What Is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and recover from distressing experiences and trauma. It’s especially effective for those who feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed by the impact of past events.
EMDR helps the brain reprocess how memories are stored, reducing emotional distress and promoting healing—often without needing to talk in depth about the trauma itself.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR uses a unique process involving bilateral stimulation—such as side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or sounds—while the client recalls a distressing memory. This process mimics the brain’s natural ability to process and resolve experiences, similar to REM sleep.
During EMDR, you stay in control and grounded. You’re simply guided to notice what comes up while the memory is gently “unlocked” and reprocessed. Over time, the emotional intensity decreases, and healing begins.
What Can EMDR Help With?
- PTSD and complex trauma
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
- Grief and loss
- Childhood neglect or abuse
- Low self-esteem and persistent negative beliefs
- Medical trauma or surgeries
- Distressing memories or flashbacks
What to Expect in a Session
Each EMDR session is tailored to your needs. After an initial assessment and planning phase, we will:
- Identify specific memories, beliefs, and emotional triggers.
- Use bilateral stimulation while you recall the memory in a safe, controlled way.
- Allow the brain to reprocess the memory naturally, reducing its emotional impact.
- Replace negative beliefs with more empowering ones.
Many people feel relief within just a few sessions. Others use EMDR as part of a broader therapeutic journey.
Is EMDR Right for Me?
EMDR is gentle, adaptable, and doesn’t require you to relive trauma in full detail. It’s suitable for adults, teens, and sometimes children, and can help you if:
- You feel stuck in therapy or life
- You’re triggered by reminders of the past
- You avoid certain thoughts, places, or emotions
- You carry painful beliefs like "I’m not good enough" or "It was my fault"
Globally Recognised and Evidence Based
EMDR is endorsed by major health organisations including:
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- NHS (UK)
Over 30 randomized controlled trials support its effectiveness in treating trauma and related conditions.
How Can I Help
If you're ready to explore EMDR or have questions about whether it's the right fit for you, I offer a confidential, supportive space to help you decide. You don’t have to carry the weight of the past alone.
Leaving you free to enjoy life more fully.
