What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a type of therapy designed to help people heal from distressing experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses guided eye movements, tapping, or other forms of gentle, rhythmic stimulation while you focus on certain memories or feelings.

How Does EMDR Work?

When something overwhelming happens, our brains sometimes struggle to process the experience fully. Instead of being stored as a regular memory, these events can get “stuck”, leading to ongoing distress, anxiety, or unwanted thoughts. It’s a bit like a computer file that hasn’t saved properly and keeps popping up with errors.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation – like moving your eyes side to side, tapping on your hands, or listening to sounds that alternate between your ears – to help your brain re-process these memories. With support and guidance, your mind can finally make sense of what happened and store those memories in long-term memory, where they’re less distressing and easier to manage.

What Can EMDR Help With?

EMDR was originally developed for trauma and post-traumatic stress, but research and experience show it can help with much more. People come to EMDR for support with:

• Anxiety and panic

• Phobias

• Grief and loss

• Low self-esteem

• Stress related to workplace or relationships

• Painful memories from childhood

• Addictions and cravings

• Distressing events that just won’t leave you alone

If you’re not sure if EMDR is right for you, we’re happy to chat and help you decide.

How Long Does EMDR Therapy Last?

EMDR isn’t a “quick fix”, and we don’t rush into the hard stuff right away. The first part of therapy is about getting to know you, building trust, and making sure you feel safe and comfortable. We spend time helping you develop coping skills and resources so you’re well supported before we even start looking at any difficult memories.

The number of sessions depends on your needs, history, and goals. Some people feel better after a handful of sessions, while others might need longer. What’s most important is that you’re in control of the pace, and we’ll work together every step of the way.