Trauma can leave deep emotional scars, profoundly affecting your mental health and well-being. EMDR therapy offers a proven path to overcoming trauma and reclaiming your life.
Understanding Traumatic Experiences
Trauma can stem from various types of experiences, including:
- A one-time event: such as an accident, assault, or natural disaster.
- Ongoing experiences: that are currently happening, like ongoing abuse or chronic stress.
- Prolonged adverse experiences: that span from the past into the present, including long-term neglect or repeated exposure to traumatic events.
- Incidences linked with a common theme: such as systemic discrimination, repeated interpersonal violence, or ongoing health issues.
What is EMDR Therapy–and How Does it Work?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a an evidence-based treatment that reduces the distress caused by traumatic memories. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements, tones, or tapping—to help your brain process and integrate these memories. This allows you to move past the negative beliefs and emotional pain that have held you back.
What to Expect in an EMDR Session
Your EMDR journey begins with an initial assessment to understand your unique needs and goals. During sessions, you will be gently guided to recall the traumatic event or distressing memory while experiencing bilateral stimulation. This process engages your brain’s inherent ability to process and reinterpret traumatic memories, alleviating emotional distress and promoting healing.
Throughout your session, you may experience a range of emotions, sensations, and insights. Rest assured, our experienced EMDR therapists provide a secure and supportive environment, allowing you to navigate these experiences at your own pace. The number of sessions needed varies based on the complexity of your trauma and your personal progress.
Is EMDR Right for You?
EMDR therapy is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) as an effective treatment for trauma and a variety of other mental health conditions.
When EMDR may help
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Single-incident events (accidents, assaults, medical scares)
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Complex or relational trauma
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Triggers, nightmares, or intrusive images
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Anxiety linked to past events
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Feeling stuck after talk therapy
Our Approach: Relational-Integrative EMDR
Attachment-Aware, Body-Informed
We deliver EMDR with extra care for the relationship, attachment needs, body cues, and pacing. The EMDR principles remain the same; we simply tailor how we work so you can stay present and safe. This approach is handy if memories feel overwhelming, you sometimes “check out,” or early attachment injuries are part of the story.
FAQs
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Is RI-EMDR different from “standard” EMDR?
It follows EMDR principles while placing extra emphasis on the relationship, attachment needs, and body-based cues. Same therapy, delivered more collaboratively for those who need a steadier pace. -
How many sessions will I need?
It varies. Some people focus on one memory over a few sessions; others prefer a slower pace or several targets. We’ll plan this together after your consult. -
What if I feel overwhelmed?
We build skills first, set clear pause signals, and adjust the pace so you can stay within your window of tolerance. You’re in charge of the speed. -
Can I do EMDR online?
Yes. Telehealth EMDR can work well with a few adjustments. We’ll confirm what suits you best.
Begin Your Healing Journey
If you’re interested in exploring EMDR therapy further, our experienced team at Mind Health Collective is here to help. Together, we can work towards overcoming trauma and guide you towards a more fulfilling and empowered life. EMDR could be your invaluable ally on your journey to mental health recovery.
Videos – How EMDR Therapy Works