EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of psychotherapy. It was first developed in 1987 to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it is now also used for the distress linked to other disturbing life experiences. During EMDR, a person briefly focuses on a distressing memory while following the therapist’s hand movements with their eyes, or while experiencing another form of bilateral stimulation, such as taps or tones. A divorce is a stressful life event, and some people going through one ask about EMDR for the distress and painful memories linked to it. EMDR is an individual therapy, not a couples therapy, and a licensed therapist can say if it fits your case.
What Health Experts Say About EMDR
EMDR is recognized as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences by organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of Defense. The American Psychological Association’s Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of PTSD suggests EMDR for the treatment of PTSD. It lists EMDR as a second-line treatment. EMDR was developed to treat PTSD, and the model behind it also applies to symptoms of other disorders that come from past disturbing experiences. A licensed therapist can say if it fits your case.
EMDR was developed in 1987 by Francine Shapiro. It is now used around the world. It helps people heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that come from disturbing life experiences. The work is done with a trained, licensed therapist. It is not something you do on your own. You do not need to talk about the event in detail, and there is no homework between sessions.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR has eight phases. The first phase is history taking. The therapist learns about your past and your current problems. The second phase is preparation. The therapist teaches you ways to cope with stress. The third phase is assessment. You pick a target memory and the negative belief linked to it. The fourth phase is desensitization. You focus on the memory while following the therapist’s hand movements or other bilateral stimulation.
| Phase | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1. History taking | The therapist learns about your past and your goals. |
| 2. Preparation | You learn coping skills for stress. |
| 3. Assessment | You pick a target memory and the belief linked to it. |
| 4. Desensitization | You focus on the memory while following the therapist’s hand movements. |
| 5. Installation | You build a positive belief to replace the negative one. |
| 6. Body scan | You check if any tension is left in the body. |
| 7. Closure | The session ends with coping tools, even if the work is not done. |
| 8. Reevaluation | The therapist checks your progress at the next session. |
EMDR is an individual therapy typically delivered one to two times per week for a total of 6-12 sessions, although some people benefit from fewer sessions. A therapist will talk with you about the plan before treatment starts.
How to Find a Trained EMDR Therapist
Look for a licensed mental health professional with EMDR training. The EMDR Institute keeps a directory of trained clinicians, searchable by location, name, or specialty. You can also ask your doctor or your health insurer for a referral. Ask the therapist about their training and their experience with divorce-related stress or trauma. Ask what a session costs and whether your insurance covers it. A good therapist will answer these questions before treatment starts. If you feel unsafe at any time, stop and tell the therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of psychotherapy that helps the brain process painful memories so they feel less distressing.
Does the World Health Organization recognize EMDR?
Yes. The World Health Organization recognizes EMDR as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences, along with the American Psychiatric Association and the U.S. Department of Defense.
How many phases does EMDR have?
EMDR has eight phases: history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation.
Can EMDR help couples going through a divorce?
It can help a person process painful memories and stress linked to a divorce. EMDR is an individual therapy, not a couples therapy. A licensed therapist can say if it fits your case.
How do I find a trained EMDR therapist?
Look for a licensed mental health professional with EMDR training. The EMDR Institute keeps a directory of trained clinicians, and your doctor or insurer can also give a referral.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from a licensed mental health professional. This guide gives no medical advice for readers. Speak to a doctor or a licensed therapist about your own situation.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026