How Does EMDR Work?

Here’s my disclaimer on this one. There are a lot of great articles on EMDR that I will list at the end. I’m just trying to break it down as much as possible and explain it as I understand it. I always say that EMDR is both way simpler and way more complicated than I’m explaining it. There are loads and loads of scientific articles on how it works on the brain and body that are incredibly interesting, but I can’t regurgitate those in a productive way at all. So here is my best shot, but I encourage you to read more. 

What sets EMDR apart from other therapy styles is it uses bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation uses alternating movement (left right left right) in order to active each part of the brain in a rhythmic way. So for example, when EMDR was first developed it was done with eye movements (hence the eye movement part of EMDR). The EMDR therapist would have the other person follow their fingers with their eyes and watch as the therapists hand would float to the left and right back and forth several times. This can also be done with tappers, these little hand held buzzers that vibrate back and forth. It does the same job of stimulating each part of the brain. I primarily use tappers in my practice. 

EMDR uses this BLS while bringing up painful memories. The BLS along with sitting with the memory allows your mind to desensitize the painful emotions. This is usually the hardest part. So much of our lives is spend avoiding painful emotions, but in this process you are really sitting with it and allowing it to do it’s thing. And usually that “thing” then releases and the negative feelings release, calm down, and allow your brain to reprocess the event in a healthier way. It’s a beautiful thing when it is done properly, which is why is important that your therapist is trained in EMDR. 

The goal of EMDR is to take those negative feelings and thoughts that the memory gives you, and transform those into healing feelings and new more positive thoughts about yourself and your life. In this way it connects the past, present, and future of your life.

To get more information on EMDR please check out these websites

EMDR International Association

EMDR Humanitarian and Assistance Programs

Disclaimer: I am a therapist trained in EMDR, and although this article contains clinical information, you should consult with an EMDR therapist before engaging in EMDR therapy. A list of trained EMDR therapists in your area can be found on the emdria website.