EMDR Therapy
A compassionate approach to healing and change
As an accredited EMDR therapist, I offer a warm, compassionate and supportive space to help you explore and process experiences that may continue to affect you in the present.
Sometimes, difficult or traumatic experiences can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck or disconnected from ourselves. Even when we understand that something belongs in the past, its emotional impact can remain with us, influencing how we feel, how we relate to others and how we see ourselves.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that can help the brain process distressing memories and experiences that may not have been fully processed at the time. For some people, these experiences can continue to feel very present, triggering emotional distress, anxiety or unhelpful beliefs about themselves. EMDR aims to help reduce the distress associated with these memories, allowing them to be experienced differently.
My Approach to EMDR
My approach is grounded in the belief that feeling safe, understood and accepted is central to therapeutic work. I place great importance on the therapeutic relationship and on working collaboratively, with sensitivity to your individual experiences, needs and boundaries. I recognise that everyone's story is different, and there is no single way to experience or recover from difficult events.
I will work alongside you at a pace that feels manageable, taking time to establish a sense of safety and stability before beginning memory processing when appropriate. You will not be expected to share more than you feel comfortable with, and we will work together to understand what you need from therapy.
EMDR can be helpful in working with trauma and distressing memories, and may also be used to address difficulties such as anxiety, panic, phobias and negative beliefs about yourself, depending on your individual circumstances.
My hope is to provide a space where you feel supported to make sense of your experiences, develop a different relationship with the past and move towards greater emotional freedom in the present.
Common Questions
What are the benefits and challenges that EMDR therapy can bring?
EMDR can help reduce the distress linked toupsetting experiences, and may support clearer thinking, calmer feelings and a greater sense of control. Some people find that difficult memories feel less vivid over time. Challenges can include strong emotions, tiredness or vivid dreams between sessions. Progress is different for everyone, so therapy is paced carefully and your wellbeing remains the priority.
What are the 8 phases of EMDR?
Traditional EMDR is made up of 8 phases. Each of these are important and integral to the others working. Many people think that EMDR is just the desensitisation / reprocessing phase, however, the other phases contribute into making this phase safe, effective and contained.Â
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The 8 phases are:
1. History taking and treatment planning
2. Preparation
3. Assessment
4. Desensitisation
5. Installation of a helpful belief
6. Body scan
7. Closure
8. Reevaluation
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR may help people process distress linked to trauma, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief and other upsetting experiences. It is not a one-size-fits-all approach, so your therapist will first discuss your needs and whether EMDR feels suitable and safe for you.
How confidential are our sessions?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of my practice. I maintain strict privacy to ensure your therapy is safe and secure.
Why is EMDR charged at a higher rate compared to other talking therapies?
EMDR reflects specialist training and delivery, greater intensity within sessions, and trauma-focused expertise. While the per-session or hourly rate is higher, EMDR is often found to be more powerful and get to the route sooner than traditional talking therapies. I will discuss whether it is suitable for your needs and work at a pace that feels safe for you.