EMDR : Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

When we refer to an event as traumatic, we mean an experience that was overwhelming and beyond our ability to cope at the time. Trauma can include events such as car accidents, physical assaults, sexual violence, or other deeply distressing incidents.

After such events, our brain’s natural ability to process and store the experience can become disrupted. As a result, we may experience ongoing anxiety, disturbed sleep, and intrusive thoughts. Understandably, we might try to avoid thinking about the event in order to cope—but avoidance, while protective in the short term, can prevent true healing.

Unprocessed trauma can remain “stuck” in the brain, leading to distressing symptoms such as flashbacks, sudden anxiety, or strong emotional reactions to sensory triggers—like a sound, smell, or visual image that reminds us of the event. In these moments, it can feel as though the trauma is happening all over again, even though it’s in the past.

EMDR helps the brain process these memories so it can recognise that the event is over, and no longer a threat.

What Happens in an EMDR Session?

The process begins with a thorough assessment, where we identify the specific memories or experiences that are causing distress.

During the session, you’ll be guided through sets of bilateral stimulation—often involving eye movements, tapping, or following a moving light. These movements mimic what happens during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep and help the brain reprocess traumatic memories in a safe, controlled way.

After each set, you'll pause and share any changes in thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, or imagery. This back-and-forth continues, helping the memory become less vivid and emotionally charged.

While the process can bring up uncomfortable feelings, this is a normal and important part of healing. With the support of your therapist, EMDR allows you to make sense of the experience, reduce emotional distress, and move forward with greater resilience.