What is EMDR therapy and why is it used to treat PTSD?

In this webpage, the APA comments on EMDR therapy as a structured form of psychotherapy and how it can be used to help patients with PTSD.

Article Abstract

“Originally developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro, PhD, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, or EMDR, has been increasingly recognized in recent years by the World Health Organization and in treatment guidelines as an effective, evidence-based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR has also grabbed headlines in recent years with celebrities such as Prince Harry and actress Sandra Bullock touting the therapy’s effectiveness in helping them heal from trauma.”

—Description from publisher

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Open Access

American Psychological Association. (2023, December 21). What is EMDR therapy and why is it used to treat PTSD? https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/emdr-therapy-ptsd