EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a technical phrase used to describe an extremely effective means of treating trauma. While EMDR is a comparatively new treatment, clinical trials have shown this technique can speed recovery from trauma. 

The most basic description of EMDR involves moving your eyes in a specific and guided way while working with your clinician to process traumatic memories. 

Specially trained clinicians use EMDR in conjunction with other types of therapy as a way to safely approach and process trauma. The technique allows you to recall the traumatic event in a way that is less intense, without feeling controlled or destabilized by it.

While EMDR is primarily used in trauma therapy, it has also been used to effectively treat anxiety, depression, and other disorders like eating, personality, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.