What Is EMDR?

EMDR is different from traditional talk therapy. Instead of recounting every detail of a traumatic experience, you and your therapist focus on reprocessing the memory so your nervous system stops reacting as if the threat is still present. EMDR taps into your brain’s natural ability to heal, allowing you to move beyond past pain and reclaim your life.

Does EMDR Work?

EMDR is backed by decades of research. It is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense for the treatment of trauma and PTSD. Clinical trials consistently demonstrate EMDR’s effectiveness in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and phobias.

Why EMDR Works

Trauma disrupts the brain’s normal information‑processing system. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping or audio tones) to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and transforming negative beliefs (e.g., “I’m powerless”) into empowering statements (e.g., “I am strong”).

How Does EMDR Work? – The 8 Phases

What to Expect in EMDR Therapy

EMDR sessions are paced at your comfort level. You remain in control at all times and can stop or pause whenever needed. Many clients experience relief more quickly than with talk therapy, though the number of sessions varies depending on the complexity of your experiences.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research‑supported therapy for healing trauma and distressing memories. If certain sights, sounds or feelings trigger fear or sadness—even long after the event—EMDR can help your brain reprocess these "stuck" memories so they lose their emotional charge. Many clients report feeling lighter, calmer and more in control after just a few sessions.