Why standard EMDR can sometimes feel overwhelming
I've often explained to my clients, beginning reprocessing in standard EMDR can sometimes feel like taking a cold plunge into a deep pool. Integrating parts work is like dipping a toe in first to adjust to the temperature and build comfort. If you know how to swim, ie you're well resourced, therapy savvy, have a stellar window of tolerance, you'll find EMDR on its own tolerable although challenging. If you've found yourself having attachment wounds, ongoing trauma experience, complex parts system from childhood you might find that EMDR is overwhelming.
How Parts Work builds readiness
Identifying parts and getting their permission can be a crucial step in reducing flooding, overreaching the window of tolerance, or finding yourself dissociating or looping on the same painful memories. I've found parts to be a powerful influence on my work in EMDR, and their permission in moving forward to often be the difference between staying stuck or making progress both before and during the bilateral stimulation beginning.
The synergy between Reprocessing and Wounds
Young parts, or the targeted memories associated with them that EMDR frequently targets, dovetail in a very tidy way. Once protective parts feel safe, the bilateral stimulation in the reprocessing step in EMDR can create an optimal environment for what in parts work is referred to as an unburdening.
What about Neurodivergent folks?
Neurodivergent people, people with complex trauma, and people who have generally found themselves stuck in talk therapy can benefit from this protocol as it exits rigid analysis and enters the stream of your own consciousness and benefits from the utilization of your minds own way of thinking to foster organic healing.
Trauma therapy doesn't have to mean forcing yourself into overwhelm. If you're looking for a neurodiversity-affirming, paced approach to EMDR and parts work, reach out today to schedule an initial consultation.
