Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)…

…is a therapeutic approach discovered almost by serendipity. In 1987, the same year Ronald Reagan famously demanded Gorbachev “tear down” the Berlin Wall, Francine Shapiro noticed something unusual while walking in the park—her repetitive troubling thoughts seemed to diminish in intensity with rapid eye movement. This observation would become the seed of her groundbreaking work, eventually forming the basis of her doctorate. Dr. Shapiro had laid the foundation for what would become EMDR therapy.

From there, EMDR evolved into an evidence-based treatment. A methodology was formulated, and the therapy was rolled out globally. Initially, EMDR was used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and was recognized by the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization as effective treatment for trauma. Since then, EMDR has expanded into treating a much wider range of psychological stressors.

The Methodology of EMDR

EMDR is typically organized into an multi-phase treatment, carefully structured to help people process and heal from traumatic memories. Unlike traditional talk therapy, the core of EMDR lies in a process called bilateral stimulation. This is often done through eye movement, but for some, tapping or auditory tones are more effective. These forms of stimulation help the brain “reprocess” traumatic events and shift how these memories are stored.

A typical session might look like this:

Assessment: The therapist works with the patient to understand their background and identify distressing memories that may be causing present-day symptoms.
Preparation: Understanding the process is key to the patient feeling safe. The therapist will explain the EMDR methodology specific to that session and provide resources if it becomes overwhelming, often including structured breathing and relaxation techniques.
Desensitization: Using bilateral stimulation, the therapist guides the client in focusing on a single traumatic memory, allowing new associations to form. Desensitization is a gradual reduction of the emotional charge triggered by the traumatic memory.
Reprocessing: As the brain reprocesses the memory, the clinician works to instill new, healthier beliefs. For example, a feeling of helplessness during a traumatic memory (e.g., “I was/am powerless”) might transform into “I am in control now.”
Body Scan: The session may end with a body scan to ensure no lingering distress. Mentally scanning for aches and pains helps identify where fear, anxiety, or tension may be carried in the body.

This structured approach is intended to help patients reprocess painful memories in a safe, controlled environment. Over time, the emotional impact of the trauma decreases, allowing for healing.

Who is EMDR for?

While EMDR was initially developed to treat acute trauma cases, its benefits extend beyond those suffering from PTSD. From that starting point, EMDR has expanded to treat first responders, veterans, and frontline workers—individuals regularly exposed to traumatic situations. EMDR can help reduce the emotional toll of these collective experiences.

Survivors of trauma and abuse—whether physical, emotional, or sexual—can process painful memories and reduce their intensity. EMDR is also useful for those dealing with grief or loss, particularly complex grief tied to traumatic memories. More recently, EMDR has been shown to be effective in addressing deep-rooted fears that fuel phobias and panic disorders. Finally, those experiencing anxiety or depression can benefit from EMDR. Negative beliefs about oneself, which often drive anxiety and depression, can be reprocessed, leading to greater self-acceptance and relief from symptoms.

At Frisco Counseling and Wellness, we are proud to offer EMDR therapy as one of the many tools to support your mental health. Our EMDR-trained clinicians are highly skilled in guiding clients through this transformative process.

Clinicians:

From Left to right: BROOKE jolly, Brittany rallo, holly lockett, leslie weintraub, Kimberly Johnston

If you feel like EMDR might be a fit for you, or if something in this post resonates with you, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you take the next step toward healing. Book an appointment with one of our specialists today, and begin your journey toward relief and recovery.

What is EMDR?