What EMDR Is and What It Treats
In the world of trauma-informed therapy, few treatment modalities have generated as much interest and clinical success as EMDR—Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. While the name might sound technical, EMDR is a highly effective and research-supported therapeutic approach designed to help people recover from the psychological effects of trauma and other distressing life experiences.
Whether you're considering EMDR for yourself or you're just curious about how it works, this blog post will walk you through what EMDR is, how it works, and the kinds of issues it can help treat.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. It is most commonly used to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but has since been expanded to address a wide range of psychological issues.
What sets EMDR apart from traditional talk therapies is its structured, eight-phase approach that incorporates bilateral stimulation—typically through guided eye movements, taps, or auditory tones—to help clients reprocess traumatic memories. This process is believed to help the brain "unstick" distressing memories and integrate them in a healthier, more adaptive way.
How EMDR Works
The underlying theory of EMDR is that traumatic or distressing experiences can overwhelm the brain’s natural ability to process information. When this happens, the memory becomes “frozen in time,” stored with the original images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations. These unprocessed memories can continue to cause distress in the present, even years after the event occurred.
EMDR helps by activating the brain’s natural processing system. Here's a simplified breakdown of the eight phases:
History Taking & Treatment Planning – The therapist gathers background and identifies target memories to address.
Preparation – Clients learn coping strategies and relaxation techniques to help manage emotional responses.
Assessment – The therapist and client identify specific aspects of the memory to target, including negative beliefs and associated physical sensations.
Desensitization – Clients focus on the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements), helping reduce emotional intensity.
Installation – A more positive, adaptive belief is paired with the memory.
Body Scan – Clients are guided to notice any residual tension or discomfort in the body.
Closure – Each session ends with grounding techniques to ensure emotional stability.
Reevaluation – At the start of the next session, previous work is reviewed, and progress is assessed.
One of the unique features of EMDR is that it does not require clients to talk in detail about their trauma. This makes it particularly effective for those who struggle to verbalize or revisit painful experiences.
What EMDR Treats
While EMDR is best known for its use in treating PTSD, it has been shown to be effective for a wide range of psychological and emotional challenges, including:
1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
This is the most well-researched and recognized use of EMDR. It helps individuals process traumatic experiences such as abuse, assault, combat, accidents, and natural disasters. EMDR is endorsed by organizations like the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization for PTSD treatment.
2. Anxiety and Panic Disorders
EMDR can be highly effective in addressing generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias by identifying the root experiences or belief systems that contribute to anxious responses and reprocessing those triggers.
3. Depression
For some individuals, depression may be rooted in unprocessed grief, early life experiences, or cumulative stress. EMDR can help unlock and heal these underlying issues, allowing for emotional relief and behavioral change.
4. Grief and Loss
The loss of a loved one can create painful, unresolved emotions. EMDR can assist individuals in moving through the stages of grief and integrating the loss in a way that reduces suffering and increases resilience.
5. Addiction and Relapse Prevention
Though EMDR is not a standalone treatment for substance use disorders, it can play a powerful role in uncovering and healing the traumas and triggers that fuel addictive behaviors.
6. Low Self-Esteem and Negative Beliefs
Negative core beliefs like “I’m not good enough” or “I’m unlovable” often originate from early experiences. EMDR helps individuals identify and reframe these deeply ingrained messages, fostering a healthier self-concept.
7. Chronic Pain and Somatic Disorders
There’s growing evidence that unresolved trauma can contribute to chronic pain and physical symptoms. EMDR, especially when integrated with body-based therapies, can help reduce pain and restore mind-body connection.
8. Complex PTSD and Developmental Trauma
Individuals with a history of prolonged or repeated trauma—often beginning in childhood—can benefit from EMDR’s structured and contained approach. The therapy can be paced according to the client’s emotional readiness, which is crucial for working with complex trauma.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR?
EMDR is suitable for adults, adolescents, and even children, though the techniques may be adapted based on developmental needs. It is particularly helpful for:
People who feel stuck in patterns of fear, shame, or guilt
Those who experience flashbacks, nightmares, or body memories
Individuals who have tried other therapies without sustained relief
People seeking non-invasive treatment options that don’t require extensive talking or medication
That said, EMDR should always be conducted by a trained and licensed mental health professional who has received formal EMDR certification. It’s also important to note that EMDR isn’t appropriate for everyone—for example, individuals with severe dissociation or unmanaged psychosis may need stabilization before engaging in trauma reprocessing.
What to Expect in an EMDR Session
EMDR sessions typically last 60 to 90 minutes, though this can vary. In the early stages, your therapist will spend time building trust, teaching grounding skills, and identifying targets for treatment. As the therapy progresses, you’ll move into the reprocessing phases, guided gently and respectfully through the steps.
Many people notice a shift in emotional intensity after just a few sessions. Others may require longer-term treatment, especially when dealing with complex trauma or multiple traumatic events. The pace of EMDR is always personalized—it’s not a “quick fix,” but it often works more efficiently than traditional talk therapy.
Final Thoughts
EMDR offers hope and healing for those who feel weighed down by past experiences. At our practice, we believe that trauma does not have to define your story. With the right support, it’s possible to move beyond survival and toward a more empowered, connected, and fulfilling life.
If you're curious about whether EMDR is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our trained therapists. Together, we can explore the path toward healing—and take the next step toward reclaiming your peace. Reach out to us to day by clicking on the "Start Today" button, completing the google form, and we will be in touch shortly!