What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy was developed by Francine Shapiro during the late 1980s. EMDR has now been used effectively for over 30 years worldwide. Shapiro found that traumatic memories were processed differently to other memories, and through using EMDR she was able to kickstart the brain’s natural healing process, reducing the emotional and physical reactions she used to have when recalling the same memories.

How Does EMDR work?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) involves targeting a memory with your therapist and determining any associated thoughts and emotions. Your psychologist will guide you through a process of eight phases. These eight stages include history taking, preparation and assessment, desensitisation, installation of positive beliefs, and re-evaluation.

You will then use bilateral movements (generally eye movements), to make the memory more distant and less easy to recall. This works similarly to the eye movements experienced in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which plays a large role in memory processing. You may also use other forms of bilateral stimulation, such as the butterfly hug (tapping on your chest).

What is EMDR used for?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is most often used for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is also effective for treating anxiety, phobias and OCD, depression, complex grief, chronic pain, addiction, and recent trauma. It is used for children, adolescents and adults.

While EMDR can be of benefit to many, like all therapies it may not work for everyone, and you should discuss your suitability with your EMDRAA accredited therapist prior to beginning.

All psychologists at Sellick Psychology are EMDR trained. Contact us to book your appointment.

Find out more about EMDR therapy https://emdraa.org/