Developed in 1987 and guided by the Adaptive Information Processing model, EMDR therapy is recognized by the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unlike talk therapy, EMDR does not require detailed verbal description of the event or homework between sessions.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR is built on the idea that distressing experiences can become “stuck” and improperly stored in the brain, leaving the memory raw and easily triggered. During reprocessing, you briefly focus on a target memory while the therapist guides bilateral stimulation—most often side-to-side eye movements, but sometimes taps or tones. Researchers believe this dual attention helps the brain reprocess the experience, similar to what happens during REM sleep. Learn more from the American Psychological Association’s overview of the EMDR phases.
What Are the 8 Phases of EMDR?
EMDR follows a standardized eight-phase protocol. Processing a single memory is often completed in one to three sessions:
- Phase 1 – History & Treatment Planning: The clinician gathers your history and identifies target memories.
- Phase 2 – Preparation: You learn grounding and self-soothing skills to manage emotion.
- Phase 3 – Assessment: A specific image, negative belief, and body sensation tied to the memory are identified.
- Phase 4 – Desensitization: Bilateral stimulation is applied while you hold the memory in mind.
- Phase 5 – Installation: A positive, adaptive belief is strengthened.
- Phase 6 – Body Scan: Any remaining physical tension linked to the memory is processed.
- Phase 7 – Closure: Each session ends with you returning to a calm, stable state.
- Phase 8 – Reevaluation: Progress is reviewed at the next session and new targets are set.
What Conditions Does EMDR Treat?
EMDR is most established for trauma-related conditions but is also used for a range of concerns, often alongside other therapies:
- PTSD and trauma — its strongest evidence base; explore our PTSD intensive outpatient program.
- Anxiety and panic rooted in past experiences; see our anxiety treatment options.
- Grief, phobias, and distressing memories that remain emotionally charged.
- Co-occurring trauma and substance use, supported through our co-occurring care.
Not sure where to start? A confidential symptom exploration guide can help you reflect on your experiences before talking with a provider.
What to Expect in EMDR
EMDR is typically delivered one to two times per week, with many people benefiting from 6 to 12 sessions. Sessions are guided and collaborative; you remain in control and can pause at any time. Because reprocessing can stir up emotion, EMDR is best provided by a trained clinician within a coordinated outpatient plan. At DMHBH, EMDR may be combined with somatic therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as part of outpatient therapy services.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR
Is EMDR therapy evidence-based?
Yes. EMDR is recognized by the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for PTSD and is supported by numerous clinical studies, though results vary by individual.
Do I have to talk about the trauma in detail during EMDR?
No. Unlike many talk therapies, EMDR does not require you to describe the event in detail. You focus on the memory internally while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
How long does EMDR take to work?
Many people notice change within 6 to 12 sessions, and a single memory is often processed in one to three sessions. Complex trauma may take longer.
Is EMDR safe?
EMDR is generally considered safe when delivered by a trained clinician. Some people feel temporary emotional intensity between sessions, which the closure phase is designed to manage.
Does DMHBH offer EMDR?
DMHBH provides outpatient and intensive outpatient mental health care that can include trauma-focused therapies such as EMDR. Contact us to discuss whether EMDR fits your treatment plan.