EMDR is a form of "eye movement therapy" which is intended to treat anxiety, stress, and trauma. It may be much more rapid and effective than other forms of psychotherapy.

The approach was developed to resolve symptoms resulting from exposure to a traumatic or distressing events, such as rape. Clinical trials have demonstrated EMDR's efficacy in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)and many forms of anxiety.. In some studies it has been shown to be equivalent or superior to cognitive behavioral and exposure therapies.

The theoretical model underlying EMDR treatment hypothesizes that EMDR works by processing distressing memories.EMDR is based on a theoretical information processing model in which symptoms which arise when events are inadequately processed can be eradicated when the memory is fully processed. It is an integrative therapy, synthesizing elements of many traditional psychological orientations, such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, experiential, physiological, and interpersonal therapies.