Courtesy of EMDR International Association. https://www.emdria.org
EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people heal from the emotional distress associated with trauma and other difficult life experiences.
When something overwhelming or disturbing happens, the brain doesn’t always fully process the experience. Instead, it can become “stuck,” causing the memory to remain emotionally charged. This can lead to ongoing distress, such as intrusive memories, strong emotional reactions, negative beliefs about yourself, or difficulties in relationships- even long after the event has passed.
EMDR helps the brain move through what got stuck. As the memory is reprocessed, it becomes less intense and no longer feels as though it’s happening in the present. While the memory itself doesn’t disappear, it loses its emotional and physical charge, allowing you to relate to it in a healthier, more grounded way.
How Does EMDR work?
EMDR works by supporting the brain’s natural ability to heal. The process is thought to be similar to what happens during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, when the brain naturally processes experiences and emotions.
During EMDR sessions, a trained therapist uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or tones while you briefly focus on aspects of a distressing memory. This helps the brain reprocess the experience in a new way, allowing it to move from a state of distress to resolution.
Over time, EMDR can help “unstick” the nervous system, reduce emotional reactivity, and create new, more adaptive perspectives. Clients often notice a decrease in distress, greater emotional regulation, and an increased sense of clarity and relief.
What Makes EMDR Different?
EMDR is an integrative approach that follows an eight-phase treatment model and addresses three key time periods:
Past experiences that continue to cause distress
Present triggers or situations that activate symptoms
Future situations where new coping skills and beliefs are needed
Each session is designed to help you leave with increased insight, healthier emotional responses, and a more compassionate and empowered understanding of yourself- supporting meaningful and lasting change.
Is There Research to Support EMDR?
Yes. EMDR is one of the most well-researched treatments for trauma. Over the past 30+ years, it has been extensively studied and is recognized as an effective treatment by organizations such as the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Because of its effectiveness with trauma, EMDR is also widely used to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, performance issues, and other experiences that continue to affect how a person feels, thinks, or relates to others.
How Often?
Before beginning EMDR, we will spend one or more sessions getting to know you, understanding your goals, and determining whether EMDR is a good fit for your needs. During this time, the EMDR process will be explained in detail and any questions will be addressed.
Once we agree to begin EMDR, the number of sessions varies depending on individual history, goals, and life circumstances. EMDR therapy is always paced collaboratively, with attention to safety, readiness, and nervous system regulation.
What Happens Between Sessions?
After an EMDR session, many clients report feeling relief, openness, or a sense of emotional lightness. Some feel tired, as the brain and body have done meaningful work. You may notice new insights, vivid dreams, or shifts in thoughts or emotions- this is a normal part of the brain’s processing and integration.
These experiences are often a sign that EMDR is working. Keeping a journal to note thoughts, dreams, or triggers can be helpful and can be reviewed together in your next session.