When we go through a traumatic or overwhelming experience, the brain sometimes gets “stuck.”
Instead of storing the memory like a normal event in long-term memory, it remains unprocessed — carrying the same emotions, body sensations, and negative beliefs that were present at the time.

That’s why even years later, certain triggers — a sound, a smell, a look on someone’s face — can feel as if the past is happening all over again.

EMDR helps the brain reprocess those “stuck” memories so that they lose their intensity.
The memory doesn’t disappear, but the emotional charge fades. Clients often describe it as “the sting has gone.”

EMDR Therapy Can Help With:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — including accidents, assaults, medical trauma, or war experiences

• Childhood trauma or neglect — such as bullying, unstable homes, or feeling unseen/unheard

• Abuse — emotional, physical, or sexual trauma, both past and recent

• Anxiety disorders — including generalised anxiety, panic attacks, and health anxiety

• Phobias and fears — e.g. fear of flying, driving, public speaking, or specific situations

• Depression and low mood — especially when linked to unresolved past events

• Low self-esteem and confidence issues — negative self-beliefs, self-doubt, inner critic

• Grief and loss — processing bereavement, separation, or life transitions

• Stress and burnout — work stress, overwhelm, and difficulty coping

• Sleep problems — nightmares, insomnia, or difficulty switching off

• Addictions and unhealthy coping behaviours — such as overeating, alcohol, or compulsive behaviours

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) — intrusive thoughts and compulsions

• Chronic pain and illness — easing the emotional and body-based distress that worsens symptoms

• Anger management — intense emotional responses that feel hard to control

• Performance issues — exam nerves, test anxiety, stage fright, or creative blocks

• Relationship difficulties — attachment wounds, fear of intimacy, or repeating unhealthy cycles

• Future fears — anxiety about upcoming events (e.g. interviews, medical procedures, or major changes)

Description text goEMDR uses a process called bilateral stimulation — usually eye movements, tapping, or gentle sounds — while you bring to mind parts of a memory.

This dual focus (memory + stimulation) allows the brain to do what it naturally does during REM sleep: process and file away experiences.

As reprocessing takes place, many clients notice:
✔ The memory feels further away, less raw.
✔ Distressing images or sensations lose their intensity.
✔ New, positive beliefs emerge — like “I am safe now” or “I am strong enough to cope.”es here

Many therapies focus mainly on talking about your experiences. While that can be valuable, sometimes talking alone doesn’t shift the “stuck” feelings in the body and mind.

EMDR is different because it works directly with how memories are stored in the brain. By using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds), EMDR helps the nervous system reprocess distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity.

Research shows EMDR often works more quickly than traditional talk therapy for trauma and PTSD. People frequently notice shifts in how they feel and think within fewer sessions.

It’s also structured, evidence-based, and recognised by the NHS, NICE, and the World Health Organization as an effective treatment for trauma.

In short: EMDR goes beyond talking — it helps the brain re-wire itself so you can live more fully in the present rather than being pulled back into the past.

EMDR follows an 8-phase structure. Here’s what to expect:

1. History & Planning – We explore your story and therapy goals.

2. Preparation – You learn grounding techniques so you feel safe and in control.

3. Assessment – We identify the memory, emotions, and beliefs connected to it.

4. Desensitisation – Bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, sounds) while focusing on the memory.

5. Installation – Strengthening positive beliefs to replace old ones.

6. Body Scan – Checking for any lingering tension or distress.

7. Closure – Ending the session with calm and stability.

8. Re-Evaluation – At the next session, we review progress and decide next steps.

Case Story 1 – Past Trauma

Sarah (not their real name) had panic attacks every time she got into a car after an accident. In EMDR, we worked with the original trauma memory. Over several sessions, the fear subsided, and she was able to drive again without panic. The memory was still there, but it no longer controlled her.

Case Story 2 – Present Triggers

James (not their real name) had a pattern of reaching for alcohol whenever he felt stressed at work. Through EMDR, we identified an earlier experience of constant criticism that was being ‘triggered’ in the present. Once this memory was reprocessed, his stress reactions reduced, and he no longer felt the same compulsion to drink when challenges arose.

Case Story 3 – Future Anxiety

Leila (not their real name) experienced intense anxiety about an upcoming presentation at work, fearing she would ‘freeze’ in front of everyone. In EMDR, we prepared by processing past experiences of embarrassment and then used a ‘future template’ to rehearse the presentation calmly. She later delivered it with confidence, surprising herself with how grounded she felt.

How many sessions will I need?
This varies — some people notice change after a few sessions, while complex trauma may take longer. We’ll go at a pace that feels safe for you.

What if I feel overwhelmed during a session?
You’ll learn grounding and calming strategies before we start. I’ll check in regularly, and you can pause at any time.

Is EMDR safe?
Yes. It’s a well-researched therapy recognised internationally. Some discomfort can come up as you process memories, but you’re always supported and in control.

What does EMDR feel like?
Many clients feel lighter, calmer, and clearer afterwards. Sometimes dreams or new insights appear between sessions — that’s a normal part of the healing process.

EMDR can be especially powerful if:

• You’ve tried traditional talking therapies but still feel “stuck” in the same patterns.

• You notice strong emotional or physical reactions when something reminds you of the past.

• You’re open to a structured, evidence-based approach that doesn’t just involve talking — but helps your brain and body actually reprocess what happened.

My role is to guide you through this process safely and compassionately, at a pace that feels right for you. Every step is tailored to your needs, so you feel supported and in control.

I offer a free consultation where we can explore your situation, answer your questions, and see whether EMDR feels like the right fit for your healing journey.

📞 Book your free call today — take the first step toward calm, clarity, and lasting change.