What Is EMDR and How Can It Be Used?

September 22, 2025

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that is very unique and differs from talk therapy rather dramatically. EMDR was originally designed in the 1980’s to help people recover from traumatic experiences, EMDR has since expanded into a widely used approach for a variety of emotional and psychological challenges. Its unique process combines elements of traditional talk therapy with bilateral stimulation—such as guided eye movements, tapping side to side, or sounds—that activate both sides of the brain. The goal is to help the brain reprocess difficult memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity and creates a sense of resolution and objectivity

Most people who begin EMDR have quite a few questions. One of the most common is: “Is this actually working, or is this just total bullsh*?”*

That reaction makes sense—EMDR is a unique approach, and it can feel unusual at first. One reason for this is that a large part of the process happens in silence, while bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess a painful memory until it feels more “neutral.”

To explain this, I often use a metaphor: imagine you fall and cut your hand badly, but it doesn’t heal correctly. Every time something brushes against it, you feel pain, a constant reminder that the wound is still open. EMDR is like going back in to properly clean and stitch that wound so it can heal into a scar. You still remember how you got it and how painful it was—but it no longer hurts in the present.

A typical EMDR session begins by identifying a target memory and the negative beliefs or emotions connected to it. While the client focuses on that memory, the therapist introduces bilateral stimulation, usually through eye movements or taps. After each short set, the client notices whatever surfaces—thoughts, feelings, even physical sensations—while the therapist helps guide the process. Over time, the memory loses its sting and becomes more manageable.

It’s important to note: EMDR doesn’t erase memories. Instead, it changes the way they’re stored and how they affect you today. Many clients describe feeling lighter, calmer, and more in control after completing EMDR therapy.

The foundation of EMDR rests on the idea that unprocessed traumatic memories can become “stuck” in the brain. Unlike regular memories, which are integrated into our larger life story, traumatic memories may remain raw and fragmented. This can lead to distressing symptoms such as flashbacks, anxiety, hypervigilance, or negative beliefs about oneself.

In an EMDR session, a therapist helps the client recall specific disturbing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. The eye movements or other rhythmic cues appear to mimic the brain activity that happens during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, a stage of sleep associated with memory processing. Over time, this process allows the brain to “digest” the memory more fully. The facts of the memory remain, but the emotional charge often diminishes, making it less overwhelming

EMDR offers a powerful approach to healing by combining memory recall with bilateral brain stimulation. Whether used for trauma, anxiety, or even performance goals, it provides a structured, evidence-based method for helping people move forward with less emotional burden. For many, EMDR opens the door to a healthier, more balanced future.