EMDR Therapy at Eastern Suburbs Psychology

If you’ve been struggling with the lingering effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, or distressing memories, you may have come across a therapy called EMDR. EMDR offers a structured and effective way to process difficult experiences and move forward, it has strong evidence base and can be used across the lifespan. 

This article explains what EMDR is, what it’s commonly used for, and what current research tells us about its effectiveness—so you can make an informed decision about whether it might be right for you.

What is EMDR 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological therapy originally developed to help people recover from trauma. It involves recalling memories while engaging in guided bilateral stimulation—most commonly side-to-side eye movements.

The idea is that this process helps the brain “reprocess” memories that may be stuck in a distressing form, allowing them to be integrated in a healthier way. Over time, this can reduce the emotional intensity attached to those memories (e.g., anxiety, distress and panic

EMDR is typically delivered in a structured, phased approach by a trained psychologist.

What Is EMDR Used For?

EMDR is best known for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but its use has expanded over time. Clients may seek EMDR support for:

• Trauma (e.g., accidents, medical trauma, childhood trauma,)

• Anxiety and panic symptoms

• Distressing or intrusive memories

• Depression linked to past experiences

• Grief and loss

• Performance anxiety or confidence issues

• Eating disorders

While trauma remains the primary focus, many clinicians use EMDR as part of a broader treatment plan tailored to the individual.

What does the evidence say?

It’s been almost 40 years since psychologist Francine Shapiro developed EMDR therapy. It is underpinned by the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model and has level 1 (randomised controlled trial) evidence base for use in post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma, depression, anxiety, specific phobias and complex trauma. There is also emerging evidence in using EMDR with eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and addiction. 

What Is EMDR Therapy Like?

EMDR sessions are collaborative and paced carefully. A typical course of therapy includes:

• Building coping skills and emotional safety

• Identifying specific memories or triggers to work on

• Processing those memories using guided bilateral stimulation

• Strengthening more adaptive beliefs and perspectives

Many clients report that distressing memories/intrusive thoughts feel less vivid, less emotional, and less intrusive over time.

Is EMDR Right for You?

EMDR can be a helpful option if:

• You feel “stuck” with past experiences that still affect you

• Talking about trauma in detail feels overwhelming 

• You’re looking for a structured, evidence-based approach

• You've tried lots of different therapies and haven't had a good response 

That said, EMDR is not the only effective therapy. A qualified psychologist can help you decide whether EMDR, CBT, or another approach is the best fit based on your goals and preferences. 

If you’d like to explore whether EMDR could be helpful for you, feel free to get in touch with our practice at admin@easternsuburbspsychology.org to discuss your needs or book an initial consultation.