What is Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is body-focused therapeutic technique based on the principle that our present well-being is connected to past traumatic experiences. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to reprocess past memories, reduce the distress related to the memory and improve beliefs about oneself.

What is bilateral stimulation?

Bilateral stimulation is activating both sides of the brain which allows for the processing of memories, emotions, and incidents that are stuck in the nervous system. EMDR uses rapid sets of eye movements, tones and/or taps to reprocess memories in a healthier way.

How does EMDR work?

When we experience trauma, our brain processes and stores memories incorrectly. We start to notice unhelpful beliefs and feelings about ourselves and the world that can be tied to past events. This can sometimes lead us to repeating old patterns in new situations. EMDR processing reduces the distress attached to past events and ultimately allow us to develop positive beliefs about ourselves and respond to present stressors without the past impacting us.