EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) was founded by Francine Shapiro and is a method of psychotherapy proven to effectively help people recover from trauma and other distressing experiences, such as anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. EMDR works by reconstructing the way traumatic memories are stored in the brain and body. It moves unresolved or “stuck” memories so that they are processed, integrated, and most importantly, no longer causing disturbances in the present. Your brain already knows how to do this, but sometimes an event can be so overwhelming that it interrupts this process. EMDR allows your brain to resume its natural healing capacity. The original experience is still remembered, but its disturbing aftereffects are reduced. Negative beliefs give way to a more positive outlook, the body releases held tensions, and emotions ease. Symptoms such as shame, fear, apathy, guilt, and intrusive thoughts diminish or disappear. Your sense of self is renewed to be consistent with who you are today.

Trauma is usually defined as a single, life-threatening event, but EMDR addresses any disturbing experience that has negatively impacted your life. EMDR can be a profound healing experience and takes place as a mutually agreed upon treatment within a well-established therapeutic relationship. It may be integrated with standard talk therapy, as an adjunctive therapy with a separate therapist, or as a treatment on its own. For many clients, EMDR therapy can be completed in fewer sessions than other psychotherapies.

For more information on EMDR you can visit emdria.org.