What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapy used to help people heal from traumatic experiences. It was developed by Francine Shapiro in the 1980s and has become a popular treatment for conditions like PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), anxiety, and trauma.

When someone experiences a trauma, their brain may struggle to fully process the memory, leaving it "stuck." This can lead to ongoing emotional distress, such as flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety. EMDR helps by encouraging the brain to properly process these memories, reducing their emotional impact.

In an EMDR session, the therapist first asks the person to focus on a traumatic memory and notice any feelings or physical sensations that come up. Then, the therapist uses a technique called bilateral stimulation, where the person follows the therapist's finger moving back and forth or listens to alternating sounds. This helps activate both sides of the brain and aids in processing the memory in a new way.

Over time, the memory’s emotional intensity lessens, and the person can develop healthier thoughts and beliefs about the experience. Unlike other therapies, EMDR doesn't require the person to talk in detail about the trauma, which can make it less overwhelming.

The therapy usually takes several sessions, and the number of sessions depends on the person’s needs. Research has shown that EMDR is very effective in helping people heal from trauma and move forward with their lives.