What does EMDR stand for?

EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a psychotherapy technique that has been proven to be effective in reducing the symptoms associated with traumatic memories and events. This evidence-based practice involves a series of eye movements that help to desensitize the individual to the traumatic experience, allowing them to reprocess the memory in a more adaptive way.

How does it work?

There are various theories in the therapy world that attempt to explain how EMDR works, but the most crucial aspect to comprehend is that traumatic events or memories can create a block in the brain's processing, hindering the healing process. EMDR can eliminate this blockage through bilateral stimulation, typically through rapid eye movements, allowing the brain to heal.

During REM sleep, your eyes move back and forth quickly while your brain processes information. EMDR replicates this eye movement while you discuss your thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to your traumatic memories, enabling your brain to move through the trauma and reprocess it differently. EMDR does not affect your memory of the traumatic event, but it does alter how you perceive, think about, and/or experience it in your body.

What can I expect?

During EMDR therapy, you can anticipate discussing challenging memories while the therapist leads you through a precise protocol. Your brain does the majority of the work, and your role is to simply participate and communicate what you are thinking, feeling, and sensing in your body. If traditional talk therapy has not yielded the outcomes you desire, EMDR may be a suitable option for you.