What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychological therapy developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987. It’s designed to help people reprocess traumatic or distressing memories so they become less emotionally intense and easier for the brain to integrate.
EMDR is widely recognised in trauma work, but its benefits reach far beyond PTSD.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is evidence-based for trauma but is now used for a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including:
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Phobias and fears
- Addiction and substance misuse
- Dissociative Disorders
- Stress related disorders
- Performance anxiety
This makes EMDR a flexible therapy option for many different client needs.
How Does EMDR Work?
Research suggests EMDR helps the brain process unhealed or “stuck” memories in a way similar to REM sleep.During EMDR, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation — such as:
guided eye movements
alternating taps
audio tones
…while the client holds part of a target memory in mind. This combination allows the brain to safely reprocess the memory so it becomes less intrusive and distressing.
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
1. History & Treatment Planning
A full assessment to identify the experiences, memories, triggers or symptoms that need reprocessing.
2. Preparation
Developing grounding skills, resourcing, and emotional-regulation strategies to ensure you feel safe throughout the process.
3. Assessment
Identifying the specific image, belief, emotions and sensations linked to the target memory.
4. Desensitisation
Using bilateral stimulation to reduce the distress connected to the memory.
5. Installation
Strengthening a new, healthier belief to replace the old negative one.
6. Body Scan
Observing any lingering physical tension or sensation as the memory is processed.
7. Closure
Ensuring you leave each session grounded and stable.
8. Re-evaluation
Reviewing progress, checking what still needs processing and adjusting the plan.
Who Is EMDR Suitable For?
EMDR is suitable for adults, teenagers and children.
It is particularly helpful when symptoms relate to:
difficult life events
traumatic experiences
childhood wounds
relationship or attachment trauma
unprocessed memories that still affect your nervous system
EMDR is adaptable and can be tailored for both complex trauma and single-incident trauma.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
Evidence-based and used worldwide in trauma services
Often quicker progress than traditional talk-therapy
Works with the brain’s natural processing systems
Effective even when someone struggles to talk about the trauma
Can reduce distress, shame, flashbacks, anxiety and emotional triggers
Helps people feel calmer, more grounded and more in control
Ready to Explore EMDR?
EMDR is a powerful and research-backed approach that helps people move past trauma, anxiety, emotional distress and long-held patterns.If you’re curious about whether EMDR could support you, you can reach out for a confidential consultation to discuss your needs and options.