EMDR Therapy: A Powerful Approach to Healing

At Sellick Psychology, located in the heart of Ivanhoe, we understand that healing from trauma, anxiety or distressing life events is not always a straightforward path. That’s why many clients are turning to Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – a powerful, evidence-based therapy that is changing lives. If you’re searching for an EMDR therapist or exploring options for Ivanhoe psychology services, this guide will help you understand how EMDR works and whether it might be the right fit for you.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy technique originally developed to help individuals process and recover from traumatic experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the way the brain stores memories. The core idea is that traumatic memories are not fully processed by the brain and remain “frozen,” often triggering emotional distress when recalled.

EMDR therapy involves a structured process. During the reprocessing phase, your EMDR therapist at Sellick Psychology guides you to recall experiences while engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements, tapping or sounds. This bilateral stimulation is thought to mimic the brain’s natural processing mechanisms that occur during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

The goal of EMDR is to reduce the emotional charge associated with traumatic memories, allowing you to recall past events without becoming overwhelmed. Many clients of Sellick Psychology report that after successful EMDR therapy, they can think about a previously disturbing memory with significantly less emotional intensity.

Can I Do EMDR on Myself?

This is a common question, particularly in the age of self-help apps and online tools. While there are self-guided EMDR-style resources available, true EMDR therapy should always be conducted with a qualified EMDR therapist such as the team at Sellick Psychology.

Self-administered EMDR, without proper training and support, can be unsafe—especially if you are dealing with complex trauma, dissociation or overwhelming emotions. EMDR therapy can bring up vivid, emotionally charged memories. A trained EMDR therapist is equipped to manage emotional responses, ensure our patients safety and help you stay grounded throughout the EMDR process.

If you are curious about trying EMDR, it’s best to start with a professional consultation. At Sellick Psychology, our experienced EMDR therapists in Ivanhoe will assess your suitability and guide you through the process in a way that’s supportive and tailored to your needs.

Is EMDR Therapy Difficult?

EMDR therapy can be emotionally challenging at times, but many clients of Sellick Psychology find it empowering and transformative. The idea of revisiting distressing memories might sound intimidating, but the structured and supportive environment created by your EMDR therapist makes the process manageable.

In the early phases of EMDR, your therapist will work with you to build emotional resources and coping skills. These preparation stages ensure you feel stable and ready before any traumatic memories are addressed.

Our patients often describe the therapy as intense but worth it. While some experience fatigue or vivid dreams between sessions, most report feeling a sense of release and relief after several sessions. Importantly, EMDR does not require you to talk in detail about the trauma, which many people find to be a benefit compared to traditional therapies.

Remember, difficulty varies from person to person. A well-trained EMDR therapist in Ivanhoe will adjust the pace and techniques to suit your comfort level.

Who Should Not Do EMDR Therapy?

While EMDR therapy has helped thousands of people worldwide, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Individuals who have the following conditions should discuss risks and alternatives with a mental health professional:

• Severe dissociation: People who experience a loss of connection with reality may require stabilisation before engaging in EMDR.
• Active psychosis or bipolar mania: These conditions can interfere with the therapy’s effectiveness or safety.
• Unmanaged substance abuse: If substance use is ongoing and severe, it may need to be addressed first to provide a stable foundation for EMDR work.
• Medical conditions triggered by stress: EMDR can cause temporary increases in emotional arousal, which may not be safe for people with certain cardiac conditions, for example.

At Sellick Psychology, our clinicians will conduct a comprehensive assessment before recommending EMDR. Your safety, mental health history and personal goals are always taken into consideration.

Why Choose an EMDR Therapist at Sellick Psychology in Ivanhoe?

Our Ivanhoe-based psychology clinic is proud to offer EMDR therapy as part of our broader commitment to evidence-based care. Our registered psychologists are trained in EMDR through accredited programs and regularly update their skills to align with best practices.

When you work with a Sellick Psychology EMDR therapist, you are receiving personalised support in a safe, confidential, and compassionate environment. We also understand that trauma can be complex and layered. That’s why we take a trauma-informed approach that honours your pace and personal history.

Whether you’re recovering from a recent incident, childhood trauma, or ongoing stress, EMDR might offer the relief you’ve been seeking. You don’t have to go through it alone.

Get in Touch with an EMDR Therapist in Ivanhoe

If you're searching for professional and compassionate Ivanhoe psychology services, Sellick Psychology is here to help. Our EMDR therapists can support you through your healing journey, whether you’re just starting out or ready to work through deep-rooted issues.

Ready to begin?
Contact Sellick Psychology today to book a confidential consultation and explore whether EMDR therapy is the right path for you.

Sellick Psychology is a member of the EMDRA Association, which is the governing body for EMDRA therapy in Australia. Find out more about EMDR therapy with this link https://emdraa.org/