Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Also known as EMDR, the founder of this evidence-based trauma treatment (Francine Shapiro) stated in the 3ed edition of her classic textbook that she wished she had simply called it “reprocessing therapy.” Not primarily a talking cure, EMDR activates the brain’s power to heal itself using neurological techniques that build new brain connections. This transforms the pain left by trauma into the emotional freedom to move forward.

The fundamental philosophy is that when traumatic and adverse events take place, whether these involve a physical threat or intense shame, the brain is temporarily overwhelmed and the resulting memories are maladaptively stored, not integrated in consciousness the way regular memories are. Rather than simply events that can be recalled objectively, when undigested traumatic memories get triggered a person’s body puts defense mechanisms in place as if the event were happening all over again. This can involve the same kind of emotional distress, heightened defensiveness, and negative self-beliefs that took place in the original trauma. EMDR is a process of healing through information reprocessing in which the goal is “adaptive resolution.”

Memory networks are re-integrated and a person’s resources, wisdom, and ability to protect themselves are activated and merged with the locked-in state of the traumatic memory. This allows the person to move forward without the constant threat of being sabotaged by the traumatic memory in the body. For example, an adult with a triggered overwhelming memory may become like a frightened little child or someone that experienced a car accident or assault may feel helpless and attacked when no danger is currently present. Some people with such traumatic memories feel constantly in danger. These are the body’s normal protection mechanisms out of balance. EMDR targets these responses and transforms the root cause, allowing the person to move forward with greater calmness, personal power, and authenticity.