EMDR Therapy: How It Works for Trauma & PTSD

What It Is

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy technique that helps people process and heal from traumatic experiences. During sessions, you recall distressing events while following guided eye movements, which helps your brain reprocess the memories in a less distressing way.

Who It Helps

EMDR is primarily used for PTSD, trauma, and anxiety disorders. It also helps people with phobias, grief, chronic pain, and other conditions rooted in distressing life experiences.

What to Expect

After an initial assessment, your therapist will guide you through phases of EMDR. During processing sessions, you will briefly focus on a traumatic memory while following the therapist's finger movements or other bilateral stimulation. Most people feel relief within 3-6 processing sessions.

Cost Range

Typical Duration

6-12 sessions, 60-90 minutes each

Frequently Asked Questions

Does EMDR really work?

Yes, EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment by the WHO, APA, and VA. Multiple studies show it is as effective as prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD, often with faster results.

Is EMDR painful?

EMDR is not physically painful, but briefly revisiting traumatic memories can be emotionally intense. Your therapist ensures you feel safe and in control throughout the process. Most people report feeling lighter after sessions.

How many EMDR sessions do I need?

Single-event trauma may resolve in 3-6 sessions. Complex trauma or multiple events may require 12 or more sessions. Your therapist will create a treatment plan based on your specific situation.

Can EMDR work for anxiety?

Yes, EMDR can be effective for anxiety, especially when anxiety is rooted in past experiences. It helps reprocess the memories driving anxious responses.

How much does EMDR cost?

EMDR sessions cost $150-$350 per session. Some therapists charge more for the longer 90-minute sessions often used in EMDR. OpenMyPro helps you find affordable EMDR-trained therapists.

Related Resources