EMDR Therapy Melbourne
Understand | Move Forward | Feel Lighter
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a specialised therapeutic technique developed to help people heal from the emotional scars left by difficult or traumatic experiences.
We use EMDR therapy here in Melbourne–at both our Bentleigh and Armadale locations–with great success for a range of issues, particularly where the roots of problems lie in trauma memories and emotional wounds.
Unlike traditional forms of therapy, which focus on talking through issues, EMDR helps individuals reprocess distressing memories on a deeper, neurological level. It allows the brain to resume its natural healing process, leading to long-lasting emotional well-being.
In fact, it is recognised as one of the leading therapeutic methods for trauma by global health organisations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
Whether you've experienced a single traumatic event or have unresolved childhood issues, EMDR therapy can help you break free from the emotional burden, restoring your quality of life.
Conditions Treated by EMDR
01.
Recent Trauma & PTSD
02.
Anxiety & Depression
03.
Childhood Trauma
04.
Relationship Problems
05.
Panic & Phobias
EMDR Therapy: An Overview
How EMDR Therapy Works
The Key Role of Bilateral Stimulation
A key component of EMDR therapy is bilateral stimulation, which involves rhythmic eye movements, taps, or sounds that help activate both sides of the brain. This stimulation mimics the brain’s natural processing during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, helping to reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional intensity.
How Long Does EMDR Therapy Take?
The length of EMDR therapy depends on the severity of the trauma and the individual’s response to treatment. Some clients experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may require longer-term therapy to fully process complex trauma. On average, EMDR therapy consists of 6 to 12 sessions, each lasting around 60 to 90 minutes.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy follows an eight-phase process that allows the brain to reprocess traumatic memories. These phases include:
-
History-Taking: The therapist gathers a detailed history of the client’s experiences, identifying specific traumatic memories to target.
-
Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process, and the client learns coping mechanisms to handle any emotional distress that may arise during therapy.
-
Assessment: Specific details about the target memory are discussed, including images, beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations associated with the trauma.
-
Desensitization: Using guided eye movements, the therapist helps the client reprocess the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional intensity and vividness.
-
Installation: Positive beliefs and emotions are reinforced to replace the distressing thoughts and feelings associated with the traumatic event.
-
Body Scan: The client is asked to focus on any physical sensations related to the memory to ensure that the trauma has been fully processed.
-
Closure: The therapist ensures that the client leaves each session feeling safe and grounded.
-
Reevaluation: The therapist reviews the progress made and determines whether further sessions are needed to fully address the trauma.
FAQs about EMDR Therapy
1. How long does EMDR therapy take?
The length of EMDR therapy varies depending on the individual and the complexity of their trauma. Most people require between 6 to 12 sessions, though this can vary based on their progress.
2. Is EMDR therapy safe?
Yes, EMDR therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment that is backed by extensive research. It is widely used by therapists to treat trauma, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
3. Will I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
One of the unique aspects of EMDR therapy is that it does not require you to discuss your trauma in detail. The therapy focuses on reprocessing the traumatic memory, so you only need to provide enough information for your therapist to understand the target memory.
4. Can EMDR help with anxiety and depression?
Yes, EMDR has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety and depression. By reprocessing negative beliefs and experiences, EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity associated with these conditions.
5. How do I know if EMDR is right for me?
If you're struggling with unresolved trauma, anxiety, or emotional pain, EMDR could be a good fit. Booking a consultation to assess suitability is the best way to determine if this treatment is right for you.