Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a type of psychotherapy originally developed to help people process and heal from trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), though it's now also used for anxiety, depression, phobias, and more.

How EMDR Works

EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories are sometimes not properly processed by the brain. These unprocessed memories can cause distress and symptoms long after the original event. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories and reduce their emotional charge.

History and treatment planning

The therapist learns about your history and identifies targets for EMDR (specific memories, triggers, or issues).

Preparation

You learn coping techniques (like grounding or deep breathing) to manage distress.

Assessment

The therapist helps you activate a specific memory, including thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations associated with it.

Desensitization

You focus on the memory while following a set of bilateral stimuli—usually side-to-side eye movements, but sometimes taps or tones. This helps the brain "digest" the memory and reduce its impact.

Installation

Positive beliefs are strengthened to replace the negative ones associated with the traumatic memory.

Body scan

You scan your body to notice and address any remaining tension related to the memory.

Closure

You return to a calm state before ending the session.

Re-evaluation

In the next session, the therapist checks progress and whether more work is needed.

Is EMDR Effective?

Yes. Research supports EMDR as an effective therapy, particularly for PTSD. It's endorsed by organizations like:

The World Health Organization (WHO)

The American Psychological Association (APA)

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

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