EMDR Therapy: A distinct therapeutic approach that focuses less on discussion and more on adaptive processing

Rather than relying primarily on verbal exploration, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy uses bilateral stimulation to activate the brain’s natural information processing system. This method enables individuals to integrate distressing memories at a neurological level — supporting emotional resolution, cognitive shifts, and symptom reduction without needing to remain immersed in narrative detail. For many clients, this structured, phase-based model can feel more tolerable and less emotionally destabilising than traditional therapies that rely heavily on verbal recounting.

How EMDR therapy Works — and What Makes It Different

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or tones) to assist the brain in reprocessing traumatic or distressing memories. Developed by Dr Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is now internationally recognised for its effectiveness in treating both acute and longstanding trauma.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often relies on detailed narrative processing, EMDR facilitates change through a targeted memory-processing protocol that activates the brain’s natural adaptive pathways. While clients are asked to recall aspects of the distressing experience, the emphasis is on what emerges during reprocessing — including shifts in body sensations, beliefs, and emotional responses — rather than prolonged verbal recounting.

What differentiates EMDR from other therapies is that:

• It engages the brain’s inherent ability to process and integrate disturbing experiences.

• Clients are supported to recall key aspects of difficult memories in a contained, phase-based process.

• Research suggests EMDR may lead to meaningful therapeutic change more efficiently than some traditional therapies, though the number of sessions required varies based on history, complexity, and individual presentation. For single-incident trauma, some clients report noticeable change within 6–12 sessions, while others may require a longer course of treatment.

The goal of EMDR is not to forget or erase the memory. Rather, it helps shift how the memory is stored — so that it no longer feels emotionally overwhelming or disruptive to daily life. Over time, the same event may still be remembered, but it no longer holds the same emotional charge or influence.

EMDR Therapy for Single-Incident and Multiple Traumas

EMDR is highly adaptable and can be used effectively with both single-incident and multiple-event traumas. These experiences are often stored in the nervous system in a way that feels “frozen” — with emotional or physiological reactivity persisting long after the event has passed. EMDR helps the brain process and integrate the memory so it can be recalled without the same distress or disruption.

Single-Incident Trauma

EMDR is particularly effective for isolated events that continue to cause emotional disturbance, including:

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Physical or sexual assault

• Medical emergencies

• Natural disasters

• Witnessing violence or sudden death

While its structured approach often lends itself well to clearly defined traumatic events, such as car accidents or assaults, it is equally suitable for individuals who have experienced ongoing or cumulative trauma across their lifespan.

Multiple or Complex Traumas

When trauma is cumulative — such as prolonged abuse, childhood neglect, or repeated exposure to unsafe environments — EMDR can still be highly effective, though the treatment process is typically longer and involves more preparation. In these cases, early work often focuses on stabilisation and resource development. EMDR can help address entrenched patterns of fear, shame, or mistrust and shift long-standing beliefs such as “I’m not safe” or “I’m not worthy”.

Sessions are paced according to each person’s tolerance and readiness, ensuring emotional safety and supporting long-term integration. The phased model of EMDR allows clinicians to pace the process to meet the needs of each client, whether the trauma is a single event or multiple events.

When EMDR Therapy May Not Be Suitable

While EMDR is a well-established and evidence-based treatment for trauma, it is not appropriate for every individual or clinical context at every point in time. Because EMDR involves activating emotionally charged material, careful clinical judgment is required to ensure the process is safe, contained, and therapeutically beneficial.

1. When Someone Is in Crisis or Feeling Emotionally Unsafe

If a person is experiencing active suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or severe emotional instability, the priority is always safety. EMDR can bring up strong feelings, so it’s important to feel emotionally supported before beginning trauma reprocessing. In these situations, therapy usually starts with helping the person feel more grounded and in control.

2. When Dissociation Is Strong or Unpredictable

Some people experience dissociation — feeling numb, spacey, or disconnected from their body or surroundings. This is common in trauma, but when it happens frequently or very strongly, EMDR may need to be carefully paced. Some clients benefit from extra support and preparation before they’re ready to begin reprocessing safely.

3. During Ongoing Legal Matters Related to the Trauma

If someone is involved in a court case — such as family court or a criminal investigation — EMDR is often paused until legal proceedings are over. That’s because the way a memory feels can change after EMDR, and this may affect how someone testifies or recalls details in court.

4. When Medication Affects Memory or Emotional Access

Some medications, like benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium or Xanax), can reduce emotional intensity, which may make EMDR less effective. This doesn’t mean EMDR is ruled out — just that it might need to be adjusted or monitored more closely if these medications are part of someone’s treatment plan.

5. When Emotional Regulation Skills Haven’t Been Developed Yet

EMDR works best when people have some tools for calming their body and mind when things feel overwhelming. If someone hasn’t learned these skills yet, therapy will often begin by helping them build a stronger internal toolkit — such as breathing strategies, grounding, or self-soothing techniques — so they feel more prepared.

6. When Life Is Not Currently Safe or Stable

If a person is living in an unsafe environment — such as experiencing domestic violence or housing insecurity — it’s not the right time for trauma processing. In these cases, support focuses first on safety, stability, and basic needs, with EMDR introduced later if appropriate.

Why EMDR? 

It works by directly targeting the memory networks where traumatic experiences are stored — not just the cognitive narrative you tell about them, but the physical sensations, emotional charges, and subconscious meanings that got stuck when the event occurred.

By guiding the brain to reprocess these memories, EMDR effectively cuts through the protective cognitive walls — the “I don’t want to think about it” or “I don’t know what to say” defences that we all use. It helps the brain move the memory from an unprocessed, emotionally charged place into one that feels neutral and integrated.

This isn’t about erasing memories. It’s about removing the sting — so that the memory no longer has the power to disrupt your sleep, your relationships, or your sense of safety.

What If EMDR Isn’t Right for Me Now?

That doesn’t mean therapy can’t help - far from it. Many clients begin with supportive work to build safety, emotional strength, and confidence. This kind of preparation isn’t “delaying progress” - it’s an essential part of the healing journey. EMDR may still be an option in the future, once the right conditions are in place.