EMDR therapy
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing helps the brain finish processing distressing experiences, so they lose their charge. It’s recommended by NICE for PTSD and is often effective where talking alone hasn’t been.
For memories that still feel like they’re happening now.
What happens in sessions
We spend the first sessions building safety and coping resources. Only when you feel ready do we gently revisit a memory while you follow side-to-side eye movements or taps. You stay in control throughout and can pause at any time.
The eight phases of EMDR
EMDR follows a clear, structured approach. We only move on when you feel ready, and the early phases are all about safety.
- 1 History and planningUnderstanding what’s brought you here and agreeing what to work on.
- 2 PreparationBuilding calming skills and a sense of safety you can return to.
- 3 AssessmentChoosing a memory and noticing the thoughts and feelings linked to it.
- 4 DesensitisationBilateral movements or taps while the memory loses its intensity.
- 5 InstallationStrengthening a more helpful belief about yourself.
- 6 Body scanChecking for any tension or distress still held in the body.
- 7 ClosureEnding every session feeling settled, whatever stage we’re at.
- 8 Re-evaluationReviewing progress at the start of each session.
It can help with
- PTSD and complex PTSD
- Single traumatic events
- Phobias and panic
- Distressing memories from childhood