15 July 2026
4 min read
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR has become one of the most recommended treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder, yet many people remain unsure about what the therapy actually involves. The name itself, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, does not give much away.
In simple terms, EMDR helps the brain process traumatic memories that have become stuck. Think of it like untangling a knot. The memory is there, but it has not been properly filed away. It keeps coming back with the same emotional intensity, as if it happened yesterday.
How does an EMDR session work?
During a session, you focus on a distressing memory while following a set of bilateral stimuli. This might be eye movements, tapping, or sounds. The idea is that this dual attention helps the brain reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge.
One thing that surprises people is that you do not need to talk at length about what happened. Unlike some other therapies, EMDR does not require you to recount every detail. The processing happens naturally as you follow the therapist's guidance.
What does the research say?
Research supports its effectiveness. Multiple studies show that EMDR can produce significant improvement in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy for trauma. It is now recognised by the World Health Organization and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence as a frontline treatment for PTSD.
According to the WHO (2023), EMDR is one of only two therapies recommended for PTSD treatment in adults. Studies show 84-90% of single-trauma victims no longer meet PTSD criteria after just three 90-minute sessions.
Is EMDR right for me?
If you have been carrying a difficult memory for years and other approaches have not helped, EMDR might be worth exploring. It is suitable for adults and children, and can treat trauma, phobias, anxiety, grief, and performance anxiety.
Related services
- [EMDR Therapy](/fr/services/emdr)
- [Trauma Detox](/fr/services/trauma-detox)
- [Clinical Psychology](/fr/services/clinical-psychology)
Last updated: August 2026