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Difference Between EMDR and IEMT

Both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and IEMT (Integral Eye Movement Therapy) use eye movements. While they may appear similar at first glance, they differ fundamentally in approach, application, and intention.

Goal of EMDR

Focuses on processing a specific traumatic event, such as an accident or impactful experience. The method is based on reliving the trauma, where the client is guided to return to that moment in detail.

How EMDR works

Follows a structured eight-step protocol, including activation of the trauma, reliving the memory, and cognitive restructuring.

Verbalisation in EMDR

Often requires verbalisation: the client is asked to name thoughts and beliefs, revisit the traumatic moment, and describe it in detail to activate the emotional charge.

This frequently keeps the client in the conscious, thinking brain.

Goal of IEMT

Designed to change deeper, recurring emotional patterns and identity-level responses. It is less focused on reliving past events and more on directly shifting emotional states without needing in-depth explanation.

How IEMT works

More flexible in application. It works directly with emotional patterns and imprint memories using eye movements without requiring mental analysis or narrative structure.

As a result, IEMT is particularly effective in working with chronic emotional patterns and identity shifts.

Verbalisation in IEMT

Requires minimal verbal input. You don’t need to retell your story or describe mental images. In fact, more talking shifts focus to conscious awareness, while the relevant memories and emotional links are stored in the unconscious system.

Working With Emotional Patterns

Many people struggle with recurring emotional states such as:

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  • Guilt or shame without a clear cause

  • Doubt or persistent feelings of not being good enough

  • Overwhelm or anger that feels disproportionate

 

IEMT helps to release these old emotional reflexes by working at the source of the feeling.

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The difference with EMDR?
You don’t need to talk about the content of the experience or analyse it.

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