EMDR Therapy

Some experiences leave a mark long after they're over. You may know you're safe now, yet your body still reacts as though the danger is happening right now. Your heart races, your stomach tightens, old feelings flood back — triggered by something that shouldn't feel so threatening.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a therapy that can help the brain process painful memories so they lose their emotional intensity. What once felt overwhelming may begin to feel like something that happened in the past — without the same charge.

How does EMDR work?

When we experience something distressing, our brain usually processes it naturally over time. But sometimes — especially with traumatic or highly distressing events — this processing gets stuck. The memory remains vivid, as if frozen in time, along with all the emotions and body sensations that were present.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (often eye movements, but sometimes tapping or sounds) while you briefly focus on the distressing memory. This seems to help the brain's natural processing kick back in, allowing the memory to be stored differently — more like a normal memory rather than something that hijacks your nervous system.

Importantly, EMDR doesn't erase memories or require you to talk in detail about what happened. Many people find this a relief, especially if the thought of talking about trauma feels overwhelming.

What might EMDR help with?

• Single-incident trauma (accidents, assaults, witnessing distressing events)
• Complex or developmental trauma (difficult childhood experiences)
• Anxiety and panic
• Phobias
• Grief and loss
• Disturbing memories that keep coming back
• Negative beliefs about yourself that feel stuck

What is EMDR like?

Before we begin any processing, we spend time preparing. This includes building a sense of safety, learning techniques to manage distress, and understanding what EMDR involves. We never rush — you'll only start processing when you feel ready.

During processing itself, I'll guide you to bring the memory to mind while following my fingers with your eyes (or using another form of bilateral stimulation). You don't need to describe what's happening — many people simply notice thoughts, feelings, or images shifting as processing unfolds.

Sessions are structured, but your experience of them is unique. Some people notice significant shifts quickly; for others, change is more gradual. Many people feel lighter after sessions, though it's also normal to feel tired as your brain continues processing.