A combined, holistic approach to trauma therapy

Trauma isn’t defined by an event, but rather, trauma occurs when our ability to respond to a person or situation becomes overwhelmed. Trauma is the experience that gets lodged in our minds, bodies, and physiology in the absence of an empathic other.

Two powerful trauma therapies

Integrating Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with Somatic Experiencing (SE) represents a holistic approach to trauma therapy, capitalizing on their unique strengths to enhance healing and resilience.

EMDR, developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, focuses on processing distressing memories through bilateral stimulation, typically eye movements, which may help the individual process trauma.

Somatic Experiencing, founded by Peter Levine in the 1970s, emphasizes bodily sensations and the innate resilience of the nervous system to resolve trauma and stress disorders.

While both approaches have distinct techniques and theories, their combination offers a comprehensive framework for addressing complex trauma.

What is EMDR therapy?

At the core of EMDR therapy lies the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which posits that trauma disrupts the brain's ability to process information adaptively.

By engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tactile sensations, EMDR aims to facilitate reprocessing traumatic memories, allowing the individual to integrate them into their overall life experience.

This process often results in reduced emotional distress and a shift in maladaptive beliefs associated with the trauma.

What is Somatic Experiencing therapy?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) focuses on the physiological manifestations of trauma in the body.

Peter Levine's work emphasizes that traumatic experiences can lead to dysregulation in the autonomic nervous system, causing symptoms such as hyperarousal or dissociation. SE techniques aim to restore balance to the nervous system by gently guiding individuals to track and release bodily sensations associated with traumatic memories.

Through this process, individuals can renegotiate unresolved survival responses and reclaim a sense of safety and empowerment.

Benefits of combining EMDR and Somatic Experiencing in healing trauma

When combined, EMDR and SE offer complementary tools for addressing trauma on both cognitive and somatic levels. One key benefit of integrating these approaches in psychotherapy is their ability to target different aspects of the trauma experience simultaneously.

While EMDR targets the cognitive processing of memories, SE provides a somatic foundation for regulating arousal and restoring a sense of safety in the body.

This dual focus goes beyond talk therapy and can enhance the effectiveness of treatment, particularly for individuals with complex or developmental trauma histories.

Individualized therapy approach

Additionally, the integration of EMDR and SE allows for a more flexible and individualized approach to the treatment of PTSD.

Therapists can tailor treatment strategies to meet each client's specific needs and preferences, drawing from the diverse toolkit offered by both modalities. For example, some clients may benefit from beginning with SE interventions to establish a foundation of safety and somatic awareness before engaging in EMDR processing, making the therapy sessions more effective in treating trauma. 

Avoid retraumatization

Moreover, the combination of EMDR and SE can enhance the processing of dissociated or fragmented trauma memories, making it an effective approach to treating trauma through therapy and somatic practices.

EMDR's bilateral stimulation can facilitate the integration of disconnected aspects of the trauma narrative, while SE's somatic techniques can help individuals stay grounded and regulated throughout the processing.

This integrative approach promotes a more cohesive and integrated sense of self, reducing the likelihood of retraumatization and increasing the likelihood of long-term symptom relief through effective therapy and somatic integration.

Empowerment and resilience

Another advantage of combining EMDR and SE is their shared emphasis on promoting empowerment and resilience in clients, which can be particularly effective in treating traumatic events.

Both modalities recognize the inherent capacity for healing within each individual and seek to empower clients to access their innate resources for recovery. By fostering a sense of agency and mastery over the healing process, therapists can support clients in building resilience and developing effective coping skills for managing future challenges.

Furthermore, integrating EMDR and SE can deepen the therapeutic relationship and enhance therapeutic attunement, especially in recognizing body sensations linked to trauma. Therapists trained in both modalities can skillfully navigate between cognitive and somatic interventions, attuning to each client's unique needs and responses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the integration of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with Somatic Experiencing (SE) offers a powerful and holistic approach to trauma therapy.

By combining their unique strengths, these modalities provide a comprehensive framework for addressing trauma on cognitive, emotional, and somatic levels, enhancing body awareness.

This integrative approach promotes enhanced processing of traumatic memories, regulation of the nervous system, empowerment of clients, and deepening of the therapeutic relationship.

As such, EMDR and SE together represent a valuable resource for therapists seeking to support individuals on their journey toward healing and resilience after a traumatic event.

Find a trauma therapist

EMDR and Somatic Experiencing are leading therapies in the treatment of PTSD —different approaches that both offer immense healing and, combined, provide optimal healing and transformation. With the help of a skilled trauma therapist, your life can undergo a profound transformation. Contact me today to begin your healing journey.