EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprogramming)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprogramming) is a profound, amazing therapeutic technique, which was initially developed in the US specifically to treat people with trauma. Often, EMDR brings about great emotional release and greater enjoyment of life very quickly.

However, EMDR has not only proven to be a great help with PTSD, flashbacks etc., but also in the treatment of chronic pain, depression, phobias, low self-worth as well as with difficulties in present-day relationships. Here we talk of Attachment Trauma. Most people who struggle with their relationships have had some attachment trauma as a child, which is often difficult to resolve with standard talking therapy.

Together, we take an in-depth history of traumatic or difficult memories you might have and then will develop tools for you to resource you for the journey ahead. EMDR is an intuitive and exciting way of working in a warm and safe environment. You will be fully conscious at all times. EMDR sessions typically last 70 to 90 minutes.

An EMDR session is radically different from ´normal´ psychotherapy: there is far less emphasis on ´telling your story`.

As a result, the memories move to the frontal lobe, the evolutionary newer, more logical part of the brain, which is less emotional, more logical and can differentiate whether a ´threat´ is current or not.

Painful memories and emotions, which are stored in the brain stem (the oldest, instinctual part of the brain) are processed much more quickly and thoroughly via stimulation of both brain hemispheres, akin to that occurring naturally in REM sleep. This is induced through eye movements, taps or sounds administered carefully by your therapist.

This means, that we can respond to a new situation not in an old, automatic way, but consciously choose how to feel and respond. This makes life much freer and more enjoyable.

For more information on what to expect, please follow this link: getselfhelp.co.uk/docs/EMDR.pdf

EMDR requires specialist training of the practitioner and should only be administered by professionals trained to a high standard at a reputable training organisation.

Madeleine is a fully trained EMDR therapist. She trained with Sandi Richman who is an internationally acclaimed EMDR specialist and accredited EMDR Trainer and Consultant (EMDRIA) and EMDR Europe Association (EMDR-E). She has a special interest in the treatment of Attachment Trauma with EMDR

A 70 min session is charged at £155, if a longer session is required, this will be charged pro rata.