What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987. It uses bilateral stimulation—typically eye movements—to help the brain process traumatic memories.
How EMDR Works
EMDR appears to work by mimicking the brain's natural healing processes that occur during REM sleep. When we experience trauma, the memory can become 'stuck' in the nervous system. EMDR helps the brain complete the processing.
The Adaptive Information Processing Model
This model suggests that:
- The brain has a natural capacity to heal
- Trauma can block this natural processing
- Bilateral stimulation unlocks the processing system
- Memories become integrated and lose their charge
The Eight Phases of EMDR
- History Taking: Understanding your background and identifying targets
- Preparation: Building resources and explaining the process
- Assessment: Activating the target memory
- Desensitization: Processing with bilateral stimulation
- Installation: Strengthening positive beliefs
- Body Scan: Checking for residual physical tension
- Closure: Returning to equilibrium
- Reevaluation: Checking progress in next session
What EMDR Treats
EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for:
- PTSD: Recommended by WHO and VA
- Trauma: Single-incident and complex
- Anxiety: Including phobias
- Depression: Especially with trauma history
- Grief: Complicated bereavement
What a Session Looks Like
During processing:
- You focus on the traumatic memory
- The therapist guides bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds)
- You notice what comes up without judgment
- The process continues until distress decreases
Benefits of EMDR
- Often faster than talk therapy alone
- Doesn't require detailed trauma narration
- Creates lasting change
- Well-researched and evidence-based
Our EMDR Training provides comprehensive education in neuro-emotional integration techniques using eye movement protocols.
