Miley Cyrus credits a specialized therapy called EMDR with helping her overcome severe stage fright and improve her mental health. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a therapeutic approach designed to help people process and heal from past traumas.
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Cyrus said the therapy “saved my life” and has permanently freed her from stage fright. “I’ve never had stage fright again. Ever,” she said.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is widely recognized as an effective treatment for trauma-related mental health conditions, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The therapy involves patients recalling difficult memories while simultaneously engaging in guided eye movements or other sensory stimulation like tapping.
This process is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which explains how the brain naturally stores and processes memories. Developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has undergone numerous clinical trials confirming its effectiveness.
Although the therapy has existed for decades, its popularity has surged recently. Mental health professionals report increased demand as more people hear about its benefits through personal stories and growing awareness.
How Does EMDR Work?
During an EMDR session, a therapist helps the patient focus on sensory and emotional aspects of a troubling memory. While the patient recalls the event, the therapist guides them through controlled eye movements or gentle tapping.
This technique helps the brain reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge and creating new neural pathways. As a result, the memory becomes less overwhelming and more manageable, allowing the patient to heal.
According to Wendy Byrd, president of the EMDR International Association, the therapy “allows the brain to heal from traumatic or overwhelming experiences by updating how those memories are stored.” This process helps the brain understand that the trauma is in the past and no longer a current threat.
Miley Cyrus’ EMDR Experience
Cyrus described her therapy experience as mentally “watching a movie” of her life while feeling fully present. Guided by her therapist, she imagined sitting on a train, observing her past as if it passed by the windows.
When asked about her anxiety, Cyrus realized she deeply feared not being loved during performances. Through EMDR, her memories shifted backward, allowing her to connect with feelings of love and peace from family and friends.
This emotional release helped her conquer the anxiety that once controlled her stage presence.
Related topics:
