The EMDR International Association definition of EMDR is as follows:
“Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a method of psychotherapy that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. To date, EMDR has helped an estimated two million people of all ages relieve many types of psychological stress.”
Trauma is often associated with experiences such as war, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), assault and abuse. Trauma can be experienced in response to other life experiences where your sense of safety and integrity are compromised. Examples of these experiences and additional areas where EMDR has been found to be helpful are as follows:
- Traumatic labor and delivery
- Motor vehicle accident
- Date rape
- Witnessing a traumatic event
- Anxiety, panic attacks
- Eating disorders
- Fear of flying
- Performance anxiety
- Addictions
- Body image disorders
EMDR technique is always done within the context of the therapeutic relationship and is part of an integrative approach to problem solving. It is a collaborative decision that is made once a thorough history has been taken and a therapeutic relationship has been established. EMDR utilizes an eight stage protocol that incorporates a detailed history, treatment planning and preparation, establishing resources, processing of information related to the targets being addressed, evaluation and follow up.
I have been using EMDR since 2003 after receiving training and certification as a Level II EMDR clinician. When used, EMDR is most effective in replacing client’s anxiety, fears, and negative self denigrating beliefs about themselves with positive images, emotions and thoughts.
For more detailed information regarding how EMDR works and to obtain references for documented research on EMDR effectiveness, please visit the following websites: