EMDR Therapy in Lowestoft and Online
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured form of therapy developed to help people process distressing or traumatic experiences.
I offer EMDR as part of my integrative counselling practice, either as a particular focus of our work or, where appropriate, incorporated into wider counselling.
What is EMDR?
Difficult or traumatic experiences can sometimes continue to feel very present, even when we know intellectually that they happened in the past.
EMDR provides a structured way of working with distressing memories and the thoughts, feelings and physical responses associated with them.
EMDR is recognised within NICE guidance as a treatment option in specified circumstances for adults with PTSD or clinically important symptoms of PTSD following non-combat-related trauma.
What might an EMDR session involve?
Before beginning EMDR processing, we would spend time understanding what has brought you to therapy and considering whether EMDR is an appropriate way for us to work.
EMDR commonly involves bringing aspects of an experience to mind while engaging in bilateral stimulation — stimulation that alternates between the left and right sides, which can include guided eye movements or other methods.
You remain involved in the process throughout. We can discuss what is happening and work at a pace that takes account of your circumstances and how you are responding.
Not every EMDR session will look identical, and EMDR does not necessarily mean immediately going into the most difficult experience.
EMDR within Integrative Counselling
EMDR does not have to sit separately from counselling. Because my counselling philosophy is integrative, we can consider EMDR alongside the wider therapeutic work we are doing together.
At other times, someone may contact me specifically because they would like to explore EMDR. We can discuss this during an initial conversation rather than assuming beforehand that a particular therapy will be right for you.
Read more about Integrative Counselling
How long is an EMDR session?
EMDR sessions can be 60 or 90 minutes, depending on where we are in the therapeutic process and what we are working on.
Is EMDR something I should consider?
You do not need to decide by yourself whether EMDR is the right type of therapy for you.
If you are interested in EMDR, we can first talk about what has brought you to counselling, what you are hoping for and whether EMDR is something it would be appropriate for us to consider together.
Talk to me about EMDR
I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation if you would like to ask about EMDR before arranging a session.
There is no obligation to book afterwards. The conversation gives you an opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of whether you would like us to work together.