EMDR

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: trauma treatment that works on the memory itself, without needing to retell it in detail.

Schedule an appointment Therapists who use it

6 of our 62 therapists use this approach.

When something overwhelming happens, the memory can get stored differently from ordinary memories: still raw, still carrying the original fear, sights and body sensations, and easily triggered. EMDR is a structured therapy that helps the brain finish processing those memories so they become something that happened rather than something that keeps happening.

The distinctive feature is bilateral stimulation: following the therapist's hand or a light with your eyes, or alternating taps or tones, while briefly holding the memory in mind. Why this works is still being studied; that it works is well established.

What we use it for

Is it a fit?

A good fit for single-incident trauma (accidents, assaults, losses) and, with more preparation, for complex and childhood trauma. Also used for phobias, performance anxiety and the beliefs that drive low self-worth. Your therapist will make sure you have the stability and coping skills in place first.

What the evidence says

EMDR is recommended as a first-line treatment for PTSD by the World Health Organization, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense, and the American Psychological Association. Trials show it performs comparably to trauma-focused CBT, often in fewer sessions.

Common questions

Will I have to relive the trauma?

You'll bring the memory to mind briefly during processing, but you won't be asked to narrate it in detail, and your therapist will stop and ground you if it becomes too much. Most people find it more tolerable than they expected.

How many sessions does EMDR take?

A single-incident trauma can resolve in a handful of sessions after preparation. Complex or repeated trauma takes longer because there are more memories and more stabilization work first.

Does EMDR work online?

Yes. Several of our clinicians provide EMDR by video using on-screen bilateral stimulation or self-tapping, with the same structure as in person.

Where to find it

Based on our clinicians' current specialties, this approach is offered at five locations:

Closer to Carolina Forest, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, North Charleston, West Columbia or Anderson? Call (843) 894-0000; the right therapist may be available by video, or we'll suggest the nearest office with the right fit.

Ready when you are.

Call us or submit a short intake form. A Patient Account Representative will match you with a therapist, and most new clients have their first appointment within a few business days.

Schedule an appointment Call (843) 894-0000