Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of psychotherapy designed to help people process and recover from traumatic experiences and distressing memories. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR works by having the patient recall traumatic or emotionally charged memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds.
The dual focus of EMDR has been seen to help the brain reprocess the memory in a way that reduces its emotional intensity and negative impact. Over time, EMDR can help individuals integrate these memories more adaptively, leading to reduced symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and other related conditions.
