Therapy approach
EMDR Therapy
A structured therapy method that helps the mind reprocess distressing memories, carried out with bilateral stimulation such as eye movements.
- A structured, phased protocol
- Traumatic and disturbing memories
- Reprocessing negative beliefs
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing”. Developed by Francine Shapiro, the method is based on the idea that difficult experiences can be stored in the mind in a “stuck” form and continue to affect our present emotions, thoughts and bodily reactions.
The World Health Organization lists EMDR among the recommended approaches for working with post-traumatic stress symptoms.
How does it work?
During a session, a disturbing memory is addressed together with the negative belief that comes with it (such as “I'm helpless” or “I'm not safe”), the emotion and the bodily sensation. Meanwhile, bilateral stimulation is used: eye movements, or tactile or auditory stimuli. The aim is not to erase the memory, but to reduce the burden it creates today and to reprocess it with a more adaptive belief (“I'm safe now”, “I did the best I could”).
How do sessions unfold?
EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol. In the first phases your life history is taken, targets are set and a safe foundation is built for coping with difficult emotions. Work on memories begins only once this foundation is in place. It matters that you feel balanced at the end of each session.
When is it used?
- Traumatic or disturbing experiences
- Panic attacks and anxiety disorders
- Phobias and performance anxiety
- Negative beliefs about yourself linked to past experiences
We consider together in the first sessions whether EMDR is right for you; when needed, it can be combined with schema therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy.
Frequently asked questions
Is hypnosis used in EMDR sessions?
No. You stay fully conscious throughout an EMDR session, you are aware of what is happening and you can stop the process at any moment.
How many sessions does EMDR take?
It depends on how many memories we work on and how long the preparation phase takes. We review the process together at regular intervals.
This page was written by Zeynep Hilal Çelik and last reviewed on 27 October 2026.
