What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is used to treat individuals who have experienced traumatic events. It involves focusing on a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping or with the use of a tapping device. The bilateral stimulation is meant to soothe the emotional reactions associated with the trauma event. The goal of EMDR is to help the individual process and desensitize the memory, reducing the distress associated with it.

EMDR therapy may be helpful for individuals who have experienced traumatic events such as physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, combat, accidents, or the sudden death of a loved one. It may also be used to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, and phobias. In my experience it is not very effective for multiple event trauma in childhood such as emotional and physical neglect, and childhood abuse.

If you are considering EMDR therapy, it is important to consult with a mental health professional who is trained in this type of therapy to determine if it is the right treatment for you. They can help you decide if EMDR therapy is appropriate for your specific needs and can work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your individual goals and concerns.