EMI is a short-term intervention for treating post-traumatic stress, anxiety and phobias. It is a future oriented, solution focused approach that integrates neuro linguistic programming by accessing behavioral cues and interrupting patterns of thought. 

EMI uses bilateral stimulation including right/left eye movement which repeatedly activates the opposite sides of the brain, releasing emotional experiences that are “trapped” in the nervous system. Currently, there is not enough known about the brain function to be able to explain with certainty how EMI produces these effects. It is believed that negative life experiences or traumas may upset the biochemical balance of the brain’s physical information processing system, thereby preventing the information from being processed and resolved in a healthy, adaptive way. In an EMI session the therapist works gently in guiding the client to revisit the traumatic or upsetting event. When the memory is brought to mind the feelings are re-experienced in a new way. The therapist will create patterns of bilateral stimulation which includes directing eye movements.