What is EMDR and how does it work?

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychotherapy approach developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. It was originally developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and has since been recognised as an effective treatment for a range of trauma-related presentations.

EMDR is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) as an evidence-based treatment for PTSD. It is one of the most thoroughly researched trauma therapies available.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which proposes that many psychological difficulties stem from traumatic or distressing memories that have not been adequately processed by the brain. When a traumatic event occurs, the memory can become 'stuck' — stored in a fragmented, emotionally charged way that continues to affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves in the present.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation — most commonly guided eye movements, though tapping or auditory tones can also be used — while the person holds a distressing memory in mind. This process is thought to facilitate the brain's natural information processing system, allowing the memory to be integrated in a less distressing way.

Importantly, EMDR does not require the person to describe the traumatic event in detail or engage in prolonged exposure. Many people find this aspect of EMDR particularly helpful, especially when verbal processing feels difficult or re-traumatising.

What happens in an EMDR session?

EMDR follows a structured eight-phase protocol. The early phases focus on history-taking, treatment planning, and preparation — including building coping resources and ensuring the person feels safe and grounded before processing begins.

During the processing phases, the therapist guides the person to bring a specific memory to mind — including the image, associated thoughts, emotions, and body sensations — while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This continues in sets, with brief check-ins between each set, until the distress associated with the memory reduces significantly.

The later phases focus on installing a positive belief to replace the negative cognition associated with the memory, checking for any remaining body tension, and closure. Between sessions, the therapist will check in on how the person has been tracking and whether any new material has emerged.

What can EMDR help with?

While EMDR was developed for PTSD, the evidence base has expanded considerably. EMDR is now used to treat a range of presentations including complex trauma and childhood adversity, anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, grief and loss, and performance anxiety.

EMDR can be particularly helpful for people who have experienced single-incident trauma (such as a car accident or assault) as well as those with more complex trauma histories involving repeated or prolonged adverse experiences.

Is EMDR right for me?

EMDR is not the right fit for everyone, and a thorough assessment is an important first step. A psychologist trained in EMDR will work with you to understand your history, current difficulties, and goals before recommending whether EMDR is appropriate and, if so, how it might be integrated into your treatment.

If you are curious about EMDR or wondering whether it might help with something you are experiencing, I would encourage you to raise it in an initial appointment. We can explore your options together and develop a plan that feels right for you.