What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a unique and effective form of psychotherapy designed to help people heal from the emotional distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR has since gained widespread recognition as a powerful tool for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

At its core, EMDR therapy works by helping the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or disruptive. I often like to describe this as changing your relationship to your traumatic memory. When a person experiences a traumatic event that activates their fight or flight response, the brain adaptively stores the memory in the hippocampus rather than sending the memory into long-term storage . As a result, the memory can get “stuck,” leading to emotional reactivity, flashbacks, and other somatic symptoms. EMDR aims to reprocess these memories in a safe context with a trained mental health provider in order to allow the brain to integrate them in a healthier way.

The therapy typically follows an eight-phase approach. After an initial assessment and history-taking phase, the therapist helps the client identify specific target memories to work on. During the reprocessing phase, the client recalls a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation—often through guided eye movements, but sometimes using tapping or auditory tones. This bilateral stimulation is believed to help the brain process the memory, much like what occurs during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.

Throughout the process, the therapist supports the client in staying grounded and present. As sessions continue, the emotional charge of the memory typically decreases, and the client may begin to form new, more adaptive beliefs about themselves and the experience. For example, a belief like “I am in danger” may shift to “I am safe now.”

EMDR is widely used and recommended by organizations like the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association for treating trauma. While it may sound unconventional, many people report significant relief after just a few sessions.

In summary, EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that uses eye movements and other bilateral stimulation to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. For those struggling with painful memories, EMDR offers a hopeful path forward.

If you would like to learn more about how EMDR can help create lasting change in your life, email me to schedule a free 15 minute pre-consultation call.

To learn more about how EMDR therapy works in your brain, click here.