Complex PTSD is a result of long-term exposure to traumatic stress. These early memories are stored as somatic experiences and are related to early relational exchanges. Somatic psychology is the exploration of the interactions among brain, mind, body and behavior and how these relationships impacts mental and physical health.
Chronic Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is associated with chronic patterns of illnesses and chronic pain.
When trauma occurs, it affects the right side of the brain, which controls somatic and spatial memory. The trauma is stored in implicit memory. To process the traumatic event, bilateral stimulation is applied and the individual who is then able to use both sides of their brain and to clear it. Often other circuits or memories are processed at the same time, allowing the individual to integrate the memories in a more adaptive method.
EMDR appears to be similar to what occurs naturally during REM sleep (dreaming stage of normal sleep). Hence, EMDR can be considered as a physiologically-based therapy that helps an individual see and recollect disturbing material in a new and less distressing manner.
Scientific research has established EMDR as a powerful treatment modality for alleviating the
most disturbing symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Since its conception,
research and clinicians have reported success using EMDR in treatment of following conditions: