EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a therapy used to reduce psychological stress. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR involves the therapist directing your eye movements as you relive a specific stressful experience. It works by diverting your attention, and lessening your emotional response.
EMDR is helpful in cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or when a major trauma has been experienced. Its goal is to reduce the impact the event or situation has on you over time. It dulls your response so you feel less anxiety and stress.
Some people have found that participating in EMDR therapy helps in other ways as well. Among the benefits are lowering the number of hallucinations and delusions they have, which can be common with PTSD and other psychotic disorders.
Research shows that EMDR can be helpful for:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- PTSD and trauma recovery
- Abuse treatment
- Panic Attacks
- Eating Disorders
- Addictions
