Following a disturbing experience, traumatic material can be stored in our brain and body, below consciousness. Since the consciousness cannot resolve these deeply stored experiences, often talk therapy only gets people so far. EMDR safely accesses the traumatic material of the brain and body, then facilitates reprocessing them until they are properly resolved.

EMDR uses eye-movements and other movement and/or thinking tasks to assist processing. When we get to processing, you will be holding the traumatic material in mind whilst also following side-to-side eye movements, and perhaps tapping to a song whilst spelling animals names backwards. The emotional intensity reduces until there is no further disturbances, and clients begin to have positive insights, perspectives, emotions, and sensations. This can take between one and several sessions per memory.

We first need to make sure we have the right assessment and planning in place. We also need to ensure you are willing and able to begin processing. It’s important we move forward based on your readiness and at a pace that feels safe for you.

EMDR is an eight-phase protocol. It’s not always linear, but we do need each component: History Taking > Preparation > Assessment > Desensitisation > Installation > Body Scan > Closure > Debrief

Yes, EMDR is considered the gold-standard for treating PTSD by the World Health Organisation. The Australian Psychological Society consider it the most well-researched therapy for PTSD. Many other symptoms and disturbances have also been researched, too.

Everybody has their own unique journey. Single-incident events without earlier complicating factors can be processed in several processing sessions. People with multiple and/or more complex traumatic experiences need much more time.

No. Whilst EMDR also works with the unconscious, clients are always aware and in control.

Unfortunately, we cannot provide therapy to anyone with a dissociative disorder, experiencing dissociation, or have high risk factors for dissociation. People facing these difficulties are best supported in a face-to-face environment.

• A large computer screen and reliable internet is very important. Eye-movements are facilitated over a web-based program, so we need at least a 13-inch screen so you can get enough eye movement.
• You also need to be looking straight ahead (not down), so you’ll need to set up your screen at an appropriate height.
• A webcam and good lighting is also required so your therapist can see you.
• Ability to connect to video conferencing software (ie: Zoom).

You need a nice, quiet space at home. Consider whether you do/don’t want pets around, whether housemates or family will be home, and whether you can find a place that is comfortable and private.