Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic or distressing life experiences. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is best known for its effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), though it’s also used for anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges.

The therapy involves recalling traumatic memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation—most commonly through guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. This process is believed to help the brain reprocess stuck or unintegrated memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing for more adaptive thinking.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require clients to describe their trauma in detail. Instead, it focuses on shifting the way distressing memories are stored in the brain, helping individuals move toward resolution and emotional balance.