EMDR: What It Is and Why People Are Talking About It
Written By Senior Psychotherapist, Stella Mayer, LMHC, PMH-C
You may have heard the term EMDR — maybe from a podcast, a social media post or a friend who swears it changed their life. But what is it, really? And could it be something that helps you?
What Is EMDR and how does it work?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
It’s an evidence-based treatment that helps the brain process past experiences that haven’t fully resolved. Cleveland Clinic
When something overwhelming happens, the nervous system can get “stuck,” causing memories to feel as though they’re still happening in the present rather than safely stored in the past.
EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories so they lose emotional intensity and no longer trigger the same fear, tension, or discomfort they once did. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—such as guided eye movements, gentle tapping, or alternating sounds—while you focus on a memory, belief or emotional theme.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR?
Yes, EMDR is well-known for trauma. It’s one of the most evidence-supported therapies for PTSD and trauma-related stress. But EMDR isn’t only for major trauma. It can also help with:
Depression
Performance fears
Grief or loss
Unhelpful self-beliefs
Distressing memories that keep showing up in daily life
Eating disorders
Sexual assault
Sleep disturbances
Substance abuse and addiction
It’s a flexible tool in your healing toolbox — sometimes used on its own, sometimes alongside other therapeutic approaches (EMDRIA). Working with a trained EMDR therapist can help you feel more grounded, allowing you to respond rather than react—and live more fully again.
Common Questions (Answered)
Is EMDR just remembering the trauma over and over?
No — EMDR therapy allows you to focus on what feels manageable while your therapist supports the process in a structured, safe way. EMDRIA
Does it erase memories?
No. It doesn’t make memories disappear — it makes them less overwhelming. You can remember something without it hijacking your emotions.EMDRIA
Is it intense?
EMDR can bring up emotions as real experiences are processed, but when guided by a trained, trauma-informed therapist, the work is carefully paced and structured to help you feel safe and supported throughout Cleveland Clinic.
Final Thoughts
EMDR isn’t a magic wand, but for many people it’s a powerful and efficient way to untangle old pain so you can live more fully in the present. If you’re ready to explore EMDR or just have questions, we’re here to help. Healing doesn’t have to be mysterious — and you don’t have to do it alone.
