EMDR

Self Assured Mind Therapy
What is Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-established therapeutic technique that addresses the impact of disturbing life experiences, including trauma, ingrained behavioral patterns, and the fundamental question: 'How did we learn to feel the way we do?' It moves beyond symptom management, aiming to reprocess the underlying neurological and emotional imprints that shape our experiences. This approach opens up a powerful pathway to create desired emotional shifts, enabling individuals to reprocess traumatic memories and cultivate lasting well-being. EMDR has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in facilitating positive change, often proving effective even when other therapeutic approaches have yielded limited results, suggesting a unique ability to access and reprocess deeply held emotional responses.
EMDR has proven particularly successful in trauma recovery and the alleviation of post-traumatic stress disorders. It is especially effective in addressing the distressing symptoms of intrusive imagery and 'flashback' phenomena, which can significantly disrupt daily life and emotional stability. EMDR's methodology involves guiding the individual to focus on the intrusive or negative imagery, thoughts, and feelings while simultaneously performing bilateral stimulation, such as specific eye movements, taps, or sounds. This dynamic interplay between cognitive focus and physical stimulation triggers a process of neural reprocessing, effectively reducing the emotional charge associated with the memory. As a result, the imagery becomes significantly less disturbing, allowing individuals to regain a sense of control and peace. This process not only diminishes the emotional impact of traumatic memories but also fosters a sense of empowerment, enabling individuals to move forward with greater resilience and emotional freedom. By directly addressing the neurological underpinnings of emotional distress, EMDR offers a transformative approach to healing and growth.
How can I help you?
I can guide you towards enhancing your life by freeing yourself from negative thinking and emotional patterns. By letting go of self-criticism, worry, and fear, you'll tap into the capacity to lead a more significant and satisfying life. Gain a more profound understanding of what truly counts, enabling you to act instead of feeling helpless. Learn to live in the moment and make decisions that reflect your values, fostering self-esteem, self-assurance, and a clearer sense of purpose along the way.
Post-traumatic stress and Trauma recovery
Effective for intrusive imagery/flashbacks in PTSD. I focus on the 'Lynchpin', the incident's critical point.
Intrusive and negative imagery
EMDR can help with intrusive imagery and flashbacks, making them less disturbing.
High level anxiety and panic
Reduces emotional intensity associated with distressing memories for improved emotional balance and reduced anxiety sensations.
Generalised anxiety disorder
Addressing underlying causes of anxiety and processing painful memories.
Problematic behaviours
Change a thought pattern that may be problematic by reducing unwanted feelings to help you to resolve issues.
Low self esteem
A brief intervention that can help with low self-esteem and other negative emotions, focusing on answers to questions.
Obsessive worry
Help identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to obsessive thoughts.
Insomnia, nightmares, night panic
Tackles emotional barriers and adverse impressions contributing to sleep issues, promoting relaxation and enhancing sleep quality.
Depression / unhappiness
Address the emotional underpinnings and convictions that drive these sentiments by modifying memories and releasing associated negative emotions.
My approach
At Self Assured Mind Therapy, my approach to EMDR is grounded in a deep understanding of the connection between bilateral stimulation, emotional processing, and neural pathways. I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can explore and reprocess disturbing life experiences. I am trained in the principles and techniques of EMDR, and will tailor my approach to your individual needs and goals, by:
Personalised treatment plans
Gentle and respectful guidance
Focus on present experience
Integration with other modalities
Self Assured Mind Therapy
What to expect during therapy
When you begin EMDR therapy at Self Assured Mind Therapy, you can expect a collaborative and empowering experience. The initial session will involve a consultation to discuss your history, current challenges, and goals for therapy. I will explain the principles of EMDR and answer any questions you may have.
During subsequent sessions, I will guide you through the EMDR protocol, which involves focusing on specific thoughts, feelings, or memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds. This process helps to activate and reprocess neural pathways, allowing you to process and release emotional charges. You will remain aware and in control throughout the session.
Frequently asked questions

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, taps, or sounds) and our emotional and cognitive processes. It's designed to help individuals reprocess and resolve the impact of disturbing life experiences, including emotional and behavioral challenges. EMDR is a structured therapy that helps to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories and other negative experiences.
EMDR utilises bilateral stimulation while the individual focuses on a specific memory, thought, or feeling. This process activates the brain's natural processing mechanisms, allowing for the reprocessing of disturbing memories and the reduction of their emotional charge. By engaging in bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps to facilitate adaptive resolution of past experiences.
EMDR has shown effectiveness in addressing a range of issues, including: Traumatic experiences (PTSD); Anxiety disorders; Depression; Panic disorders; Phobias; Disturbing memories; And other emotional distress.
Yes, EMDR is a recognised and well-researched psychotherapy treatment. It is recommended by organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) for the treatment of PTSD. The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) upholds professional standards and provides training for those who wish to practice EMDR.