So, what is EMDR?

EMDR is a therapy modality that stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy. The rationale for EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) theory which posits that unprocessed, inadequately stored memories have lasting impacts on our thoughts, behaviors, and somatic symptoms. The goal of EMDR is to reduce the overall distress and influence past memories may have on our current experiences.

What is EMDR most commonly used for?

EMDR was first developed in the late 1980s and originally used with veterans experiencing PTSD. Numerous studies have established that EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD. Additionally, ongoing research studies support positive clinical outcomes for other presentations such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addiction, and attachment difficulties.

So, how does EMDR work?

EMDR has multiple phases of treatment. Once assessment and treatment planning is completed, bilateral stimulation (BLS) is incorporated into treatment. Bilateral stimulation can be achieved through physical tapping, alternating eye movements, or alternating sounds. For example, you may be asked to follow my moving finger with your eyes as you think of a traumatic memory. Bilateral stimulation allows you to reprocess distressing content from a grounded state- you have one foot in the present and one foot in the past. As I witness your eyes moving back and forth, I know that you are with me. Bilateral stimulation helps prevent dissociation from occurring; in other words, you are less likely to lose contact with the present moment. Bilateral stimulation is also thought to simulate REM sleep, increasing your capacity for creative, adaptive thinking. During EMDR, the typical and expected trajectory is that you begin to think about the traumatic event differently and experience less distress.

What does EMDR preparation look like?

Prior to beginning EMDR or any form of trauma treatment with a client, I complete a thorough assessment to determine which modalities may be appropriate given the client’s history, current level of functioning, and goals. If it is determined that EMDR would be an appropriate form of treatment, we would begin identifying our focus for EMDR, based on current triggers or issues the client would like to address. I spend 1-2 sessions guiding clients in experiential exercises to determine their preferred BLS format and answering any questions regarding the overall process. Prior to beginning EMDR, it is important that the client feels confident in their ability to successfully shift emotional states, transitioning from thinking about traumatic content to accessing a grounded, regulated state. During the beginning phase of treatment, I will guide clients in multiple resources/grounding techniques to determine which skills help the client regulate.

Is EMDR evidence-based?

Yes, EMDR is considered an empirically supported, evidence-based treatment. EMDR has been recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD by the World Health Organization, US Department of Veterans Affairs, and the American Psychiatric Association.