EMDR Therapy: A Simple Guide
Imagine your brain as a processing centre suddenly overwhelmed by trauma. Just like a computer that freezes when overloaded, your brain can get stuck too. EMDR helps “reboot” the system, jump-starting the healing process and allowing your brain to return to its natural ability to move beyond trauma.
A Bit of Background
EMDR was discovered by chance by Dr. Francine Shapiro while walking in a park. She noticed that moving her eyes back and forth seemed to lessen the intensity of her distressing thoughts. This simple observation grew into the development of EMDR therapy and is now recognised by leading health organisations as one of the most effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Since then, EMDR has evolved and proven helpful for a wide range of issues beyond PTSD, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and more.
The Process
EMDR is a structured, eight-phase therapy that guides people through the journey of healing. One of its most unique features is bilateral stimulation (usually through eye movements) which supports activation and desensitisation of memories. Think of it like reprogramming a computer: the memory remains, but its emotional weight is reduced. Research shows that EMDR can actually change brain regions involved in stress, such as the amygdala and hippocampus, leading to significant relief from emotional distress.
Finding an EMDR Therapist
If you’re considering EMDR, it’s essential to work with a trained, certified therapist. I would recommend an Accredited Practitioner or Consultant.
Early sessions usually focus on education, assessment, and building coping skills before moving into trauma processing. EMDR isn’t a quick fix (especially for complex trauma) since safety and stabilisation must come first. But when approached consistently, it has helped countless people reclaim their lives from the shadow of trauma.
Research Base
EMDR has successfully helped millions of people worldwide. Its effectiveness is backed by clinical research—even with children as young as 18 months, and it is officially endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a best-practice treatment for PTSD.
Regards, Brittany x
