What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987 that uses bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories. Endorsed by the World Health Organization, American Psychological Association, and VA/Department of Defense, EMDR is a first-line treatment for PTSD with over 30 randomized controlled trials supporting its effectiveness.
How EMDR works
EMDR works on the principle that traumatic memories are stored differently in the brain than ordinary memories. During EMDR, a therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation — typically eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones — while you focus on a distressing memory. This process is thought to mimic the memory consolidation that occurs during REM sleep.
The 8 phases of EMDR
- History-taking
- Preparation
- Assessment
- Desensitization
- Installation
- Body scan
- Closure
- Reevaluation
Research evidence
84-90% of single-trauma survivors no longer met PTSD criteria after three 90-minute sessions (Shapiro, 2014). Over 30 randomized controlled trials support EMDR's effectiveness.
Conditions EMDR treats
EMDR treats PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, phobias, chronic pain, and more — over 12 conditions supported by research.
Find an EMDR therapist covered by your insurance at Loma.