EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is one of only two first line treatments recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR is also now widely used to treat a range of mental health issues including mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The EMDR Psychologists at Happy MindsPsychology specialise in providing EMDR treatment.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is an interactive psychotherapy technique that involves bringing your awareness to thoughts, feelings, and sensations associated with traumatic memories while your eyes move rapidly. 

The mind can often heal itself naturally, in the same way as the body does. Much of this natural coping mechanism occurs during sleep, particularly during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Francine Shapiro developed Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in 1987, utilizing this natural process in order to successfully treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Since then, EMDR has been used to effectively treat a wide range of mental health problems.

What happens to the brain with EMDR?

The regions of the brain involved during EMDR are associated with emotional activation, sensory storage and reasoning. By increasing the activation of these parts of the brain, the patterns in our neural pathways can change. Our memories can become less emotionally intense, and the way we think about or make sense of our experiences can also change.

EMDR has been endorsed by international bodies including the Australian National Centre for Excellence in Post Traumatic Mental Health, International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Who can benefit from EMDR therapy?

When working with an EMDR Psychologist, the clients who will benefit the most from EMDR therapy experience PTSD or trauma, it can also benefits clients who have:

• Addictions
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Panic attacks

Before your EMDR therapy begins you may need to develop new skills to manage and reduce your emotional arousal. It’s important to note that some clients may not be suitable for EMDR therapy right away – sometimes other forms of therapy are required prior to commencing an EMDR treatment.

How long does EMDR therapy take?

Before you undertake EMDR therapy, your therapist will need to know the nature of your issue before deciding if EMDR is an appropriate treatment. The number of treatment sessions you’ll need will depend on many variables, such as your current emotional experiences and the history of trauma in someone’s background. 

EMDR Therapy at Happy Minds Psychology

Happy Minds Psychology has experienced therapists trained in EMDR therapy who are available to see you. Contact us today to explore booking an appointment. 

HOW TO GET A MENTAL HEALTH CARE PLAN

Simply contact your GP in Geelong or surrounding areas, or if you require counselling via Telehealth or Phone, a local GP should be able to help you with obtaining a Mental Health Care Plan. Ask your GP to address the referral to: Sarah-Jayne Duryea

Registered Psychologist PSY0001243973, Medicare Provider number 416304NL

Happy Minds Psychology, 87 The Parade Ocean Grove VIC

[email protected]

Click here for more information about the Better Access Mental Health Care Plan-19.8.25