Let’s Talk About EMDR
Make it sEMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a trauma-focused therapy developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It’s especially effective for treating PTSD, but it’s also used for other issues like anxiety, phobias, grief, and even disordered eating.tand out
The Core Idea
EMDR is based on the idea that trauma or distressing experiences can get “stuck” in the brain in an unprocessed form, leading to ongoing symptoms like intrusive thoughts, emotional reactivity, or body-based distress. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories so they are no longer as emotionally charged or disruptive.
How It Works (Simplified Steps)
EMDR has eight phases, but here’s a simplified breakdown of how the main part works:
1. Identify the Target Memory
The therapist and client choose a memory to work on — often something traumatic or distressing — along with related thoughts, emotions, and body sensations.
2. Dual Attention Stimulation
While the client brings the memory to mind, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation (BLS), usually in the form of:
• Eye movements (client follows therapist’s fingers or a light bar back and forth)
• Tapping (alternating on hands, knees, or shoulders)
• Sounds (alternating tones in each ear)
3. Reprocessing Begins
The BLS helps the brain reprocess the memory. Clients typically notice that the memory begins to feel less vivid, or that new insights, thoughts, or feelings arise. Over time, the distress linked to the memory decreases.
4. Installation of Positive Beliefs
Once the distress reduces, the therapist helps the client “install” a new, more adaptive belief (e.g., “I am safe now” instead of “I’m powerless”).
5. Body Scan
The client checks their body for any lingering tension or discomfort related to the memory. If anything comes up, it may be processed further.
6. Closure and Future Work
Each session ends with grounding, and future sessions may address other memories or situations.
Why Does It Work?
The exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, but the bilateral stimulation appears to help the brain:
• Reduce the emotional intensity of the memory
• Reconnect the memory with more adaptive, current beliefs and knowledge
• Mimic some aspects of REM sleep, which is when natural memory processing happens
What It’s Not:
• It’s not hypnosis.
• The client is always in control and aware during the process.
It doesn’t require retelling every detail of the trauma.
If you are interested in finding a therapist who is trained in EMDR, check out the EMDRIA website to learn more!
