Eye Movement Desentization Therapy (EMDR)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals process trauma, distressing memories, anxiety, and other overwhelming experiences.

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Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is based on the understanding that traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in the brain in an unprocessed form. When this occurs, memories may continue to trigger intense emotional and physiological reactions. EMDR facilitates the brain’s natural processing system so that these memories become less distressing and no longer drive present-day responses.

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The goals of EMDR therapy are to reduce the emotional charge associated with painful memories, decrease heightened physiological arousal, and transform negative core beliefs that interfere with personal growth.

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How EMDR Works:

During EMDR sessions:

• You focus briefly on a distressing memory (you do not need to share all details aloud if you prefer not to).

• The therapist helps you identify associated thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations.

• While holding the memory in mind, you engage in bilateral stimulation—typically guided eye movements, or alternatively, alternating tapping or auditory tones.​ Bilateral stimulation appears to support the brain’s information processing system, similar to mechanisms active during REM sleep. ​

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Over time, the memory:

• Feels less vivid

• Causes less emotional distress

• Stops triggering strong physical reactions

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You still remember what happened — it just doesn’t feel overwhelming anymore.

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