Understanding EMDR Therapy: A Path to Healing Trauma
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma.
Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has gained recognition as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a range of other psychological difficulties (Shapiro, 2018).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on reprocessing distressing memories to reduce their emotional charge and impact on daily life.
What Is EMDR Helpful For?
EMDR is particularly effective in treating PTSD, but it is also used to address anxiety, depression, phobias, and other trauma-related conditions.
Research indicates that EMDR can help individuals process painful memories, reducing symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, and emotional distress (van der Kolk, 2015). Additionally, EMDR has been used to treat performance anxiety, grief, and chronic pain by addressing the psychological components of these issues.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR is based on the idea that unprocessed traumatic memories can become "stuck" in the brain, leading to ongoing psychological distress.
The therapy involves eight structured phases that guide clients through history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation of positive beliefs, body scan, closure, and reevaluation (Shapiro, 2018).
The key component of EMDR is bilateral stimulation, which can involve guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories and integrate them into a healthier narrative.
What Might a Typical EMDR Session Look and Feel Like?
A typical EMDR session begins with the therapist helping the client identify a distressing memory to target. The client then focuses on the memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as following the therapist’s fingers with their eyes.
During this process, emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations may arise.
Over time, the distress associated with the memory diminishes, and new, more adaptive beliefs emerge. Many clients report feeling lighter, less emotionally overwhelmed, and more in control after EMDR sessions.
What Makes EMDR Different from Other Types of Therapy?
Unlike traditional talk therapies that rely on verbal processing,
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to facilitate healing. It does not require clients to extensively discuss or analyze their trauma, which can be beneficial for those who struggle with verbalizing painful experiences.
Additionally, EMDR typically yields results more quickly than some other forms of therapy, with many clients experiencing significant relief in fewer sessions compared to traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) (van der Kolk, 2015).
EMDR offers a powerful approach to healing trauma and emotional distress.
By reprocessing painful memories, individuals can find relief from their symptoms and regain a sense of empowerment. If you are struggling with trauma or unresolved distress, EMDR therapy may be an effective path toward healing.
Jaskiranvir Chauhan
As a therapist trained in EMDR, I specialize in helping individuals process difficult experiences and break free from patterns that no longer serve them. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, meaning we focus on what’s working while developing new tools to create meaningful change. I believe that with the right support, you can move toward healing, resilience, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.
Healing isn’t a linear process, and it can feel overwhelming to navigate on your own. Whether you're working through trauma, struggling with anxiety, or facing challenges in addiction recovery, you deserve support that meets you where you are.
Now practicing at Nurtured Minds in Leduc and Nisku, Alberta, I provide a compassionate and structured space where you can gain insight, build confidence, and take tangible steps toward the life you want.
References
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). The Guilford Press.
Van der Kolk, B. (2015). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin Books.
