What is EMDR Therapy?
Trauma leaves a lasting imprint on the mind and body. Even after a harmful event has ended, many people continue to experience flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, or emotional numbness. Traditional talk therapy helps some, but others find that their memories remain “stuck,” triggering distress repeatedly.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a scientifically supported therapy that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic memories, so they no longer dominate their emotions or behavior.
Understanding EMDR Therapy
Developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is based on the idea that the brain naturally processes experiences, but trauma can disrupt this process. When a traumatic event occurs, the memory may remain unprocessed, storing the intense emotions, sensations, and beliefs associated with the moment. EMDR helps “unstick” these memories and allows the brain to process them in a way that reduces emotional intensity and fosters healing.
While EMDR is widely recognized for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is also effective for:
Childhood trauma and neglect
Anxiety disorders and panic attacks
Depression
Grief and complicated loss
Phobias and fears
Performance anxiety (e.g., public speaking, sports)
Stress related to medical trauma or chronic illness
The Neurobiology of EMDR
Trauma affects the brain’s amygdala, which triggers the fight-or-flight response, and the hippocampus, which normally stores memories as part of the past. When trauma overwhelms the brain’s natural processing system, memories can remain “frozen”, causing emotional and physiological reactivity whenever triggered.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, alternating taps, or auditory tones, to help the brain reprocess these memories. Research suggests this may mimic the brain’s natural processing during REM sleep, helping the hippocampus integrate the memory fully.
By reprocessing the memory, EMDR:
Reduces emotional charge and distress associated with the memory
Weakens maladaptive beliefs linked to trauma (e.g., “I am powerless”)
Strengthens adaptive beliefs (e.g., “I am safe now”)
Supports regulation of the nervous system and body responses
How EMDR Differs from Other Therapies
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often focuses on verbal exploration of the trauma, EMDR emphasizes reprocessing memories without prolonged discussion of every detail. This can make EMDR especially useful for individuals who:
Feel overwhelmed by verbal recounting of trauma
Have difficulty articulating emotions
Prefer a structured, experiential approach to healing
EMDR can also be combined with other therapies, such as Internal Family Systems (IFS) or Somatic Reprocessing.
What EMDR Can Feel Like
At first, EMDR can feel unusual, as it involves recalling a memory while following guided eye movements or tapping, something not typically experienced in traditional therapy.
Common effects can include:
Emotional release (tears, laughter, or relief)
Shifts in perspective, such as increased self-compassion or clarity about the trauma
Reduction in physical tension or “body memories” associated with trauma
A sense that the memory belongs to the past, not the present
While some notice relief quickly, EMDR is often a gradual process, especially for complex trauma.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
“I’ll have to relive my trauma.”
EMDR does not require recounting every detail. The focus is on your internal experience and sensations, not storytelling.“It’s hypnosis.”
EMDR is not hypnosis. You remain awake, aware, and in control throughout the session.“It works instantly.”
While some people experience rapid shifts, healing generally occurs over multiple sessions, especially for chronic or complex trauma.
Evidence Supporting EMDR
EMDR is extensively researched and endorsed by:
Studies show EMDR is highly effective for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms, sometimes achieving results more quickly than traditional talk therapy alone. Research also indicates EMDR can reduce co-occurring anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms.
Long-Term Benefits of EMDR
Beyond symptom relief, EMDR can support long-term emotional resilience:
Improved emotional regulation: Survivors learn to manage distress more effectively.
Stronger self-concept: Reprocessing trauma can restore a sense of personal safety and empowerment.
Reduced triggers and flashbacks: Memories become less intrusive, allowing for more stable daily functioning.
Enhanced relationships: As trust and self-awareness grow, interpersonal connections often improve.
Final Note:
EMDR therapy offers a scientifically supported, compassionate path toward healing from trauma. By reprocessing difficult memories, EMDR helps individuals reclaim safety, empowerment, and emotional balance.
If you are considering EMDR, reach out to one of our licensed therapist trained in EMDR to discuss whether this approach is right for your healing journey.
