What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy approach developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It's designed to help people process and heal from traumatic memories and experiences.
During EMDR, you focus on a traumatic memory while the therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but also taps or sounds). This helps the brain process and integrate the memory, reducing its emotional charge.
How EMDR Works
Eight-Phase Treatment Process
Phase 1: History Taking
Therapist gathers information about your trauma history and current symptoms
Phase 2: Preparation
Therapist teaches coping skills and explains the EMDR process
Phase 3: Assessment
Identifies specific traumatic memories and associated negative beliefs
Phase 4: Desensitization
Processing the memory while using bilateral stimulation
Phase 5: Installation
Strengthening positive beliefs to replace negative ones
Phase 6: Body Scan
Checking for any remaining physical tension or sensations
Phase 7: Closure
Ensuring you feel stable and safe before ending the session
Phase 8: Reevaluation
Reviewing progress and determining if additional processing is needed
Who is EMDR Best For?
EMDR is Highly Effective For:
Benefits of EMDR
Trauma-Focused
Specifically designed for processing traumatic memories
Fast-Acting
Often fewer sessions needed compared to traditional talk therapy
Evidence-Based
Strong research support, especially for PTSD
Less Talk
Don't need to describe trauma in detail to benefit
Holistic
Addresses thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations
Effective
Can be effective even when other therapies haven't worked
Getting Started with EMDR
EMDR requires specialized training. Look for therapists certified in EMDR by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) or similar organizations.
What to Look For:
- EMDR-certified therapist (EMDRIA certification preferred)
- Experience treating trauma and PTSD
- Comfort explaining the EMDR process
- Ability to help you feel safe and prepared
- Good therapeutic fit and rapport