If you’ve faced workplace harassment and are struggling with its emotional aftermath, EMDR therapy for coping with workplace harrassment might offer relief. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapy designed to help process and heal from trauma. It’s effective in changing distressing beliefs and emotions stemming from such experiences. This article will guide you through how EMDR therapy works and its benefits for those coping with workplace harrassment.
Key Takeaways
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EMDR Therapy is an effective method for alleviating the emotional distress caused by workplace harassment, helping patients process traumatic memories and shift distressing beliefs into positive ones.
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EMDR Therapy follows a structured eight-phase process which includes history-taking, preparation, desensitization, and reevaluation to ensure thorough processing and resolution of traumatic experiences.
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Victims of workplace harassment benefit significantly from EMDR Therapy, which helps reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and reactivity to distressing memories, empowering them to regain emotional control and improve overall mental health.
Understanding Workplace Harassment
Workplace harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct based on a person’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin, older age, disability, or genetic information. This conduct becomes unlawful when enduring it is required to continue employment or when it creates an intimidating, hostile, or abusive work environment. Harassment can manifest in many forms, including offensive jokes, physical assaults, name-calling, or intimidation. Sexual harassment, a particularly severe form, includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or offensive comments about someone’s sex. It becomes unlawful if it is frequent and severe enough to create a hostile work environment or result in adverse employment decisions.
Given the significant impact of workplace harassment on mental health – often leading to anxiety, depression, and decreased work performance – addressing this issue is of utmost importance. The World Health Organization recognizes the profound effects of such disturbing events on individuals’ well-being. Whether it’s through direct encounters or the cumulative stress of a toxic work environment, the emotional toll can be devastating.
Recognizing the need for effective therapeutic interventions like EMDR becomes easier when we comprehend the multifaceted nature of harassment.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR, also known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a psychotherapy treatment. It is specifically designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Initially developed by Francine Shapiro in 1989, EMDR Therapy has evolved into a well-recognized method for treating post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. The therapy facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories to bring them to an adaptive resolution, helping individuals heal from symptoms and emotional distress resulting from disturbing life experiences, including workplace harassment.
More than 30 positive controlled outcome studies substantiate the effectiveness of EMDR Therapy. Over 100,000 clinicians worldwide use EMDR Therapy, and millions of people have been treated successfully over the past 33 years. Organizations like the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, and the Department of Defense recognize it as an effective form of treatment for trauma. Studies have shown that a high percentage of single-trauma victims no longer have PTSD after undergoing just three 90-minute sessions. This is a remarkable finding that highlights the potential for effective treatment in a short amount of time. The therapy involves the client focusing on emotionally disturbing material in brief, sequential doses. At the same time, they also focus on an external stimulus such as lateral eye movements.
Clients can activate their innate healing processes through the specific protocols and procedures of EMDR Therapy. This approach aims to help individuals effectively process and overcome past traumas. This structured approach often involves:
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Bilateral stimulation, which can include left to right eye movements, hand tapping, or auditory tones
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Techniques that help process distressing memories emotionally, physically, and mentally
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Reframing trauma memories into less distressing narratives
By utilizing talk therapy techniques, individuals can work towards their natural healing process and recovery.
EMDR has proven to be a powerful tool in the therapeutic arsenal, whether it addresses traumatic events, such as a single traumatic event, multiple traumatic experiences, or a traumatic memory.
How EMDR Therapy Helps with Workplace Harassment
Helping individuals cope with the aftermath of workplace harassment, EMDR Therapy can be particularly effective. One of its primary strengths is its ability to change distressing beliefs formed due to harassment, such as “I am unsafe” or “I am worthless,” into more positive beliefs like “I am safe now” and “I am worthy”. This shift in perception is crucial for emotional recovery, allowing individuals to process their traumatic memories so they feel more distant and less impactful.
EMDR can aid individuals in reaching a point of readiness to discuss their trauma in individual or group settings. The therapy aids in addressing the emotional distress and trauma resulting from workplace harassment, facilitating a more holistic healing process. By reprocessing the disturbing events, EMDR Therapy empowers individuals to regain control over their emotional responses, significantly improving their overall mental well-being.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR Therapy is structured into eight distinct phases designed to effectively address and process traumatic memories. This comprehensive approach ensures that each aspect of the traumatic experience is thoroughly examined and reprocessed. The phases include:
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History taking
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Client preparation
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Assessment
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Desensitization
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Installation
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Body scan
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Closure
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Reevaluation
Each phase serves a specific purpose in the therapeutic process, contributing to the overall effectiveness of EMDR Therapy.
During the initial phase of history taking, information is gathered and a treatment plan is developed. In the second phase, known as preparation, the therapist imparts stress reduction techniques and coping skills to handle emotions during and between sessions. Phases three to six focus on the assessment of target memories and their desensitization through bilateral stimulation.
The closure phase ensures that clients achieve a calm state at the end of each session, regardless of whether reprocessing is complete. Finally, the reevaluation phase involves reviewing the treatment’s progress and identifying additional targets for future sessions.
Phase 1: History-Taking and Treatment Planning
The history-taking process in EMDR Therapy involves the following steps:
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The therapist gathers a detailed history from the client and significant others to identify potential targets for reprocessing.
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This phase includes assessing the client’s readiness for EMDR Therapy by evaluating both internal and external resources.
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The therapist identifies specific target memories for processing.
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Developing a treatment plan is also a crucial part of this phase, which includes setting measurable goals and objectives to track therapy progress.
This phase ensures that the therapy is highly individualized and tailored to each patient’s needs. The therapist prioritizes target issues and begins the preparation work, creating a roadmap for the subsequent phases. By thoroughly understanding the client’s history and current state, the therapist can develop an effective treatment plan that addresses the root causes of their distress.
Phase 2: Preparation and Coping Skills
Phase 2, also known as the Stabilization Phase, focuses on helping clients regulate emotions and develop coping skills to ensure safety and stability. Clients are educated about the EMDR process and the importance of self-soothing techniques to ensure they feel safe. Therapists assess and teach coping skills before starting EMDR to ensure clients can handle emotional sensitivity. Some key aspects of Phase 2 include:
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Educating clients about the EMDR process
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Teaching self-soothing techniques
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Assessing and teaching coping skills
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Ensuring clients can handle emotional sensitivity
During this phase, therapists and clients collaborate to prepare specific coping techniques for emotional disturbances that might arise. Some of the techniques taught include:
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Emotional regulation strategies, such as relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises, to manage intense emotions
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Calm place visualization, which helps clients create a mental safe haven
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The container technique, which helps clients better control their emotions
These techniques are designed to help clients effectively cope with and manage their emotions.
Phases 3-6: Assessment and Desensitization
During Phase 3, the assessment phase, clients identify target memories and associated emotions, which are then desensitized through bilateral stimulation in the desensitization phase. The therapist identifies the target event for reprocessing, along with associated images, beliefs, feelings, and sensations. Initial baseline measures are set using the Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) scale and the Validity of Cognition (VOC) scale to measure the distress level of target memories.
In Phase 4, the desensitization process begins with clients simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation while focusing on the traumatic event until SUD reduces significantly. Clients focus on a target image while following the therapist’s finger movements, promoting change in trauma-related sensory experiences. This process typically starts in the second or third session, as clients become more comfortable with the therapy.
Phase 7: Closure
The seventh phase or closure phase aims to:
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Ensure that clients achieve a calm state at the end of each session, irrespective of the completion status of reprocessing
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Use self-control techniques to bring the client back to a state of equilibrium
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Prepare them for between-session experiences.
This phase is crucial for maintaining emotional stability and ensuring that clients leave each session feeling grounded and secure.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
In the reevaluation phase, the treatment effect is reviewed and additional targets for future sessions are identified. Each new session starts with this phase, where the therapist and client review recently processed memories to ensure lasting low distress and strong positive cognition. Future targets and treatment directions are planned during this phase to continue the progress made.
Completion of reprocessing is indicated when the client feels neutral about the event, the positive belief is strong, and the body is clear of disturbances. This phase ensures that the therapy’s benefits are lasting and that any remaining issues are addressed in subsequent sessions.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy for Workplace Harassment Victims
Victims of workplace harassment can reap numerous benefits from EMDR Therapy. It helps reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which are often prevalent in victims of harassment. By reprocessing traumatic memories, EMDR Therapy can significantly improve mental health and reduce anxiety. The therapy aims to improve self-compassion and reduce feelings of anxiety and shame associated with workplace harassment.
One of the key benefits of EMDR Therapy is its ability to:
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Decrease distress and reactivity to traumatic memories associated with workplace harassment
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Help individuals feel less hypervigilant and reduce persistent feelings of arousal
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Address feelings of powerlessness and helplessness that often result from workplace harassment
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Empower individuals to regain control over their lives
The goal of EMDR Therapy is to facilitate accelerated information processing and help clients integrate their experiences. This holistic approach ensures that individuals not only recover from their trauma but also build resilience and strength for the future.
Finding a Trained EMDR Therapist
For effective treatment, finding a qualified EMDR therapist is paramount. The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) directory is a valuable resource for locating trained EMDR therapists. The directory allows searches by location, name, and other criteria, making it easier to find therapists who meet specific needs. EMDRIA has over 16,000 therapists who are trained in EMDR therapy, ensuring a wide pool of qualified professionals.
It’s important to check for credentials such as licensure and specific EMDR certifications to verify the therapist’s qualifications. Referrals from healthcare providers or trusted sources can also be a reliable way to find a qualified EMDR therapist. Interviewing potential therapists about their experience with EMDR and workplace harassment cases can help determine the right fit.
Common Misconceptions about EMDR Therapy
Several common misconceptions about EMDR Therapy warrant clarification. One myth is that EMDR Therapy is only for combat veterans dealing with PTSD, but it is suitable for a wide range of individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma. Another misconception is that EMDR Therapy is a ‘quick fix’; while it can be quicker than other methods, it involves multiple structured sessions.
People often mistakenly believe that EMDR Therapy erases traumatic memories, but it actually helps in processing and reframing them to be less distressing. EMDR Therapy is not a form of hypnosis or mind control; participants remain in control and can leave the session at any time. Despite some skepticism, EMDR Therapy is an evidence-based treatment proven effective for many individuals.
Additionally, there is a misconception that EMDR doesn’t work online, but studies have shown it to be effective when conducted virtually.
Integrating EMDR with Other Therapies
For a more comprehensive approach to address traumatic stress, EMDR Therapy can be effectively integrated with other psychotherapy methods and models. Combining EMDR with other therapies can expedite the healing process, especially for those reluctant to share their experiences. For instance, EMDR Therapy can be combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help minimize negative thoughts and their impacts.
Other practices, such as journaling and yoga, can also be used alongside EMDR to encourage positive thinking and manage mental health issues. This integrative approach ensures that individuals receive a well-rounded treatment plan that addresses multiple aspects of their well-being.
Preparing for Your First EMDR Session
To set the stage for a successful therapeutic journey, it’s beneficial to adequately prepare for your first EMDR session. Phase 2 of EMDR Therapy involves explaining the process and setting expectations while addressing client concerns and establishing a safe therapeutic alliance. Engaging in daily relaxation activities like walking, yoga, or breathing exercises can help prepare your mind and body for the sessions ahead.
Maintaining a healthy diet, reducing sugary and processed foods, and getting adequate sleep are also important preparations. Identifying a support system and knowing whom to call when stressed is crucial for emotional stability. Starting a gratitude journal and noting things you are thankful for each day can also be beneficial. These practices create a supportive environment that can enhance the effectiveness of EMDR Therapy.
Success Stories: Overcoming Workplace Harassment with EMDR
The potential of EMDR Therapy to transform lives is highlighted by success stories from individuals who have undergone the therapy. After successful EMDR sessions, many individuals report no further nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive memories related to their harassment.
For example, one client who experienced a near-fatal accident at work involving malfunctioning machinery overcame overwhelming panic through EMDR Therapy, regaining confidence in his role. These stories are testaments to the power of EMDR Therapy in helping individuals reclaim their mental health and professional lives.
Summary
EMDR Therapy offers a structured, effective approach to addressing the traumatic impacts of workplace harassment. By reprocessing disturbing memories and changing negative beliefs, individuals can achieve significant improvements in their mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms resulting from workplace harassment, EMDR Therapy provides a pathway to healing and resilience. If you’re considering EMDR Therapy, finding a trained EMDR therapist and preparing adequately can set you on the path to recovery.
