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EMDR: Eye Motion Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy

What is EMDR? EMDR better known as Eye Motion Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a method that was created by its' founder Francine Shapiro in the 1980s. This is a structured approach that utilizes bilateral stimulation (tapping, eye-motion, auditory tones) while the client lightly touches on an identified target. An example of an identified target could be: a negative belief, specific memory, body sensastion, or emotion. EMDR is an 8 phase model that focuses on desensitizing the target, erasing the negative cognition, and installation of the positive cognition. EMDR is meant to target past, present, and future using the AIP model.

How does EMDR work? EMDR is a structured 8 phase approach that works to help people move past their prior experiences. The theory of EMDR is that when we go through painful experiences, they become "stuck points" in us. EMDR works to erase these barriers so that we can create a new understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

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EMDR will not erase these painful experiences, but it can help reduce the intensity that they can have over people. For people who have painful associations with their past, this could be an image, scent, negative belief, or body sensation that has a hold on them. When EMDR effective, it will help the brain resume normal processing.

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Due to the limitations of our knowledge of the brain processes, It is not known at this time why EMDR is as effective as it is. A current theory is that EMDR allows the communication between different parts of the brain to resume after it has been stuck in fight-flight-or freeze after the traumatic experience.

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What can EMDR be used to treat?

  • Anxiety disorders, phobias, panic attacks

  • Attachment-based concerns

  • Childhood abuse

  • Chronic illness and medical concerns

  • Depressive disorders and bipolar disorder

  • Dissociative disorders

  • Depersonalization/ derealization

  • Disaster concerns

  • Eating disorders

  • Grief and loss

  • Obsessive compulsive disorder

  • Personality disorders

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or other trauma related disorders

  • Self-esteem

  • Sexual assault

  • Substance abuse and addiction

  • Stress

  • Violence and trauma related to domestic violence

All information from EMDRIA. org.

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