EMDR

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, and it is a therapeutic approach that targets not only the cognitive aspect of a problem (such as unhelpful beliefs that are hindering a person's progress or development), but also the emotions and physical sensations that go along with those beliefs.

Essentially, during a time where our brains cannot process an experience normally because we are stuck in a heightened state of stress, EMDR uses a series of eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain and body mobilise what is stuck and allow it to process the traumatic experience in a more adaptive way.  By helping form an important connection between the brain and the body, we can reprocess traumatic experiences and memories to help you move beyond them, to a point where both your brain and body feel lighter and more internally connected.

EMDR is a powerful and meaningful therapy that our psychologists use to gently make significant changes in the lives of our clients by connecting both the brain and the body to alter how a specific memory is stored in the brain and its impact on our current life.

Many of us know the feeling of experiencing a distressing event that leaves our heart pounding, our palms sweaty or shaking, and our bodies feeling panicked or fearful. While this "fight or flight" response is extremely unpleasant, it is also a normal physical response to certain stressful or frightening situations.

Unfortunately, at times these feelings of stress and panic can linger long after the frightful event has passed, keeping our emotions heightened and our bodies on edge and easily triggered.  The result is that daily things like concentrating, eating and sleeping become difficult, we may have explosive outbursts or become withdrawn or depressed, and many people may blame themselves without realising what is actually happening to their body.  This is where EMDR can make a significant change.

In our experience, EMDR has been an incredibly powerful and effective treatment for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions, as well as everything from panic and eating disorders, to addictions and chronic pain.

It can also help improve emotional regulation, reduce feelings of helplessness and fear, and improve relationships by addressing negative beliefs and experiences that may be impacting our interactions with others.

In both our experience and clinical research, up to 90% of people report positive changes and results within their first three sessions of EMDR.*

*Source:

https://www.thepermanentejournal.org/issues/2014/winter/5626-emdr.html

We spend a lot of time getting to know and building comfortable, trusting relationships with our clients.  We know that some clients may already be experiencing significant anxiety from their experiences, and that even making the first appointment is a tremendous first step.  

Our approach to EMDR will never go over what you can safely and comfortably handle.  Each session involves a process of preparation, resourcing and strengthening to ensure each stage is well received, and is completed at the right time relative to the client's progress and emotions.

With every client and their circumstances being unique, we may also gently incorporate other treatment approaches to compliment EMDR as needed to help you get the most out of your care with us.