Understanding Therapy Jargon: EMDR and Polyvagal Theory Explained in Plain Language
Entering the world of trauma therapy can sometimes feel like navigating through a sea of complex terms and theories. In this blog, we'll demystify common therapy jargon, focusing on two powerful frameworks: EMDR and Polyvagal Theory. Let's break down some of the jargon into plain language to make them more accessible and understandable.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
**1. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing):**
EMDR is a specific type of somatic (or body based) therapy based on the AIP model. It involves guided eye movements to help process traumatic memories, making them less distressing.
**2. What is the AIP Model?**
The Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model is a way therapists understand how our brains process and store information. It is the foundation for EMDR therapy and emphasizes that when we experience trauma or stress, our brains may struggle to process or “file” the information properly, leading to distressing symptoms getting stuck much like a file in a file cabinet popping up. In addition, the AIP model also suggests that with some help the body, including the nervous system, is wired to heal. For instance, if you get a cut your body knows how to heal itself. Therefore, with the right kind of support, symptoms tied to traumatic or stressful events can be healed by helping those stuck experiences get properly filed.
**3. Bilateral Stimulation:**
This term refers to activities that stimulate both sides of the body, like tapping or eye movements. In therapy, these activities can help the brain reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact.
Polyvagal Theory:
**1. What is Polyvagal Theory?**
Polyvagal Theory is a theory developed by Stephen Porges.It's named after the vagus nerve, a major player in our body's stress response. This theory helps us understand how our nervous system is wired to respond to stress and danger and wired to relax back into digest and rest for optimum functioning. It also provides an explanation for how the nervous system is affected by ongoing prolonged periods of stress as well as how to develop skills for regulation.
**2. Fight-Flight-Freeze Response:**
This is our body's natural reaction to danger. We might fight the threat, flee from it, or freeze, like a deer in headlights. Polyvagal Theory helps therapists or individuals understand these responses and tailor responses accordingly.
**3. Ventral Vagus Activation:**
When the "social engagement" part of our nervous system is activated, we feel safe and connected. Therapists work with their clients to activate this system, promoting feelings of safety and trust.
**4. Dorsal Vagus Activation:**
This part of the nervous system is associated with immobilization and shutdown. Understanding dorsal vagus activation helps therapists and their clients address the freeze response and gently guide clients toward safety and presence.
**5. Co-Regulation:**
This term highlights the importance of interpersonal connection in regulating our nervous system. Through relationships, we can positively influence each other's emotional states, promoting a sense of safety and well-being.
In simpler terms, EMDR helps therapists and clients understand how our brains process trauma and a powerful body-based approach for digesting old stored responses, while Polyvagal Theory sheds light on our body's stress responses. Whether it's using eye movements to process memories or recognizing the fight-flight-freeze dance of our nervous system, these frameworks guide therapists in creating a safe and effective path to healing.
Understanding therapy jargon doesn't have to be daunting. By breaking down these terms in plain language, we hope to make the concepts more accessible and empower individuals seeking trauma therapy to navigate these frameworks with greater clarity and ease.
If you are struggling, please reach out to a professional for help. There is 24/7 help at the crisis line #988. Our therapists are licensed and available to help those living in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Georgia, and Florida; complete our CONTACT FORM and someone will be in touch with you to schedule a free consultation.
Keywords: AIP model, Polyvagal Theory, Trauma Therapy, Therapy Jargon, Bilateral Stimulation, EMDR, Fight-Flight-Freeze Response, Ventral Vagus Activation, Dorsal Vagus Activation, Co-Regulation, Stress Responses, Nervous System
*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.
