What is EMDR Therapy?
- Patricia Hill
- Jul 21, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 25, 2025
Trauma can cause profound emotional pain that lingers long after the initial event. For many individuals, traditional talk therapy might not provide the needed relief from these wounds. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has become a powerful alternative for those dealing with past traumas. This blog post will explore what EMDR therapy entails, how it functions, and its potential to significantly improve everyday life through trauma healing.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy was created in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, a psychologist who made a breakthrough while walking in a park. She noticed that moving her eyes back and forth reduced the strain of her distressing thoughts. This finding led her to investigate the use of eye movements as a way to process traumatic memories.
Today, EMDR is endorsed by multiple health organizations as an effective treatment for issues like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and phobias. Clients engage in a structured process consisting of eight distinct phases. These phases include assessment, preparation, desensitization, and installation of positive beliefs.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which emphasizes recounting traumatic events, EMDR invites clients to interact with their traumatic memories more dynamically and safely. The therapist leads the client through eye movements, taps, or sounds that stimulate both sides of the brain. This dual stimulation aids in integrating the emotional and cognitive experiences tied to the trauma, leading to healing.
The phases of EMDR therapy include:
Assessment: The therapist gathers detailed information about the client’s history and identifies specific memories to work on.
Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process and teaches the client coping strategies to handle distress.
Desensitization: The client recalls the traumatic memory while receiving bilateral stimulation, aiming to lessen the emotional pain associated with that memory.
Installation: Positive beliefs are reinforced as the traumatic memory begins to lose its grip.
Body Scan: The client examines their physical feelings to identify any remaining tension or discomfort.
Closure: The session concludes as the therapist helps the client return to a calm and steady state.
Re-evaluation: During future sessions, the therapist checks in on previously processed memories to confirm continued healing.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy offers numerous benefits that can extend into everyday life. Here are the key advantages:
Rapid Relief: Many clients experience relief from PTSD symptoms within just a few sessions. Approximately 50% of individuals see improvement after just three sessions, which is incredibly valuable for those feeling engulfed by anxiety or flashbacks.
Holistic Approach: EMDR recognizes the close connection between mind and body. By addressing emotional pain, clients often also experience relief from physical symptoms related to trauma.
Empowerment: Clients often report feeling more in control of their emotions and lives after engaging actively in the therapeutic process.
Improved Relationships: Healing from past traumas can lead to enhanced interpersonal relationships. A study found that 66% of individuals who completed EMDR therapy reported improved communication and connection with loved ones.
Skill Development: EMDR equips clients with coping strategies and resilience skills. This newfound strength can help them navigate stress and anxiety in everyday situations.
Real-Life Impact of EMDR on Daily Life
The journey of healing from trauma through EMDR can lead to substantial shifts in daily routines. Here’s how EMDR can transform lives:
Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Clients gain better control over intense feelings and reactions, making it easier to handle conflicts and stressors.
Increased Focus and Productivity: As clients shed the weight of trauma, many find themselves thinking more clearly, which often results in better performance at work or in personal projects.
Greater Enjoyment of Daily Activities: Clients who once struggled to find pleasure in activities often rediscover joy in hobbies and social interactions, significantly enriching their quality of life.
Resilience to Future Stress: The coping skills learned during EMDR prepare individuals to effectively manage future stressors, decreasing the likelihood of relapsing into distress.
Considerations
While EMDR offers remarkable benefits, it is essential to recognize that it may not suit everyone. Your therapist will start with Phases 1 and 2 from the EMDR protocol to assess if EMDR is a good fit for you.
Patricia Hill is a qualified EMDR therapist trained in EMDR Therapy through the EMDR Institute that was started by Francine Shapiro herself.
Healing Starts Here
EMDR therapy serves as a valuable tool for healing trauma, allowing individuals to reclaim their lives from the persistent shadows of painful memories. Through its structured and interactive approach, EMDR enhances emotional regulation, builds resilience, and improves overall well-being. If you or someone you know is facing the effects of trauma, explore EMDR therapy as a supportive treatment option. Healing is achievable, and a brighter future is within reach.
Book with Patricia today!
