Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an extensively researched psychotherapy that is structured in nature, and flexible in application. Although known as a treatment for PTSD, over the years EMDR has expanded into treatment of a wide array of challenges that stem from ongoing “small t” traumas and other adverse life experiences. Those challenges include (but are not limited to) complex trauma, anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, chronic pain/illness, medical trauma, sexual trauma, violence, and addiction. EMDR can be used with individuals and groups of different identities, including: race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexuality, religion, spirituality, neurotypes, abilities, etc.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (BLS), which is stimulation of both sides of the body in an alternating manner, most often through eye movements, body movements, tappers/buzzers, and sounds. BLS is only one component of EMDR therapy. Through a structured process and protocols based on the adaptive information processing (AIP) model, clients can begin to heal from disturbing experiences. The AIP model explains that individuals have an innate processing system that tends to move toward healing, growth, and learning. When that system is disrupted, adaptive memory networks are not easy to access, and disturbing memories with their related components remain stuck in a stressful state. This contributes to strong reactions to new experiences that remind of the original event. EMDR helps to access adaptive memory networks so that the innate processing system can resume its natural course. This allows for positive shifts in thoughts, emotions, and somatic responses to new information received.