How EMDR Works to Treat Trauma

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy used to help people process traumatic memories in a safe, guided way. It is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Australian Psychological Society (APS) for PTSD.

How It Works

During EMDR sessions, the client recalls distressing experiences while following bilateral stimulation (e.g., side-to-side eye movements or tapping). This helps the brain reprocess the trauma, similar to how memories are naturally integrated during REM sleep.

Key Benefits:

• Less reliance on talking in detail about the trauma
• Fast results for many clients (often within 6–12 sessions)
• Reduction in emotional charge associated with the memory

References:

• Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures. Guilford Press.
• World Health Organization. (2013). Guidelines for the management of conditions specifically related to stress.