Empowering Change with Carlsbad Family Therapy

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based

therapy designed to help people heal from trauma, distressing life events, and negative core

beliefs. EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., and has been extensively

researched as one of the most effective treatments for trauma and PTSD.

How It Works

When a person experiences trauma, memories can become “stuck” in the brain in ways that

continue to trigger emotional and physical distress. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these

memories so they can be stored in a healthier, adaptive way.

• The therapist guides the client to recall aspects of a traumatic or distressing memory while

using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds).

• This process helps the brain integrate the memory, reducing its emotional charge.

• Clients gain new insights, relief from distress, and a greater sense of calm and resilience.

What EMDR Can Help With

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Anxiety and panic attacks

• Depression

• Grief and loss

• Phobias

• Negative self-beliefs (“I’m not good enough,” “I’m unsafe”)

• Stress from difficult life experiences

Benefits of EMDR

• Helps reduce intensity of painful memories

• Promotes emotional regulation and resilience

• Supports faster relief compared to some traditional talk therapies

• Backed by decades of research and recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO)

and the American Psychiatric Association (APA)

ReferenceShapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic

principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.