What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is an evidence-based therapy commonly used to treat trauma, PTSD, anxiety, negative self-beliefs, and other symptoms connected to distressing life experiences.

EMDR is based on the understanding that overwhelming experiences can sometimes remain stored in a way that causes the emotions, physical sensations, and beliefs associated with them to feel current, even long after the event has passed. A person may logically know they are safe or not at fault while still feeling fear, shame, helplessness, or self-blame.

During EMDR, clients identify a distressing memory, the negative belief connected to it, and the emotions and body sensations that arise. The therapist then guides the client through brief periods of bilateral stimulation while allowing thoughts, feelings, images, and associations to emerge naturally. This process can help the memory become less emotionally intense and support the development of a more adaptive perspective.

EMDR is structured, collaborative, and paced according to each client’s readiness. Treatment includes preparation and stabilization before trauma processing begins, and clients remain awake, aware, and in control throughout the session. The goal is not to erase memories, but to help them feel more resolved so they have less power over the present.