EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy technique used to help people heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. How It Works When a person is traumatized, the brain's information processing system can become overwhelmed. This can be like a computer file that gets corrupted and can't be properly stored or accessed. EMDR therapy helps the brain reprocess these traumatic memories, allowing them to be stored in a way that no longer causes distress. During an EMDR session, the client recalls a traumatic memory while the therapist guides them through bilateral stimulation. This stimulation typically involves side-to-side eye movements, but can also include tapping or auditory tones. The bilateral stimulation is thought to help the brain's information processing system become "unstuck," allowing the memory to be reprocessed and integrated in a healthier way. What It Treats EMDR was originally developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and it is a highly effective treatment for this condition. However, it has also been successfully used to treat a range of other issues, including: Panic attacks Anxiety and phobias Grief and loss Pain disorders Addictions Performance anxiety Stress reduction The Process An EMDR therapy session is typically broken down into eight phases. These phases include history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation. The entire process is guided by a trained EMDR therapist in a safe and supportive environment. By helping the brain to properly process and integrate traumatic memories, EMDR therapy can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms and an increase in overall well-being.