EMDR: What is it?

The word EMDR stands for “Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing”. It is an evidence based approach that uses bilateral movement of the body to target and re-process problematic memories, and associated behavioral patterns (anxiety, sadness) that we have adapted from our past. EMDR does not erase memories it helps our brain adaptively re-process these memories and helps us to make new meaning of the painful memories. Our physical body, emotions and thoughts all work together to make this “new” meaning during the process of EMDR. With EMDR, we still remember the memories but not triggered by them. EMDR is a structured approach as you may want to work with your therapist to focus on selective memories, only.