Understanding EDMR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful and evidence-based approach to addressing trauma and its lingering effects on mental health. Originally developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR has since been recognised as an effective intervention for a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and other issues tied to distressing life events.

How Does EMDR Work?

Trauma can cause memories to become "stuck," leaving individuals reliving the distressing events through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts. EMDR works by helping the brain reprocess these memories, diminishing their emotional intensity. During a session, the client recalls the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or alternating taps. This process mimics the brain's natural healing mechanisms, similar to what occurs during REM sleep, allowing the memory to become less vivid and more manageable.

What to Expect During EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy involves several phases, starting with an assessment and preparation stage where the therapist ensures the client is ready to process their trauma safely. The reprocessing phase involves revisiting traumatic memories under controlled conditions while focusing on the bilateral stimulation. This dual focus anchors the client in the present while accessing past memories, helping them replace distressing associations with more adaptive beliefs and feelings.

A full course of EMDR varies by individual needs, but some clients experience significant improvement in as few as 8–12 sessions, while those with complex trauma may require more time.

Who Can Benefit?

While EMDR is most commonly associated with PTSD, it has been successfully applied to a wide range of mental health conditions. These include trauma-related anxiety, depression, phobias, and even issues like addiction or relationship challenges. It’s also increasingly used within the NHS and is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a leading trauma therapy.

Accessing EMDR in the UK

There are over 10,000 qualified EMDR therapists in the UK. It's vital to work with a professional accredited by organisations like the EMDR Association UK or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). These credentials ensure therapists have undergone the necessary training to provide this specialised treatment safely and effectively.

At Surrey Therapy Practice, we have a team of experienced and supportive therapists trained to help adults and young people with a range of difficulties. We tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring they feel supported and understood throughout their journey. Get in touch with our compassionate team to learn more about how we can support you.