EMDR Therapy
A structured approach to healing from distressing experiences
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people process distressing or traumatic experiences. It is recognised internationally as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD and has also been shown to help with anxiety, depression and other difficulties. EMDR works with the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing memories to be reprocessed safely and at your pace. Sessions are always guided by your needs and readiness.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing and was developed in 1987 by psychologist Francine Shapiro. It is recognised by both the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a recommended treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Research over the past 30 years has also shown EMDR to be effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions and behavioural difficulties.
How Trauma Affects the Mind and Body
Our minds and bodies are naturally equipped to heal, and much of this processing happens during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. Under normal circumstances, experiences are stored smoothly within memory networks. However, when an event is experienced as overwhelming or life-threatening, the brain’s ability to process information can become disrupted.
When this happens, memories may remain stored in a raw and emotionally charged form within the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotions and survival responses. Even when a memory is no longer consciously recalled, unprocessed trauma can continue to affect the nervous system, showing up as anxiety, panic, anger, numbness or a sense of disconnection.
Trauma can be understood as an emotional wound. If the brain is unable to heal at the time of the event, it may continue to respond as though the danger is still present, long after the threat has passed.
How Does EMDR Help?
Unlike traditional talking therapy alone, EMDR is a structured treatment approach that helps the brain form new connections between memory networks. This allows distressing experiences to be reprocessed and stored appropriately as events that happened in the past, rather than continuing to feel present and overwhelming.
EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol, ensuring that therapy progresses at the client’s pace. Sessions begin by identifying suitable memories to work with and building internal resources for emotional regulation and stability. Only when you feel ready does the reprocessing phase begin, using gentle bilateral stimulation such as eye movements.
Healing Without Reliving Trauma
A key benefit of EMDR is that it supports healing without requiring detailed retelling of traumatic experiences. Clients are supported in a compassionate, validating space, allowing emotional wounds to surface and soften safely, often leading to a sense of relief, empowerment and clarity.
EMDR in My Practice
I qualified with a recognised training provider in line with EMDR Europe standards. In my experience, EMDR can be highly effective in helping clients feel less distressed by painful past experiences, sometimes in fewer sessions than other approaches.
Everyone responds differently to therapy, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, I have often observed clients move from feeling fearful or powerless towards a stronger sense of inner stability, trust and self-connection through EMDR work.
Sessions & Getting Started
EMDR can be offered as a standalone therapy or integrated into counselling sessions, depending on your needs. If you are considering EMDR, I offer an initial consultation session along with reading materials to help you understand the process and decide whether it feels right for you.
Considering EMDR Therapy?
If you’re wondering whether EMDR could be helpful for you, you’re welcome to get in touch for an initial consultation. This offers space to talk through your experiences, ask questions, and understand how EMDR might fit into your therapy. There’s no obligation — just a supportive and informed place to begin.
Every cell of your being is eavesdropping on your thoughts
Deepak Chopra