TheraTappers EMDR Therapy Tools
In This Article
What is a TheraTapper?
A TheraTapper is a device used in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy - a form of psychotherapy that treats people with trauma.
It is also commonly used in DNMS (Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy) therapy.
The TheraTapper kit consists of a control box and two pulsers, which are connected by six-foot wires. Vibration from the pulsers creates tactile stimulations in the brain and has been shown to have a positive effect on several mental health and addiction disorders.
How Do TheraTappers Work?
TheraTappers use alternating bilateral stimulation (ABS) of the brain to achieve EMDR. This mimics REM sleep by stimulating bi-lateral eye movements, which changes maladaptive neural networks. In essence, it facilitates communication across the two hemispheres of the brain to help process traumatic events.
Anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), drug addiction, and alcoholism can all be treated using ABS and EMDR.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
TheraTappers and EMDR treatment have several impactful mental and physical health benefits for patients. They help with:
- Transforming beliefs
- Letting go of self-limiting or negative thoughts
- Processing trauma
- Becoming open to recovery
- Coping skills
- Stress response
- On-going self-improvement
TheraTappers for Drug & Alcohol Addiction
TheraTapper EMDR tools treat drug and alcohol addiction by addressing the root causes of these conditions, such as traumatic memories. This helps create new adaptive behaviors that will minimize the desire for drug or alcohol consumption and help to manage typically intense withdrawal symptoms.
TheraTappers are most effective when used along with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in a rehab setting.
When treating patients who suffer from addiction, it is essential to address any traumatic events or touchpoints that could be leading to addictive behaviors. Addressing these issues is necessary for a full recovery from addiction.
There are eight stages of treatment for EMDR:
- History and treatment planning
- Preparation
- Assessment
- Desensitization
- Installation
- Body scan
- Closure
- Reevaluation
Throughout these eight treatment stages, patients will usually speak with a specialized EMDR therapist to process traumatic experiences and store them as more manageable emotions.
TheraTappers are also helpful in creating a mental response system for the patient to avoid future relapses and improve self-care.
Other Types of EMDR Equipment
NeuroTek
NeuroTek is a company that has been making EMDR tools and equipment for nearly 30 years. They have an extensive line of EMDR equipment that is available in more than 40 countries. Clients include hospitals, medical centers, military centers, and police organizations.
EMDR Kit
EMDR Kit is both the name of a company and its flagship EMDR tapper product. Their first offering was the EMDR Kit Classic, which was followed by the EMDR Kit Wireless. Both are available worldwide.
TheraTapper FAQs
What is EMDR equipment?
EMDR equipment is a control box and two pulsers connected by six-foot wires. The pulsers vibrate and create tactile stimulations in the brain.
What is a TheraTapper?
A TheraTapper is an EMDR tool made of a control box and two pulsers connected by wires. The pulsers vibrate and stimulate your brain.
What are the 8 stages of EMDR?
1. History and treatment planning
2. Preparation
3. Assessment
4. Desensitization
5. Installation
6. Body scan
7. Closure
8. Reevaluation
How many sessions of EMDR are needed?
Typically 6-12 sessions of EMDR are required.
Can you do EMDR on yourself?
EMDR should always be performed by a licensed therapist who has received proper training in the EMDR procedure.
What's Next?
Resources
- Francine Shapiro. “The role of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in medicine: addressing the psychological and physical symptoms stemming from adverse life experiences.” The Permanente journal vol. 18,1 : 71-7. doi:10.7812/TPP/13-098
- Gemma Wilson. “The Use of Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy in Treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder-A Systematic Narrative Review.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 9 923. 6 Jun. 2018, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00923
- USDVA. “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD.” United States Department of Veteran Affairs National Center for PTSD https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand_tx/emdr.asp
