Exploring EMDR and MAT: Two Incredibly Effective Recovery Tools

While words like “recovery” may bring to mind any number of preconceived notions or images, the truth is that recovery is a highly malleable, flexible, and individualized process.

There is no one path to a healthy life that will work for every person, and taking the time to explore the various options, coping strategies, and practices available is the cornerstone of an effective recovery plan. Tracking recovery trends can offer new insights and options for each individual.

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) are just two of these options that may be applicable based on one’s needs and goals.

What Is EMDR?

EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is a relatively new experimental therapeutic approach to recovery. While its development is still fairly recent, it is becoming more commonly used, especially as an approach to treating cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, it is also being incorporated to address trauma and has even brought success in addressing the use of addictive substances.

Car accidents, the deterioration of relationships, and crippling feelings of depression or compromised self-worth can all be prevalent traumatic experiences throughout addiction and recovery, and EMDR is a recent trend that utilizes the brain’s natural healing processes to challenge and overcome these traumas and feelings.

Starting an EMDR Therapy Session

It is normal to be apprehensive about trying a new therapeutic approach and knowing what to expect can help break down barriers to exploring EMDR as an option.

During an EMDR session, an individual may be guided through traumatic memories or negative thoughts that impact their lives while focusing their eyes on a moving point. Over the course of a session, the goal is to lessen the brunt of the raw, emotional responses connected to these memories before transitioning toward happier, more calming thoughts. Practitioners will track the client's body's inherent emotional and physical responses to these memories while their eyes replicate the movements of rapid-eye-movement sleep, also known as REM sleep.

By helping to take the edge off of these memories, it is then possible to replace them with new feelings and even replace negative impulses and feelings with positive ones.

While EMDR is still a relatively new practice in the recovery sphere, it is being explored for its beneficial effects on those suffering from trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and more. While it may not be the best fit for every person, discussing the option with trained professionals can help guide an individual when creating the right recovery program for them.

Utilizing Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Recovery from any kind of addiction or mental health disorder is a trying process, and many uncertain thoughts and emotions can negatively impact one’s daily life. While various therapeutic practices are designed to help process the challenges of daily life, additional help in the form of medication is sometimes beneficial, even necessary.

The use of medication is prevalent for addressing complex mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and more. Medication can also be used to address symptoms of addiction and renormalize one’s brain chemistry, while others can help mitigate withdrawal symptoms during the detox stage of one’s sober journey.

Medication is constantly evolving, and new, more refined medications are regularly becoming available. While MAT first became prominent for helping individuals overcome opioid use and addiction, it has since continued to expand for more uses in recovery. As medications are continually developed, refined, and explored, they can present a new approach and evolving options for those struggling with mental health disorders or addiction. More safe medications becoming available means care can be more specialized to fit one’s unique struggles with addiction, making MAT an option for those looking for this kind of support.

Medication Isn’t for Everyone

MAT isn’t for everyone, and not all recovery routes will necessitate medication. It is not a replacement for other therapeutic techniques or transformative practices, but it can help ease one’s symptoms and provide the necessary support to allow an individual to push their boundaries and explore what a healthy, sober future can be for them.

For those wondering if MAT is appropriate, talking with professionals about their expectations for the use of medication, their concerns, and their struggles can all create a complete picture and informed decision on the use of medication. With the constant development of new, specialized medications, those exploring this option may find something that is best for them still on the horizon.

Creating Your Own Recovery Path

There is no one path to a healthy future, and these trends in recovery are just a couple of options to explore and consider. Finding the best practices for people on an individual basis is crucial for effective, sustainable recovery. Embracing new therapeutic approaches and practices, bolstered by supportive practices such as MAT or EMDR, can create a complete, sustainable approach to a transformed future.

Working closely with professionals on one’s unique situation and struggles is necessary to piece together the right skills, approaches, and support necessary for long-term sobriety. 

EMDR and MAT showcase the ever-expanding options available for recovery, helping you create your own path to a healthy, sober future. At The Edge Treatment Center, we understand the need to develop your own path and are prepared to help you discover your best practices today. We offer an array of therapeutic approaches, all of which can be customized to fit your unique situation, including the use of MAT, EMDR, and much more.

For more information on how we can help you, reach out to The Edge Treatment Center now.