Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach used to help individuals process traumatic and distressing experiences that continue to affect emotional well-being and daily functioning. Difficult memories can remain stored in ways that keep the nervous system activated long after the original event has passed. EMDR helps the body-mind reprocess these experiences so that they can be integrated more adaptively.

During EMDR, bilateral stimulation is used while a person recalls aspects of a distressing memory. This process appears to help the brain reprocess the memory so that it becomes less emotionally overwhelming and can be experienced with greater distance and perspective.

In my practice I primarily use tactile bilateral stimulation with the TheraTapper. Many clients find this form of stimulation to be particularly grounding and relaxing, while remaining just as effective as traditional eye movements.

EMDR sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes and the number of sessions varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the experiences being addressed. The work generally focuses on three areas: processing past events, reducing present-day triggers, and strengthening the capacity to respond differently in the future.