SPECIALTY
EMDR Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is one of the most researched trauma therapies in the world. It uses bilateral stimulation, typically guided eye movements, to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories so they stop triggering the same emotional and physical responses. The WHO and APA both endorse it for PTSD.
Apply to be listed→UNDERSTANDING
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro and has since become one of the most extensively researched psychotherapies for trauma and PTSD. It's endorsed by the World Health Organization, the American Psychological Association, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense.
The therapy works through eight structured phases. After building a therapeutic relationship and identifying target memories, the therapist guides you through sets of bilateral stimulation, usually side-to-side eye movements, while you hold a traumatic memory in mind. This process appears to help the brain reprocess the memory in a way that reduces its emotional charge.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to describe your traumatic experience in detail or complete homework assignments between sessions. Many people find this makes it more accessible, especially for experiences that are difficult to put into words. The processing happens during the session through a structured protocol.
While EMDR was originally developed for PTSD, research now supports its use for a broader range of conditions including anxiety disorders, phobias, grief, performance anxiety, and some forms of depression. The underlying mechanism, helping the brain reprocess distressing experiences, applies to any situation where past events continue to affect present functioning.
RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS
Signs EMDR therapy could help
- Unresolved trauma responses that haven't improved with traditional talk therapy
- Anxiety that seems rooted in past experiences rather than current circumstances
- Flashbacks, intrusive images, or nightmares connected to specific events
- Phobias that developed after a negative experience
- Performance anxiety or test anxiety that doesn't respond to standard coping techniques
- Grief that isn't resolving or feels stuck in a particular moment
CHOOSING A THERAPIST
What to look for in an EMDR therapist
- EMDRIA certification or completion of EMDRIA-approved training, which requires supervised practice beyond basic training
- Experience using EMDR with your specific type of concern, whether that's trauma, anxiety, phobias, or grief
- A therapist who can explain the process clearly and answer your questions without jargon
- Willingness to move at your pace and adjust the protocol if you become overwhelmed during processing
FAQ
Common questions
How many EMDR sessions do I need?
For a single traumatic event, research shows significant improvement in 3 to 8 sessions. Complex trauma with multiple events or childhood origins typically requires more, often 12 to 24 sessions or more. Your therapist will conduct a thorough assessment and give you a realistic estimate. Some people notice shifts after just one or two processing sessions.
Does EMDR work for anxiety, not just trauma?
Yes. Research supports EMDR for generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, and specific phobias. The principle is the same: anxiety is often maintained by unprocessed distressing experiences. When the underlying experience is reprocessed, the anxiety response decreases. Your therapist can help determine whether your anxiety has a clear experiential root that EMDR can target.
What does an EMDR session actually feel like?
During the processing phase, you'll focus on a target memory while following your therapist's finger or a light bar with your eyes. You may also use tapping or audio tones as alternatives. Sets last about 30 seconds. Between sets, your therapist will ask what you're noticing. Many people describe it as watching a movie of the memory while it gradually loses its emotional intensity. It's not hypnosis and you remain fully aware throughout.
If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line). In an emergency call 911.
Get listed on CounselorFit
Therapists on CounselorFit are verified before they are listed. Start free.