Is Christian EMDR a Real Thing?

Many Christians may be hesitant of eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) due to a lack of information, concerns about research, or fears that it may somehow open an individual up to "ungodly influences." All of these are concerns that a Christian client seeking mental health help may need to sort through.

Many Christians may be hesitant about eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) due to a variety of factors that can contribute to their apprehension. One significant reason for this hesitance is often a lack of information regarding the therapy itself. EMDR is a structured therapy that is designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories, and it employs a unique method that involves the patient recalling distressing events while simultaneously undergoing bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. However, for many, the technical aspects of this therapy can seem daunting and unfamiliar, leading to uncertainty about its effectiveness and safety.

Additionally, concerns about the research supporting EMDR can further complicate a Christian client’s decision-making process. While numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of EMDR in treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), some individuals may question the validity of these studies or their applicability to their personal faith context. They may wonder whether the scientific findings align with their beliefs or if they are being encouraged to adopt methods that lack a solid foundation in Christian principles. This skepticism can lead to a reluctance to engage with EMDR, as clients may feel torn between the potential benefits of the therapy and their desire to remain aligned with their spiritual convictions.

Moreover, fears that EMDR might somehow open an individual up to "ungodly influences" can be a significant barrier for many Christians considering this form of therapy. This concern often stems from a belief that any therapeutic approach that involves altered states of consciousness or unconventional techniques could potentially expose individuals to spiritual dangers. The idea of being vulnerable to negative spiritual influences or experiences can be particularly alarming for those who hold strong religious beliefs. As a result, these fears may lead clients to avoid EMDR altogether, opting instead for more traditional forms of counseling that they perceive as safer or more compatible with their faith.

Working with a Christian therapist who uses EMDR can help alleviate these concerns. It is important for mental health professionals to provide clear, accessible information about how EMDR works, the research backing its use, and how it can be integrated into a faith-based framework. Addressing these issues can help demystify the therapy and alleviate fears, allowing Christian clients to make informed decisions about their mental health care. Christian therapists are uniquely prepared to foster and environment where questions and concerns can be openly discussed to empower individuals to explore therapeutic options without compromising their spiritual beliefs.

When choosing a Christian therapist who uses EMDR there are a few important factors to consider. First, how does the mental health professional integrate spirituality into therapy? Being a Christian therapist can mean different things do different people. What level of training does the clinician have in Christian integration? The fact is that there are more clinicians trained in EMDR than there are clinicians trained Christian integration. It may even be helpful to ask how many hours of training have they received in Christian integration.

Another set of question to ask would be around how they use EMDR in their practice. How long have they been doing EMDR? What percent of their caseload is EMDR or trauma related? Do they enjoy EMDR work? Do they have training in advanced EMDR protocols?

Christian EMDR is a legitimate practice that involves a provider trained in both Christian Integration and EMDR techniques. For individuals who wish to incorporate their faith into their healing journey, it is advisable to seek out a provider capable of facilitating this integration.