EMDR Therapy

How Does EMDR Work?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing changes how we associate with traumatic or distressing memories. When we experience something shocking, sudden, or disturbing, the memory of the experience does not properly integrate into the memory network. This is why symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts are common among trauma survivors—unlike “normal” memories, traumatic memories remain unprocessed.

EMDR works by processing these memories and adapting them to the memory network. In an EMDR therapy session, a therapist will have the client recall a specific image or “scene” of a memory to focus on. Then, using a light bar, auditory cues, or tapping, the therapist will initiate the process of bilateral stimulation, causing the client’s eyes from side to side. Simultaneously, the therapist will have the client bring their focus between the target memory and a non-consequential practice, like counting or spelling, to slowly neutralize the memory. This pattern is repeated until the memory is no longer triggering.

There is a highly effective protocol involved with EMDR that ensures the client’s safety and comfort throughout the process. An important aspect of building a strong therapeutic alliance is making sure that the client has relevant information about how the EMDR process works and what the steps of treatment are. Furthermore, this approach is not like a regular therapy session; instead of having to go into explicit detail about a difficult or traumatic experience, clients use the gentle process of EMDR therapy to recalibrate the nervous system.

Though EMDR does not erase traumatic memories, it does transform the way that we recall distressing experiences. Instead of feeling upset by disturbing images, thoughts, and physical sensations, EMDR allows us to observe challenging memories with a sense of detachment and control.