Unprocessed trauma can show up in our lives in painful and disruptive ways—affecting our emotions, relationships, and even our sense of identity. Whether the trauma stems from a single event or repeated experiences, healing is possible. Trauma therapy EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) offers a research-backed, structured approach to help people process and release painful memories in a safe and supportive environment.
In this blog, we’ll answer common questions about trauma therapy EMDR, including what happens in a session, how it works, and what the 8 phases look like.
What Is EMDR Trauma Therapy?
EMDR is a form of psychotherapy designed to help people reprocess distressing memories so that they no longer feel as emotionally overwhelming. Instead of spending sessions talking in-depth about the trauma, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones) to activate both sides of the brain while focusing on the memory. This process is believed to help the brain “unstick” and reprocess information in a more adaptive way.
EMDR is highly effective in treating:
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PTSD
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Anxiety and panic
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Depression
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Phobias
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Grief and loss
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Childhood trauma
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Emotional dysregulation
What Happens During an EMDR Session?
EMDR therapy follows a structured approach and always begins with building safety and trust between you and your therapist. Once a traumatic memory is identified, you’ll be guided through a process that includes focusing on the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
As your brain processes the memory, emotions, thoughts, and body sensations may shift. Over time, the memory tends to lose its emotional charge, and you may begin to associate it with new, more empowering beliefs.
What Are the 8 Phases of EMDR?
Trauma therapy EMDR consists of eight structured phases that help ensure you’re supported every step of the way:
1. History-Taking
The therapist gathers information about your life and trauma history and helps identify target memories for reprocessing.
2. Preparation
You learn coping skills, relaxation techniques, and build trust with your therapist so you feel safe during the work.
3. Assessment
You and your therapist identify:
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The memory image
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Negative self-beliefs (e.g., “I’m unsafe”)
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Desired positive beliefs (e.g., “I survived” or “I am safe now”)
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Related emotions and body sensations
4. Desensitization
While focusing on the target memory, your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, etc.) as new insights and emotions arise.
5. Installation
Once the distress lessens, your therapist helps strengthen the positive belief you want to associate with the memory.
6. Body Scan
You tune into your body to identify and process any lingering tension or discomfort.
7. Closure
Each session ends with calming techniques to ensure you leave feeling grounded and emotionally stable.
8. Reevaluation
At the next session, your therapist checks in to see how you’re feeling about the memory and whether more work is needed.
How to Do EMDR Step by Step (as a Client)
Though EMDR must be done with a trained therapist, here’s what the experience often looks like:
- Build a trusting relationship with your therapist
- Learn calming and grounding skills
- Choose a memory to target
- Identify negative and positive beliefs
- Focus on the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation
- Notice what comes up—thoughts, feelings, physical sensations
- Reprocess until the memory feels less distressing
- Strengthen the positive belief
- Return to daily life with better emotional clarity and resilience
Is EMDR Right for You?
Trauma therapy EMDR is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many, it can be life-changing. If you’re living with the impact of past trauma—whether recent or long ago—EMDR might be a good fit, especially if traditional talk therapy hasn’t felt effective. A certified EMDR therapist can help determine if the timing and approach are right for you.
Final Thoughts
Healing from trauma doesn’t mean forgetting—it means being able to remember without reliving. Trauma therapy EMDR helps you face painful experiences with new strength and perspective. If you’re ready to work through the past and build a more peaceful future, EMDR therapy could be a powerful step on your healing journey.
Want to connect with a certified EMDR provider? Email us at info@empoweredtherapy.org or call 312-722-6932.