Can EMDR Help with Depression? A Closer Look at the Process

We know eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) mostly as a treatment for trauma and PTSD. But in recent years, EMDR has gained attention as a promising therapy for other mental health conditions, including depression. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression and searching for new paths to healing, you may be wondering: can EMDR actually help my depression?

Here’s a closer look at how EMDR works, why therapists now use it for depression, and what the process involves.

What Is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured therapy based on the idea that distressing life experiences can get “stuck” in the brain in an unprocessed form. These unresolved memories continue to trigger negative thoughts, feelings, and body sensations in the present, even when a person can’t consciously remember them.

EMDR’s eight-phase treatment includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation of positive beliefs, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation.

During the desensitization phase, the client recalls a disturbing memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (repetitive eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones). This combination is believed to help the brain reprocess the memory so it no longer feels emotionally overwhelming.

Depression and Unprocessed Experiences

Depression often isn’t just about sadness or low energy. Difficult life events, unresolved grief, negative self-beliefs, or childhood wounds can all lead to depression. For some people, depression stems from clear traumatic events like abuse or loss. For others, a buildup of smaller, chronic experiences like neglect, criticism, or feeling invisible leads to their depression.

This is where EMDR can come in. While it was originally developed for trauma, EMDR can help reprocess painful memories and beliefs that contribute to depressive symptoms. It doesn’t aim to “talk through” the past (like more traditional therapies) but to transform how the brain stores and responds to it.

For example, if someone carries an underlying belief like “I’m not good enough” due to childhood criticism, EMDR can help reprocess the memories that formed that belief. Over time, the brain can begin to adopt a more adaptive belief like “I did the best I could” or “I’m worthy of love.”

While EMDR is still most commonly used for trauma-related disorders, research into its use for depression is growing. Several studies have shown that EMDR can be effective for people with major depressive disorder, especially when the depression is tied to past traumatic experiences.

What to Expect in EMDR Therapy for Depression

If you’re considering EMDR for depression, it’s important to know that therapy will begin with a thorough intake process. Your therapist will want to understand your history, symptoms, and any significant life events that may be related to your depression. Together, you’ll identify specific memories, themes, or beliefs that feel linked to your current struggles.

Once you move into reprocessing, the therapist will guide you through recalling the memory while using bilateral stimulation. You won’t have to go into detail about the memory unless you want to. The goal isn’t to retell the story; it’s to help your brain make new, healthier connections around it.

After reprocessing, many people report a reduction in emotional charge around the memory and shifts in how they view themselves. Some also experience improvements in sleep, energy, and overall mood.

Is EMDR Right for You?

EMDR isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it may not be appropriate for everyone. People with severe dissociation, unmanaged substance use, or certain medical conditions may need additional support before starting EMDR.

That said, if your depression has roots in painful experiences or negative self-perceptions, EMDR can be the right approach. It offers more than just symptom relief: it aims to resolve the deeper emotional wounds that fuel depression in the first place. Use the contact page to schedule a consultation with an EMDR therapist today.