How Does EMDR Work?

When disturbing experiences happen, they are stored in the brain, with all the sights, sounds, thoughts, and feelings that accompany them.  When a person is very upset, the brain seems to be unable to process the experience as it would normaly.  Therefore, the negative thoughts and feelings of the traumatic event are "trapped" in the nervous system.  Since the brain cannot process these emotions, the experience and/or its accompanying feelings are often suppressed from consciousness.  However, the distress lives on in the nervous system where it causes disturbances in the emotional functioning of the person (nightmares, vigilance, emotional numbness, avoidance of things that remind one of the trauma).

EMDR Techniques

The EMDR technique does two very important things.  First, it "unlocks" the negative memories and emotions stored in the nervous system, and second, it helps the brain to successfully process the experience.

The therapist works gently with the client, guiding him or her to revisit the traumatic incident.  When the memory is brought to mind, the feelings are re-experienced in a new way.  EMDR makes it possible to gain the self-knowledge and perspective that will enable the client to choose their actions, rather than feeling powerless over their re-actions.  This process can be complex if there are many experiences connected to the negative feelings.  The EMDR therapy sessions continue until the traumatic memories and emotions are relieved.

Learn more about our services

Please feel free to contact us to discuss How EMDR Works. Alternatively, read more about HarrisHoward psychological therapies, or read an overview of our psychology services.