Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy used to treat the symptoms of trauma. The focus is less on the traumatic event itself and more on the disturbing emotions and symptoms that result from the event.

Who is it for

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing are suitable for children and adults. It is usually offered alongside other forms of therapy.

Issues it can help with

The traumatic events that eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) can help with include:

• War-related experiences
• Childhood sexual and/or physical abuse or neglect
• Natural disaster
• Assault
• Surgical trauma
• Road traffic accidents
• Workplace accidents
• Eating Disorders
• Depression

EMDR is recommended by The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as the first treatment for people with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Length of treatment

Sessions are held weekly and last up to 90 minutes. EMDR therapy occurs in eight phases
For most clients, a small number of sessions are offered. For clients who have experienced very severe trauma, or more than one trauma, the therapy can last for a year or more.

Benefits of EMDR

Transform your beliefs
Recover from trauma
Helps you manage little stresses before they grow
On-going self-improvement
Helps Reduce Anxiety, Phobias & Distress
May Help Reduce Panic Attacks & Other Stress-Induced Disorders

Alternatives

Other psychological therapies include:

• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy
• Trauma-based therapy

If you feel that Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is for you to speak to one of our team to get help to find a therapist who is EMDR trained.

[1] Psychology today. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy. [Online]. Available from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/therapy-types/eye-movement-desensitization-and-reprocessing-therapy