EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing
Eye movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, researched based therapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro that allows people of all ages to process stressful and traumatic experiences. Therapists who are trained in EMDR have attended the required workshops and consultations to provide effective treatment.
EMDR consists of 8 phases of treatment (see graph). During the pretreatment stage of EMDR you and your clinician will work out the process. There are different experiences that may be targeted including acute, chronic, and/or pre-verbal. Part of EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (BLS) which integrates the brain and body to process experiences.
The Eight Stages of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy follows a structured eight-stage journey designed to support healing and integration. Each stage has its own aim, and while they build on one another, not all stages may be used fully in every session.
Stage 1: Gathering History & Planning
In the opening stage, the therapist and client explore what issues brought the client to therapy. This includes reviewing life history, identifying which past events may be important targets, and mapping out a plan for treatment. The therapist also assesses the client’s strengths and resources, as well as their external supports.
Stage 2: Preparation
Here, the therapist explains how EMDR works and sets expectations, ensuring the client understands the process and feels safe. Any concerns or questions are addressed. The therapist and client work together to develop coping skills or calming techniques so the client is better equipped emotionally before moving into deeper work.
Stage 3: Assessment
This stage involves pinpointing the specific memory or event that will be addressed—the “target.” The client is asked to identify images, beliefs, emotional and physical sensations associated with this event. The therapist uses measures such as a disturbance scale (how upset the client feels) and a validity of belief scale (how true or believable a positive belief feels) to establish a baseline.
Stage 4: Desensitisation
During desensitisation, bilateral stimulation (for example, side-to-side eye movement, sounds, or taps) is used while the client holds the target memory in mind. This continues until the distress associated with the event reduces significantly. As the process unfolds, new thoughts, sensations, or feelings may surface.
Stage 5: Installation
Once distress has decreased sufficiently, the focus shifts to reinforcing a positive belief related to the event. The goal is to strengthen this belief until it feels fully true to the client in relation to their experience.
Stage 6: Body Scan
At this stage, the client holds both the target event and the new, positive belief in mind, then scans their body from head to toe. The purpose is to detect any remaining tension or disturbance in physical sensations. Any such remains are then processed.
Stage 7: Closure
Each session ends with closure, whether or not full processing of the target memory has been achieved. The intention is to ensure the client returns to a grounded, stable place. If necessary, the therapist helps the client use self-soothing or calming strategies so they feel safe and balanced.
Stage 8 Re-evaluation
At the beginning of subsequent sessions, the therapist and client check back in on what was processed previously. They assess if distress remains low, whether the positive belief still feels strong, and whether new memories or targets should be addressed. This stage helps refine the direction of ongoing EMDR work.