What is EMDR Therapy?

Written By Lisa Pereversoff

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy is an empirically supported treatment with standardized protocols.  Over the past 30 years, therapists and researchers worldwide have contributed to the development of EMDR therapy - integrating elements from many different treatment approaches.

The process of EMDR therapy involves the client recalling a disturbing issue or event and the thoughts and beliefs that are associated with it. The counsellor facilitates bilateral stimulation of the brain while asking the client to focus on the disturbing material. The client is then asked to notice whatever comes to mind without making any effort to control direction or content.

Unlike other therapeutic approaches that directly focus on altering the emotions, thoughts and responses, EMDR therapy focuses directly on the disturbing memory itself and how it is stored in the brain in this manner reducing and eliminating problematic symptoms.

EMDR is most commonly used in cases where trauma is a major contributing factor, however, it has also been shown to be effective with other mental health conditions such as:

  • Performance anxiety,

  • Nightmares,

  • Phobias, and

  • Addictions.

  • Depression,

  • Anxiety,

  • Panic attacks,

  • Grief and loss,

EMDR can also be an effective treatment for people who have been diagnosed with personality disorders, anger issues, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal relationship difficulties, chronic pain, as well as eating and body dysmorphic disorders.

If you are interested in learning more about EMDR therapy and whether it is right for you, please check out the following resources or book in for a free phone consult.

Resources:

Lisa Pereversoff
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