Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) At Seven Lion Yard
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based psychological therapy that helps people process and recover from distressing or traumatic memories. Originally developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR is now used for a variety of mental health issues where difficult experiences continue to affect a person’s wellbeing.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR is grounded in the idea that traumatic or overwhelming experiences can remain unprocessed and stuck causing emotional distress and impacting on a person’s current perceptions and actions. These memories may resurface in the form of flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety or negative self-beliefs. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these experiences so they no longer carry the same emotional charge or influence over a person’s thoughts and behaviour.
A unique aspect of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, sounds or taps. This is done while the person recalls distressing memories in a safe and controlled setting, helping to reduce their intensity and support new, healthier perspectives.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR helps people process difficult memories that are “stuck” and continue to cause distress. When something traumatic happens, the brain doesn’t always store the memory in the past where it belongs, which can lead to ongoing feelings of fear, shame, or anxiety long after the event has passed. EMDR allows the brain to reprocess these memories so they no longer feel as upsetting or overwhelming.
In a typical EMDR session, the therapist will ask you to briefly focus on a distressing memory while guiding you through side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or sounds. This kind of rhythmic stimulation seems to help the brain “digest” the memory, reducing its emotional charge and making it easier to think about from a calmer, more balanced perspective.
You do not have to go into detail about the experience if you don’t want to – the focus is on how it feels now and helping your brain find a way to let it go. Over time, people often report that their memories feel more distant, less painful and easier to live with.
What Can EMDR Help With?
Although EMDR is most well-known for treating PTSD, research and clinical practice show that it can also help with a range of other difficulties, including:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Phobias
- Panic attacks
- Complex trauma and abuse
- Grief and loss
- Performance anxiety
- Chronic pain and somatic symptoms
It can be particularly helpful when people have found it hard to talk about trauma or where traditional talk therapy alone has not been effective.
Is EMDR Right for You?
EMDR may be a good fit if:
- You experience distressing memories, flashbacks or nightmares related to past events
- You feel emotionally “stuck” despite previous therapy or support
- Talking in depth about trauma feels overwhelming or unhelpful
- You want a structured but non-invasive way to address emotional pain
- You are open to alternative methods of processing experiences, such as eye movements or tapping
While EMDR is highly effective for many, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially during periods of severe emotional instability. A qualified EMDR therapist will assess your readiness and tailor the approach to your needs and pace.
Summary
EMDR offers a powerful way to unlock and process painful experiences that may still affect you today. By working through trauma safely and systematically, EMDR can help reduce emotional distress, strengthen resilience and foster a renewed sense of control. If you are struggling with the lasting impact of difficult events, EMDR could offer a path to healing and recovery.
