EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

What it is

EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is a psychotherapy for trauma and distressing life experiences, developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. While you briefly hold a painful memory in mind, the therapist guides bilateral stimulation: eye movements, taps or tones that alternate left and right.

The idea is that trauma can leave memories stored in a raw, unprocessed way, and EMDR helps the brain reprocess them so they lose their emotional charge. It is a leading treatment for PTSD and is also used for anxiety, phobias and painful memories.

What happens at a visit

1. A full history and a plan for which memories to work on.
2. A preparation phase to learn coping skills, such as a calm-place exercise.
3. Choosing a target memory and the belief tied to it.
4. Eye movements, taps or tones while you briefly hold the memory in mind.
5. Strong emotions or body sensations can come up and pass.
6. Strengthening a more positive belief about yourself.
7. Regular check-ins to track progress and choose the next target.

Who it is for

• People with PTSD from combat, abuse, accidents or other trauma
• People with anxiety, phobias or panic tied to past experiences
• Anyone with memories that still cause distress
• People who haven't found talk therapy enough on its own
• People who prefer not to retell their trauma in detail

Evidence and safety

EMDR is one of the most studied trauma therapies, and major guidelines, including those of the World Health Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs, recommend it for PTSD. Evidence for other uses is earlier. Sessions can bring up strong emotions and sometimes vivid dreams, so look for a licensed therapist with EMDR training, such as EMDRIA certification. People in crisis or with severe dissociation need stabilization first.

How Gabriel helps