What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy

EMDR is a structured evidence-based therapy that encourages the patient to briefly focus on the traumatic memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the traumatic memories.

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EMDR therapy follows a structured eight-phase approach:

• Phase 1: History

• Phase 2: Preparation for EMDR

• Phase 3: Assessing and setting up a target memory

• Phase 4: Desensitisation

• Phase 5: Installation- reprocessing the memory and increasing association to positive thoughts network

• Phase 6: Body scan

• Phase 7: Closure and self-management

• Phase 8: Re- evaluation

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EMDR is often used in treatment of PTSD, Complex Trauma, Dissociative Disorders, Attachment Difficulties, Grief, Pain and Somatic Disorders, Panic, Phobias, OCD, Depression and Body Dismorphic Disorder.