EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic memories and experiences. It is particularly effective for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it has also been used for a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.

In EMDR therapy, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation, most commonly in the form of guided eye movements, though tapping or auditory stimuli can also be used. The therapy is based on the idea that trauma can cause distressing memories to become "stuck" in the brain, and the goal of EMDR is to help the brain process these memories in a healthier way. During the therapy, the client focuses on a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in the bilateral stimulation, which is believed to help the brain reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge and enabling the person to integrate it in a more adaptive way.

EMDR typically involves eight phases:

1. History taking: Assessing the client’s history and identifying target memories.

2. Preparation: Building trust and explaining the process.

3. Assessment: Identifying negative beliefs tied to the traumatic memory.

4. Desensitization: Engaging in bilateral stimulation while processing the memory.

5. Installation: Strengthening positive beliefs to replace negative ones.

6. Body Scan: Identifying any physical tension or discomfort related to the memory.

7. Closure: Returning to a state of equilibrium after the session.

8. Reevaluation: Checking for progress and reinforcing gains in future sessions.

The process helps clients shift the way they relate to distressing memories, reducing symptoms and fostering healing. It has been shown in numerous studies to be effective, particularly for those suffering from trauma-related conditions.