The two key elements of EMDR therapy are identified as the belief that eye movements enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic treatment through the development of physiological and neurological transformations, and that these changes actually help the client heal and recover from negative memories. While the client focuses on the disturbing event, the therapist will begin a series of eye movements, sounds, or touches from side to side. The customer will be guided to notice what comes to mind after each series. They may experience changes in perception or changes in images, feelings, or beliefs about the event.
As a therapeutic approach, EMDR is based on several theories of psychotherapy, including the concepts of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
