What Is EMDR Therapy and How Does It Help With Trauma?

When life throws us into overwhelming experiences, our minds sometimes struggle to process them in a healthy way. Trauma, whether from a single incident or ongoing stress, can deeply affect how we think, feel, and behave. Fortunately, there's a therapeutic approach that has been transforming the way we heal from trauma, EMDR therapy.

But what exactly is EMDR, and how does it work? Let’s explore this powerful method and how it might help you reclaim your peace of mind.

What Does EMDR Stand For?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a psychotherapy method originally developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro. EMDR is now widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other forms of emotional distress.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to go into great detail about your traumatic experiences. Instead, it helps your brain reprocess these memories so they no longer feel emotionally disturbing.

At Solutions Life Coaching, EMDR is offered as part of a personalized, holistic approach to emotional healing.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR therapy is based on the idea that trauma can become “stuck” in the brain. When something distressing happens, the memory may not be properly processed. It gets frozen in time, along with the intense emotions, thoughts, and body sensations that were present in that moment.

During an EMDR session, you’ll be guided to briefly focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This often involves moving your eyes from side to side, though tapping or auditory tones can also be used. These movements help activate the brain’s natural processing system, similar to what happens during REM sleep.

The result? The memory becomes less emotionally charged. You still remember what happened, but it no longer feels overwhelming or painful.

What Can EMDR Help With?

While EMDR was initially developed for PTSD, it has been found effective for a range of mental health issues, including:

• Anxiety and panic attacks

• Depression

• Phobias

• Grief and loss

• Childhood trauma

• Sexual assault

• Accidents or medical trauma

• Low self-esteem and negative beliefs

If you've ever thought, "I’ve already talked about this in therapy, but I still feel triggered," EMDR might be the next step for you.

What to Expect in an EMDR Session

EMDR is a structured therapy that typically follows an eight-phase process. Here’s a brief look at what you can expect:

• History and treatment planning – Your therapist gathers information about your past and identifies target memories to work on.

  
  

• Preparation – You learn coping techniques and relaxation skills to ensure emotional safety during the sessions.

  
  

• Assessment – The therapist helps you identify the disturbing image, beliefs, emotions, and body sensations linked to the memory.

  
  

• Desensitization – This is where the bilateral stimulation begins, helping to reduce the emotional charge of the memory.

  
  

• Installation – Positive beliefs are strengthened to replace old, negative ones.

  
  

• Body scan – You check your body for any residual tension or discomfort related to the memory.

  
  

• Closure – Each session ends with techniques to return to a calm state.

  
  

• Reevaluation – The next session reviews your progress and determines if further work on the memory is needed.

  
  

This method is not about reliving trauma but about releasing it in a safe, structured way.

EMDR Is Backed by Science

EMDR is not a fringe therapy. It is endorsed by major organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the Dutch Association of Psychologists (NIP). Numerous studies have shown that EMDR can significantly reduce trauma symptoms, sometimes in fewer sessions than traditional therapy.

A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology even found that EMDR helped reduce stress-related symptoms in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

At Solutions Life Coaching, EMDR is offered by trained professionals who understand the science and the soul of healing.

Who Is EMDR For?

EMDR is suitable for adults, teenagers, and even children. It’s especially beneficial for people who:

• Struggle with painful memories or flashbacks

• Feel stuck in therapy despite previous efforts

• Prefer a method that goes beyond talking

If you’re someone who’s ready to heal but unsure where to begin, EMDR can be a compassionate and effective option.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Here are just a few reasons why EMDR stands out:

• It’s fast-acting – Some people notice significant changes in as few as 3–6 sessions.

• It’s non-invasive – You don’t have to describe your trauma in detail.

• It’s empowering – EMDR helps you rewire your brain to respond to life in healthier ways.

• It’s holistic – EMDR integrates mind and body, making it ideal for those who want deep, lasting change.

If you’re curious about other services that complement EMDR, such as life coaching or stress management, you’ll find a warm, welcoming environment at Solutions Life Coaching.

Is EMDR Right for You?

Every healing journey is unique. EMDR is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it might be exactly what you need to move forward. Whether your trauma is rooted in childhood, relationships, or a recent event, this therapy can gently guide you back to a place of inner peace and clarity.

To find out if EMDR is a good fit for you, consider scheduling a free intake session. This gives you the chance to explore your goals and get a feel for the therapeutic process in a supportive setting.

Visit the contact page to book your first conversation.

Final Thoughts

Healing from trauma is possible. EMDR therapy offers a research-backed, compassionate approach that helps people reclaim their lives and rediscover who they are beyond the pain. Whether you’re just starting your healing journey or looking for a new path after feeling stuck, EMDR could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

At Solutions Life Coaching, you're not just a client. You’re a whole person with a story that matters. And together, we’ll help you write the next chapter.