How Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing works, and what it’s used for.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help people process distressing or traumatic memories. A person briefly recalls difficult material while following guided bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, so the memory’s emotional charge can be reduced over time.
EMDR was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro. The premise is that overwhelming experiences can become “stuck,” so associated images and emotions continue to feel present long after the event has passed. EMDR is recognised as an effective PTSD treatment by major health bodies and is delivered by trained professionals as part of a considered treatment plan.
While attending to bilateral stimulation — commonly guided eye movements — the person briefly brings to mind a distressing memory along with associated beliefs and sensations, in short repeated sets. Over treatment, the memory typically feels less vivid and distressing, with a more balanced belief taking its place.
EMDR is best established for trauma and PTSD. Because trauma often sits beneath addiction, trauma-focused approaches like EMDR support recovery where substance use has developed partly as a way of coping with unresolved trauma. At Holina Executive, our trauma-informed team may draw on approaches such as EMDR within a broader, individualised programme.
Early sessions build stability and coping skills before addressing memories directly. Memory-processing sessions identify a target memory and its associated feelings, then work through sets of bilateral stimulation, closing with steps to help the person feel grounded.
Do I have to talk about the trauma in detail?
Not in the same way as some therapies. EMDR places less emphasis on describing every detail aloud and more on reprocessing how the memory is stored.
Is EMDR evidence-based?
Yes. EMDR is endorsed as an effective PTSD treatment by major health organisations, delivered by appropriately trained professionals.
Read more about trauma and PTSD and our somatic therapy approach.
Last updated: July 2026. This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.