What is EMDR Therapy?

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychotherapy approach designed to help people process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences. Developed in the late 1980s, EMDR is now a widely researched and evidence-based treatment used around the world.

The therapy is based on the idea that difficult experiences can sometimes become “stuck” in the brain. When this happens, reminders of the event may trigger strong emotional or physical reactions, even long after the experience has passed.

During EMDR sessions, clients briefly focus on a troubling memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds. This process helps the brain reprocess the memory so it becomes less emotionally distressing and more integrated with other life experiences.

EMDR was originally developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but is also used to help individuals experiencing anxiety, grief, phobias, and other impacts of stressful life events. 

Rather than erasing memories, EMDR helps people change how those memories are stored and experienced - allowing them to move forward with less distress and greater emotional balance.

Jody Kulyk

Psychotherapist

EMDR Trained