In the second phase, the therapist helps the client identify specific traumatic memories or distressing life experiences that will be targeted in therapy. These memories serve as the focus of the EMDR treatment, and the therapist assists the client in selecting appropriate targets for processing.

The third phase involves preparation, where the therapist provides the client with coping skills and relaxation techniques to help them manage distress during EMDR processing. This phase aims to ensure that the client feels safe and equipped to engage in the therapeutic process effectively.

The fourth phase marks the beginning of the reprocessing work, where the therapist facilitates bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, auditory tones or taps , while the client is asked to focus on the targeted memory. This bilateral stimulation is thought to help facilitate the processing of traumatic memories and helps the integration of new, adaptive information.

As the client engages in EMDR processing, the therapist guides them through the fifth phase, which involves accessing and processing various aspects of the targeted memory, including thoughts, emotions, sensations, and beliefs. Through repeated sets of bilateral stimulation, the client experiences shifts in their perception of the memory and begins to integrate new, more adaptive information.

In the sixth phase, the therapist helps the client process any residual distress or disturbance related to the targeted memory. This may involve further sets of bilateral stimulation or additional therapeutic techniques to promote resolution and closure.

The seventh phase focuses on consolidating gains and integrating the insights and experiences gained through EMDR processing into the client's daily life. The therapist and client work together to identify positive changes, develop coping strategies, and plan for the future.

In the final phase, the therapist conducts a reevaluation of the client's symptoms and progress, ensuring that treatment goals have been achieved and addressing any remaining concerns or issues.

Research has demonstrated the usefulness & effectiveness of EMDR therapy in the treatment of PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. Numerous studies have found that EMDR therapy can lead to significant overall reductions in PTSD symptoms, improvements in overall functioning, and lasting changes in the way individuals process traumatic memories.

EMDR therapy is a highly effective treatment modality that has gained widespread recognition for its success in addressing symptoms that are seen to be related to post-traumatic stress disorder and other types trauma-related conditions. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR therapy is grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which assume that traumatic memories are stored inside the brain in a dysfunctional way and contribute to distressing symptoms and negative beliefs about oneself and the world.

During an EMDR therapy session, the client is guided by one of our friendly and trained therapists to focus on distressing memories, sensations, and beliefs while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This process allows the individual to access and process traumatic memories more effectively, leading to reductions in distress and the creation of new, more adaptive associations.

The therapy is typically conducted in eight phases, that serve a specific purpose in the treatment process. In the initial phases, the therapist and client work collaboratively to establish a therapeutic alliance, gather information about the client's symptoms and history, and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the client's needs. Subsequent phases involve preparing the client for EMDR processing, identifying and processing traumatic memories, and addressing any residual distress or disturbance associated with the memories.

EMDR therapy has been researched and validated as an very effective treatment for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. Studies have consistently demonstrated significant reductions in symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression following EMDR treatment.

One of the major benefits of EMDR therapy sessions is its ability to produce rapid and lasting treatment effects. Many individuals have reported experiencing significant improvements in their symptoms after just a couple of sessions of EMDR therapy, with benefits continuing to manifest in the weeks and months following treatment. EMDR therapy is particularly well-suited for individuals who have experienced single or multiple traumatic events, including survivors of physical or sexual assault, combat veterans and individuals with complex trauma histories.

In addition to its efficiency in treating PTSD, EMDR therapy has also been used successfully to address a very wide range of different psychological issues, including anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, and grief. The therapy's adaptive approach allows it to be tailored to the each clients unique needs, making it a versatile and valuable tool in the field of psychotherapy.

Overall, EMDR therapy offers a powerful and evidence-based approach to addressing trauma and its associated symptoms. With its focus on processing traumatic memories and fostering adaptive beliefs, EMDR therapy empowers individuals to heal from past traumas, regain a sense of control back over their lives, and move forward with renewed strength and resilience. As research on EMDR therapy continues to expand, its potential to transform the lives of trauma survivors and individuals struggling with psychological distress remains profound.