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😵abnormal psychology review

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy technique designed to help individuals process and recover from trauma by using guided eye movements to reduce the emotional distress associated with traumatic memories. This approach connects the mind's processing capabilities with the body’s physiological responses, making it an effective method in the treatment of trauma-related disorders. By facilitating the integration of traumatic experiences, EMDR aims to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has been extensively researched for its effectiveness in treating PTSD.
  2. The therapy involves eight phases, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation.
  3. During desensitization, clients focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously following the therapist's finger or another stimulus with their eyes, which helps reprocess the memory.
  4. EMDR can be conducted in individual or group settings and is often considered a more rapid treatment option compared to traditional talk therapies.
  5. The World Health Organization recognizes EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD and recommends it as a first-line therapy option for trauma survivors.

Review Questions

  • How does Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing work to alleviate symptoms of trauma-related disorders?
    • EMDR works by helping clients process traumatic memories through guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation techniques. As clients focus on a distressing memory while engaging in these movements, their brain's natural processing capabilities are activated. This dual focus can lead to a reduction in emotional intensity associated with the memory, allowing for healthier integration of the traumatic experience into their overall mental framework.
  • Discuss the phases involved in EMDR therapy and their importance in treating trauma.
    • EMDR consists of eight distinct phases that guide the therapeutic process. These phases include history-taking to assess the client's needs, preparation to establish safety and trust, assessment to identify specific traumatic memories, desensitization where eye movements are utilized to reduce distress, installation to promote positive beliefs, body scan to address residual tension, closure to help clients return to a state of equilibrium, and reevaluation to monitor progress. Each phase is crucial for ensuring comprehensive treatment and enhancing the client's coping strategies.
  • Evaluate the role of EMDR within the broader context of trauma treatment options available today.
    • EMDR plays a significant role within the landscape of trauma treatments by offering a unique approach that combines elements of cognitive processing with physiological responses. Compared to traditional therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR can produce quicker results for many individuals suffering from PTSD and other trauma-related disorders. Its recognition by major health organizations highlights its efficacy, making it an essential tool in modern therapeutic practices. The integration of EMDR with other therapeutic modalities also underscores its adaptability and relevance in treating complex trauma cases.