EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and integrate difficult or distressing experiences. It is often used when past events continue to feel present, intrusive, or emotionally overwhelming, even when they happened long ago.

Rather than focusing on detailed retelling, EMDR supports the brain’s natural capacity to process experiences that may have become “stuck”. Through careful, paced work, memories can lose their intensity, allowing a greater sense of relief, perspective, and emotional balance.

This approach may be helpful if you…

• Have experienced trauma or distressing life events

• Feel emotionally triggered or overwhelmed by reminders of the past

• Experience intrusive memories, nightmares, or strong bodily reactions

• Notice that certain experiences continue to affect your sense of safety or self

• Want an approach that does not rely on talking in detail about events

What sessions are like

EMDR sessions begin with careful preparation and stabilisation, ensuring you feel safe and supported throughout the process. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to identify what feels appropriate to focus on and to develop grounding strategies before any processing begins.

During EMDR, bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements or other gentle forms of alternating attention) is used to support the processing of memories. Sessions are carefully paced, and you remain in control at all times. The therapeutic relationship and your sense of safety are central to the work.

Who this service is for

EMDR is offered to adults, and may also be available for adolescents depending on the clinician. Sessions can take place in person or online.

Therapists offering this approach

Therapists offering EMDR

Finding the right support

EMDR can be a powerful and contained way of working with trauma and difficult experiences. If you are curious about whether this approach might be right for you, you are very welcome to explore therapist profiles above or get in touch for guidance.