EMDR

Eye Movement De-sensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that accelerates the processing of distressing, difficult life experiences. This results in the emotional charge of the experience/memory to no longer overwhelm you, our self beliefs become positive and the bodies reaction is no longer distressed. 

EMDR simulates the reprocessing that is done during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase when we dream, which involves the eye movements and brain processing to organise and store away memories and experiences we've had during our day. This is achieved using Bilateral Stimulation (BLS), which involves the therapist directing eye movements, or using alternating sounds or tactile tapping.

However, when we experience a distressing event/experience, sometimes the brain is unable to process the different elements of that experience properly and our nervous system is triggered and either over or under reacts in situations that remind us of the distressing event from the past.

EMDR therapy initiates the brain's natural healing mechanism by reprocessing these distressing experiences into a logical timeline, processes the information into the right areas of our brain, and new connections of the distressing events are made. 

Resulting in a calm nervous system, positive internal resources and self beliefs, empowering us to live our daily life, free from what used to hold us back.

• Anxiety

• Trauma/PTSD

• Phobias

• Grief/Loss

• Depression

• Fear, Panic Attacks

• Self Esteem

• Performance Anxiety, Exam Fears

EMDR consists of a structured eight phase approach, which I will guide you through. We will begin by taking your history into account both physically and mentally, then exploring and making a list of what experiences you want to reprocess. 

The most important phase is the preparation phase where we make sure you build up positive internal resources through self regulating training so you know what tools help you to feel safe, calm and emotional regulate yourself. 

Once we have established this safety phase, we can begin the next several phases of reprocessing, with bi-lateral stimulation (BLS), either via eye movements, tactile tapping on the body or audio stimulation, activating the memories, installation and body scan. You don't have to talk about the details of what happened to you, just accessing the memory of the past, whilst being present in the here and now.

We will conclude with making sure you are in a calm, balanced and regulated state. The final phase will be re-evaluating in the next session. The reprocessing of information will internally continue for the next few days and to make note of any new memories, insights, images to explore for the next session.

What are the side effects of EMDR therapy?

• The reprocessing of information will continue for the next 2 or 3 days. You may experience vivid dreams, new memories, insights, that may be distressing. 

How many sessions will I need?

• Depending on the complexity of the issue, an approximation but not limited to, between 3 to 12 sessions.

• Counselling sessions can also be integrated into the treatment plan.

How many sessions will I need?

• I offer 60 minute and 90 minute sessions. It's important for the first two sessions to be 90 minutes if you are a new client or new to EMDR therapy.

• We would then re-assess to either continue with 90 minute session or begin 60 minute sessions.

• It's important to have weekly sessions in EMDR.

How much do the sessions cost?

• I offer a sliding scale depending on your income, so please email me or use the enquiry form for more details.

For more information about EMDR:

EMDR Francine Shapiro The originator and developer of EMDR is Francine Shapiro, the website has more in depth information and research.