EMDR Therapy Explained: What It Is, How It Works, and How It Differs from Traditional Trauma Therapy
- Tyne Buchy
- Dec 29, 2020
- 6 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Learn how EMDR therapy helps process trauma, regulate the nervous system, and build resilience—while exploring what sets it apart from talk therapy and other trauma-focused approaches.
Let's explain what EMDR therapy is. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized trauma therapy that helps client's reprocess stuck memories and update their cognitive belief systems. Similar to other therapeutic approaches, EMDR focuses on the client's present concerns, and how past emotionally charged experiences (or past traumatic events) influence your present emotions, sensations, thoughts and your behaviors. Many clients report thoughts like "I feel unlovable" followed by "but I know that I am loved." Cognitively they are aware that their thoughts are misaligned and irrational however it is not enough to influence and change the negative thoughts and feelings that still occur to them. Sometimes that is not the case for clients, and there is less cognitive awareness of irrational thoughts (i.e. the thoughts feel rational and aligned with reality). How EMDR differs from other approaches is that it works on a neurological level, to help client's break through emotional blocks that keep them from living an emotionally healthy and adaptive life.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR uses bilateral stimulus (BLS) which is a technique that alternates between movement on the right and left side of the body. Most commonly this is done using rapid sets of eye movements, which helps the client update disturbing experiences. BLS can also be used by marching, walking, and tapping. This replicates a process that your body does naturally, REM sleep. During sleep, the body naturally alternates between light, deep and REM sleep cycles. REM sleep is where the brain helps you process things that are troubling you, followed by your light and deep sleep cycles which help you rest and restore normalcy. During an EMDR session, your therapist will guide you through alternating sets of eye movements (or another means of BLS) and brief reports of what you are noticing. This process helps you update your traumatic memories to a more adaptive and healthier perspective.
What is "resourcing" referring too?
Resourcing is a term that is used in EMDR therapy that refers to building the clients adaptive or positive network. Client's can think of it like their "cushy place to land" after they finish processing in the negative networks. An example of resourcing around a negative network of "powerlessness" ("I am powerless") would be focusing on memories, feelings, positive experiences, etc., in which the client felt in control or "I have power over myself". Building the positive network allows the client to align with more positive and adaptive beliefs when encountering new situations and information as well as recalling this new positive belief while processing maladaptive negative beliefs.
How does EMDR differ from other forms of therapy?
EMDR focuses on neurological processes, whereas most other therapeutic processes focus on psychological processes.
EMDR focuses on the brain's ability to learn continuously, this adaptive process takes past experiences and updates them with more present and healthy information.
In the adaptive learning theory, our brains are constantly updating memory network systems; with emotionally charged past experiences interfering with the updating process.
EMDR helps client's process traumatic experiences and past emotionally charged experiences, allowing client's to let go and update their experiences to a healthier present perspective.
EMDR works by resourcing client's in a positive way, before processing negative emotional experiences.
EMDR uses set protocols to help client's reorganize their negative and positive feelings, emotions, and thoughts, followed by bilateral stimulation, thus helping client's effectively work through disturbing memories and traumatic experiences.
What can you expect in your appointment using EMDR?
Many clients can feel apprehensive or nervous going into their first counselling session, regardless of approach. Generally when I am working with new client's we spend the first session building therapeutic rapport, discussing treatment goals or concerns, exploring necessary background information to assist us in formulating a treatment plan and going over any questions/concerns the client may have. Regardless of whether or not the client wants EMDR therapy compared to other therapeutic approaches, the above steps are equally important. EMDR may not be a good fit for every client, for many reasons, and the therapist needs to determine the best approach to help you meet your goals and needs in the most competent and safe manner possible. Typically within the first couple of sessions questions about how EMDR works, how it can help clients and how we can incorporate it into the client's treatment plan are discussed.
If you are interested in a consultation to explore how EMDR can support your therapeutic journey click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based trauma therapy that helps individuals process distressing memories and emotional pain. It uses bilateral stimulation to safely reprocess traumatic experiences, reduce emotional intensity, and build resilience.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR works by stimulating the brain’s natural processing system. Through guided eye movements or bilateral stimulation, the therapy helps the nervous system integrate traumatic memories while reinforcing positive beliefs and emotional regulation.
What conditions can EMDR help with?
EMDR therapy is effective for:
PTSD and complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and emotional dysregulation
Anxiety, depression, and panic disorders
Narcissistic abuse recovery and relational trauma
Childhood trauma, attachment wounds, and grief
Is EMDR therapy effective for narcissistic abuse recovery?
Yes. EMDR helps survivors of narcissistic abuse process emotional trauma, reduce self-doubt and shame, and rebuild self-worth and trust. Many clients notice relief from hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, and relational anxiety after several sessions.
How long does EMDR therapy take?
Treatment length depends on the client’s needs and trauma complexity. Some individuals experience significant relief in 3–6 sessions, while more complex trauma, such as C-PTSD or long-term abuse, may require additional sessions.
Does EMDR therapy hurt or make you relive trauma?
No. EMDR is designed to safely reprocess trauma without retraumatizing. Clients remain in control, accessing memories while guided to reduce emotional distress and strengthen positive internal resources.
How does EMDR impact the nervous system?
EMDR therapy helps regulate the nervous system, reducing hyperarousal and emotional dysregulation. By integrating traumatic memories safely, it strengthens adaptive neural pathways, promotes emotional balance, and fosters resilience.
Can EMDR help with BPD or emotional regulation?
Yes. EMDR is effective for individuals with BPD, especially for processing past trauma, reducing emotional reactivity, and improving self-compassion. Combined with resourcing techniques, it strengthens coping skills and self-regulation.
Do I need to talk about my trauma in detail?
Not necessarily. EMDR allows you to process traumatic memories without extensive verbal retelling, making it a safe approach for clients who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
How do I know if EMDR therapy is right for me?
EMDR may be appropriate if you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, relational wounds, or the aftermath of narcissistic abuse. A consultation with a trained EMDR therapist can help determine your suitability and treatment plan.
How do I know if EMDR therapy is right for me?
EMDR may be appropriate if you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, relational wounds, or narcissistic abuse recovery. A consultation with a trained EMDR therapist can help determine suitability and create a personalized treatment plan.
Why is it important to work with a trained EMDR therapist, and what are the risks and benefits?
Working with a trained EMDR clinician ensures therapy is safe, structured, and trauma-informed. Benefits include effective trauma processing, emotional regulation, and nervous system calming. Potential risks—like temporary emotional discomfort or vivid memories—are minimized under professional guidance, maximizing healing while reducing the risk of re-traumatization.
Resources:
EMDR Brochure supplied by EMDR Consulting @ emdrconsulting.com
References:
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