Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a proprietary psychotherapy in which the patient recalls a traumatic event while simultaneously undergoing bilateral stimulation that can consist of moving the eyes from side to side, vibrations or tapping movements on different sides of the body, or tones delivered through one ear, then the other, via headphones. The technique was developed by Francine Shapiro to resolve the development of trauma-related disorders caused by exposure to distressing, traumatising, or negative life events, such as rape or military combat. According to Shapiro's theory,when a traumatic or distressing experience occurs, it may overwhelm usual cognitive and neurological coping mechanisms. The memory and associated stimuli of the event are inadequately processed, and are dysfunctionally stored in an isolated memory network. The goal of EMDR therapy is to process these distressing memories, reducing their lingering influence and allowing clients to develop more adaptive coping mechanisms.

Although some clinicians may use EMDR for other problems, its research development was primarily for disorders stemming from distressing life experiences, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR was found to be an efficacious treatment for PTSD.

EMDR therapy remains controversial due to questions about its methods, theoretical foundations, and effectiveness. According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs it may reduce PTSD symptoms but eye movements are not a necessary part of PTSD treatment.