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Dr. Francine Shapiro smiling outdoors with a lake and mountains behind her

Honoring Our Founder: Dr. Francine Shapiro

Celebrating 30 Years of Healing Through EMDR Therapy

Thirty years ago, a request for help in the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing sparked a movement that would change countless lives. An FBI agent, who had once experienced the power of EMDR therapy firsthand, reached out in the hopes of providing a community reeling from trauma with the chance to recover. In response, Dr. Francine Shapiro mobilized a wave of healing.

That response became the foundation of what is now Trauma Recovery, EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Programs (Trauma Recovery/HAP). It began with 100 volunteer clinicians, trained in EMDR therapy, who provided pro bono care to survivors and first responders. Their work, backed by clinical research, showing that over 80% of clients improved within just three sessions, had a powerful impact. The positive outcomes and overwhelming demand led to a growing movement—and the formal creation of a nonprofit organization.

Learn about the Oklahoma City Bombing and the role EMDR played in shaping the future of mental health responses post crisis in the U.S. in this article from Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Today, that network of 100 has grown to over 1,500 dedicated volunteers, all committed to the same work: bringing hope and healing through EMDR therapy to communities affected by trauma, both at home and across the globe.

Francine’s Legacy Lives On

Dr. Shapiro was driven by a deep conviction: that healing from trauma is not only possible, but essential. Her revolutionary development of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has allowed individuals around the world to find peace after devastating events. But her vision extended far beyond the therapy itself. She believed in access, in training, in mobilizing a compassionate network of mental health clinicians ready to serve in times of crisis.

Today, that vision lives on in the commitment of our volunteers, our partners, and our global community. Trauma Recovery/HAP stands as a testament to her enduring impact.

The Shapiro Effect

Francine’s work created what we now call The Shapiro Effect: a ripple of healing, resilience, and hope that continues to grow. She sparked a movement rooted in purpose, compassion, and action. Green leaf floating on water, with a ring of ripples.

“Part of the Shapiro effect is feeling her passion and feeling her commitment,” said Rosalie Thomas, PhD, RN. “She really implored each of us to do whatever we could to carry the mission forward.”

For many, this mission is deeply personal. “This is the ripple effect,” said Bonnie Barclay, LCSW. “She pulls me into the fold; I pull others into the fold. And we just want to keep growing and touching lives because we know how transformative it can be.”

Even those who never met Francine in person continue to be moved by this effect. “Her spirit is still with us,” said Sherry Yam, LCSW. “Her work, commitment, and dedication to EMDR and the community is still being carried on by others who got inspired.”

From the beginning, Francine led with conviction and heart. “She always was an inspiration and a presence,” recalled Jim Knipe, PhD. “Her deep sense of purpose carried her right on through—and inspired all of us. Her sense of how important this work is, was passed on to us.”

The Shapiro Effect is alive in every training, every session, every act of service.

Founder’s Month 2025: Celebrating 30 Years

This June marks the 30th anniversary of Trauma Recovery/HAP. As we reflect on our roots and honor the legacy of our founder, we also look ahead—with the same passion and purpose that Francine instilled in us all.

Join us in celebrating Founder’s Month:

  • EMDR Walk in the Park: Participate in our annual walk fundraiser as a virtual walker or donor.
  • Anniversary Gear: Grab limited-edition apparel and show your support for the Shapiro effect and 30 years of making a difference with Trauma Recovery/HAP.
  • Donate: Contribute to the Francine Shapiro Disaster Recovery Memorial Fund and support future capacity building efforts and disaster responses.
  • Volunteer: Become part of our global network of committed HAP volunteers.
  • Share Your Voice: Add your quote to our Community Board, where volunteers, trauma survivors, and professionals reflect on the life-changing impact of EMDR therapy.

Francine Shapiro gave the world a pathway to healing through EMDR therapy.
Today, each of us adds our drop into the water, forming a new ripple. Whether you’re walking, donating, volunteering, or sharing your story—you’re part of something bigger. You’re part of the legacy and part of the Shapiro Effect.