Trauma Therapy (EMDR & DBT)
/therapy/trauma-emdr-dbt/
Healing Trauma to Heal Addiction
Trauma and addiction are deeply interconnected. Many individuals use substances to numb the pain of past experiences. At ARC, we use specialized therapies to process trauma safely without re-traumatizing you.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages the patient to briefly focus on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (eye movements). This helps the brain “reprocess” the memory, reducing its lingering emotional charge and triggers.
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)
Originally developed for severe emotional dysregulation, DBT is highly effective for addiction. It teaches four core skills:
Mindfulness: Being present in the moment.
Distress Tolerance: Surviving crises without resorting to drugs.
Emotion Regulation: Managing intense feelings.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: Communicating needs healthily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does EMDR work without talk therapy?
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require you to discuss the distressing details of your trauma at length. Instead, it uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements) to help your brain 'reprocess' stuck memories, moving them from an emotional state to a neutral memory storage.
Is DBT only for Borderline Personality Disorder?
No. While originally developed for BPD, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has been proven highly effective for addiction and PTSD. It specifically teaches skills to tolerate emotional distress and regulate intense feelings, which are crucial for preventing relapse.
Will re-living my trauma make me relapse?
This is a common fear. At ARC, we use a 'Safety First' approach. We do not begin deep trauma work (like EMDR) until you have established a foundation of sobriety and have learned coping skills to handle the emotions that may arise.
Can EMDR help with childhood trauma?
Yes. EMDR is particularly effective for 'Complex PTSD' resulting from prolonged childhood adverse experiences. It helps desensitize the deep-rooted negative beliefs (like 'I am not safe' or 'I am unlovable') that often drive substance use in adulthood.
How many sessions will I need?
Trauma therapy is highly individual. Some clients experience relief from specific single-incident traumas in just a few EMDR sessions, while those with complex, long-term trauma may require ongoing DBT and trauma work over several months to achieve stability.
Addiction is a medical condition, not a life sentence. Our Canadian clinical team is ready to listen without judgment. Get confidential answers about Medical Detox, Therapy, and Insurance Coverage today.
