RET and EMDR
Similarities and Difference
RET and EMDR are similar in that they both access the limbic filing system of your brain through the eyes. The limbic portion of your brain is the space that stores all your memories and determines if they are safe or unsafe. This is accessed using eye movement and verbal cues to assist in releasing messages stored there that keep you stuck.
RET does not require the client to remember or re-experience traumatic events. EMDR requires the client to remember and re-experience traumatic events in great detail. This can have a cathartic effect or a re-traumatizing effect, depending on the client and how masterfully it is facilitated by the EMDR practitioner.
RET is fast, moving at the speed that the brain prefers to process. EMDR operates by slowing things down.
EMDR is geared toward clinical outcomes and can be rigid in its application. RET has more of an interpersonal, even spiritual, focus regarding outcomes. RET recognizes the role that fear has in how someone’s entire life can be consumed.
EMDR training requires the practitioner to minimally have a master’s degree in the field of mental health. RET training is open to anyone. Anyone can learn the RET process.
The cost of EMDR sessions is sometimes covered by insurance, depending on whether the practitioner is a provider who participates in an insurance-based model. RET is not covered by insurance.
A part of the RET model includes coaching using of set of skills for conscious living. These assist in regulating the limbic system and ensure that the client is less likely to recreate the old patterns in their life. The EMDR process, in and of itself, does not include this aspect. It is facilitated by a counselor, so it may or may not include this skills-based aspect.
I know several people who have experienced EMDR. Most found it very helpful but that the process itself was quite difficult. I am sure just as with all professions some practitioners are more skilled than others. I have great respect for the well-facilitated EMDR process – it has helped many, many people. And I also have a deep respect and love for the RET process.