What Is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy developed by psychologist Dr Francine Shapiro. It helps the brain process and integrate distressing or traumatic experiences that may remain unresolved or continue to feel emotionally charged.

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EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—a gentle left-right rhythm created through guided eye movements, tapping or alternating sounds—while particular memories or experiences are brought to mind. This can allow the memory to be processed differently, so that it becomes less disturbing and no longer feels as though it is happening in the present.

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EMDR follows a carefully phased approach. We begin with assessment, preparation and the development of appropriate internal resources. Direct memory processing begins only when there is sufficient readiness, stability and support.

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Who EMDR Can Help

EMDR may be helpful for:

• Single-incident trauma and PTSD
• Developmental or complex trauma (CPTSD)
• Childhood neglect or abuse
• Anxiety and panic
• Intrusive memories or recurring thoughts
• Persistent negative self-beliefs
• Depression linked to unresolved experiences

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What Happens in a Session?

EMDR begins with a careful assessment and preparation phase. Together, we:

• Explore your history and current concerns
• Identify patterns and triggering experiences
• Develop skills to manage emotional activation safely

Only when this foundation feels steady do we begin working directly with specific memories.

Processing takes place in short, structured sets using bilateral stimulation — a gentle left–right rhythm created through guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds. This rhythmic stimulation helps the brain process memories in a new way.

As memories are reprocessed, they typically lose their emotional intensity and become easier to recall without overwhelm.

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Possible Benefits

You may experience:

• Reduced emotional intensity when recalling difficult memories
• Fewer intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
• Improved mood and sleep
• Greater steadiness in previously triggering situations
• A shift in long-held negative beliefs about yourself

 

FAQ

How many sessions are needed?

EMDR is a structured, 8 phased therapy rather than a single technique. Before de-sensitisation begins, time is devoted to preparation — understanding your history, identifying treatment targets, and developing the internal resources needed to approach difficult material safely.

​The number of sessions varies depending on your capacity to self-regulate, degree of trauma history and awareness of the central issues at hand. 
Single-incident or recent trauma may respond in fewer sessions, while complex or long-standing difficulties typically require a longer course of therapy. The pace is always guided by what feels manageable and appropriate for you.

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What does EMDR feel like?

EMDR can feel unfamiliar at first, as your brain begins processing memories in a different way.

During processing, thoughts, images or emotions may arise and shift. Rather than repeatedly reliving an event, many people notice that their perspective begins to change. Memories that once felt vivid and charged often become more distant, less emotionally intense, and easier to hold. At the same time, the negative beliefs that may have formed around the experience — such as “I’m not safe” or “It was my fault” — can begin to shift.

Over time, the experience becomes something you can remember without reliving.