What is EMDR dual awareness?
You may have heard some people mentioning this term ‘dual awareness’. But what does it mean? In this blog post we will delve into what this topic means and how it relates to your own recovery.
How does dual awareness work?
Dual awareness is part of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Dual awareness relates to one’s ability to stay in the here-and-now while also bringing up past details of trauma.
Subsequently dual awareness helps you:
- Stay grounded while engaged in EMDR processing
- Pendulate into and out of traumatic dysfunctional material
- Decrease the risk of emotional flooding
What if I can’t do dual awareness?
Like anything this skill takes practice. Depending on your history and life experiences it may take longer to develop this skill. Consistency and perseverance are important here. Sometimes people lose motivation during this phase but delayed gratification is your biggest asset in this situation.
Do I need dual awareness to engage in EMDR therapy?
It depends. It depends on factors such as your:
- Current ability to cope with stress
- Level of past traumatic events
- Level of dissociation
- Rapport with your therapist
Typically, EMDR therapy will have some initial components of dual awareness associated with it.
Is dual awareness the same as mindfulness?
My answer to that is both yes and no. Yes in the sense that they both notice shifts in your physiology, mood, thoughts, and emotions. No in the sense that mindfulness typically stops there. The skill of dual awareness is centered around the ability to do these things and simultaneously notice past details of traumatic events.
Reach out today to our local EMDR therapists in Kenosha, WI!
Some people develop dual awareness skills faster than others. It is not a race. Patience is key. Our therapists at Revitalize Mental Health PLLC are trained in EMDR therapy and can support you in your recovery process. Submit a form a here to schedule a free consultation call with us.
