EMDR

(Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a therapy that is increasingly widely used, with a growing evidence base supporting its effectiveness for a range of psychological difficulties. It is primarily used in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but can also be helpful for anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and a range of other presentations.

EMDR is a therapy I particularly value in my clinical work, as it combines a structured approach with a strong evidence base for supporting the processing of traumatic experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation, which typically involves eye movements or tapping, to support the brain’s natural processing of distressing experiences. During EMDR, you remain fully awake and aware throughout the session and it can be used face to face and remotely.

EMDR, alongside approaches such as CBT, is commonly used within NHS services.

The aim of EMDR is to help process traumatic memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity. Over time, this can help the memory feel less distressing and more clearly located in the past, which can lead to a reduction in associated symptoms.