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Find an EMDR Therapist
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is one of the most researched trauma therapies in the world. It uses bilateral stimulation, typically guided eye movements, to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories so they stop triggering the same emotional and physical responses. The WHO and APA both endorse it for PTSD.
Find an EMDR therapist→UNDERSTANDING
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro and has since become one of the most extensively researched psychotherapies for trauma and PTSD. It's endorsed by the World Health Organization, the American Psychological Association, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense.
The therapy works through eight structured phases. After building a therapeutic relationship and identifying target memories, the therapist guides you through sets of bilateral stimulation, usually side-to-side eye movements, while you hold a traumatic memory in mind. This process appears to help the brain reprocess the memory in a way that reduces its emotional charge.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to describe your traumatic experience in detail or complete homework assignments between sessions. Many people find this makes it more accessible, especially for experiences that are difficult to put into words. The processing happens during the session through a structured protocol.
While EMDR was originally developed for PTSD, research now supports its use for a broader range of conditions including anxiety disorders, phobias, grief, performance anxiety, and some forms of depression. The underlying mechanism, helping the brain reprocess distressing experiences, applies to any situation where past events continue to affect present functioning.
RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS
Signs EMDR therapy could help
- Unresolved trauma responses that haven't improved with traditional talk therapy
- Anxiety that seems rooted in past experiences rather than current circumstances
- Flashbacks, intrusive images, or nightmares connected to specific events
- Phobias that developed after a negative experience
- Performance anxiety or test anxiety that doesn't respond to standard coping techniques
- Grief that isn't resolving or feels stuck in a particular moment
CHOOSING A THERAPIST
What to look for in an EMDR therapist
- EMDRIA certification or completion of EMDRIA-approved training, which requires supervised practice beyond basic training
- Experience using EMDR with your specific type of concern, whether that's trauma, anxiety, phobias, or grief
- A therapist who can explain the process clearly and answer your questions without jargon
- Willingness to move at your pace and adjust the protocol if you become overwhelmed during processing
FAQ
Common questions
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