[iGottaBme]

I have been seeing a trauma T for two years after seeing a CBT T for nearly a decade. Therapy didn't progress while I was seeing the CBT T because he could not help me with trauma. While CBT was helpful, trauma therapy has been valuable for me.

I sought a T who did EMDR because I wanted to be done with therapy and thought that EMDR would help me get through it faster. As it turns out, I dissociate too much and cannot do EMDR. My trauma T has been great about doing traditional talk therapy with me and it has been helpful. I use bilateral stimulation. My T has given me a CD. I am wondering if I can use the CD while I am working or doing anything other than driving? My job is stressful and it helps me feel closer to my T. Does anyone else use bilateral music outside of therapy?

[iheartjacques]

No I haven't heard of that. Is it helpful?

[iGottaBme]

The bilateral sounds that I listen to are just music. It switches from ear to ear and is hardly noticeable. From what I have read, it helps to work both sides of the brain and aides in getting unstuck. It is different though than just music which is why I am wondering if I should be listening while working. For example, one shouldn't listen to a hypnosis tape while doing other things.

In general, I think that music is a good thing. I just don't understand the bilateral part in everyday life.

This round of therapy scares me so the bilateral music is helpful. I am having a lot of difficulty feeling safe. It is not the T, it is me.

[Rive.]

Yep, I've used it. I am not too happy with the length of the samples I have though, so need to look for something more convenient for me.

In this elusive search for mental 'health', I am willing to try anything (well, within reason).

[Ellahmae]

I use one of my favorite calming classical/instrumental albums/CD's/playlist with surround sound headphones. I find it does help me calm and do some releasing during the day.

The bilateral aspect really helps to tone down some of the overwhemling emotions I sometimes experience during the day. I have tried with regular headphones and it doesn't have the same effect for me.