What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy for people who continue to suffer the consequences of a shocking experience, such as an accident, sexual violence or a violent incident. EMDR was first described more than 25 years ago by American psychologist Francine Shapiro. In the years that followed, this procedure was further developed and developed into a fully-fledged and effective therapeutic method.

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What is EMDR for?

Certain events can have a profound impact on people's lives. A large proportion of those affected 'process' these experiences on their own. Others develop psychological symptoms. These are often memories of the shocking event that continue to impose themselves, including frightening images (re-experiences, flashbacks) and nightmares. Other complaints that often occur are fear and avoidance reactions. This is usually referred to as a 'post-traumatic stress disorder' (PTSD). EMDR is intended for the treatment of people with PTSD and other trauma-related anxiety complaints. These are complaints that have arisen as a direct result of a concrete, unpleasant event, in which thinking about it still evokes an emotional reaction. 

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Does EMDR work?

A lot of scientific research has been done into the efficacy of EMDR. The results show that clients respond well to EMDR. EMDR is a short-term protocol-based form of therapy. When it comes to trauma after a once-only stressful event, people are often able to resume their daily activities after just a few sessions. For people who have experienced long-term trauma and for more complex problems, the treatment takes longer.