Frequently Asked Questions

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, is a unique form of psychotherapy that diverges from traditional talk-based approaches. Whilst it incorporates elements of mindfulness, EMDR goes beyond simple awareness techniques.

You might have encountered EMDR in various contexts - perhaps through recommendations from healthcare professionals, discussions with friends, or even depictions in popular media. This isn't just a passing trend; EMDR is a well-researched, empirically supported treatment model with a structured approach to healing.

At its core, EMDR works by engaging with the whole person - their memories, physical sensations, deeply held beliefs about themselves, and emotions. The goal? To process and release the lingering effects of painful past experiences that may still be impacting your life today.

Think of EMDR as a form of emotional surgery. Just as a dentist might fill a cavity or a surgeon repair a broken bone, EMDR aims to heal psychological wounds. It's designed to help you truly "get past your past", not by ignoring or suppressing difficult memories, but by processing them in a way that allows you to move forward.

This therapy can be intense and transformative. If you're considering EMDR for yourself, keep reading for some helpful tips on how to prepare and what to expect from this powerful healing process.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, is a unique form of psychotherapy that diverges from traditional talk-based approaches. While it incorporates elements of mindfulness, EMDR goes beyond simple awareness techniques to engage with the whole person - their memories, physical sensations, deeply held beliefs, and emotions.

At its core, EMDR is based on the adaptive information processing (AIP) model, which suggests our minds have a natural capacity to process experiences in a healthy, adaptive manner. However, significantly stressful events can overwhelm this system, leaving memories unprocessed and "stuck". EMDR works by stimulating the brain to process these unhealed memories, leading to a natural restoration and adaptive resolution.

The therapy operates similarly to REM sleep, integrating information through dual stimulation. Clients follow moving lights with their eyes and hold vibrating buzzers, allowing their brains to process difficult memories naturally. This process involves desensitisation (reducing the emotional charge of memories) and reprocessing (linking traumatic memories to more positive networks).

Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR initially targeted trauma symptoms in Vietnam veterans and rape survivors. Early clinical trials showed promising results that persisted in six-month follow-ups. Over time, Shapiro transformed EMDR from a basic desensitisation technique into a comprehensive psychotherapy approach.

Today, EMDR is used to address a wide range of mental health issues, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness. Clinicians use it to promote positive affect and profound shifts in core beliefs and behaviours, going beyond mere symptom relief.

While EMDR can be intense and transformative, many clients report significant relief in just a few sessions. It's designed to help you truly "get past your past", not by ignoring or suppressing difficult memories, but by processing them in a way that allows you to move forward with greater ease and resilience.

If you're considering EMDR, it's important to work with a certified therapist who can guide you safely through this powerful healing process. Remember, EMDR offers the potential for rapid and profound change, challenging traditional notions about the pace of psychological healing.

Is EMDR Right for You?

While EMDR has shown remarkable results for many clients, it's important to remember that no single therapy is universally suitable. As I often tell my clients, all roads may lead to Rome, but the best path varies depending on individual circumstances.

Before embarking on EMDR therapy, your therapist will likely suggest one or more initial sessions. These preliminary meetings serve multiple purposes. They allow the therapist to gain a deeper understanding of your specific issues and their origins. During this time, they'll provide you with comprehensive information about EMDR, answer any questions you might have, and explain the process in detail.

These sessions are crucial in determining whether EMDR is the most appropriate treatment for your unique situation. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to make this decision, ensuring that the chosen approach aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Remember, the effectiveness of therapy often depends on finding the right fit between the client, the therapist, and the therapeutic approach. These initial discussions provide an opportunity to assess this fit and make an informed decision about proceeding with EMDR.

But Does EMDR Actually Work?

Yes, EMDR has been shown to be effective. Studies, including randomised controlled trials (RCTs), indicate that EMDR therapy can effectively eliminate or reduce symptoms of various mental health issues in the majority of clients. Many individuals report significant improvements in related symptoms, such as anxiety.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) recognise EMDR as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress and other conditions. It has also received endorsements from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defence, the Israeli N ational Council for Mental Health, the UK Department of Health, and numerous other health organisations worldwide. Research suggests that EMDR is not only effective but also a relatively quick treatment option. For more details on these studies, visit the EMDR International Association's website.

What are EMDR Intensives?

EMDR Intensives are a concentrated form of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Instead of weekly 60-90 minute sessions, intensives involve longer, more frequent sessions over a shorter period, typically a few days to a week.

Duration: Sessions typically last 2-3 hours, compared to 60-90 minutes for regular sessions.
Frequency: Sessions are conducted on consecutive days or within a short timeframe.
Focus: Intensives allow for deeper, more concentrated work on specific traumas or issues.
Pace: The condensed format can lead to faster processing and potential resolution of trauma.

Who can benefit from EMDR Intensives?

Individuals with acute or single-incident trauma
Those with busy schedules who can't commit to weekly therapy
Clients who have reached a plateau in traditional therapy
People seeking to address a specific issue in a concentrated timeframe
Individuals who prefer to work through trauma in a condensed period

Are EMDR Intensives conducted online?

Yes, we offer EMDR Intensives in an online format. We use secure video conferencing and specialised online tools to ensure the effectiveness of the intensive treatment.

How do I know if an EMDR Intensive is right for me?

During our initial consultation, we will assess your specific needs, trauma history, current life circumstances, and treatment goals. We will discuss the potential benefits and challenges of intensive treatment for your situation. Factors we consider include:
The nature and complexity of your trauma or issues
Your emotional stability and coping skills
Your schedule and ability to commit to intensive treatment
Your support system during and after the intensive

How do I schedule an EMDR Intensive?

To schedule an EMDR Intensive, please contact us for an initial consultation. We will discuss your needs, assess whether an intensive is appropriate for you, and work out the logistics of scheduling.
Have more questions about EMDR Intensives? Don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to help you determine if this approach is right for you.

Aceso Clinical Psychology

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