EMDR

What is EMDR?

EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) is a type of therapy developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987. It is therefore a relatively new therapy, but which has been proven to be highly effective and successful in the treatment of trauma and PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder).

It is a therapy used to treat trauma in particular, and in 2005 was validated by NICE (national institute for clinical excellence) as a treatment choice for PTSD.

EMDR consists of 8 phases of treatment. By directly affecting how the brain processes information, EMDR helps people manage traumatic memories. EMDR is also used to treat many other symptoms (see below).

How Does EMDR Work?

When we recall a distressing memory, we can re-call what we heard, saw, smelt, felt and even what we tasted. By alternating left and right stimulation of the brain using eye movements, this 'frozen' information is stimulated and eventually becomes less intense.

Memories in this way become less intense and become like ordinary memories.

What can EMDR be used to treat?

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Traumas

• P T S D (post traumatic stress disorder)

• Traumatic injuries (i.e. car crash / fall or injury)

• Phobias

• Addictions