Glossary
EMDR
Also known as: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR therapy
In short
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured, trauma-focused psychotherapy in which distressing memories are processed with the help of bilateral stimulation.
EMDR was developed in the late 1980s by the American psychologist Francine Shapiro. Today it is one of the most extensively researched treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How does EMDR work?
Treatment follows an eight-phase protocol. At its core, the client brings a distressing memory to mind – including the image, the related belief and body sensations – while following bilateral stimulation, usually guided eye movements, alternating taps or tones.
The underlying theory is the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model: traumatic memories are thought to be insufficiently processed and EMDR aims to integrate them into existing, helpful memory networks.
What is EMDR used for?
The evidence is strongest for PTSD. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended EMDR for adults, children and adolescents with PTSD since 2013.