Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals process and recover from traumatic or distressing experiences.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR helps you heal without needing to recount painful memories in detail. It supports the brain’s natural ability to process emotional wounds and promotes long-term relief from trauma-related symptoms.
Ready to begin your path toward healing?
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a structured psychotherapy method that uses bilateral stimulation-typically eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones-while the individual briefly focuses on a traumatic memory. This combination helps reprocess the memory so it becomes less emotionally intense and disruptive.
Originally developed for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR is now widely used for a range of conditions, including:
Anxiety and panic disorders
Phobias
Depression
Chronic illness or pain
Eating disorders
Grief and loss
Personality disorders
Childhood trauma and adverse experiences
How EMDR Works
EMDR is grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which suggests that unprocessed traumatic memories are stored in the brain in a fragmented, emotionally charged way. These unresolved memories can resurface as flashbacks, anxiety, or negative self-beliefs.
Through EMDR, the brain can safely reprocess these memories. Over time, this reduces their emotional charge and allows individuals to respond to current life situations with clarity instead of fear or distress.
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy is delivered in a structured, eight-phase protocol with a trained clinician:
History & Treatment Planning – Identifying key memories, current triggers, and therapy goals.
Preparation – Learning coping strategies and building emotional safety.
Assessment – Targeting specific memories for reprocessing, along with negative and positive beliefs.
Desensitization – Processing the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
Installation – Reinforcing positive beliefs to replace negative self-perceptions.
Body Scan – Identifying and clearing residual physical tension or distress.
Closure – Ensuring the client feels safe and grounded at the end of each session.
Re-evaluation – Reviewing progress and identifying new targets in future sessions.
Sessions typically last 60 to 90 minutes and may span several weeks depending on the complexity of the trauma.
Who Is EMDR For?
At Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates (WBMA), we currently provide EMDR therapy for adults (18+). EMDR is especially beneficial for individuals:
Struggling with symptoms of past trauma
Experiencing intrusive memories or flashbacks
Who have not found relief with other therapy methods
Looking for a structured and efficient path to emotional healing
What to Expect at WBMA
Our EMDR-certified clinicians guide you through every phase with compassion and clinical expertise. We begin with a thorough intake and treatment plan, ensuring the therapy is tailored to your needs. Whether you’re addressing a single traumatic event or complex trauma, EMDR is a safe and effective method to promote healing and improve emotional resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a mental health therapy that helps people recover from traumatic or emotionally distressing experiences. It uses guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess memories and reduce their emotional impact.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR therapy is a structured, evidence-based treatment that helps individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and related conditions. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require patients to go into detail about their painful memories. Instead, it focuses on changing how those memories are stored in the brain so they no longer trigger intense emotional responses.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR works by activating the brain’s natural ability to process and heal from traumatic experiences. During sessions, clients briefly focus on a specific memory while following guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. This process helps “unlock” the memory and allows the brain to reprocess it in a healthier, more adaptive way.
Why is EMDR so controversial?
EMDR has been controversial mainly because its origins were unconventional and some experts initially questioned how eye movements could lead to emotional healing. While the exact mechanism is still debated, numerous high-quality studies have confirmed its effectiveness, and it is now recommended by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for treating PTSD.
Is EMDR evidence-based?
Yes, EMDR is a well-established, evidence-based therapy. Over 30 years of clinical research and controlled trials have shown it to be effective in treating PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, and more. Leading health organizations around the world recognize EMDR as a first-line treatment for trauma-related conditions.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you’re living with trauma, anxiety, or distress that won’t resolve through traditional therapy, EMDR may offer the breakthrough you need.
Our team at WBMA is here to support your healing journey with evidence-based care.
