EMDR is a structured, evidence-based, and highly effective therapy that facilitates the brain’s natural information processing system, aiding in healing through bilateral stimulation — typically eye movements or shoulder tapping.
When a person experiences a traumatic or stressful event, the memory of the event is encoded and stored in both the brain and the body with the same level of intensity and emotional charge that was felt at the time. As a result, when the brain attempts to process the event, the individual re-experiences the intense thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations linked to the event, often leading to distress, overwhelm, and even dissociation. Through bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps to activate the brain’s natural processing mechanisms, allowing the traumatic memory to be reprocessed in a safe, controlled, and empathetic environment. This ultimately reduces the emotional distress associated with the memory and promotes healing.

EMDR therapy is extensively researched and has been proven to be highly effective in treating trauma-related disorders. In fact, studies have shown that it can be more effective than Prozac in addressing trauma symptoms. Additionally, EMDR has demonstrated positive outcomes for individuals struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, chronic pain, and addiction-related disorders (source: EMDRIA).

EMDR is also highly effective for treating complex and childhood trauma. However, due to the impact of chronic trauma on the developing brain and personality structure, EMDR must be carefully modified and adapted. This ensures that the traumatic memories, stored in different parts of the brain and personality, can be processed gradually and gently, allowing for healing without overwhelming the individual.