Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological therapy approach primarily used to treat individuals who have experienced traumatic events. During EMDR therapy, the client recalls distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, often in the form of rhythmic eye movements, sounds, or taps. This process aims to help the individual process and reframe traumatic memories by promoting adaptive information processing.

The therapy involves several phases, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitisation, installation of positive beliefs, and body scan. The therapist guides the client through these phases, encouraging the processing of distressing memories and the development of more adaptive perspectives. EMDR is thought to help individuals reprocess traumatic experiences, reduce emotional distress, and alleviate symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. It is often used as an adjunctive treatment alongside other therapeutic techniques.

Dr Aneta Kotevski has written a blog article that gives a more detailed understanding of EMDR, what it is, and how it can help: