Rapid Eye Movement Training

Rapid eye movement training, also called eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), is a psychotherapy method that helps patients deal with distressing experiences. It is most often used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, but can be helpful in treating a variety of psychological issues.

The Mechanism of Rapid Eye Movement Training

• Rapid eye movement training takes place over an extended period of time, including multiple sessions between a therapist and patient. The patient is asked to visualize the traumatic event he wishes to address while concentrating on an object moving back and forth. The patient identifies a negative feeling associated with the trauma and works on replacing it with a positive thought.

Theories About Why Rapid Eye Movement Training Works

• Rapid eye movement training may help induce a dreamlike state, similar to that of rapid eye movement or REM sleep, in which the brain is relaxed and able to process memories and feelings. Alternatively, looking from left to right may help the patient process memories by integrating the right and left brain.

Controversies About Rapid Eye Movement Training

• The reason rapid eye movement training works is unknown (as of September, 2010). Some researchers believe the eye movement is not necessary, and the method is essentially no different from other desensitization therapies. However, clinical trials have shown the therapy to be very effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder.