EMDR Therapy Explained: A Simple Guide to Trauma Healing
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy has been gaining widespread attention in recent years. From appearing on TV Shows like The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to rising in Google searches for trauma therapy, EMDR is being used by psychotherapists to help clients process difficult and traumatic memories in a safe environment. The practice was developed in 1987 by psychologist Francine Shapiro, who discovered that eye movement could have a desensitising effect on distressing thoughts. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (gentle, rhythmic, alternating sensory input, such as eye movement, tapping, or sounds) to help the brain reprocess memories. Rather than focusing on current emotions, EMDR takes a unique approach to therapy, targeting how traumatic memories are stored in the brain to help clients release the distress attached to them.
How Does EMDR Work?
Many people carry “stuck memories” - experiences that were overwhelming at the time and never fully processed. When these memories return to the surface, they can activate the nervous system and contribute to symptoms like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. EMDR helps “unstick” these memories, guiding the brain through a reprocessing system. EMDR requires multiple sessions to work successfully. Before beginning reprocessing, your therapist will review your history, identify your goals, provide you with the information and tools you need to feel safe during sessions, and determine a reasonable timeline to achieve your desired outcome (often between eight to twelve sessions).
Together, you and your therapist will identify the themes and memories you want to address and begin the reprocessing stages. During this process, your therapist will use bilateral stimulation while you discuss the memory to help identify negative images, feelings, thoughts, and sensations associated with it. Once you’ve identified your triggers, you will begin focusing on positive, adaptive beliefs that support healing (shifting from negative to positive affirmations). Throughout your EMDR journey, your therapist will regularly check in to track your emotional and physical progress. Eventually, negative symptoms caused by the memory should fade and, by the end of treatment, be almost non-existent. Your reprocessing journey is complete once recalling the memory no longer activates distress.
Common Misconceptions About EMDR
Clients are often hesitant to begin EMDR therapy due to concerns that the process will require them to relive traumatic memories and lose control. Before beginning EMDR, your therapist will ensure you have the information and tools you need to feel safe and comfortable during the process. EMDR is focused on how traumatic memories are stored and the triggers associated with them, not re-experiencing the moment. You will remain fully present, aware, and in control throughout the session. EMDr is a collaborative process in which your therapist acts as a guide, not a director.
Who EMDR Helps
EMDR is a useful technique for individuals struggling with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, attachment wounds, relationship triggers, chronic stress, OCD, and more. It can be beneficial for both major trauma (accidents, violence, major loss) or smaller events (emotional neglect, criticism, relational wounds). At Lite Toronto, Carmel, a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist, provides EMDR to help clients reach their full potential, let go of what no longer serves them, and achieve their goals. If you are looking for new ways to support your healing and mental health, book a meet-and-greet to discover how EMDR can help you.
