Expert Therapist in Leicester | Counselling & EMDR | Leicester Therapy

What is EMDR

Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a structured therapy that helps process distressing memories and reduce their impact. It works by using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds, while you focus on a distressing memory, allowing the brain to reprocess it. The therapy is proven to be effective for PTSD, but can also help with issues like anxiety, phobias, and depression. While EMDR is considered safe when performed by a trained professional, it can temporarily intensify emotions during sessions. You don't always need to talk extensively about the trauma, as the focus is on the associated physical sensations, emotions, and negative thoughts. 

How it works and what to expect

• Bilateral stimulation: A therapist uses guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds to help your brain reprocess memories.

• Memory reprocessing: The goal is to make distressing memories feel less overwhelming by helping the brain reprocess them.

• Focus on associations: You'll focus on a disturbing image, negative thoughts, emotions, and body sensations related to the memory.

• Less talking: You don't have to talk in detail about the trauma, which can be helpful for those who find it difficult to discuss their experiences verbally. 

Effectiveness and applications

• PTSD: EMDR is one of the most researched and effective treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

• Other issues: It can also be helpful for anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, depression, and abuse.

• Past trauma: It is effective for both recent and past trauma, including childhood experiences. 

Risks and considerations

• Temporary distress: You may experience an intensification of emotions as you process past experiences, especially in initial sessions.

• Brain processing between sessions: Some people report vivid dreams or sudden memories after a session, which can be a positive shift but may also impact relationships.

• Who is not a candidate: EMDR may not be suitable for those in a crisis, with unstable living situations, or with certain untreated mental health conditions. 

Session length and number

• Session length: A typical session lasts about one hour, though some clients request longer sessions.

• Number of sessions: This varies based on individual needs and the complexity of the trauma. Guidelines suggest 8-12 sessions for a single incident trauma, but more complex trauma will take longer.

• Ongoing processing: Processing can continue between sessions, so effects can be ongoing. 

If you are looking for warmth and openness please get in touch for a free 20 minute consultation today.

Face to Face is available as well as online, home visits and telephone therapy.

Fees: From £65 for a 50 minute individual session, EMDR from £100 per session . Each appointment lasts up to an hour.