What is EMDR?
The mind can often heal itself naturally, in the same way as the body does. Much of this natural coping mechanism occurs during sleep, particularly during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Francine Shapiro developed Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) in 1987, utilizing this natural process in order to successfully treat Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Since then, EMDR has been used to effectively treat a wide range of mental health problems.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR is based on the idea that trauma can disrupt the brain’s natural way of processing information. When a traumatic or distressing experience occurs, it may become “stuck” in the brain, causing people to relive it through flashbacks, anxiety, or negative self-beliefs.
During EMDR therapy, the client recalls distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones). This process helps the brain reprocess the memory in a way that reduces its emotional intensity and allows for more adaptive thinking.
EMDR does not require detailed talking about the trauma or homework between sessions. It is often shorter in duration than traditional talk therapy and has been recognized as an effective treatment by organizations such as the American Psychological Association, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the World Health Organization.
What Can EMDR Treat?
EMDR was originally developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but research has shown it to be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns, including:
- PTSD and Complex Trauma
- Anxiety Disorders, including panic disorder and phobias
- Depression
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Grief and Loss
- Attachment and Relationship Issues
- Performance Anxiety
- Low Self-Esteem and Negative Self-Beliefs
- Addictions and Compulsive Behaviors