Abreaction can also describe the process a therapist uses to desensitize or help you stop having these automatic reactions.
Is Abreaction Used in Therapy?
Today, abreaction is rarely used on its own as therapy.
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This process involves the use of repeated hypnotically induced abreactions of the trauma, followed by ego strengthening.
Abreactions can also occur duringeye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
This approach is sometimes used as a treatment for PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
During this treatment, people recall difficult or traumatic memories while engaging in bilateral eye movements.
Today, experts recognize that repeatedly experiencing traumatic memories and emotions does not relieve a persons distress.
Trauma often causes people to dissociate from their emotions, memories, and identity.
For example, arape survivormay feel illogical and unnecessary guilt for the situation they were in.
Through CBT, they can learn to change their thinking and understand that the rape was not their fault.
Something similar to a past trauma may trigger a reaction as you go about your daily life.
When abreactions happen outside of therapy, they can be very distressing.
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