EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. It is a well-researched, evidence-based therapy that helps people recover from distressing or traumatic experiences that continue to affect their lives.
When we experience something overwhelming, our brain will usually process it naturally over time. However, sometimes a memory becomes "stuck." Instead of feeling like something that happened in the past, it can continue to be triggered in the present, leading to anxiety, flashbacks, panic, intrusive thoughts, strong emotional reactions or negative beliefs about ourselves.
EMDR helps the brain process these memories so they become part of the past, rather than something that continues to feel as though it is happening now.
How does EMDR work?
During EMDR, we briefly focus on a distressing memory while using gentle bilateral stimulation, usually through eye movements, tapping or alternating sounds.
This helps your brain reprocess the memory in a natural way. The memory doesn't disappear, but it usually becomes far less distressing and no longer carries the same emotional intensity.
Unlike some forms of therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to talk in detail about every aspect of what happened. Many people find this makes it a gentler way of working through difficult experiences.
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR was originally developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but it is now widely used for many other difficulties, including:
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Trauma and PTSD
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Childhood trauma or neglect
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Anxiety and panic attacks
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Distressing memories or flashbacks
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Low self-esteem and negative self-beliefs
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Grief and loss
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Phobias and fears
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Emotional distress following accidents, illness or medical procedures
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Relationship trauma
What happens in EMDR therapy?
EMDR is not something we begin immediately.
We first spend time getting to know one another and understanding your history, current difficulties and goals. Together we make sure you have the emotional resources and coping strategies needed before beginning any trauma processing.
Once you feel ready, we identify the memories or experiences that continue to affect you. Throughout the process you remain in control, and we work at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
Is EMDR right for everyone?
EMDR can be incredibly effective, but it isn't always the right starting point for everyone.
Sometimes it is helpful to spend time building emotional stability, learning coping skills or working through current life difficulties before beginning EMDR. As an integrative therapist, I will always recommend the approach that I believe will best meet your needs, whether that is counselling, EMDR, or a combination of both.
EMDR Therapy in Surrey and Online
I am fully trained in EMDR and offer EMDR therapy to adults from my counselling rooms in South Godstone and Sanderstead, as well as online where appropriate.
If you're wondering whether EMDR could help you, please get in touch. I'm happy to discuss your situation and answer any questions before arranging an initial appointment.
