EMDR Therapy

 What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy that helps people process distressing memories and trauma. It involves recalling traumatic experiences while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements. This helps the brain reprocess distressing memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in a "stuck" state in the brain. Through guided bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds), EMDR helps process these memories so they are no longer distressing. Research suggests this process engages the brain's natural healing mechanisms.

What conditions can EMDR help with?

EMDR is best known for treating PTSD but is also effective for:

• Anxiety and panic disorders

• Depression

• Phobias

• Complex PTSD

• Grief and loss

• Chronic pain

How long does EMDR take to work?

The number of sessions varies depending on individual needs. Some people notice improvement after a few sessions, while others with complex trauma may require longer-term therapy. A full course of EMDR can range from 6 to 20 sessions.

Is EMDR recognised by the NHS?

Yes, EMDR is an evidence-based therapy recognised by the NHS and NICE for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. Many NHS services offer EMDR, although availability may vary.

Does EMDR work for childhood trauma?

Yes, EMDR can be highly effective for childhood trauma. It helps reprocess distressing early-life experiences that may be affecting present-day emotions and behaviours. Special adaptations are made for children.

Can EMDR make things worse before they get better?

Some clients  experience heightened emotions or distress when processing traumatic memories. This is a normal part of the healing process, and the reprocessing stage is only completed when you feel resourced to manage and I provide support throughout.

Is EMDR suitable for everyone?

EMDR is effective for many people but may not be suitable for those with severe dissociation, unmanaged psychosis, or acute instability. A thorough our FREE Discovery call or at assessment we will determine suitability.

 Does EMDR erase memories?

No, EMDR does not erase memories. Instead, it helps reprocess them so they feel less distressing and overwhelming. The memory remains, but the emotional charge is significantly reduced.

Can EMDR help with anxiety and panic attacks?

Yes, EMDR can be highly effective for anxiety and panic attacks, particularly when these are linked to past trauma or distressing experiences. By addressing the root causes, EMDR can reduce triggers and symptoms.

Can EMDR be done online?

Yes, EMDR can be effectively delivered online using secure video platforms. I use screen-based eye movements, or auditory bilateral stimulation. Research suggests online EMDR can be as effective as in-person therapy.

Does EMDR work for complex PTSD (C-PTSD)?

Yes, EMDR is an effective therapy for complex PTSD, but treatment often requires a longer and more structured approach, including stabilisation techniques before processing trauma memories.

Can EMDR help with dissociation?

EMDR can be helpful for dissociation, but care must be taken to ensure stability before memory processing. A phased approach, including grounding techniques, is crucial for clients with dissociative symptoms.

How does EMDR compare to CBT?

Both EMDR and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are effective for PTSD and trauma-related conditions, but they work differently:

• EMDR processes distressing memories using bilateral stimulation.

• CBT focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours.
  

Can EMDR help with grief and bereavement?

Yes, EMDR can help people process grief, particularly when there is traumatic loss, unresolved emotions, or complicated grief. It helps ease painful memories and find a sense of resolution.

Does EMDR work for phobias?

Yes, EMDR can help reduce phobias by reprocessing distressing memories and experiences that contributed to the fear response. It can be an alternative to exposure therapy.

What is the difference between EMDR and hypnosis?

EMDR is not hypnosis. In EMDR, clients remain fully conscious and in control of the process. Hypnosis, on the other hand, induces a trance-like state. EMDR works by reprocessing memories, while hypnosis often involves suggestion therapy.

Can EMDR help with self-esteem issues?

Yes, EMDR can be used to address negative self-beliefs linked to past experiences. By reprocessing memories that shaped low self-esteem, EMDR helps develop healthier, more positive self-perceptions.

Can EMDR be used for addiction?

EMDR is sometimes used as part of addiction treatment, particularly for trauma-related substance use. It helps address underlying trauma and emotional pain that contribute to addiction cycles.

Do you need to talk about the trauma in detail during EMDR?

No, EMDR does not require talking about traumatic events in detail. Unlike traditional talk therapies, EMDR focuses on memory processing rather than narrative recounting.

Can EMDR help with chronic pain?

Yes, EMDR is increasingly used for chronic pain management, particularly for pain linked to trauma, medical procedures, or somatic conditions. It can help reduce pain perception and emotional distress.

Can EMDR help with OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)?

EMDR is not the first-line treatment for OCD, but it can be beneficial for people whose OCD symptoms are linked to trauma. Some studies suggest that EMDR can help reprocess distressing memories that contribute to compulsive behaviours.

Can EMDR be used for workplace stress and burnout?

Yes, EMDR can help process distressing work-related experiences, bullying, or chronic stressors. It is especially helpful for professionals in high-stress roles, such as healthcare workers, social care work force, emergency responders, and military personnel.

Can EMDR be used for birth trauma and postnatal PTSD?

Yes, EMDR is widely used to help parents who have experienced traumatic births, emergency procedures, or distressing pregnancy-related experiences. It can also support those with anxiety about future pregnancies.

What age groups can have EMDR therapy?

EMDR is suitable for children, teenagers, and adults. Special adaptations are made for younger clients, using play-based techniques and creative approaches.

Can EMDR help with insomnia or nightmares?

Yes, EMDR can reduce sleep disturbances, particularly when they are linked to past trauma or PTSD. It helps the brain process distressing memories that contribute to sleep difficulties.

Can EMDR help with medical trauma?

Yes, EMDR is effective for people who have experienced distressing medical treatments, surgeries, or chronic illness-related trauma. It can reduce anxiety linked to medical procedures.

Can EMDR help with sexual trauma and abuse recovery?

Yes, EMDR is a well-established therapy for survivors of sexual abuse, assault, and exploitation. It helps reduce the emotional impact of trauma while promoting resilience and recovery.

Can EMDR help with intrusive thoughts?

Yes, EMDR can reduce the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts by helping the brain reprocess the distressing events that trigger them.

Can EMDR help with intrusive thoughts?

Yes, EMDR can reduce the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts by helping the brain reprocess the distressing events that trigger them.

Can EMDR help with medical trauma?

Yes, EMDR is effective for people who have experienced distressing medical treatments, surgeries, or chronic illness-related trauma. It can reduce anxiety linked to medical procedures.

Is EMDR effective for first responders and veterans?

Yes, EMDR is widely used to treat trauma in military veterans, police officers, paramedics, and firefighters. It is one of the recommended treatments for PTSD in high-risk professions.

What is the evidence base for EMDR?

EMDR has been extensively researched and is backed by:

• NICE guidelines (2018) for PTSD treatment

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for trauma treatment

• Research published by UK institutions such as King’s College London and Oxford University

What is the evidence base for EMDR?

EMDR has been extensively researched and is backed by:

• NICE guidelines (2018) for PTSD treatment

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for trauma treatment

• Research published by UK institutions such as King’s College London and Oxford University

Can I do EMDR on myself?

Not advised,  EMDR requires being guided through the process, ideally by a trained therapist. While some grounding techniques from EMDR can be used for self-soothing, trauma processing requires professional support.

How do I know if EMDR is working?

Signs that EMDR is effective include:

• Reduced emotional distress when recalling traumatic events

• Decreased frequency of intrusive thoughts or flashbacks

• Improved mood, confidence, and emotional regulation

• Feeling lighter and less triggered by past memories

What is the evidence base for EMDR?

EMDR has been extensively researched and is backed by:

• NICE guidelines (2018) for PTSD treatment

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for trauma treatment

• Research published by UK institutions such as King’s College London and Oxford University

What is the evidence base for EMDR?

EMDR has been extensively researched and is backed by:

• NICE guidelines (2018) for PTSD treatment

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for trauma treatment

• Research published by UK institutions such as King’s College London and Oxford University

Can I do EMDR on myself?

Not advised,  EMDR requires being guided through the process, ideally by a trained therapist. While some grounding techniques from EMDR can be used for self-soothing, trauma processing requires professional support.

Can EMDR help with religious or spiritual trauma?

Yes, EMDR can help individuals process distressing religious experiences, spiritual abuse, or cultural trauma, allowing them to redefine their beliefs in a healthier way.

How do I know if EMDR is working?

Signs that EMDR is effective include:

• Reduced emotional distress when recalling traumatic events

• Decreased frequency of intrusive thoughts or flashbacks

• Improved mood, confidence, and emotional regulation

• Feeling lighter and less triggered by past memories

What should I expect after an EMDR session?

Symptoms can vary for each person and depends on level of complexity of trauma , Common effects after an EMDR session, are:

• Emotional relief and clarity

• Temporary tiredness or emotional shifts

• Some vivid dreams as the brain continues processing

How do I prepare for an EMDR session?

Preparation tips include:

• Having a support system in place

• Practising relaxation techniques (deep breathing, grounding)

• Avoiding alcohol or drugs before sessions

• Keeping an open mind and trusting the process

Can EMDR be combined with other therapies?

Yes, EMDR can be integrated with other therapies that support trauma informed practices.