EMDR

Eye-Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing

EMDR is an evidence-based treatment for trauma. 

It is thought that when a traumatic or distressing experience occurs, it may overwhelm normal coping mechanisms. The memory and associated stimuli are inadequately processed and stored in an isolated memory network.  The goal of EMDR is to reduce the long-lasting effects of distressing memories by engaging the brain’s natural adaptive information processing mechanisms, thereby relieving present symptoms.

EMDR has a positive effect on how the brain processes information. Following an EMDR session, the person no longer relives the trauma. The person still recalls the incident, but no longer experience the overwhelming difficult feelings associated with the memory.

During EMDR, the client is asked to breathe deeply and relax. The therapist works with the client to identify a specific problem as a focus for the treatment session. The client then calls to mind the disturbing issue or event, what was seen, felt, heard, thought, etc. The therapist will then begin eye movements and/or other bilateral activities. These eye movements are used until the memory becomes less disturbing and is associated with a more appropriate positive thought.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends EMDR and trauma focused CBT in the treatment of trauma for children, adolescents and adults, with EMDR being a preferred method as it does not involve detailed descriptions of events, direct challenging of beliefs or homework.  EMDR when used according to the treatment protocol, is safe with less re-experiencing of the trauma and all the therapeutic work being done in the presence of the therapist.

Donna is qualified in both EMDR and trauma focused CBT for children and adolescents.