Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Posted: March 28, 2025

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is an empirically supported psychotherapy approach developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It's primarily known for its effectiveness in treating trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but it has also shown promise in addressing a range of other mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and grief (Shapiro, 2018). According to Shapiro (2018), EMDR therapy helps individuals process distressing memories and beliefs in a new and healthier way. It acknowledges that sometimes, traumatic or difficult life experiences can become "stuck" in our brains, leading to ongoing emotional distress, intrusive thoughts, and negative self-perceptions.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR therapy is an unique approach as it uses a technique called bilateral stimulation, which means stimulating both sides of your brain back and forth. This is usually done by guiding your eyes to move from side to side, but it can also involve the practice of tapping or sounds lot help shift the way you process past negative memories (Shapiro, 2018). It is believed that this back-and-forth stimulation helps the brain heal itself. It seems to help various parts of the brain communicate better with each other, making it easier to reprocess difficult memories in a way that's less overwhelming (Maxfield & Hyer, 2002).

Is EMDR Right for You?

EMDR therapy can be a powerful tool for individuals who have experienced:

Trauma (including single-incident and complex trauma)
PTSD
Anxiety disorders (panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias)
Depression
Grief and loss
Low self-esteem
Disturbing memories

It's important to note that EMDR therapy is not a quick fix and requires commitment and collaboration with your therapist. Many individuals report significant relief and positive changes in their emotional well-being and ability to cope to with previous traumatic experiences after engaging in EMDR therapy.

Seeking Professional Support

You don't have to be defined by past experiences. EMDR therapy offers a pathway towards processing those experiences and building a brighter future filled with hope and resilience. At The Center for Integrative Healing, our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are dedicated to helping you heal and thrive. If you're interested in learning more about EMDR or exploring whether it might be the right approach for you, we encourage you to reach out to us. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step on your healing journey.

Citations:

Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.

Maxfield, L., & Hyer, L. (2002). The role of EMDR in the treatment of trauma. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 58(1), 3-23.