Does EMDR Therapy Really Work?
Written by Ryan Greenwood
If you've heard about EMDR and wondered whether it's legit or just a therapy trend, you're not alone. The short answer: yes, it really works. The research behind EMDR is some of the strongest in the mental health field, and the results speak for themselves.
WHAT IS EMDR, EXACTLY?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a structured therapy that helps your brain process painful or traumatic memories in a new way. During a session, your therapist guides you through recalling a distressing memory while using bilateral stimulation, most commonly side-to-side eye movements.
The idea is that traumatic memories sometimes get "stuck" in the brain before they're fully processed. They stay raw and reactive instead of filing away like normal memories. EMDR helps your brain finish the job. You don't have to talk through every detail of what happened. That's one of the things that surprises people most.
WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH ACTUALLY SAY?
Studies consistently show that between 77 and 90 percent of people who experience single-incident trauma no longer meet the criteria for PTSD after just a few EMDR sessions. Some studies found full remission after only six 50-minute sessions. For people dealing with more complex trauma, the results are still strong. EMDR has also shown real promise for anxiety, depression, and other issues that often have roots in past difficult experiences.
The National Center for PTSD and the World Health Organization both recognize EMDR as an effective, evidence-based treatment. It holds the highest recommendation rating across most major clinical guidelines, including those from the VA and the Department of Defense. Source: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/txessentials/emdr_pro.asp
HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM REGULAR TALK THERAPY?
You don't have to fully verbalize the trauma. For many people, this makes EMDR feel more manageable than traditional approaches. It tends to work faster — many clients start noticing real shifts within a handful of sessions, compared to months of weekly talk therapy. The results also hold. Follow-up studies at three months, fifteen months, and beyond consistently show that the gains people make in EMDR don't fade when treatment ends. That's not always the case with medication.
IS EMDR RIGHT FOR EVERYONE?
EMDR is particularly well-suited for trauma, PTSD, anxiety rooted in past experiences, grief, and overwhelming events that haven't fully resolved. It works well for adults, teens, and children. It may not be the right fit for everyone. A good therapist will talk through your history and help you decide together whether EMDR makes sense as part of your care.
READY TO FIND OUT IF EMDR IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
If you're in Henderson or the Las Vegas area and curious about EMDR, we'd love to talk. Our therapists are experienced in trauma-informed care, including EMDR, and we'll work with you to figure out the right approach.
Book an appointment online at hellocalm.com/contact-us
Ryan Greenwood, CPC, MA
Ryan is the founder and clinical director of Hello Calm. He graduated at the top of his class from Adams State University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, is a member of the American Counseling Association, and has a great passion for working with people to grow in the middle of their hardest moments. Ryan is a Henderson local, greatly loves the Golden Knights, traveling, and being outdoors. He and his wife have been happily married for 11 years.
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