Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing is an evidence-based therapy intervention for trauma and stress. We know it works, but exactly how it works is still being researched. It is believed that EMDR activates parts of the brain responsible for processing and storing away difficult experiences. When we are traumatized, rather than placing the memory into our filing cabinet, the file stays open on our mental “browser” and, like a computer virus, it can compromise how we perceive and experience our daily life.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, which is a fancy way of saying alternating sensory input on the right and left sides of the body. This can be done through buzzers held in each hand, music with audio movement between right and left ears, or eye movements. This stimulation is what activates the processing parts of our brain and makes EMDR work.