Bilateral processing is a powerful and transformative method to engage our body’s natural healing capabilities. It is one of the most known parts of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).  But what exactly is bilateral processing, and how does it contribute to the healing process? In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of this therapeutic approach and explore its impact on recovering from stressful events and developmental trauma.

Understanding Bilateral Processing:

Bilateral processing is a therapeutic technique rooted in the principles of bilateral stimulation, which involves the rhythmic left-right movement or stimulation of the body. This can be achieved through various means, including eye movements, tapping, or auditory stimuli. The underlying premise is that by engaging both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously, individuals can access and process traumatic memories or emotional blockages more effectively.

The Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model:

Bilateral processing finds its theoretical foundation in Francine Shapiro's Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which posits that unprocessed or undigested memories contribute to psychological, physical, and emotional distress. According to this model, traumatic experiences or distressing memories can become "stuck" in the nervous system, hindering one's ability to cope and drop out of patterned ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Memories can be stored as images, cognitions, and sensations. Bilateral processing aims to facilitate the reprocessing of these stored memories, allowing individuals to integrate them into their overall life narrative in a healthier way.

How Does it Work?

The most well-known form of bilateral processing is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapeutic approach developed by Shapiro. During an EMDR session, a trained therapist guides the client through a structured process that involves recalling distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This can be achieved through the therapist moving their fingers from side to side, using lights or dots on a screen, tapping, or employing auditory cues.

The bilateral stimulation appears to activate the brain's natural processing mechanisms, facilitating the digestion and integration of traumatic memories. The process helps individuals reframe their perceptions, reduce emotional distress, and develop more adaptive coping mechanisms. Additionally, it encourages the nervous system to make new connections and associations, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the traumatic event.

Benefits of Bilateral Processing:

• Trauma Reduction and Resolution: Bilateral processing has shown significant success in reducing, and even resolving, the impacts from traumatic events, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex post-traumatic disorder (CPTSD). By reprocessing traumatic memories or a network of traumatic memories, individuals can experience a reduction in the emotional charge associated with these events.

• Emotion Regulation: This therapeutic technique enhances emotional regulation by helping individuals process and manage intense emotions more effectively. It allows for a balanced integration of positive and negative emotions, fostering emotional resilience.

• Improved Self-Esteem: Bilateral processing can contribute to an individual's sense of self-worth and empowerment. As one works through past traumas, they often experience a shift in self-perception and a greater sense of control over their lives.

The healing that can occur through bilateral processing is a testament to the remarkable resilience of the human nervous system and its capacity to build new neural networks. By engaging both hemispheres of the brain through structured therapeutic interventions, individuals can move toward fully digesting traumatic memories, paving the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life in the here and now. 

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If you’d like more information about EMDR, visit EMDRIA.ORG.

*Disclaimer: The information in this blog is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for mental health care nor a recommendation or endorsement for any particular treatment plan, organization, provider, professional service, or product. The information may change without notice. No claims, promises, or guarantees are made about the completeness, accuracy, currency, content or quality of information linked. You assume all responsibility and risk for any use of the information.

IFS EMDR Therapy Group is an outpatient therapy group founded by Morgan Levine. We specialize in helping adults struggling with the effects of living in dysfunctional systems move toward healing and wholeness. We provide therapy to address symptoms such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, obsessive and compulsive thoughts and behaviors including but not limited to using work, perfectionism, substances, relationships, food, etc. We offer ongoing support as well as EMDR intensives; both of which are informed by IFS, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Polyvagal Theory, trauma-informed yoga, attachment, and other recovery principles. Our therapists work virtually with clients living throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida.  Morgan Levine also provides trauma-informed consultation to therapists worldwide. Connect with us through our website at https://ifsemdrtherapy.com/contact-us.