What Does EMDR Therapy Do?

Christopher Bradley
Sep 22
3 min read

If you've experienced trauma or struggled with distressing memories, you may have heard about EMDR therapy. But what exactly does EMDR therapy do, and how can it help your mental health? At Best Life Mental Health & Wellness in Mooresville, NC, our trained EMDR therapists help clients process traumatic memories and reduce emotional distress through this evidence-based approach.

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic memories. Through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR supports the brain's natural healing process, reducing emotional distress linked to past experiences.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to discuss traumatic events in extensive detail. Instead, it helps your brain reprocess disturbing memories in a way that reduces their emotional impact. Clients remain fully awake and in control throughout the process, which can be integrated into a broader treatment plan or used as a focused intervention.

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

EMDR therapy works by activating both sides of the brain through bilateral stimulation. This process helps the brain process traumatic memories more effectively, similar to how REM sleep consolidates daily experiences. The bilateral stimulation can include:

Guided eye movements following the therapist's finger
Alternating sounds through headphones
Tactile stimulation through handheld devices

During sessions, you focus on traumatic memories while following guided movements. This helps traumatic memories become less vivid and emotionally charged. The memories don't disappear, but they often feel more like distant experiences rather than current sources of distress.

What Conditions Does EMDR Therapy Treat?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

EMDR was initially developed for PTSD treatment and remains highly effective for this condition, often showing results more quickly than traditional therapy approaches.

Anxiety and Depression

When these conditions stem from traumatic experiences, EMDR therapy can help process underlying issues and reduce symptoms effectively.

Grief and Loss

EMDR helps individuals process complicated grief, traumatic loss, and intense emotions associated with bereavement.

Phobias and Performance Issues

EMDR can address specific phobias and performance anxiety that often develop from frightening or traumatic experiences.

What Are the Benefits of EMDR Therapy?

Reduced Emotional Distress

Many clients experience a significant reduction in the emotional intensity of traumatic memories after EMDR processing.

Improved Self-Perception

The therapy helps replace negative self-beliefs with more positive, realistic perspectives about yourself and your experiences.

Better Daily Functioning

With reduced trauma symptoms, individuals often experience improved work performance, better sleep, and greater enjoyment in daily activities.

Enhanced Relationships

As trauma symptoms decrease, many people find their relationships improve through better communication and increased trust.

What to Expect During EMDR Therapy

Before beginning EMDR processing, your therapist will help you develop coping skills and establish safety in the therapy environment. During sessions, you'll actively participate while maintaining complete control over the process. You can pause or stop at any time if needed.

Some clients experience temporary increases in dreams or emotions between sessions as the brain continues processing. This is normal and typically decreases as treatment progresses.

Getting Started with EMDR Therapy

At Best Life Mental Health & Wellness, our trained EMDR therapists provide specialized care in a comfortable, supportive environment. We recognize each individual's unique needs and work collaboratively to develop treatment plans that promote healing.

Ready to learn more about EMDR therapy and how it can help you? Contact Best Life Mental Health & Wellness today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced EMDR therapists. Take the first step toward processing traumatic memories and reclaiming your emotional well-being.