EMDR Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing Therapy

EMDR is a therapy that helps process traumatic memories. The central concept is that all information, from any of our senses, is initially processed by our brain’s 'alarm' centre on the right side. Under normal circumstances, memories are then processed over to the logical, left side of the brain, where they are stored as old memories. Unfortunately, traumatic memories get “stuck” in the alarm centre, repeatedly flashing up and triggering emotional distress long after the event is over. Trauma memories have been likened to being a file that has never been put into the filing cabinet of “old memories”, making it seem as though the threat is still there. For those considering EMDR, processing memories fully can feel like stepping into a dark tunnel filled with memories and emotions that you’ve been avoiding for years. It is a difficult process, with lots of hard work, but the benefits that can result can be life changing.

The core of EMDR therapy involves using bilateral stimulation- buzzers that are held in each hand - to help the brain reprocess these stuck memories in a way that reduces their intensity. The results can be truly remarkable. Over time with EMDR, memories lose their power to cause emotional pain, allowing us to move forward with our lives.

EMDR therapy involves several phases:

  1. Preparation: EMDR is explained. You may be given relaxation and coping techniques to manage potential distress.

  2. Assessment: This phase identifies specific trauma memories and defines the thoughts, emotions, and body sensations linked to the traumatic event.

  3. Desensitization: bilateral stimulation (hand buzzers) is used to help you process the trauma memory. You recall the memory while holding buzzers in each hand.

While some clients describe feeling free from long-standing traumas after just a few sessions, it’s important to note that EMDR doesn’t work for everyone. For those who find it helpful, while EMDR won’t erase the events of the past, it changes the way you experience them. The intensity fades - and you’re no longer stuck in the whirlpool of traumatic memories. For many clients, this means no longer being haunted by intrusive thoughts or flashbacks, and no longer feeling trapped by the weight of past experiences.

More of What We Do

  • “I was apprehensive about starting counselling but realised that I needed help to deal with my complex feelings surrounding my recent bereavement. I found talking to Alison to be very easy despite sensitive nature of the discussions and the dogs helped massively with putting me at ease, especially on my first visit. I had very significant negative feelings which Alison has helped me to understand and process. Her perceptiveness into my relationship has not only helped me deal with what has happened recently but also opened my eyes and allowed me to really understand what happened over the 20+ years we were together. I wish I'd had her insight a long time ago.”

  • “Sara is an exceptional therapist, and has been fundamental in enabling me to move towards an understanding of the trauma I have experienced, and a quality of life which I could never have envisaged without stumbling into her office some years ago. She is extremely kind, sensitive, professional, intelligent... a truly gifted therapist, and someone I owe a fulfilling life to... and to the wider clinical team with whom I have also had interaction... a deep and sincere thank you.”

  • “I always feel listened to and understood in our sessions. I really appreciate the little touches like being offered a tea or coffee before our session. I also really enjoy having book and podcast recommendations that help me feel motivated. Ashleigh provides a welcoming and caring environment and I always look forward to our sessions as it helps me to process what’s going on in my life.”