EMDR: The divine miracle of trauma treatment
- Christine Sarkissian
- Dec 17, 2025
- 5 min read
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is straightforward, much like me, so let's get started. Before I thought about training in EMDR or considering it as a treatment for myself, I needed some answers. I had heard many things about this therapy that made it seem like a divine miracle, but I wasn't convinced yet. When I first learned about the process from other therapists and supervisors, I had several questions and doubts about the treatment.
From what I gathered, I would remain awake and aware, concentrating on both my past and present, and sharing observations as my brain worked through irrational thoughts created by past trauma. Would I be under hypnosis? Would sections of my brain be wiped clean? Was this linked to a conspiracy theory? My curiosity grew, prompting me to conduct thorough research to address all my numerous questions.
After delving into published research on EMDR and reading works by Francine Shapiro, the originator of the research and developer of the protocol, my beliefs about this remarkable treatment were confirmed. EMDR is humbling; just when you think you have mastered it, there is always more to discover. Upon reading Shapiro's book, "Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures," I understood that she intended for her research to evolve. The working theory that drives the protocol (Adaptive Information Processing) continued to progress as the modality was applied and refined.
As a therapist who employs evidence-based therapeutic approaches and is heavily engaged in Statistics and Research, particularly within neuropsychology and neuroscience, I valued how the aim of the AIP model aligns with promoting neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity essentially involves incorporating new information through repetition to form new habits, thereby altering and training the brain to become more adaptable and resilient.
Shortly thereafter, I had the chance to train in EMDR while working for four years in community mental health in Los Angeles and its underserved areas. I proceeded to undergo formal training, engaged in my own EMDR sessions, have been offering EMDR therapy for four years, and am now halfway through the certification process. Space for Grace Therapy is now approaching its fourth year, offering a uniquely specialized and highly effective approach to EMDR therapy.
As a therapist, a key aspect of my role is to inform clients about the interventions I employ and why I think they would be advantageous. Reflecting on the questions I encountered during my research, I realized it might be useful to share them with those contemplating EMDR for the first time. Here are some of the questions I explored and their answers.
What is Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and how does it work?
EMDR is an 8-phase therapy designed to assist individuals in processing their trauma quickly, without the need to discuss it in detail. By utilizing Bilateral Eye Stimulation (BLS), EMDR therapists can help a person access the traumatic memory in the brain region responsible for processing and storing information. Together, the client and therapist work through the trauma from both the past and present, restoring the memory in a healthy manner. This process enables the individual to remember the traumatic event without experiencing distressing emotions, thoughts, or physical sensations when recalling it.
What are the 8 phases of EMDR?
History & Treatment planning
Preparation
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body Scan
Closure
Reevaluation
How is Bilateral Eye Stimulation (BLS) used in EMDR?
To access the part of the brain where the traumatic memory and its associated emotions, thoughts, and feelings are stored, therapists often use two fingers and instruct individuals to track their fingers moving from left to right. While eye movements are suggested, tapping and auditory stimulation have also been shown to assist individuals in accessing the brain area holding the traumatic memory.
Some therapists, including myself, who offer EMDR therapy remotely, use an online controllable BLS (right-click the link to open in a new tab for those who might be as technologically challenged as I am. EMDR Online | Controllable Bilateral Stimulation). Imagine seeing 2-4 EMDR clients every day; your therapist's arm might feel like it's about to fall off, or at the very least, they can completely skip arm workouts at the gym. This simulator has been a lifesaver for me! If you have vision issues or feel the eye movements aren't effective, I suggest informing your therapist so you can both try a different BLS method. Remember, without BLS, the part of the brain holding the traumatic memory cannot be unlocked, extending the processing time.
Where do EMDR therapists get trained? Can I trust my EMDR therapist?
EMDR therapists are affiliated with and follow the guidelines of the EMDR International Association, also known as EMDRIA. EMDRIA is a mental health membership organization dedicated to ensuring that all EMDR therapists adhere to the high standards of practice, training, certification, and research in EMDR. It is expected that EMDR therapists seek supervision and consult with experienced EMDR professionals as needed to deliver optimal services, preserving the integrity of EMDR practice.
Where can I find the original study that Shapiro conducted to find out that EMDR actually works? I need to see “the receipts”!
Is EMDR guaranteed to heal me from my trauma?
While I haven't encountered a client who found EMDR ineffective, it is simply one of many interventions that might or might not be suitable for you. Your reaction to EMDR will be influenced by various internal and external factors, particularly your willingness, openness, and readiness to let go of your past.
Tell me more about this EMDR and how is it different from “regular” therapy?
Although there are several differences between EMDR, psychotherapy, and other interventions, the main differences are as follows:
No homework in between session
No need for discussing your trauma in great detail, we actually prefer you don’t!
Has been proven through several hundreds of different studies, symptoms can decrease significantly in just three 90 minute sessions (depending on the extent of your trauma and preparedness to work your way up the hill with your compassionate therapist, and back down the hill).
Studies have also shown after 12, 90 minute sessions, client’s no longer meet criteria for a PTSD diagnosis.
How is this any different from hypnosis? Is this some psychedelic gypsy situation? #Sketch
The most notable difference between EMDR and hypnosis in therapy is that a person in an EMDR session does not ever go into the trance-like state of consciousness. Yes, you’re conscious.
Your EMDR therapist will ensure you are grounded, focused and mindful by asking you to describe sensations you may be feeling throughout your body, and emotions that are coming up throughout sessions.
Hypnosis, on the other hand, is a process by which the specially-trained therapist helps the client into a more relaxed state of mind that allows the person to go deeper and selectively move below the analytical mind making it easier to access unconscious memory and accept positive suggestions. Yes, you're unconscious.
The analytical left-hand side of the brain is turned off, while the creative/emotional right-hand side is made more alert to possibly help an individual talk about their repressed thoughts and feelings.
How will EMDR help me become the best version of myself to live my best life?
By utilizing EMDR to alter the brain, individuals can transform unhealthy and self-destructive thoughts into healthy and positive beliefs and behaviors that enhance their lives.
What type of challenges does EMDR address?
EMDR Therapy is utilized to address conditions such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, low self-esteem, fear, addiction, trauma, along with grief and loss. Recent studies have also demonstrated that EMDR is an effective treatment for chronic pain.
I hope this information encourages you to explore an essential and innovative trauma modality that can assist you in overcoming your past.
Christine Sarkissian, LCSW, EMDR Specialist
Space for Grace Healing Therapy
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