EMDR
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help process and heal from traumatic memories, distressing experiences, and emotional difficulties.
Developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR has been extensively researched and is recommended by leading mental health organizations, including the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Research shows that EMDR is often a highly efficient form of therapy, frequently requiring fewer sessions than some other trauma-focused approaches. Many people experience significant relief from symptoms such as PTSD, anxiety, and distressing memories within 6 to 12 sessions.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories that may be “stuck” or causing ongoing distress. During EMDR sessions:
- You will focus briefly on a distressing memory or thought.
- While doing this, I will guide you through bilateral stimulation — often side-to-side eye movements, taps, or sounds.
- This process helps your brain “unstick” the memory, allowing it to be integrated more adaptively, reducing its emotional charge.
The exact neurological mechanisms are still being studied, but EMDR appears to promote natural healing by mimicking processes the brain uses during REM sleep.
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR is most known for treating:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Complex childhood trauma
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Grief and loss, which does not process naturally
- Phobias and fears
- Depression linked to past events
- Adjustment difficulties after significant life changes
What to expect in an EMDR session?
Sessions are tailored to your pace and needs. Initial standard (60 minutes) sessions start by gathering your history and ensuring you have tools to manage distress safely. We then map out the memories, experiences or fears which are causing distress and decide where to start the reprocessing.
The actual reprocessing sessions are a bit longer (usually 90 minutes) and involve brief periods focusing on memories (or fears) while engaging in guided eye movements using a light bar and/or other stimuli. Between these sets, you will be asked to notice any changes in feelings, thoughts, or bodily sensations.
How do I get started?
If you think EMDR might help you, please contact me to discuss your situation and arrange an initial consultation. I am an accredited EMDR practitioner with the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA), which means I have received high level training, supervision and assessment in competency.
You can read more about EMDR therapy during perinatal years here.
Read more about EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy here.
More resources can be found here.
