top of page

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing

What is EMDR?

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a treatment method that uses rapid eye movements to help the brain to process negative feelings and traumatic events.

​

The mind usually heals itself naturally in the same way the body does. Much of our natural coping mechanisms occur during sleep, in particular during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. EMDR was developed in 1987 by Dr Francine Shapiro, utilising this natural process to treat PTSD.

​

When we experience disturbing events, they often stay with us in our memories and we feel distressed when we think about them. The brain isn't able to process traumatic or upsetting events in the same way as normal memories, so these memories can become 'frozen in time'. Because the images and feelings haven't changed, remembering the event can feel as distressing as going through it the first time. This is why talking therapies are sometimes limited in their effectiveness, because they cause people to relive the experience, which can re-traumatise. 

​

EMDR allows the brain to process negative memories in a way that is not as damaging. Following an EMDR session, people no longer relive the trauma or feel disturbed when they think about it. Flashbacks and nightmares cease. They still recall what happened, but it is not as upsetting. 

what-is-edmr.jpg
buzzies EDITED 3.jpg

What conditions can EMDR treat?

EMDR is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults and children. EMDR can also be used for:

  • Stress

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Panic attacks

  • Sexual or physical abuse

  • Dissociative disorders

  • Pain disorders 

  • Body dysmorphic disorders

  • Eating disorders

  • Personality disorders

  • Performance anxiety

  • Disturbing memories

  • Complicated grief

Endorsements

Supported by a wealth of research (with clinical studies dating back to 1989), EMDR has been endorsed by:

  • The World Health Organisation (2013)

  • The Australian Psychological Society (2010)

  • The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (2009)

  • The National Health and Medical Research Council (2007)

  • UK National Guidelines for Clinical Excellence (NICE 2005)

  • Americal Psychiatric Association (2004)

  • Dutch Guidelines on Mental Health Care (2003)

  • Israel National Council for Mental Health (2002)

  • Clinical Division of the American Psychological Association (1998)

bottom of page