Is EMDR therapy something a Christian can consider?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a form of psychotherapy that has become popular in recent decades as a treatment for trauma and PTSD. It utilizes bilateral stimulation like eye movements or taps to help process traumatic memories. As Christians, we want to make sure any therapy or treatment we pursue aligns with biblical principles. What does the Bible have to say about EMDR? Let’s explore this topic in more detail.

What is EMDR Therapy?

First, we need to understand what exactly EMDR therapy entails. EMDR was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. She noticed that when she moved her eyes back and forth while thinking about distressing memories, the negative emotions associated with the memories were reduced. From this observation, she developed EMDR therapy as a comprehensive approach to processing trauma.

In an EMDR session, the therapist asks the client to recall a disturbing memory while simultaneously doing rhythmic bilateral stimulation like tracking the therapist’s fingers back and forth or listening to tones alternating between ears. The bilateral stimulation is thought to help the brain access and process the traumatic memories and reduce their negative impact. After each set of bilateral stimulation, the client is asked what came to mind and the process is repeated until the memory becomes less distressing.

In addition to the bilateral stimulation, EMDR utilizes other techniques as well. The client identifies negative beliefs associated with the trauma and replaces them with more positive beliefs. There is also a focus on vividly imagining a preferred future once the trauma has been processed.

Several hypotheses have been proposed for how EMDR works. The working memory theory suggests the dual attention of recalling the memory while tracking the bilateral stimulation overloads the working memory system forcing differnent memory networks to link up and process the memory in new ways. The orienting response theory posits the bilateral stimulation elicits an orienting response which lowers distress and increases cognitive flexibility around processing the traumatic memory. But regardless of the mechanism, studies have shown EMDR can be effective at relieving PTSD symptoms when done properly by a trained professional.

Evaluating EMDR through a Biblical Lens

When evaluating any form of psychotherapy as Christians, we need to consider a few important biblical principles:

1. The source of wisdom – As believers, we want to make sure the therapy aligns with God’s truth, not the changing theories of man. “The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure…without hypocrisy and deceit.” (James 3:17)
2. Renewing the mind – Our thinking and beliefs should be guided by Scripture so they are conformed to God’s will. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)
3. Power of prayer – We can seek God in prayer for healing rather than relying solely on human solutions. “Cast all your anxiety on him for he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
4. Wholeness in Christ – Our identity and worth comes from being children of God, not from being trauma-free. “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life.” (2 Peter 1:3)

Evaluating EMDR in light of these principles reveals both potential benefits and areas of caution for Christians interested in this treatment method.

Potential Benefits of EMDR

In many ways, EMDR does align with biblical values and could be a helpful tool for Christians struggling with trauma. Here are some potential benefits:

• It targets root causes of issues – EMDR aims to process underlying traumatic memories rather than just treat surface symptoms. This aligns with the biblical practice of heart/mind renewal. “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” (Isaiah 26:3)
• It provides hope for healing – EMDR has been clinically proven to reduce symptoms of PTSD and trauma. The Bible encourages us to ask God boldly for healing. “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
• It’s compatible with prayer – Clients can pray silently during EMDR sessions, asking God to bring healing and renewal of their minds/hearts through the treatment process.
• It focuses on wholeness – Proper EMDR therapy should address the whole person including current life circumstances, beliefs, and values along with processing past trauma. Our faith reminds us of God’s desire for our complete restoration. “The Lord will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 30:17).

Given these potential benefits, EMDR could be a helpful tool for Christians to process trauma when utilized alongside biblical principles and prayer.

Cautions in Using EMDR as a Christian

There are also some important cautions to keep in mind if considering EMDR from a biblical perspective:

• Lack of definitive biblical support – Nowhere does Scripture directly recommend EMDR or eye movements as an approach to inner healing. We have to be careful not to put more faith in a method than in God Himself.
• Danger of “psycho-heresy” – Some Christian therapists warn EMDR could potentially clash with biblical teachings if not practiced carefully. Anything contradictory to Scripture should be avoided.
• Varying results – While research shows positive outcomes in many cases, results can vary widely in clinical practice. Our hope and identity have to remain firmly rooted in Christ, not in being trauma-free.
• Focus on the brain – EMDR focuses primarily on stimulating neurological pathways in the brain. But biblical healing encompasses body, soul, and spirit. We need to ensure the spiritual realm is addressed too through prayer and renewal of heart and mind.
• Outside spiritual influence – Without caution, attempts at inner healing could potentially expose us to influences of darkness. Prayer for spiritual protection is essential.

These concerns do not necessarily mean EMDR is off-limits, but wisdom and caution are needed for Christians considering this therapy. Biblical principles should remain paramount.

Questions to Ask as a Christian

Given both the potential benefits and cautions, here are some key questions to prayerfully consider before embarking on EMDR treatment as a Christian:

1. Am I putting my ultimate hope in Jesus or in being healed of trauma through EMDR? God may use it as a tool but our identity lies in Christ alone.
2. Have I sought godly counsel on whether EMDR is wise in my specific case? Input from pastors, mature believers, and ideally Christian mental health professionals can help provide perspective and wisdom.
3. Is the EMDR therapist a believer and/or respectful of my Christian faith? Our worldview directly impacts treatment approach.
4. Am I actively engaged in other spiritual growth activities like Bible study, prayer, worship, Christian fellowship, and serving? EMDR should supplement, not replace, these core disciplines.
5. Am I prepared to stop treatment if I sense it pulling me away from Christ? Our commitment to Jesus takes priority if conflict arises.

Asking these key questions can help determine if EMDR therapy, administered in a wise and limited fashion, could be a biblically valid step toward inner healing.

Guidance for Christians Considering EMDR

For Christians who have prayerfully sought godly counsel and believe God is leading them to try EMDR therapy, here are some guiding principles to keep in mind:

• Make Christ the foundation, not resolving trauma – Our worth comes from Jesus’ love, not from being trauma-free. Keep perspective that God may not choose to resolve all trauma in this life.
• Ensure techniques align with Scripture – If unbiblical concepts/techniques arise, lovingly ask to replace with biblical alternatives. Discontinue treatment if in irreconcilable conflict with faith.
• Invite Holy Spirit – Ask Him to guide the process and reveal only what can be redeemed for healing. Bind away any harmful spiritual influence.
• Anchor to Scripture – Quote Scripture aloud and meditate on truth passages related to trauma, identity, grace, etc. Use God’s Word to counter lies and distortions that may surface.
• Pray continually – Seek the Great Physician to heal heart wounds the therapy process exposes. EMDR may aid processing but only Jesus truly heals and saves.

Following these guidelines can help Christians engage in EMDR in a wise and godly manner, with Christ remaining at the center and Scripture guiding the way.

Conclusion

What conclusion can we draw about EMDR therapy for Christians seeking biblical perspective? Based on Scripture’s principles, EMDR could potentially have merit when approached carefully and thoughtfully under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Processing trauma with help of therapeutic tools God has allowed humans to develop can align with His heart to heal and restore. At the same time, counsel and caution are needed to ensure EMDR supplements rather than replaces a biblical approach to inner healing and deliverance.

Christians considering EMDR should devote much prayer and seek godly counsel first to ensure it is a wise path. Treatment should remain centered on Christ, guided by Scripture, guarded by prayer. The goal is not to rely on a method or therapist for healing but allow God to minister to inner wounds as we walk closely with Him. Jesus and His Word remain the ultimate sources of truth, identity, and freedom.

While not directly addressed in the Bible, EMDR could potentially assist Christians in overcoming trauma’s grip when pursued cautiously and supplemented with core spiritual disciplines. Our Lord is able to redeem any tool, including counseling methods, when submitted to His lordship and used according to His wisdom. So for Christians struggling with past wounds who believe they are being led to EMDR, it can be an avenue to explore when buttressed with prayer and rooted in God’s Word.