What is EMDR? (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)

EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and heal from distressing life experiences, particularly trauma.

EMDR is well researched and is recognised as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD by the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association (APA), the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and the Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health. Over 40 years of research supports its effectiveness, with numerous clinical trials demonstrating significant and lasting improvements for individuals recovering from trauma, anxiety, grief, and other emotional difficulties.  

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the brain’s natural healing ability. When something overwhelming happens, the memory can become “stuck” — carrying intense emotion, body sensations, or negative beliefs. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories, so they no longer feel as distressing or intrusive.

Through a structured approach that includes gentle eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR allows clients to revisit troubling experiences in a safe and contained way. This helps the brain integrate the memory properly, reducing emotional reactivity and allowing new, more adaptive perspectives to emerge.

EMDR can be effective for:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
   
• Childhood trauma or neglect
   
• Anxiety, panic, or phobias
   
• Recovery from abuse or violence

There is a strong emphasis on emotional safety and nervous system regulation. Many clients report that EMDR helps them feel lighter, more present, and better able to move forward. There is an option for EMDR processing to take place in a nature-based setting, or indoors in a picturesque cottage.