Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of psychotherapy designed to help people process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing memories. EMDR is particularly known for its effectiveness in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but it can also be helpful for anxiety, phobias, and other emotional difficulties.
At the Center for Trauma Recovery, EMDR is provided as individual, one-on-one therapy in a trauma-informed setting. The goal of EMDR is not to erase memories, but to reduce their emotional charge so clients can think about past experiences without intense fear, shame, or distress.
EMDR International Association’s introductory video to EMDR therapy.
What Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Can Offer:
EMDR works by helping the brain reprocess traumatic or distressing memories so they no longer trigger intense emotional reactions. This is done through guided focus on a memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
EMDR helps trauma survivors heal the emotional impact of trauma by changing how the brain stores and processes distressing memories, allowing those memories to become less overwhelming and easier to integrate.
EMDR generally involves:
Targeting a specific memory or issue
Using bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones that alternate between the left and right sides of the body
Reprocessing the memory so negative emotions or beliefs shift into more adaptive ones
FAQ
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Bilateral stimulation involves alternating left-right eye movements, taps, or sounds. This process is believed to help the brain process memories in a healthier way and reduce emotional intensity. The goal is to reduce a memory’s emotional charge so it can be remembered without overwhelming fear, shame, or distress.
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EMDR helps by:
Processing “stuck” or frozen memories that cause flashbacks, nightmares, or emotional triggers
Reducing emotional intensity so memories can be experienced without re-traumatization
Shifting negative beliefs such as “I am powerless” or “I am unsafe” into more adaptive beliefs like “I am safe now” or “I can cope.”
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EMDR can support individuals experiencing PTSD, anxiety, phobias, trauma-related distress, and emotional reactions connected to past experiences.
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Yes. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy recognized by organizations such as the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization for the treatment of trauma.
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No. EMDR can target both past traumatic memories and present-day situations that trigger distress, helping create long-term relief.
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By safely processing trauma, many individuals experience reduced anxiety and depression, improved self-esteem, greater emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of control and resilience.
Getting Started on Trauma Recovery
If you call us, we move quickly. In many cases, women are able to begin care within just a few days.