EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Episodes covering emdr (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) — protocols, research, and expert discussions.
Trauma processing therapy using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds) while recalling distressing memories to reduce their emotional charge
EMDR is one of the most well-researched trauma therapies, recognized by the WHO, APA, and VA as a first-line treatment for PTSD. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in 1987, it involves recalling traumatic memories while following bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements following a therapist's fingers).
The evidence is strong - comparable to trauma-focused CBT, often with faster results. The mechanism is debated (working memory interference, memory reconsolidation, REM-like processing), but the outcomes are well-documented. EMDR requires a trained therapist; self-administered versions exist but lack the same evidence base.
If you have PTSD, trauma-related anxiety, or distressing memories that haven't resolved, EMDR is worth serious consideration. It's not a DIY intervention - find a certified EMDR therapist.
Science & Mechanisms
How EMDR works (proposed mechanisms):
The mechanism is still debated. Leading theories:
1. Working Memory Hypothesis:
- Recalling trauma while doing eye movements taxes working memory
- Memory can't be held as vividly while attention is divided
- Reconsolidation stores a less distressing version
- Lee & Cuijpers (2013): Eye movements reduce memory vividness and emotionality
2. Memory Reconsolidation:
- Reactivated memories become temporarily unstable
- Bilateral stimulation during this window alters storage
- Memory reconsolidates with reduced emotional charge
3. REM Sleep Analogy:
- Eye movements mimic REM sleep patterns
- REM sleep processes emotional memories
- EMDR may activate similar processing mechanisms
4. Orienting Response:
- Eye movements trigger orienting reflex
- This activates parasympathetic system
- Reduces arousal while processing trauma
Key research:
- Shapiro (1989): Original controlled study showing PTSD reduction
- Bisson et al. (2013): Cochrane review - EMDR effective for PTSD
- Chen et al. (2014): Meta-analysis confirming EMDR efficacy
What the evidence shows:
- PTSD treatment: Strong evidence (WHO, APA, VA endorsed)
- Trauma-related anxiety: Strong evidence
- Phobias: Moderate evidence
- Depression (trauma-related): Moderate evidence
- Chronic pain: Preliminary evidence
- Performance anxiety: Some evidence
Comparison to other treatments:
- Comparable efficacy to trauma-focused CBT
- Often faster (fewer sessions needed)
- May be easier for those who struggle to talk about trauma
- Less homework than CBT approaches
Episodes
Andrew Huberman explains the distinct roles of slow-wave (non-REM) sleep and REM sleep in learning, emotional processing, and trauma recovery. Slow-wave sleep, dominated by sero...
Host William Curb interviews Sean Brock, a neurofeedback expert and owner of NeuroC Colorado, about how neurofeedback works and its applications for ADHD. Sean traces the histor...
Pediatrician and podcast host Dr. Mona Amin sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Dr. Cassidy Freitas to explore EMDR therapy from both the clinician and patient...
Dr. Joy Harden-Bradford interviews Kelly, an EMDR-trained therapist and director of grief and trauma therapy at a Memphis behavioral health hospital, about how EMDR works and wh...
Dr. Kirk Honda, chair of the Couple and Family Therapy program at Antioch University Seattle, delivers a thorough solo episode covering EMDR's history, treatment protocol, evide...
Robin Kivett and Jordan Rich interview licensed clinical social worker Lauren Manassa about her journey to EMDR and how it works for treating trauma, particularly in clients wit...
Frank Levandowski shares his deeply personal experience with EMDR therapy, describing how a two-day intensive with therapist Jamie Born transformed his life. Frank, a healthcare...
EMDR therapist Cameron Carver interviews Tom Perry, a man in long-term sobriety who experienced devastating trauma when he discovered his son had been sexually abused. Tom's sto...
Debbie Reber interviews clinical psychologist Dr. Naomi Fisher, an EMDR trainer who specializes in trauma, autism, and alternative education. Naomi provides a detailed and acces...
Therapists Kathy Dan Moore and Jess Lowe discuss EMDR therapy in an accessible format, with Kathy Dan sharing her experience as an EMDR-trained clinician. They walk through the ...
Hosts Naz, Ashley, and Lauren interview EMDR practitioner Erica Curtis, a licensed marriage and family therapist and board-certified art therapist with 20 years of experience. N...