Understanding EMDR: What to Expect

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.

1.       EMDR works with how your brain processes memories. When we experience trauma - or distressing or confusing events - our brain doesn’t always process the memory in the usual way. Instead of being integrated into long-term storage, the memory or associated beliefs can feel 'stuck,' making it feel as if the event is still happening. EMDR helps reprocess these memories and beliefs so they feel more like the past and less overwhelming in the present - allowing the nervous system to move out of a stuck state of preparing for the unresolved event.

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2.       EMDR involves bilateral stimulation. This might sound technical, but it simply means stimulating both sides of the brain - often through eye movements, tapping, or sounds. While doing this, you’ll focus on the memory and notice what comes up. You don’t need to talk through every detail. When I first heard about EMDR and what it involved, my initial reaction was, 'How on earth can that help?' However, my experience using EMDR with clients has shown it can be highly effective, and there is plenty of research supporting this. Clients often report becoming aware of important and relevant aspects of their situation that they hadn’t noticed before. Crucially, they don’t just intellectually understand these insights - they actually feel them.

3.       EMDR is structured but flexible. EMDR follows an eight-phase model, which includes getting to know you and your history, preparing you with tools and resources (the amount of time spent on this can vary according to need), identifying target memories, and reprocessing them over time. It’s not rushed - we go at a pace that feels right for you.

4.       EMDR doesn't erase the memory - but it helps change how you experience it. You’ll still remember the event, but it may no longer feel so 'here and now' or as emotionally charged and distressing. Many people describe feeling a sense of distance from the painful memory - seeing it in a new light, with a clearer sense that it belongs in the past. After processing, they often report feeling lighter, more grounded, and more emotionally clear.

5.       EMDR is collaborative.

Like other therapies, EMDR is a team process. We work together, check in regularly, and adapt things to what works for you. Safeness, trust, and consent are key at every stage.

6.       EMDR focuses on past, present, and future.

We often begin by working on past events that are still affecting you. Sometimes it’s clear which past experiences are having an impact, but that’s not always the case - often, these experiences influence us in the present without us even realising it. Exploring this together can be a valuable part of the process. We may also start by looking at current triggers. EMDR can support you in developing tools to face future situations with greater confidence and ease.

7.       EMDR can feel intense - but also empowering.

Processing difficult memories can bring up strong feelings - that’s natural and part of the healing process. You’ll have grounding techniques to support you, and we’ll go gently. Drawing on my experience as a yoga therapist, we’ll explore how the body can support you throughout this process. Most people feel a strong sense of relief and clarity as the work unfolds.

8.       EMDR can be a helpful approach for a range of issues, including post-traumatic stress (such as PTSD), panic, phobias, anxiety, low self-esteem, and difficulties related to experiences of abuse, assault, childhood neglect (both emotional and physical), and grief.

While EMDR is a powerful therapy, it’s just one of several approaches I use in therapy. We’ll always tailor therapy to your individual needs and goals. Although EMDR is well known for treating PTSD, it can be effective for many other issues too. You can read more about trauma, PTSD, and EMDR here.

If you'd like to know more or discuss whether therapy could be helpful for you feel free to get in touch here.