Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) is a talking therapy that has been developed to help people who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People who have PTSD may experience intrusive thoughts, memories, nightmares or flashbacks of traumatic events in their past.
TALKWORKS therapists will discuss EMDR with you, if we feel it would be beneficial for your symptoms. EMDR can be a distressing process, so it is important to have a good support network of family and friends around you if you plan to try it.

What are the benefits of EMDR?

One of the key benefits of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) is that it helps the brain reprocess memories of traumatic events so the negative images, emotions and physical feelings they cause have less impact.
The therapy can help reduce feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and anxiety, leading, to improved self-esteem, greater emotional stability, and better overall mental health and wellbeing.

What happens at an EMDR session?

Your EMDR therapist will talk with you about EMDR so that you can make a decision about whether you feel this therapy is right for you. During the session, you will be taught a number of relaxation techniques which you can use to help you cope with any distress before you begin any processing sessions.

During a processing session: 

  • You will think about and relive the upsetting memory (but only when you're ready to do so)
  • Once you have brought the most intense part of the memory to mind, you will be asked to simply track the movement of the therapist's hand from side to side with your eyes    
  • Eye movements, taps or sounds are used to help the brain process the trauma memory
  • Your therapist will give you frequent and regular breaks throughout the session to check on any new thoughts and feelings that are arising and to track the changes you are making.

As EMDR enables the processing of traumatic events, people often describe feeling tired after sessions or in-between sessions. It is important that you take care of yourself and discuss any experiences with your therapist.

How TALKWORKS can help

Many people who have undergone EMDR therapy with us have shared how it has changed their lives and given them hope for the future.

"After an initial assessment and conversations with a therapist, we came to the conclusion that I was suffering from severe PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). It was recommended that I undertake a course of EMDR. I spoke to friends who work in mental health who told me this often works for people like me so I decided to try it.

"I had 16 virtual 1:1 sessions. The practitioner was great, she was so understanding. Week by week we processed the memories and the difficulties that they caused at home and at work. Over 4 months I learned that I could put the experience behind me and get back to more normal life. I learned to enjoy things again and that I was a capable professional."

EMDR therapy quick facts:

  • Can help you get your life back to how you want it to be
  • Can be carried out face-to-face or by video call
  • Is offered usually on a weekly basis, typically for between 12-16 sessions.
  • Most sessions are 60 minutes, but it can at times take longer
  • Is designed to help your brain process or 'digest' a trauma memory so that it is stored away in the past where it cannot have the same impact on you
  • Can (in most cases) be used alongside any medication your doctor may be prescribing for you
  • Does not usually involve any home practice or any additional tasks to be completed between sessions

If you think you may have PTSD, and feel ready to access help, then please contact us.