What is EMDR?

What is EMDR?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of psychotherapy that was originally developed in the late 1980s to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, it has since been adapted to treat other mental health issues as well.

The Core Idea Behind EMDR

The core idea behind EMDR is that it helps the brain reprocess and integrate distressing memories, thoughts and emotions related to traumatic experiences in an adaptive and healthy way. During EMDR sessions, the client is asked to briefly focus on the traumatic memory or disturbing issue while simultaneously experiencing bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements guided by the therapist’s hand or alternating sounds through headphones.

How EMDR Works

This bilateral stimulation is believed to help the client’s brain to process the traumatic memory in a way that leads to a calmer, more resigned perspective. It essentially helps clients “unfreeze” their traumatic memories so they can be reintegrated and metabolized properly.

EMDR seems to facilitate the accessing of the traumatic memory network, so that information processing is enhanced, with new associations forged between the traumatic memory and more adaptive memory networks. This leads to new insights, peaceful resolution of disturbing issues and relief of associated symptoms.

EMDR Techniques

While the eye movements were the initial focus during early sessions, other types of left-right bilateral stimulation are often used now, such as tapping alternately on each side of the client’s body. EMDR doesn’t rely on extended exposure to control symptoms, but allowing the memory to become less emotionally charged.

Research and Effectiveness of EMDR

The therapy has been well-The therapy has been well researched and is recommended for PTSD treatment by many organizations. With an experienced therapist, EMDR can help clients reprocess distressing memories and experiences in a gentle, gradual way.