EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy method that aims to have traumatic and distressing memories reprocessed in the brain. During therapy, while focusing on a distressing memory, bilateral stimulation (usually eye movements) is applied. The goal is to reduce the burden of the memory and to store it in memory in a more adaptive way.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy approach developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. The method is based on the idea that unprocessed memories can be the source of present-day distress. Many organizations, including the World Health Organization, recognize EMDR as one of the effective methods for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How does EMDR work?
During a traumatic experience, the brain may be unable to process the memory in a healthy way; the memory remains "frozen" together with its emotions and bodily sensations. EMDR aims to make safe contact with this memory, accompanied by controlled bilateral stimulation, and to reactivate the brain's natural processing capacity. At the end of the process, the memory is still remembered but may no longer carry its old intense distress.
The eight phases of EMDR
EMDR consists of eight standardized and structured phases:
- History taking: The client's past is assessed and target memories are identified.
- Preparation: The method is explained to the client, and skills of trust and relaxation are established.
- Assessment: The target memory, its associated negative belief and bodily sensations are clarified.
- Desensitization: The distress level of the memory is reduced through bilateral stimulation.
- Installation: A positive and realistic belief is strengthened in place of the negative belief.
- Body scan: Any remaining bodily tension related to the memory is reviewed.
- Closure: The session is ended with the client in a balanced state.
- Reevaluation: Progress is reviewed in the following session.
These phases ensure that the process advances safely and in a controlled manner. EMDR is not merely about having someone make eye movements; it is applied within an integrated framework.
In which situations is EMDR used?
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Traumatic experiences such as accidents, loss or violence
- Some anxiety and panic experiences
- The effects of adverse experiences during childhood
- Processing grief and distressing memories
The suitability of EMDR is assessed separately for each client. The method should be applied only by licensed professionals trained in this area. In cases where it is not appropriate, other approaches may be preferred; for example, cognitive behavioral therapy is also an evidence-based option.
What to expect during the EMDR process?
While EMDR can sometimes make progress within a few sessions on a single distressing memory, the process can take longer with complex and multiple traumas. Intense emotions may surface during sessions; for this reason, a safe therapeutic relationship and the professional's guidance are critically important. The pace and duration of the process vary from person to person.
Why is preparation before EMDR important?
Preparation, the second phase of EMDR, is perhaps the most critical step for the safety of the process. In this phase, the client is equipped with skills to soothe themselves in difficult moments. Through techniques such as the "safe place" exercise, the person develops confidence that they can steady themselves when an intense emotion rises.
Without this preparation being firmly established, the memory-processing phase is not begun. In this way, the client knows that control rests with them while making contact with a distressing memory. This sense of safety forms the basis for EMDR being effective and well tolerated.
For whom might EMDR not be suitable?
Although EMDR is a valuable method for many people, it is not the first choice in every case. Certain serious medical conditions, heavy substance use, or the person not being on stable ground at that moment may require the process to be postponed or supported with a different approach. For this reason, a comprehensive assessment is carried out before starting EMDR. The decision about suitability is made by a licensed professional who considers the person's overall situation.
EMDR does not erase the memory; it aims to lighten the burden the memory places on present-day life.
What is bilateral stimulation?
The best-known element of EMDR is eye movements, but bilateral stimulation can also be applied in different forms. The aim is to support the processing of the memory by stimulating the two hemispheres of the brain alternately:
- Eye movements: The client follows the therapist's finger or a light bar from right to left.
- Tactile stimulation: Light taps or vibration to the hands or knees in turn.
- Auditory stimulation: Sounds delivered alternately through headphones.
The type of stimulation is determined by the professional according to the client's comfort and needs. The essence of the method is not the stimulation itself, but making controlled contact with the memory within a safe framework.
The difference between EMDR and other therapies
Many talk therapies require the experienced event to be recounted in detail and repeatedly. In EMDR, however, the client usually does not need to recount the event at length or do "homework"; the focus is on the internal reprocessing of the memory. This can be an advantage for people who find it hard to put the event into words. That said, EMDR is not the first choice for every situation; which method is suitable is determined through a comprehensive assessment.
Common misconceptions about EMDR
EMDR is not a form of "hypnosis" or a "memory-erasing" method. The client is conscious and in control throughout the session. Moreover, EMDR does not offer an instant, magical solution; it is a structured, gradual process. This content is not a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation; the decision about suitability is made by a professional.
Adult psychotherapy support in Beylikdüzü
At SONE Esenlik Ünitesi in Beylikdüzü, İstanbul, we offer psychotherapy support for adults in working with trauma and distressing experiences. If you would like to speak with a licensed professional to assess whether EMDR is suitable for you, you can book a consultation. No single method produces the same result in everyone; the process is planned individually.
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