Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a powerful, clinically proven therapy designed to help people recover from trauma, distressing life events, and overwhelming emotions. It works by helping the brain reprocess difficult memories so they no longer feel as upsetting or intrusive.

Unlike traditional talking therapies, EMDR does not require you to go into detail about your experience. Instead, it uses bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements or tapping, while you bring aspects of a memory to mind. This process helps the brain "unstick" and reprocess distressing experiences, so they can be stored in a more helpful and less emotionally charged way.

EMDR can be helpful for people who have experienced:

• Trauma or PTSD (including accidents, abuse, neglect, or violence)
• Distressing life events (such as loss, medical trauma, or bullying)
• Anxiety, panic, or phobias
• Low self-esteem linked to past experiences
• Ongoing emotional distress related to early life experiences
• Chronic stress or physical pain with emotional components

EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity of memories, allowing you to feel more in control in the present.

EMDR is recommended by the NHS, World Health Organization (WHO), and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of PTSD and is increasingly used for a wide range of issues.