EMDR Therapy: What It Is, How It Works and What To Expect
- Jul 31
- 7 min read
Updated: Aug 10
EMDR is a form of psychotherapy originally developed to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories. During treatment, a person briefly focuses on aspects of a troubling memory while also engaging in a form of alternating left-to-right stimulation, known as bilateral stimulation.
This stimulation may involve:
Following the therapist’s fingers or a moving light with the eyes
Alternating taps on the hands or knees
Listening to sounds that alternate between the left and right ears
The aim is not to erase the memory or convince someone that the experience did not matter. Instead, EMDR may help the brain process the memory so that it feels less immediate, vivid and emotionally overwhelming.
After successful treatment, the person will usually still remember what happened, but the memory may feel more like something that occurred in the past rather than something they are continuing to relive in the present.
How does EMDR work?
The precise mechanisms behind EMDR are still being studied. One explanation is that traumatic memories can sometimes remain insufficiently processed, causing parts of the original experience to be triggered by present-day situations.
For example, a person involved in a serious car accident may intellectually understand that they are currently safe but still experience panic, tension or vivid images whenever they hear tyres screeching.
During EMDR, the person recalls selected parts of the memory while participating in bilateral stimulation. This appears to support the processing of the memory and may reduce its emotional intensity. The therapist guides the process carefully, checking the person’s level of distress and helping them remain connected to the present.
EMDR is more than eye movements alone. It is a comprehensive, structured therapy that includes assessment, preparation, memory processing and follow-up.
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR has been researched most extensively as a treatment for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. These symptoms may develop following experiences such as:
Physical or sexual assault
Domestic and family violence
Childhood abuse or neglect
Serious accidents or injuries
Natural disasters
Workplace incidents
Medical trauma
Military service or combat
Sudden or traumatic loss
Witnessing violence, injury or death
A therapist may also consider EMDR when distressing past experiences appear to contribute to current anxiety, fear, shame, avoidance or negative beliefs.
EMDR is sometimes used for concerns other than PTSD, but the strength of the evidence varies across different conditions. A qualified mental health professional should assess whether it is appropriate for a person’s particular circumstances rather than assuming it will be suitable for every mental health concern.
What happens during EMDR therapy?
EMDR treatment follows eight recognised phases. These phases do not necessarily fit neatly into eight individual appointments, and several phases may occur during the same session. The amount of preparation and processing required will differ from person to person.
1. History and treatment planning
The therapist begins by learning about the person’s current concerns, relevant experiences, symptoms, strengths and treatment goals.
It is not always necessary to provide every detail of a traumatic event immediately. The therapist will work with the person to identify appropriate memories or situations to address while considering their current safety and emotional stability.
2. Preparation
Before processing difficult memories, the therapist explains how EMDR works and teaches strategies for managing distress.
These may include grounding exercises, controlled breathing, visualisation or other techniques that help the person return their attention to the present. Preparation is an important part of treatment and should not be rushed.
3. Assessment
The therapist and client identify a particular memory or aspect of an experience to work on. They may explore:
The image that represents the most difficult part
A negative belief associated with the memory
A more helpful belief the person would prefer to hold
The emotions and physical sensations connected with it
The person’s current level of distress
4. Desensitisation
The person focuses briefly on the selected memory while engaging in sets of bilateral stimulation. After each set, the therapist asks what the person noticed.
Thoughts, feelings, images, memories or physical sensations may change as processing continues. The person is not expected to produce a particular response or force themselves to think in a certain way.
5. Installation
The therapist helps strengthen a more helpful or adaptive belief. For example, a belief such as “I am powerless” may gradually shift towards “I survived,” “I have choices now” or “I am safe in the present.”
6. Body scan
The person notices whether any physical tension or discomfort remains when thinking about the event and the new belief. Further processing may occur when distressing sensations are still present.
7. Closure
The therapist helps the person finish the session in a settled state. Grounding or relaxation strategies may be used, particularly when processing has not been completed during that appointment.
8. Re-evaluation
At a later session, the therapist reviews the person’s response to treatment, checks whether distress has returned and determines what should be addressed next.
Do you have to describe the trauma in detail?
EMDR differs from some traditional forms of talking therapy because the person may not need to describe every detail of the traumatic experience aloud.
The therapist still needs enough information to assess the person’s needs, plan treatment and ensure the therapy is being delivered safely. However, much of the processing can occur internally while the person briefly focuses on selected aspects of the experience.
Some people find this less confronting than repeatedly recounting an event in detail. EMDR can still bring up strong emotions, images and physical sensations, so it should be undertaken with an appropriately trained mental health professional.
Is EMDR hypnosis?
No. EMDR is not hypnosis.
During EMDR, the person remains awake, aware of their surroundings and in control. They can pause the process, ask questions or tell the therapist when they need a break.
The therapist does not erase memories, implant thoughts or make the person forget what happened.
Can EMDR be emotionally difficult?
Processing traumatic memories can temporarily increase emotional discomfort. Some people may notice tiredness, vivid dreams, new memories or heightened emotions between appointments.
A trained therapist should explain these possibilities, monitor the person’s response and provide strategies for managing distress. Treatment should proceed at a pace that considers the person’s stability, safety and ability to cope both during and between sessions.
It may take more time to prepare for memory processing when someone is experiencing significant instability, ongoing danger, severe dissociation, substance dependence or other complex concerns. In some circumstances, another therapeutic approach may be recommended first.
How many EMDR sessions are needed?
There is no single number of sessions that is right for everyone.
The length of treatment can depend on:
The nature and number of traumatic experiences
How long symptoms have been present
The person’s current living situation and safety
Whether the trauma was a single incident or occurred repeatedly
Other mental or physical health concerns
The person’s support network and coping resources
How they respond to treatment
Some structured EMDR treatments for PTSD are delivered over approximately 6 to 12 sessions, but people with multiple or longstanding traumatic experiences may require more extensive preparation and treatment.
A psychologist can provide a more individualised recommendation after completing an assessment.
Can EMDR be provided through telehealth?
EMDR may be delivered through telehealth when the therapist has suitable training and determines that online treatment is clinically appropriate.
During telehealth EMDR, bilateral stimulation may involve guided eye movements, alternating self-tapping or specialised digital tools. The therapist will also consider privacy, internet reliability, the person’s physical environment, emergency planning and their ability to remain safely engaged during the session.
Online EMDR may not be appropriate in every situation. This should be discussed with the treating psychologist before memory processing begins.
Is EMDR right for everyone?
EMDR can be an effective treatment, but no therapy is suitable for every person.
Before recommending EMDR, a psychologist may consider:
The symptoms the person is experiencing
Their treatment goals and preferences
Whether trauma is contributing to their current difficulties
Their ability to manage strong emotions
Current safety concerns
Previous therapy experiences
Other psychological or medical conditions
The decision should be made collaboratively. A person can ask questions, discuss concerns and consider other evidence-based treatment options before deciding whether to proceed.
Taking the next step
Distressing memories, nightmares, avoidance and a persistent sense of danger can have a significant effect on sleep, relationships, work and everyday life. However, effective psychological treatments for trauma and PTSD are available.
A psychologist can assess your symptoms, discuss your goals and recommend an approach suited to your individual needs. This may include EMDR, trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy or another form of psychological support.
To discuss psychology therapy through Tele-Psych, contact our reception team or submit an enquiry through our website. Our team can explain the referral process, available appointment options and potential Medicare rebates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EMDR therapy used for?
EMDR is a psychological therapy commonly used in the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Depending on the person's circumstances, psychologists may also use EMDR when working with other distressing experiences and symptoms.
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail during EMDR?
Not necessarily. EMDR does not always require you to describe every detail of a traumatic experience. Your psychologist will discuss the process with you and work at a pace appropriate to your circumstances.
Can EMDR therapy be provided online?
For some clients, EMDR can be provided through telehealth. Your psychologist will consider factors such as your symptoms, safety, privacy and treatment needs when determining whether online EMDR is appropriate.
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
There is no set number that applies to everyone. Treatment length depends on factors such as the experiences being addressed, your symptoms, treatment goals and how you respond to therapy.
How to Book An Appointment
Contact Tele-Psych to learn more about online psychology appointments or to discuss accessing therapy through a Mental Health Care Plan, NDIS, WorkCover QLD, WorkSafe Victoria, SIRA NSW, ReturnToWorkSA or private funding.
If you would like to book an appointment or if you have any questions or concerns, please call us on 1300 820 031 or email reception@tele-psychs.com.au.
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