EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy that was developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro. It is based on the theory that traumatic experiences can cause lasting brain changes, leading to symptoms like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation techniques, such as hand tapping or eye movements, to help the brain process and reframe traumatic memories. By doing so, EMDR therapy helps reduce the emotional charge associated with traumatic experiences and underlying depression symptoms.

EMDR therapy typically involves eight phases, starting with a thorough assessment of the client's history and current symptoms. The therapist will then work with the client to develop specific treatment goals and begin the desensitization and reprocessing phase. During this phase, clients will be asked to focus on a traumatic memory while actively engaging in bilateral stimulation techniques. The therapist will guide the client through the process and help them process their reactions to the stimulus. This process is repeated over several sessions until clients experience a reduction in the emotional charge of the traumatic memory. Ultimately, the goal of EMDR therapy is to help clients reprocess past experiences and heal emotional wounds so they can move forward with a healthier mindset.