What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a well-established psychotherapy approach that's been extensively researched and shown to be effective for those recovering from trauma and other distressing life experiences such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.

It is recognized by several major organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, and the World Health Organization, among others, as a valid treatment.

EMDR is used to treat a variety of issues, including Unlike some other therapies, EMDR can be conducted in-person or remotely, and doesn't require patients to talk in detail about their distress or complete homework between sessions. Instead, it uses a patient's eye movements, sounds, or taps to aid the brain's natural healing processes. This can help process and manage traumatic memories so they no longer exert control over the patient's emotional response.

The process works by tapping into the natural recovery pathways of the brain, involving key areas like the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex, which are responsible for managing our responses to stress, memory, and emotions, respectively. EMDR helps unlock the brain's ability to process these experiences, aiming to resolve the intense reactions tied to traumatic events.

Patients report feeling a change after undergoing EMDR, often describing it as gaining hope. The therapy sessions involve focusing on specific traumatic events and working through them with the guidance of a therapist using eye movements, sounds, or taps, without the patient needing to discuss these events in detail. This can lead to a change in the emotional impact of the memory, allowing for a healthier response to past traumatic events.

EMDR therapy emphasizes the importance of safety and control, allowing patients to stop the process at any time. The goal is to diminish the distress associated with traumatic memories and reinforce positive beliefs about oneself related to the event. Therapists ensure that patients leave sessions feeling grounded, with ongoing support tailored to each individual's needs.

For more information on EMDR and its benefits, the EMDR International Association provides resources and support for those interested.

APA Citation
EMDR International Association. (2022, May 2).