Is EMDR Hypnosis? Understanding the Differences and Similarities
By: Maria Inoa
Oct 1, 2024
No, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is not Hypnosis. In EMDR sessions, you remain conscious of your current state of mind and aware of your surroundings. EMDR therapy is facilitated by a licensed mental health professional who has completed EMDR training and can deliver sessions.
In this guide, we will explore the differences between EMDR and hypnosis, which are sometimes thought to be similar. We will explain EMDR therapy and hypnosis and examine their similarities and differences. Next, we will discuss which conditions and issues EMDR is better at addressing and which conditions and issues hypnosis is better at addressing.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy is a therapy that uses bilateral stimulation to help process traumatic memories and reduce the intensity of the emotions, beliefs, and triggers associated with that traumatic event.
What is Hypnosis?
Clinical hypnosis is a state of consciousness described as deep relaxation and increased awareness. Ideally, hypnosis is done by someone well-trained and even certified.
Key Differences Between EMDR and Hypnosis
Methodology
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy follows a structured 8-phase approach to address traumatic memories, post-traumatic stress disorder, and more. Its basis is the use of bilateral stimulation to help heal distressing memories.
Clinical hypnosis puts you into a deep state of relaxation or a trance-like state. In EMDR sessions, you remain conscious of your current state of mind and aware of your surroundings.
EMDR therapy is facilitated by a licensed mental health professional who has completed EMDR training and can deliver sessions.
With hypnosis a person who has been trained in hypnosis will facilitate the sessions.
Purpose and Goals
The goal of EMDR sessions is to alleviate symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic memories, anxiety, and more. EMDR does this through the process of desensitizing and reprocessing of
The goal of hypnosis is to tap into the subconscious mind through a relaxed state and create a change in thought patterns and behavior.
Similarities Between EMDR and Hypnosis
Therapeutic Applications
Both EMDR and hypnosis can address various mental health conditions, including mild traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and thought patterns.
It is not required to be certified in hypnosis to facilitate it, nor is it required to be certified in EMDR to offer this treatment method. However, it is better in both cases to obtain certification, as it increases your knowledge and expertise in delivering the treatment modality.
Duration and Structure of Sessions
Both hypnosis sessions and EMDR sessions are most typically an hour in duration. With both approaches, it depends on the person and the presenting issue or issues to determine how many sessions will be needed.
When to Choose EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy is known for its effectiveness for trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, and complex trauma as well as panic, anxiety, chronic pain, and more.
Related: How To Find a Good EMDR Therpist
When to Choose Hypnosis
Clinical hypnosis is excellent for pain management, chronic health conditions, anxiety, smoking, weight management, and more.
Can EMDR and Hypnosis Be Combined?
EMDR and hypnosis are different approaches and are not used simultaneously. Mental health professionals trained in both will assess your situation to determine which form of therapy they feel will be most beneficial to you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, EMDR and Hypnosis have some similarities but are fundamentally different approaches. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to heal distressing memories and the unhealthy thoughts and feelings that go along with them. In contrast, clinical hypnosis uses the subconscious to create change in thought and behavior. Another key difference is that EMDR is considered a form of therapy whereas clinical hypnosis is not considered therapy. Lastly, EMDR must be delivered by a licensed mental health professional, while clinical hypnosis does not.
For those with past distressing memories, post traumatic stress disorder, or complex trauma, it is recommended to pursue EMDR versus clinical hypnosis.
