Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy method initially developed to treat the symptoms of trauma, particularly Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).1 It operates on the principle that distressing memories from traumatic events can become "stuck" in the brain, leading to ongoing emotional and psychological difficulties. EMDR aims to help the brain process these unprocessed memories, reducing their intensity and allowing individuals to move forward more effectively with their lives.2 While best known for trauma treatment, its application has expanded to include a range of other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, and certain personality disorders, especially when these conditions have roots in past adverse experiences.3

The benefits of EMDR are numerous and impactful. A primary benefit is the significant reduction in distress associated with traumatic memories. By processing these memories, individuals often experience a decrease in flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and other intrusive symptoms.4 This can lead to improved self-esteem, greater emotional regulation, and an enhanced sense of confidence and control.5 Research suggests that EMDR can be as effective as, and sometimes even more rapid than, other trauma-focused talking therapies.6 It also adopts a holistic approach, addressing not only the psychological but also the physiological effects of trauma, as the mind and body are viewed as interconnected.7

The EMDR therapy process is structured and typically involves eight phases.8 It begins with a thorough history-taking and treatment planning phase, where the therapist gathers information about the client's past experiences and identifies target memories for processing.9 The preparation phase involves building a therapeutic relationship, explaining the EMDR process, and teaching the client coping skills to manage emotional distress during and between sessions. When ready, the assessment phase involves identifying a specific traumatic memory, a negative belief associated with it (e.g., "I am helpless"), and a desired positive belief (e.g., "I am strong").10 The core of the therapy, desensitization, then begins. During this phase, the client focuses on the disturbing memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, most commonly side-to-side eye movements, but also alternating sounds or taps. This bilateral stimulation is thought to help the brain reprocess the memory. The therapist guides the client through sets of stimulation, checking in periodically to note any shifts in thoughts, feelings, or body sensations until the distress related to the memory significantly decreases.11 Subsequent phases include installation of the positive belief, a body scan to address any residual physical sensations, closure to ensure the client is stable before leaving the session, and re-evaluation in subsequent sessions to track progress and determine further targets.