EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing
EMDR is a highly effective, evidence-based therapy recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of PTSD and widely used for trauma-related difficulties. It helps the brain process distressing experiences so they feel less overwhelming, reducing symptoms such as anxiety, shame, intrusive thoughts and emotional distress.
EMDR can be offered as a standalone treatment or integrated into therapy where past experiences, difficult life events or unhelpful core beliefs may be contributing to how you feel in the present. Our approach is safe, compassionate and individualised, helping you process distressing experiences and move forward with greater confidence and freedom.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is not simply about talking through difficult memories. Sometimes, traumatic or distressing events may not feel fully processed, leaving your thoughts, emotions or body reacting as though they are still happening in the present. EMDR helps the brain process these experiences so they feel less emotionally distressing and more like memories of something that happened in the past.
During EMDR, your therapist will guide you to focus on aspects of a traumatic memory, thought, feeling or belief while using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping or sounds. Treatment is carefully tailored to you, and your therapist will ensure you feel prepared, supported and grounded before beginning trauma processing.
You remain in control throughout and can work at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is most established as a treatment for PTSD and trauma, but it can also be helpful where distressing experiences are contributing to other difficulties. It may be used to support people experiencing:
- PTSD and trauma
- Childhood or developmental trauma
- Anxiety related to past experiences
- Distressing or intrusive memories
- Shame, guilt or difficult emotions
- Negative beliefs about yourself
- Experiences of abuse or neglect
- Accidents, illness or medical trauma
- Bereavement and loss
- Difficult or overwhelming life experiences
You do not necessarily need to have a formal diagnosis to explore whether EMDR could be
appropriate for you.
EMDR and Eating Disorders
EMDR can also be offered as part of specialist eating disorder treatment. For some people, eating difficulties may be linked to traumatic experiences, while living with an eating disorder can itself be distressing or traumatic. Where appropriate, EMDR can be integrated into your wider eating disorder treatment alongside specialist psychological and nutritional
support. This allows us to address trauma-related difficulties while continuing to support recovery from the eating disorder, rather than treating the two in isolation.
A Safe and Compassionate Approach
We understand that considering therapy for trauma can feel daunting. Our therapists
provide a warm, non-judgemental space where you can feel heard, understood,
and supported.
EMDR does not require you to share every detail of a traumatic experience, and you will
never be pressured to discuss anything before you feel ready. Your therapist will work
collaboratively with you to ensure that treatment is appropriate, safe and tailored
to your needs.
Not Sure Where to Start?
This page is simply here to give you an idea of the support we offer. You are not expected to know exactly what you need or which therapy is right for you - we can explore this togetherand help you find the right approach and therapist. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
Where is EMDR available?
Brighton
Rustington Online