EMDR FAQ

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, perinatal trauma, 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 when processing past memories. Bilateral stimulation can be achieved through physical tapping, alternating eye movements, or alternating sounds. Bilateral stimulation enables dual awareness; you have one foot in the present and one foot in the past, which helps you access memories from a grounded state. For this reason, bilateral stimulation helps prevent dissociation from occurring. Bilateral stimulation is also thought to simulate REM sleep, which helps facilitate memory consolidation and learning. 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 present issues. I spend 1-2 sessions guiding clients in experiential exercises to determine their preferred BLS format (tapping, eye movements, sound) 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 through multiple exercises/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.