EMDR is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, a form of psychotherapy that has been used to treat trauma—related disorders. Patients dealing with issues such as PTSD, rape and military combat have benefited from the fairly new form of therapy. Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR is intended to reduce the effects of distressing or emotionally traumatizing events. By processing stored memories and the associated stimuli, patients may develop a more healthy approach to coping techniques.

The History of EMDR

Francine Shapiro noticed in the late 1980’s that her eye movements could help determine emotional influence. She could decrease her negative emotions associated with stressful or emotionally straining memories through her eye movements. Early data on her hypothesis suggested that eye movements were not substantial stimuli independently, leading to the development of other elements. Following the addition of cognitive therapy, test results proved to be much more substantial and effective.

• Unseen Role – The history of EMDR is explained in depth on this site.
• Effectiveness of EMDR – Here, the history of EMDR is included within research for effective alleviation of behavior problems in females within a residential treatment center.
• EMDR – The History of EMDR is explained here as well as statistics on patients who have tried the therapy.
• Currently Testing –Although this therapy has been around for almost 30 years, it is still being tested for effectiveness.

EMDR Defined
EMDR combines elements of cognitive therapy for behavioral problems with bilateral or rhythmic eye movements. Dual stimulation is one of the main elements in treatment for EMDR. Combining memories or triggers with a moving object or other source of bilateral distraction. Sounds may also be included from taps to chimes.

• Science and Pseudoscience – EMDR is explained in detail here as implications for clinical psychology.
• Retrieval of Memories – According to this resource, EMDR enhances the retrieval of episodic memories.
• Taking a Closer Look – Skeptics go into the science and questions around EMDR.
• Description – EMDR is explained, especially for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
• Therapy Model – The EMDR therapy model principles are examined here.

The EMDR Process

EMDR follows an 8 phase process. In the first phase patients talk to their practitioner and develop a treatment plan. The patient must then identify a safe place with a memory or image that comforts them. In the third phase a negative image is determined to focus on during the session. As the patient thinks of the stressful and emotional thought, they will begin the series of eye motions as the practitioner begins the cognitive therapy. Then, in the “Installation Phase” the therapist will ask the patient to focus on the positive image from before, even though they will continue to think of the negative. Body scanning is next as the patient explains how they are feeling physically. In the final stage the therapist will try to talk out any leftover emotions and provide further support and suggestions.

• Process- EMDR process is fully described through this resource.
• EMDR – One of the best descriptions of EMDR process is given here, along with illustrations and a detailed outline.
• Sessions – In this book, EMDR is described in depth, as is the procedure therapists follow.

• Effectiveness – This thesis details the EMDR Process and effectiveness of treatment.
• EMDR vs. Relaxation – Here the differences between EMDR and relaxation training are examined.
• PTSD – While describing the benefits of EMDR for PTSD, the process is well defined.
• EMDR – The process of the EMDR therapy is described in detail here.

Benefits of EMDR

EMDR is one of the newest, most effective therapies available. Also, EMDR works more than just the mind as it can have positive effect on your body, emotions and overall health. EMDR’s best benefit though is that the experience in therapy, unlike traditional options, is very short-lived. It does not force a patient to talk out their emotional issues with analysis from a stranger over long periods of time.

• EMDR – This is a review of the efficacy of EMDR in the treatment of PTSD.
• Pro and Con – The pros and Cons of EMDR are explored for traumatized children.
• EMDR – This is an evaluation of the effectiveness of EMDR in the treatment of trauma for adult female survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
• PTSD – Treatment for PTSD often includes EMDR therapy.
• Memory Recall – EMDR effects on memory recall are examined here.

Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy

People suffering from traumatic events can benefit from EMDR Therapy. Post-traumatic stress disorder sufferers originally proved EMDR effectiveness. Women dealing with the after-effects of rape could use EMDR for a healthy recovery. Also, soldiers coming home from war can benefit from EMDR therapy.

• Treatment – This news article discusses EMDR with actual patients explaining their experiences.
• Treating Morbid Jealousy – Throughout this abstract, morbid jealousy treatment is hypothesized to be effective in patients receiving EMDR therapy.
• Phobias – People suffering from phobias are offered EMDR as an available treatment option.
• PTSD – Those suffering from PTSD can benefit from EMDR Therapy.