Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained a lot of attention in recent years as a powerful treatment for trauma and other mental health challenges. But if you’ve been considering therapy, you might be wondering: Does EMDR therapy really work? Is it backed by research, or is it just another trendy therapy approach?
The short answer is yes—EMDR therapy is one of the most well-researched and effective treatments for trauma, PTSD, and other emotional distress. Let’s take a closer look at how it works, what the research says, and why so many people have found relief through EMDR.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
This therapeutic approach was developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. While taking a walk, she noticed that her negative thoughts seemed to lose their intensity as her eyes naturally moved back and forth. Intrigued by this experience, she began studying the connection between eye movements and emotional processing—and EMDR therapy was born.
The foundation of EMD is based on the idea that unprocessed memories of traumatic events can cause ongoing emotional distress. When a traumatic event occurs, the brain sometimes struggles to process the experience properly, leaving it “stuck” in the nervous system. This can lead to symptoms like:
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Flashbacks
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Intrusive thoughts
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Trouble sleeping
Bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess these traumatic memories —often in the form of guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. The goal is to help the brain “unstick” these memories and file them away correctly so they no longer trigger emotional distress. Imagine a record skipping – that’s the nervous system stuck. EMDR helps the record play through to the end.
What the Research Says About EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy isn’t just a popular buzzword—it’s one of the most researched and scientifically supported treatments for trauma and PTSD. Here’s what the research shows:
🔎 1. EMDR is highly effective for treating PTSD
A 2014 meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE reviewed 24 randomized controlled trials on EMDR therapy for PTSD. The study found that EMDR therapy was as effective—or more effective—than cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is considered the gold standard for PTSD treatment. Participants experienced significant reductions in PTSD symptoms after EMDR therapy, with long-lasting effects.
🧠 2. EMDR therapy works quickly
One of the most remarkable findings about EMDR therapy is how quickly it works for many people. Studies have shown that some clients experience relief from PTSD symptoms after just 3 to 6 sessions.
A 2012 study in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research found that 84% of single-trauma survivors no longer met the criteria for PTSD after three 90-minute EMDR sessions. For people who have experienced complex trauma or multiple traumatic events, treatment may take longer—but many still see noticeable improvements relatively quickly compared to other forms of therapy.
💡 3. EMDR is effective for more than just trauma
Although EMDR therapy was initially developed to treat PTSD, research shows it’s also highly effective for other mental health issues, including:
✅ Anxiety and panic disorders
✅ Phobias
✅ Depression
✅ Grief and loss
✅ Chronic pain
✅ Performance anxiety
For example, a 2014 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that EMDR therapy significantly reduced symptoms of depression in individuals with PTSD. Similarly, a 2017 study in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders reported that EMDR therapy was effective in reducing anxiety and improving emotional regulation.
🌍 4. EMDR is recommended by major health organizations
EMDR therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD and trauma by several leading health organizations, including:
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The American Psychological Association (APA)
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The World Health Organization (WHO)
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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The fact that EMDR therapy is endorsed by such well-respected organizations speaks to its credibility and the strength of the research behind it.
Why EMDR Therapy Works
So why does EMDR therapy work so well?
When you experience trauma, the brain’s natural processing system can become overwhelmed, leaving the memory “frozen” in an emotionally charged state. When you think about the memory, your body reacts as if the trauma is happening all over again—triggering the fight, flight, or freeze response.
EMDR therapy helps shift this pattern by stimulating both sides of the brain through bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds). This helps the brain process the memory more effectively, moving it from the emotional part of the brain (the amygdala) to the rational part (the prefrontal cortex).
As a result, the memory becomes less emotionally charged. You may still remember the event, but it no longer triggers the same intense emotional reaction.
Does EMDR Therapy Work for Everyone?
While EMDR therapy is highly effective for many people, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some people respond quickly, while others need more time to feel the benefits. Factors that can influence how well EMDR works include:
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The type and severity of trauma
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Emotional readiness to process difficult memories
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Trust and connection with the therapist
A skilled therapist will work with you at your pace, making sure you feel safe and supported throughout the process.
Is EMDR Therapy Right for You?
If you’ve experienced trauma or are struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional triggers, EMDR therapy could be a powerful tool for healing. It’s especially helpful if you’ve tried traditional talk therapy and haven’t seen the progress you were hoping for.
EMDR therapy allows you to heal at a deeper neurological level, helping your brain process distressing memories so you can finally feel at peace.
Ready to Try EMDR Therapy? We Can Help.
If you’ve been wondering if EMDR therapy could work for you, the answer is likely yes. The research is clear—EMDR therapy is one of the most effective treatments for trauma and emotional distress.
💚 Reach out today to schedule your first EMDR therapy session. Taking the first step can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Healing is possible—and it starts with that first call.