video. It really means a lot.

[@littlebitmonster5502]

You where the 1st and only thing I have found helpful at all u experienced not over explain please I beg u to keep making more videos and helpful u grabbed me when u opened up about ur trauma 1st to have done that and I think there's other treatments I may need but some are just cruel harsh and making me step backwards losing faith in any treatments like day q all over again Thank You Thank You

[@lindamaguire7795]

I had 10 sessions of E.M.D.R. a few years ago after symptoms of sPTSD surfaced when I retired from the health service(UK).I was made aware that I was in a domestic abuse home from birth to 2 years plus with some abuse to myself.I have no conscious memories of this time but am experiencing emotional flashbacks now after 50 years of bipolar depression.How does EMDR work with very early trauma?

[@mel-tp5hi]

This is a very high quality video, I learned so much, thank you very much, I love your style and presentation (just wish you were my therapist lol).

[@liam.4454]

I hate emdr with a passion, i cant believe i was naive enough to think watching a woman wave a stick would cure my anxiety

[@Jammingonlinewithanyone]

So what works ifs? If so or any other assistance greatly appreciated! Yeah but how the heck do you heal these inhearently ingrained beared down apparent protector firefighters and how in an eternity of years could you put them exactly we’re they are perfectly ment to be like some pure holy child?

[@maryracette1776]

I had one sample treatment and I almost went into a psychotic ephisode. Never again!

[@roguescoop]

There are at least a few problems with this critique. Number one : you mentioned the preparation phase of EMDR, but you minimized its' significance and importance. When done thoroughly the client will be provided with tools that are more than adequate to calm themselves and recenter should they start to flood or be overcome with anxiety in the processing phase. A sensitive and connected EMDR therapist would not attempt to start processing without having both taken a complete history AND taught the client self calming techniques. In short, your Phase one is not all that different from the preparation Phase of EMDR. Second, you talk about your Phase two of processing, but don't specifically say what you will do to process the unresolved trauma. Saying there are a variety of ways to do it is not telling us anything . While EMDR may not be ideal for CPTSD as opposed to dealing with a single traumatic incident that occurs in adulthood, you have not given us a better alternative than EMDR processing techniques. You really seem to be more concerned about taking down EMDR in name only than supporting this other approach, which in many ways is similar to EMDR protocols anyways.

[@alberthaug-t4p]

By your title you plant a ,seed of doubt for us that have complex ptsd. I will be starting emdr, after first of year. I have studied this process and lisinting to your talk gives me a battle in my mind is it the right thing to do. I realizes everyone is different as well as therapist different in there training and process. I had abuse sexually and verbally by ciblings from 5 to 11 years old. I'm 67 and had flash backs past year after being retired. Told my children about flashbacks and abuse for first time 3 months ago and started therapy for first time a month ago. I understand your intentions are good and needed but please be careful on the title. I listened to you and i spaced it out because I'm to new to this and gave me the filling of not starting the process and not talking anymore about what i remember that happened to me many decades ago. I read the comments and you have been a blessing to many!! If anyone else that is beginning of the process we fill we are just hanging on and developing trust to the process and therapist. For me to many process and opinions are overwhelming. Planning not to read any of these blogs when i start the process of emdr.

[@SereneMoss]

emdr doesnt help. most therapies dont either. it always seems to go darker. by the time I'm done I'm suicidal again. i hate therapy and i keep quitting it

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I'm so sorry to hear that. Is there anything that does work for you when you don't engage with therapy?

[@SereneMoss]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury honestly no. i just pretend things are cool. gotten good at pretending and waiting until everyone is asleep to cry. most therapies are the same.. talk about things i already openly speak about if people ask, and they try to say I'm worthy, its kinda bland, in reality I'm not worthy I'm mediocre, and at best will end up working for some low end job, doing nothing sustainal with my life, i get no help with my severely autistic son, so what other choice do i have, I'm always denied help even with my suicicide attempt, i was dead for over 5 mins, and still denied by disability bc its not severe enough to them, makes zero sense. i try to work, faint over every thing. eye movements wont help and trigger my vertigo and i throw up, talk therapy are paying someone to listen to you complain and they pretend they care while they trash you on paper which I've seen the paper, and wasn't happy about it.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@SereneMoss I am really sorry to hear that you have tried many things and not much has worked. I empathize with your pain and I know it is not easy to parent a child with autism, because my son is also on the autism spectrum. Honestly, talk therapy doesn't work for trauma, and you're right, EMDR is not appropriate for everyone, especially if there are physical barriers like you mentioned. What resources would be helpful for you now that could make your life a little easier?

[@SereneMoss]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury been trying to get help for my son, and bc of covid its taking forever we have a family of 3, and the only one who has a job, is on unemployment since his job is seasonal and we get maybe 500 a week, we have food for the kid, nadda for us besides noodles and i have IBS, so its painful. id love to be able to have time for myself sometimes without stress or panic or judgement, the school might give me a break but they call about every single small thing, or almost finding any reason to send him home. he would be fine and they would call to have him come home over a sneeze. which he does when he messes with his nose too much. but as far as ptsd just want them to give me something where if i feel sick, anxious or about to have a panic attack i could use it and it would help to slow it down and everytime they wont, or they try to give me the same stuff that doesn't work, even with a dosage increase and waiting 6 months. just feel like there isnt a light at the end of the tunnel, id rather be on disability honestly but the drs wont sign the papers bc they said i can do light duty, and on a job application light duty will not get me hired and 5 years later still no job, no disability, and no help.

[@khydo]

Great video, is remembering early life memories(baby) and having anhedonic flatline for a while then gaining clarity after 1 or two sessions normal to experience?

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I'm not sure I can answer that question without context. Can you provide a bit more detail?

[@mcjs8640]

Sorry, but I completely disagree. I had EMDR for PTSD and during that it emerged that I had Complex PTSD as well. My psychologist was brilliant and it was life changing. It needs to be understood that because Complex PTSD affects brain structure and function, EMDR is actually especially helpful as it changes where in the brain the memories are stored This can't be achieved using conscious talking therapy. I am a survivor of brain injury as well and I have done a lot of research into brain structure and function.

[@gingerrivas5354]

Emdr worked marvelous for me

[@autumngoodwin5830]

I have complex pdsd, talk therapy didn’t work, which I make sense. Anyway, what other therapy should you into or look for with a therapist, before you do emdr therapy? Is like accepting or therapy? Or what?

[@myosotismalva]

I had a session last week. It did not work for me. I don't know what to do anymore

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Hi, Myosotis. I'm so sorry to hear that. Are you willing to share a little about what didn't work?

[@myosotismalva]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury my therapist tried to suppress the negative emotions associated with my childhood trauma. She use the eye movement method with a stick and it didn't work

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@myosotismalva hmmm! Did you let her know that it didn't work? Without a whole lot of context, I can't really say what made the session ineffective. It really depends on the type of trauma memory being targeted and how skilled the therapist is in both assessment and application. A second opinion from a different trauma therapist may necessary if you feel like you aren't getting the results you need. Trust your gut.

[@donnacollins4011]

How do we know the full effects on the mind when we dont even know what 100% of what the brain - mind does. How does it deal with one traumatic event without affecting the other deep traumas and overcome the client in nightmares when living at home alone?😢

[@jillschmidt]

Great channel, I feel like this will be helpful to so many!! Thanks for the detailed info.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

So very glad you stopped by. Thank you so much for the feedback and support.

[@chuck3999]

How can all this be accomplished in 45 minutes sessions one every three weeks? This is what's offered in community mental health. After watching this video, I am beginning to have doubts about the qualifications of the therapist.

[@florencia2771]

I was not able to do EMDR😭 I had high hopes…

[@sallyann985]

Sophilia is such a cool name.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Oh, thanks so much!

[@sallyann985]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury you're welcome :) I've enjoyed your video and read through your comments, you sound like a very good therapist.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@sallyann985 I appreciate that.

[@Hblue-ju9rv]

Have you heard of brainspoting or accelerated resolution therapy

[@s.f.morris7331]

does having vertigo effect emdr?

[@kayylam]

Can emdr be done virtually? I have been having lots of dissociation lately. I’ve never had it before. I’ve had traumas such as childhood emotional neglect from both my parents and abandonment from my child’s father.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

I have never personally done EMDR virtually, but there are therapists who do. So the answer is Yes, it can be done online, if you can find a therapist who can do it. Here is a video of a therapist who does virtual EMDR. I hope it helps. kzbin.info/www/bejne/apSXamycoc11jsk&feature=emb_title

[@kayylam]

Sophilia Lark-Woodbury I found someone who can do it virtually but how do I know if I’m ready for emdr? I’m a little nervous and I have been dissociating 24/7. I want to be present for the therapy :/

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@kayylam One way to tell if you're ready for EMDR is if you are able to control your emotions while processing traumatic memories. If you have a tendency to shut down or dissociate uncontrollably, you may not be ready. You can do EMDR work, but it may be, as I mentioned in the video, that you need to do some significant upfront work first. Specifically, there is something called Fraser’s Dissociative Table Technique that therapists can use to heal dissociation so that your mind can access and tolerate traumatic material without disconnecting. You may want to ask your therapist about that technique.

[@nuez23747]

I get triggered when psychologists tells me what i should work on and they misdiagnosed me for years both bodily and psychologically. If EMDR works or not can only the patient say and this depends on each one. To me it didn't help.

[@paulastella8268]

The treatment does work if you are willing to do the work you absolutely need to do.

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

It does work for some people, but it doesn't work for other people. Not all therapy approaches are right for everyone. Some people have found the side effects of EMDR to be another form of trauma, so for them, it doesn't work. I used to be an EMDR therapist and for the populations I worked with the protocol was not effective because it was not framed within the context of oppression.

[@mariesmith5670]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodbury this oppression of only Black people or oppression of white people and Asians and Latinos and American Indians and everyone else? Because I feel oppressed now and I’m not black. And I was bullied by Black people as a child. So is this a race thing and it only works for Black people or does it work for everyone? Are you advocating for people of all races are only the black race or only specific ones?

[@BSUSwim4Gold]

EMDR Does Work for C-PTSD. If it’s not working that’s probably because the therapist is not guiding the client well.

[@nevalans9524]

I disagee, I have been using EMDR and it helped tremendously.

[@mariesmith5670]

And you think everyone is just like you? Interesting.

[@cryptoeatstheworld3379]

Dianetics Therapy completely resolves cPTSD. No other therapy required.

[@princesanomada]

Hi Sophilia, I was wondering if you have done the video on healing from political and racial trauma? Thanks!

[@eleah2256]

Dialectical behavior therapy --> EMDR --> schema therapy (thoughts?)

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Thank you for your question. It really does depend on the aim of your treatment. The therapist and client are partners in discussing and agreeing to modalities that best match your struggle. DBT and Schema therapies are typically used when treating personality disorders, but of course, they can also work with treatment of trauma. If, for instance, the goal is to promote emotional regulation and increase mindfulness before delving into the trauma memories and the schemas that encapsulate them, then the therapist might start with DBT to help you strengthen coping resources, followed by schema therapy to work on mindset and cognitions that may hinder memory processing in EMDR if left unaddressed.

[@eleah2256]

@@SophiliaLarkWoodburythank you! I can't really grasp the difference between personality problems and complex trauma

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

@@eleah2256 I have a video that may help to clear some of that up for you; however, working with a therapist on your specific struggles is definitely the better way to go. Here is the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHWVg3ljnq91i68

[@littlebitmonster5502]

Thank u I wish to email u but im not good at reading or righting I have so much to thank you for and give that feed back u deserve please help (hopeful so ty)

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Thank you for taking the time to comment and offer feedback on the video. Please stay tuned for new content coming soon.

[@mariesmith5670]

Almost no one does this. It’s impossible to find. Maybe if you have lots of money?

[@kvnboudreaux]

are you trained in EMDR?

[@SophiliaLarkWoodbury]

Yes! For over 10 years now.

[@cryptobull2493]

That lipstick is 🔥🔥🔥

[@josedelapinio]

For some it does help. For others it doesnt. For me it did not tbh

[@hsinglu]

She is not a licensed therapist, and yet she is giving clinical guidance. Very dangerous! Even as a coach, she is violating ICF guidelines by venturing into psychotherapy, which is not within her scope of practice.

[@lisasoininen8823]

I can't even look at that face Aura,lol

[@eugeneano285]

Don't follow commercial way of titling videos to scare or catch interest. Yes "EMDR can help CPTSD if..." would be a better title, as someone suggested below. There are many top EMDR consultants that add various flavors to EMDR. EMDR is not a CBT worksheet to fill in checkmarks. Your content does not match the title. You are turning off people like me, people that need to trust.