EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps people heal from distressing experiences.
When we go through something overwhelming, our brain doesn’t always process it properly. Instead of becoming a distant memory, the experience can get "stuck," leaving behind emotional distress that continues to affect us.
These past events can change the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. It can shape the way we relate to people, making trust and connection more difficult. They can also fuel a range of struggles, like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, intrusive thoughts, or feeling emotionally "numb" or disconnected.
EMDR Therapy helps reprocess these memories so they no longer carry the same emotional weight. By working with the brain’s natural ability to heal, it allows distressing experiences to be stored properly—so they become part of your past, not something that defines your present.
What is EMDR Therapy?
“EMDR is a way to unlock the brain’s natural healing ability. When we give the brain the right conditions, it heals itself.”
–Bessel van der Kolk.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy?
While it’s the strongest evidence supports the use of EMDR for treating trauma, emerging evidence and clinician reports indicate that EMDR can assist in the treatment of a range of other psychological challenges, particularly when associated with negative personal experiences. These include:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Complex Traumatic Stress Disorder (cPTSD)
Anxiety & Panic Disorders
Depression
Phobias & Fears
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Chronic Pain & Illness-Related Distress
Addictions & Substance Use Disorders
Attachment & Relationship Issues
Grief & Complicated Bereavement
Dissociation & Parts Work (I do not currently offer treatment for Dissociative disorders, but I can recommend some colleagues who can)
What to Expect with EMDR Therapy
Starting therapy, especially EMDR Therapy, can feel daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. We’ll take it one step at a time and always go at a pace that feels right for you. Here’s a little more about what the process looks like.
Getting Started: Building Understanding and Safety
Before we begin processing, we’ll take time to understand your history, what’s bringing you to therapy, and whether EMDR Therapy is the right fit. We’ll also focus on strengthening coping skills and making sure you feel safe and supported. The preparation phase can be short or quite extended depending on the extent and nature of the trauma.
Processing Memories: Working Through What’s Holding You Back
When we’re ready, I’ll guide you through recalling specific memories while using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements, tapping, or sound). This helps the brain “unstick” distressing experiences so they feel less overwhelming.
Some worry this process will be too intense. While emotions may come up, you won’t be doing this alone—I’ll be there to support you and make sure we go at a pace that feels right.
Moving Forward: Relief and Change
As we work through difficult memories, they often lose their emotional charge—you’ll remember what happened without feeling like you’re reliving it. Many people find relief from symptoms and adopt more healthy beliefs about themselves and the world that help them leave the past behind.
Want to do your own research?
Here are some useful links to more information about EMDR:
EMDR Frequently Asked Questions
EMDR Training Australia and New Zealand