EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR is a structured therapy that helps people heal from painful or traumatic experiences. EMDR encourages the client to focus briefly on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements or tapping) and this helps your brain “reprocess” the memory so it feels less upsetting and becomes easier to live with. It doesn’t erase the memory, but it helps take away the emotions and vividness associated with the trauma or distressing experience.

Many people use EMDR to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, or negative self-beliefs, and it’s been shown to work well—often faster than traditional talk therapy.

This fun graphic created by EMDIRA describes EMDR therapy and the brain; the difference between regular vs stuck memories and how EMDR can help.