Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
(EMDR)
BABCP-accredited psychotherapist in Glasgow

​EMDR — Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing — is a structured therapy for traumatic or distressing memories that still carry an emotional charge.

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You may understand perfectly well that an experience is over, that you are safe now, or that what happened was not your fault — yet your emotions or body can continue to react as though the danger is still present.

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EMDR is a little different from traditional talking therapy. Although we spend time understanding what has happened and preparing carefully, much of the change takes place through active processing within the session, using bilateral stimulation such as eye movements or tapping.

Rather than repeatedly talking through every detail, you are supported to notice memories, images, emotions, thoughts and physical sensations while the brain processes and integrates the experience.

 

EMDR can be particularly useful when you feel:

• I understand what happened rationally, but it still affects me emotionally.

• A particular memory still feels vivid, frightening or upsetting.

• My body reacts even when I know I am safe.

• I remain fearful of a person, place or situation after something that happened.

• Childhood experiences still trigger fear, shame or distress in adult life.

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EMDR is commonly used for PTSD and trauma following experiences such as road traffic accidents, frightening or threatening events, difficult childhood experiences and other memories that continue to feel unresolved.

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For a clearly identified experience or memory, EMDR can sometimes be a relatively focused piece of therapy, although the number of sessions needed varies considerably between people. Before processing begins, we assess what has happened, what is happening in your life now, and whether EMDR is the right approach and pace for you.

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EMDR therapy is available in person in Glasgow and online across the UK.