Product Description

Title: Rewiring the Addicted Brain with EMDR-Based Treatment
Author: Laurel Parnell, PhD
Category: Health, Fitness & Dieting > Mental Health > Post-Traumatic Stress

About This Book

This book, as indicated by its title, focuses on the application of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy for addiction treatment. It is written for professionals and individuals interested in the intersection of trauma and addiction.

General Information on EMDR and Addiction

EMDR is a psychotherapy approach developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It involves bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) to help process traumatic memories. Research has shown EMDR to be effective for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). More recently, it has been applied to addiction treatment, as trauma often underlies addictive behaviours. This book, given its title and category, likely builds on this emerging field. EMDR works by stimulating the brain’s information processing system, allowing traumatic memories to be reprocessed and integrated. In addiction, trauma can trigger cravings and relapse, so addressing the root trauma may support recovery. The therapy typically follows an eight-phase protocol: history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitisation, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. While originally developed for PTSD, EMDR has been adapted for conditions like addiction, phobias, and anxiety.

Understanding the Connection Between Trauma and Addiction

There is a well-documented link between trauma and substance use disorders. Many individuals with addiction have experienced traumatic events, and the substances may serve as a coping mechanism. Treating the underlying trauma can therefore be a crucial component of recovery. EMDR is one modality that addresses trauma directly, by helping the brain reprocess distressing memories. This book, by focusing on the addicted brain, likely explores how EMDR can be tailored to this population. The title suggests a focus on neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself. This concept is central to many modern addiction treatments.

It is important to note that EMDR should be conducted by trained professionals. This book is intended for clinicians already familiar with EMDR, as the title implies an advanced application. The categorisation under post-traumatic stress further emphasises the trauma focus.

Please note that this description is based on the title and category. No detailed product description was provided by the publisher. The general information above is provided for context and is not specifically from the book itself.