Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR is a therapy that helps people deal with upsetting experiences, especially traumas like accidents or difficult memories. During sessions, clients focus on these memories while also paying attention to something happening at the same time, like movements such as tapping hands or feet or the therapist moving their hand. This helps the brain process the memories in a healthier way, making them less distressing. EMDR is beneficial for those who have been through tough situations, such as accidents, abuse, or other distressing events, but can also be helpful for other experiences such as anxieties, phobias and also stresses related to emotional or relationship experiences. It can reduce the strong emotions linked to memories, experiences and events, making them easier to cope with, and often leads to feeling stronger and more in control.
EMDR addresses the psychological and physical symptoms stemming from adverse life experiences. However, EMDR is not just for trauma; it can also be used for performance enhancement and different types of emotional, mental and even relationship challenges and life stresses. Below are some resources for learning more about EMDR.
Resources to learn about EMDR:
- What is EMDR? Learn the basics
- What is an actual EMDR session like? Learn the 8 phases of treatment
- Introductory video about EMDR
- EMDR experts explain the benefits of EMDR
- EMDR patients share their stories
- An EMDR therapist shares her EMDR experience
Research in support of EMDR effectiveness:
- Twenty-four randomized controlled trials support the positive effects of EMDR therapy in the treatment of emotional trauma and other adverse life experiences relevant to clinical practice.
- Seven of 10 studies reported EMDR therapy to be more rapid and/or more effective than trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Twelve randomized studies of the eye movement component noted rapid decreases in negative emotions and/or vividness of disturbing images, with an additional 8 reporting a variety of other memory effects.
- Numerous other evaluations document that EMDR therapy provides relief from a variety of somatic complaints.
Research and frequently asked questions about EMDR
Our therapists that practice EMDR therapy:
Interested in doing EMDR in a more quicker, more intensive format? Check out our page on EMDR Intensives.
