Rape survivors often have to deal with more than the physical aspects of their attack. Long after the physical scars have healed, the emotional and mental scars still linger. Unfortunately these mental scars can lead to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and drug abuse. To help rape survivors transition from merely surviving to thriving and living their best life, there are several forms of therapy that can help to provide the coping tools that a former sexual assault victim needs. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) was introduced as a form of therapy to help victims develop much-needed coping mechanisms.
EMDR is a type of psychotherapy that was developed in an effort to help rape survivors and others living with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR uses eight steps or phases to help survivors learn how to refocus their memories and visual associations related to the traumatic event so that recovery can be possible. The following is a much-abbreviated version of the eight phases of EMDR therapy:
The EMDR therapies are repeated as many times as the PTSD or rape survivor needs in order to find success with the process. To gain a full understand of what EMDR is you should discuss the process with the team of professionals who will work with you when you seek out mental health treatment for the aftereffects of rape or other trauma.
Call our toll-free helpline to discuss your situation with one of our compassionate and knowledgeable counselors. They will be able to guide you by providing information, and they can help you determine your insurance coverage for EMDR treatment. Put yourself on the pathway to a full recovery and a life that is positive when you find treatment for the effects of rape. Calls are confidential, and we are here 24 hours a day to help.