EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy approach primarily used to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing memories. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has been extensively researched and is recognized as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.
EMDR involves recalling distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. This process is thought to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they become less emotionally charged and more integrated into a person's overall life narrative. The therapist guides the client through sets of bilateral stimulation (often moving their eyes back and forth) while focusing on specific memories or thoughts.
The goal is to reduce the emotional intensity of painful memories, shift negative beliefs, and promote adaptive coping and healing. While best known for treating trauma and PTSD, EMDR can also be helpful for anxiety, depression, grief, phobias, and other emotional difficulties linked to past experiences. EMDR is not a good fit for everyone, so assessing fit will always be step number one.
Most EMDR sessions last for 80 minutes instead of the typical 50 minutes.
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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is organized into an eight-phase protocol. Each phase plays a specific role in helping clients process traumatic or distressing memories and build adaptive coping. Here’s an overview of the EMDR stages:
The therapist gathers background information, assesses readiness, and identifies target memories and current symptoms. Together, the client and therapist develop a treatment plan tailored to the client's needs.
The therapist explains the EMDR process, sets expectations, and establishes trust and safety. Clients learn coping skills and relaxation techniques to manage distress during and between sessions.
The therapist and client select a specific target memory for processing. The client identifies:
The client focuses on the target memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds). The therapist guides the client through sets of stimulation, pausing to check in after each set. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge and distress associated with the memory.
The focus shifts to strengthening a positive belief related to the memory. The client holds the positive belief in mind while engaging in bilateral stimulation, reinforcing adaptive thinking and self-perception.
The client is asked to pay attention to any residual physical sensations related to the memory. If distress remains in the body, additional processing is done until the body feels calm in response to the memory.
Each session ends with techniques to ensure the client feels grounded and safe, even if processing is incomplete. The therapist may use relaxation exercises and review coping strategies.
At the start of subsequent sessions, the therapist checks in on previously processed material to ensure that distress remains low and positive beliefs are maintained. New targets may be identified as needed.
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