EMDR

Francine Shapiro developed Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in 1987, utilizing this process in order to successfully treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Since then, EMDR has been used to effectively treat a wide range of mental health problems.

Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for post-traumatic stress. However, EMDR has also been used successfully in the treatment of personality disorders, panic attacks, complicated grief, dissociative disorders, disturbing memories, phobias, body dysmorphic disorders, eating disorders, performance anxiety, stress reduction, addictions, sexual and/or physical abuse, pain disorders.

EMDR is a non-drug, non-hypnosis psychotherapy procedure. Rapid eye movement, which occurs naturally during dreaming, seems to speed the client’s movement through the healing process. The mind can often heal itself naturally, in the same way as the body does. Much of this natural coping mechanism occurs during sleep, particularly during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

EMDR Resources

• EMDR Institute