The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

PTSD: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Bilateral stimulation protocol for trauma-focused therapy

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is PTSD: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

EMDR is a structured psychotherapy developed by Francine Shapiro that uses bilateral stimulation alongside brief focused attention on traumatic memories.

Treatment follows eight phases: history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure and reevaluation.

The Adaptive Information Processing model proposes that bilateral stimulation enhances integration of distressing memories into adaptive networks.

Sessions usually last 60-90 minutes and involve identifying target memories, negative cognitions, positive beliefs and somatic sensations.

EMDR is recommended by WHO and major guidelines for PTSD; it is also used for complex trauma, phobias, grief and anxiety disorders.

Symptoms

Persistent intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares and physiological responses to trauma cues.
Avoidance of trauma reminders and emotional numbing.
Negative cognitions such as I am powerless, I am to blame or the world is dangerous, sustained by unresolved trauma.
Hyperarousal manifested as hypervigilance, irritability, exaggerated startle and sleep disturbance.
Somatic complaints (chronic pain, tension headaches, gastrointestinal symptoms) that lack adequate medical explanation.

Risk Factors

Multiple or chronic traumas, childhood abuse and disorganized attachment increase complexity.
Comorbid depression, dissociation or substance misuse may require stabilization first.
Severe medical conditions, neurological disorders or active psychosis need careful screening.
Pregnancy, photosensitive epilepsy or migraine require modified bilateral stimulation methods.
Lack of safe environment, ongoing abuse or unresolved legal issues affect readiness for trauma processing.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent post-traumatic symptoms beyond one month of the traumatic event.
  • Functional decline at work, school or relationships due to intrusive memories or avoidance.
  • Self-medication, escalating substance use or suicidal ideation require urgent assessment.
  • New or worsening dissociation, psychotic symptoms or significant depression need psychiatric evaluation.
  • Lack of progress with general counseling, supportive therapy or pharmacotherapy alone.

Treatment Methods

01
Phase 1-2 establishes therapeutic alliance, history, safety, coping skills and resources (calm place, container exercise).
02
Phase 3-6 includes target identification, desensitization with bilateral stimulation, installation of positive beliefs and body scan.
03
Phase 7-8 covers closure, between-session monitoring and reevaluation of treatment progress.
04
EMDR can be combined with skills training (DBT, sensorimotor approaches) for complex trauma.
05
Pharmacotherapy and psychoeducation, sleep hygiene, lifestyle interventions and ongoing relapse prevention complement therapy.

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Psikiyatri Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Psikiyatri

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive, difficult-to-control worry most days for at least six months, accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep disturbance that impair daily functioning.

Psychiatric Insomnia and Sleep Disorders

Psikiyatri

Effects of depression, anxiety and other psychiatric disorders on sleep and their treatment.

Depression

Psikiyatri

What is depression, how does it differ from sadness, and how is it treated?

Anxiety Disorder

Psikiyatri

What is anxiety disorder, how does it differ from normal worry, and how is it overcome?

Panic Attack

Psikiyatri

What is a panic attack, how is this condition — often confused with a heart attack — managed and prevented?

OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)

Psikiyatri

What is OCD, how are intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors treated?

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

Psikiyatri

What is PTSD, how are flashbacks and hyperarousal after trauma treated?

Bipolar Disorder

Psikiyatri

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania alternating with depressive episodes; accurate diagnosis and long-term treatment with mood stabilizers are essential to reduce relapses and improve functioning.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.