What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that helps people heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. It’s based on the idea that our brains can process and heal from psychological trauma, much like our bodies heal from physical injuries. Sometimes, traumatic memories get “stuck” and cause ongoing emotional and psychological pain. EMDR helps to “unstick” these memories and process them in a healthy way.

How Does EMDR Work?

During EMDR therapy, you’ll focus on a specific traumatic memory while following a series of bilateral (side-to-side) eye movements, taps, or sounds. These bilateral stimulations help your brain reprocess the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional impact and helping you gain a new perspective on it. Here’s a step-by-step outline of the process:

  1. History and Planning: We’ll discuss your history and identify specific traumatic memories to target during EMDR.
  2. Preparation: I’ll explain the EMDR process and help you develop coping skills to use if you become emotionally overwhelmed.
  3. Assessment: We’ll identify the specific aspects of the traumatic memory to focus on, including images, thoughts, and feelings associated with it.
  4. Desensitisation: While focusing on the traumatic memory, you’ll follow my hand movements, taps, or sounds. This bilateral stimulation helps your brain process the memory.
  5. Installation: We’ll work to strengthen positive beliefs and feelings related to the memory.
  6. Body Scan: We’ll check for any remaining physical tension or discomfort related to the memory and address it if necessary.
  7. Closure: We’ll ensure you feel stable and safe at the end of each session, using relaxation techniques if needed.
  8. Re-evaluation: At the start of the next session, we’ll review your progress and decide on the next steps.

What to Expect in an EMDR Session

In our EMDR sessions, we’ll work together to process and heal from your traumatic experiences. The bilateral stimulation might feel a bit unusual at first, but many clients find it to be a powerful tool for healing. It’s a collaborative process, and we’ll work at your pace to ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout.