EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychological therapy that helps the brain reprocess upsetting memories so they become less intense and less disruptive.

Our brains usually know how to make sense of things that happen to us. When something bad or scary happens, though, our brains can get “stuck” because the memory feels too big or painful to process. Instead of being stored away like other memories, it stays at the front of our minds and feels just as real, strong, and upsetting as when it first happened. These memories can be easily triggered by sounds, smells, or places, making it feel like it’s happening again. EMDR helps your brain finish processing these stuck memories so they can move to the past where they belong. In EMDR, you think about the memory while your psychologist guides your eye movements. This is similar to when your eyes move back and forth when you’re dreaming in your sleep. During an EMDR session you don’t have to talk much or try to change the memory. You just notice what you feel, think, or remember. Over time, the memory usually becomes less strong and less upsetting. EMDR can help people feel calmer, safer, and more in control.