Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a psychotherapy treatment designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, it is particularly effective for individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), though it has been adapted for other conditions as well.

EMDR therapy involves an eight-phase treatment process, with a focus on the client recalling distressing events while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (usually side-to-side eye movements, though other forms such as tapping or audio tones may be used). The theory is that this dual focus helps the brain reprocess the traumatic memory in a way that reduces its emotional charge, making it less distressing over time.

The therapy is structured and involves various stages, including history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation of positive beliefs, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation.

EMDR is often described as being particularly useful for those whose trauma has not responded to more traditional forms of talk therapy.