Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), developed by Francine Shapiro, is an evidence-based treatment and highly regarded as a trauma resolution method. EMDR activates the information processing system of the brain, and it works on several channels looking at images, beliefs, sensations, and feelings associated with the negative content related to the trauma. EMDR is named after the eye movements; however, other types of bilateral stimulations (BLS) such as auditory stimulation and tactile stimulation have been found by other researchers as effective in helping the client to process distressing memories and emotions.

As endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, it is largely used to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

emdr therapy therapy incorporates elements of several therapies with the added component of bilateral stimulation; a technique that promotes rhythmic stimuli in a side-to-side pattern. 

Research demonstrates that the use of bilateral stimulation weakens the emotional intensity of a memory and moves it from an incorrectly stored place in the brain to a more functional one where it can be reprocessed with less distress.