Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy technique designed to help individuals process traumatic memories. It involves guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation while the patient recalls distressing events. This process aims to reduce the emotional charge associated with these memories, making them easier to manage.
EMDR is often used to treat conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. The therapy typically consists of eight phases, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, and desensitization. Research has shown that EMDR can lead to significant improvements in symptoms for many individuals.