Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
In 1987, Dr. Francine Shapiro made the chance observation that eye movements can reduce the intensity of experienced disturbing thoughts, under certain conditions. Since then, EMDR has developed and evolved through the contributions of therapists and researchers all over the world. Today, EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches.
EMDR has a direct effect on the way the brain processes information. After a successful EMDR session, normal information processing can be resumed, without reliving the images, sounds, and feelings when the event is recalled. One still remembers what happened and it is less upsetting. The EMDR process is like what naturally occurs during dreaming or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, releasing emotional experiences that are trapped in the nervous system. Bilateral stimulation, such as something you can see, hear, or touch, like moving your eyes back and forth in a side-to-side pattern is used to facilitate this process. The disturbing memories are reprocessed by the brain, resulting in painful feelings being exchanged for more resolved, peaceful feelings.
EMDR can be thought of as a physiologically based form of therapy. The EMDR protocols are a proven therapeutic intervention to help reduce symptoms related to depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, addictions, and phobias. Current and ongoing research shows a high success rate in less time and can be used in addition to other therapeutic formats such as CBT.
EMDR is highly recommended as an effective form of therapy for trauma by NIMH, WHO, VA, DOD, APA, and numerous International guidelines.
You can learn and find more information by visiting www.emdria.org