EMDR Therapy in Altona Meadows
A structured therapy for processing distressing memories
A structured, evidence-based therapy that helps people process distressing memories so they may feel less intense over time.
Quick Overview
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help people process trauma and other distressing life experiences. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987, EMDR has been widely studied and is used by clinicians worldwide to support recovery from symptoms and emotional distress associated with traumatic experiences.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to discuss the traumatic event in detail or complete homework assignments. Instead, it uses bilateral stimulation—typically guided eye movements—to help your brain process and integrate distressing memories.
When we experience trauma, our brain's natural processing system can become overwhelmed, leaving distressing memories "stuck" in a raw, unprocessed state. These memories can continue to cause symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and emotional reactivity. EMDR aims to help your brain process these memories so they become less distressing.
How EMDR Works
EMDR therapy involves eight distinct phases:
Phase 1: History Taking - Your therapist learns about your history and identifies which memories to target.
Phase 2: Preparation - You learn relaxation and coping techniques to use during and between sessions.
Phase 3: Assessment - Together, you identify the specific memory, the negative belief associated with it, and the positive belief you'd prefer.
Phase 4: Desensitisation - Using bilateral stimulation (usually eye movements), you process the memory while your therapist guides you.
Phase 5: Installation - The positive belief is strengthened and "installed" to replace the negative one.
Phase 6: Body Scan - You check for any remaining physical tension related to the memory.
Phase 7: Closure - Each session ends with techniques to ensure you leave feeling stable.
Phase 8: Reevaluation - At the next session, you review progress and identify any remaining targets.
During the processing phases, you'll follow your therapist's finger or a light bar with your eyes while briefly focusing on the traumatic memory. Researchers are still studying exactly how bilateral stimulation works; one theory is that it helps the brain process the memory while holding it in mind.
Conditions Treated with EMDR
What to Expect
Your First Session
Your first session will focus on getting to know you, understanding your history, and identifying which memories or experiences are causing distress. Your therapist will explain how EMDR works and answer any questions you have.
Ongoing Sessions
Processing sessions involve brief exposure to the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation. Many people find the process less distressing than they expected. You remain in control throughout and can stop at any time.
Evidence & Research
EMDR is one of the trauma-focused therapies recommended in the Australian PTSD Guidelines (Phoenix Australia). It has been studied in a number of randomised controlled trials. As with any therapy, results vary from person to person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Therapies
Clinical Hypnosis
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VR Therapy
A therapy that uses immersive virtual reality to help you confront and overcome fears, phobias, and anxiety in a controlled, gradual setting.
ACT
A mindfulness-based therapy that helps you accept difficult experiences while committing to actions aligned with your values.
Fees & Payment Options
View session fees, Medicare rebates, and payment options for this therapy.
* Session estimates are indicative only. The number of sessions required varies depending on individual circumstances, severity of concerns, treatment goals, and progress in therapy. Learn more about therapy duration.
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