Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)Therapy

EMDR is based on the understanding that distressing or traumatic experiences can sometimes become “stuck” in the brain, leaving memories unprocessed.

When this happens, reminders of the experience can continue to trigger:

• Intense emotions

• Physical sensations

• Intrusive memories or images

• A sense that the event is happening again

EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories so they become less distressing and feel more firmly in the past.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds) while you briefly focus on aspects of a distressing memory.

This process supports the brain’s natural ability to process and integrate experiences, reducing their emotional intensity and impact.

EMDR therapy:

• Does not require detailed verbal retelling of trauma

• Is carefully structured and phased

• Is paced according to your readiness and emotional safety

You remain in control throughout therapy, and nothing is explored before appropriate preparation and stabilisation.

EMDR can be helpful for a wide range of difficulties, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Single-incident trauma (accidents, assaults, medical trauma)

• Childhood trauma and attachment trauma

• Complex trauma

• Anxiety linked to past experiences

• Phobias

• Distressing memories that continue to affect daily life

EMDR can also support people who feel “stuck” despite previous therapy.

EMDR is one of the most effective treatments for PTSD.

PTSD symptoms may include:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories

• Nightmares or sleep difficulties

• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma

• Hypervigilance, anxiety, or emotional numbness

EMDR helps with PTSD by:

• Reducing the emotional intensity of traumatic memories

• Helping the brain recognise that the trauma is over

• Decreasing reactivity to triggers

• Supporting a greater sense of safety in the present

Trauma processing is always paced carefully and guided by your capacity and consent.

Not all trauma involves a single event. EMDR can also help with:

• Repeated or relational trauma

• Childhood neglect or emotional abuse

• Medical trauma

• Experiences that were overwhelming at the time

EMDR helps by:

• Linking past experiences with current emotional responses

• Reducing shame, fear, or self-blame

• Supporting emotional regulation

• Allowing new, healthier beliefs about yourself to develop

EMDR is sometimes misunderstood. It is not:

• Hypnosis

• Mind control

• Being forced to relive trauma

• A quick or rushed process

At Atticus Psychotherapies, EMDR is delivered with care, transparency, and respect for your boundaries.

• EMDR follows a structured, phased approach which includes:

  • Initial assessment and history-taking

  • Stabilisation and preparation (learning grounding and regulation skills)

  • Trauma processing when you are ready

  • Integration and consolidation of progress

  You do not need to talk in detail about traumatic events unless you choose to.

• MDR may be helpful if you:

  • Feel affected by past experiences that still intrude on daily life

  • Experience triggers, flashbacks, or intense emotional reactions

  • Have tried other therapies but still feel stuck

  • Want a trauma-focused approach that does not rely on extensive talking

  If you are unsure, this can be explored together during an initial consultation.