Breaking Free: How EMDR Therapy Is Used in Treatment of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is more than just feeling nervous before a big test or worrying about an upcoming event. For millions of people, anxiety is a daily struggle that affects their thoughts, emotions, and even their bodies. While therapy and medication can help, many people continue to search for better solutions. One therapy gaining attention is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Originally developed for trauma, EMDR is now showing promise as a powerful tool for treating anxiety disorders. Let’s explore how EMDR works, why it’s different, and how EMDR therapy can be used in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Understanding Anxiety Through the EMDR Lens

How Anxiety Gets “Stuck” in the Nervous System

Anxiety isn’t just “in your head.” It’s a response that involves your entire nervous system. When you experience something stressful or frightening, your brain and body react quickly—your heart races, your muscles tense, and your thoughts speed up. For some people, these reactions become “stuck,” and their bodies continue to respond as if they’re in danger, even when they’re safe.

The Connection Between Past Experiences and Current Anxiety

Often, anxiety is linked to past experiences. Maybe you were embarrassed in class, or you got lost as a child. Even if you don’t remember these moments clearly, your brain does. When something in your current life reminds your brain of those old experiences, it can trigger anxiety—even if there’s no real danger.

Why Traditional Talk Therapy Sometimes Falls Short

Traditional therapy, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps by changing the way you think about your fears. While this can be very helpful, it doesn’t always address the emotional memories stored in your brain and body. That’s where EMDR comes in.

EMDR Applications for Different Anxiety Disorders

EMDR isn’t just for trauma. Research shows it can help with a range of anxiety disorders, including:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

People with GAD worry about many things, often without a clear reason. EMDR can help by identifying and processing the memories and beliefs that fuel constant worry. Studies show that EMDR can reduce symptoms of GAD and help people feel more at ease in their daily lives (Faretta & Dal Farra, 2019).

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder involves sudden, intense episodes of fear called panic attacks. EMDR helps by targeting the memories and sensations linked to these attacks. Research has found that EMDR can reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks, sometimes even when other treatments haven’t worked (Horst et al., 2017).

Social Anxiety

Social anxiety makes it hard to interact with others, speak in public, or even make eye contact. EMDR can help by processing memories of embarrassing or painful social experiences. This can make social situations feel less threatening and boost self-confidence.

Performance Anxiety

Whether it’s sports, music, or public speaking, performance anxiety can hold people back. EMDR can target the fear of failure or judgment, helping people perform at their best without being held back by anxiety.

The EMDR Process for Anxiety

Adaptation of the Standard Protocol

EMDR therapy follows a structured process:

• History and Preparation: The therapist helps you identify the memories, thoughts, and beliefs connected to your anxiety. You’ll also learn coping skills to manage distress.

• Assessment: You’ll focus on a specific memory or situation that triggers anxiety.

• Desensitization: While recalling the memory, you’ll follow the therapist’s finger movements with your eyes (or use other forms of bilateral stimulation like tapping). This helps your brain process the memory in a new way.

• Installation: You’ll work on strengthening positive beliefs about yourself, like “I can handle this.”

• Body Scan: You’ll notice any remaining tension or discomfort and process it with more eye movements if needed.

• Closure and Reevaluation: Each session ends with grounding techniques, and progress is reviewed at the start of the next session.

Timeline Expectations

Everyone’s experience is different, but many people notice improvements after just a few sessions. Simple anxiety issues may resolve in 3-6 sessions, while more complex cases may take longer.

What a Typical Session Looks Like

A typical EMDR session lasts about 50-60 minutes. You’ll work with your therapist to identify what to focus on, then use eye movements or tapping while thinking about your anxiety. Most people find the process manageable and often less distressing than they expect.

Real-Life Success Stories

Case Example 1: Overcoming Test Anxiety

Sarah, a high school student, struggled with severe test anxiety. Even though she studied hard, she would freeze during exams. With EMDR, Sarah and her therapist targeted memories of a time she failed a big test in elementary school. After a few sessions, her anxiety decreased, and she was able to take exams with more confidence.

Case Example 2: Conquering Panic Attacks

James had panic attacks that made it hard to leave his house. EMDR helped him process memories of a car accident that triggered his panic. Over time, his panic attacks became less frequent and intense, and he started enjoying activities outside again.

Common Patterns of Improvement

Many people report:

• Feeling calmer in situations that used to trigger anxiety.

• Fewer physical symptoms like racing heart or sweating.

• Increased confidence and willingness to try new things.

• Better sleep and overall mood.

Long-Term Maintenance of Results

Research shows that the benefits of EMDR last over time, especially when combined with healthy coping skills and support (Shapiro, 2018).

Is EMDR Right for Your Anxiety?

Who Makes an Ideal Candidate?

EMDR can help people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s especially useful for those who:

• Have tried other therapies without full success.

• Feel “stuck” in their anxiety.

• Are open to a new approach.

Questions to Ask Potential Therapists

• Are you certified in EMDR?

• What experience do you have treating anxiety disorders?

• How will we measure progress?

How to Prepare for EMDR Therapy

• Be open and honest about your experiences.

• Practice the coping skills your therapist teaches you.

• Be patient—healing takes time.

Conclusion: EMDR Therapy For Treatment of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. EMDR offers a new way to break free from the patterns that keep anxiety “stuck” in your brain and body. By processing the memories and beliefs that fuel anxiety, EMDR can help you feel calmer, more confident, and ready to face life’s challenges. If you’re ready for a new approach, consider reaching out to a qualified EMDR therapist to see if this therapy could be your path to freedom from anxiety.

References

• Faretta, E., & Dal Farra, M. (2019). Efficacy of EMDR therapy for anxiety disorders. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 13(4), 325-332. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.13.4.325

• Horst, F., Den Oudsten, B., Zijlstra, W., de Jongh, A., Lobbestael, J., & De Vries, J. (2017). Cognitive behavioral therapy vs. eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for treating panic disorder: A randomized controlled trial. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, 1409. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01409

• Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.

• de Jongh, A., Ernst, R., Marques, L., & Hornsveld, H. (2013). The impact of eye movements and tones on disturbing memories involving PTSD and other mental disorders. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 44(4), 477-483. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbtep.2013.07.002

• American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787