What Is EMDR Therapy and How Does It Work?

Carisa Bishop
Sep 26
2 min read

If you’ve been searching for trauma therapy, chances are you’ve come across EMDR. Short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR is one of the most researched and effective therapies for trauma. But what exactly is it? And how does it work?

At ThriveMind Psychotherapy, we specialize in EMDR and other evidence-based trauma therapies. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that helps people heal from the emotional distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (like side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or sounds) to help the brain reprocess distressing memories.

The goal is not to erase the memory, but to reduce its emotional charge. After EMDR, clients often report that the memory feels more distant, less distressing, and easier to think about without being overwhelmed.

How Does EMDR Work?

Our brains are naturally wired to process experiences. But when trauma happens, the brain’s processing system can get stuck, leaving memories “frozen” with the same intense emotions and body sensations from the original event.

EMDR helps the brain resume normal processing. During a session, you’ll:

Recall a memory in a safe, controlled way.
Engage in bilateral stimulation guided by your therapist.
Notice thoughts, feelings, and body sensations that arise.
Reprocess the memory until it feels less distressing and more neutral.

What to Expect in an EMDR Session

Preparation: You and your therapist will build coping skills and identify safe places before starting trauma reprocessing.
Targeting: Together, you’ll choose which memories to work on.
Processing: You’ll recall aspects of the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
Integration: The session closes with grounding, reflection, and ensuring you feel stable.

Is EMDR Right for Me?

EMDR can be effective for:

PTSD and complex trauma
Anxiety and panic
Grief and loss
Phobias
Negative self-beliefs

Not everyone is ready to dive into EMDR right away — sometimes preparation takes time. A qualified EMDR therapist can help determine when the timing is right.

EMDR Therapy at ThriveMind

At ThriveMind Psychotherapy, we offer online EMDR therapy for clients in Massachusetts, Wyoming, and Florida. Sessions are tailored to your pace, your goals, and your comfort level.

EMDR is more than a buzzword — it’s a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps people reclaim their lives after trauma. If you’re curious whether EMDR is right for you, reach out today.