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EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing
What is EMDR?

​EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences. It has been extensively researched and proven effective for conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more.

Unlike traditional talk therapies, EMDR works by helping the brain process and reframe painful memories, so they no longer trigger intense emotional responses. Using bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements, taps, or sounds the brain’s natural healing mechanism is activated. This process can reduce emotional distress and often leads to significant improvements in symptoms and overall wellbeing. For more detailed information on EMDR and how it works please

click here.

Why Choose EMDR?

​EMDR is recognised by leading organisations, including the NHS, NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), and the World Health Organization, as a highly effective treatment for trauma and other mental health concerns. Many clients notice relief in fewer sessions compared to other therapy approaches, and it can be less distressing than other trauma-focused therapies.

Research and clinical experience show that EMDR is just as effective online as it is in face-to-face sessions. Many clients find online EMDR more convenient and flexible, allowing therapy to fit around their daily life.

 

What Can EMDR Help With?

  • PTSD

  • Childhood trauma

  • Anxiety and panic

  • Social anxiety

  • Depression

  • Low self-esteem

  • Phobias

  • OCD

  • Performance anxiety

 

What happens in EMDR sessions?

​Starting something new can feel daunting, so here’s an idea of what to expect in EMDR sessions. We’ll begin by talking through your history, current difficulties, and what you’d like to achieve. This helps me understand your needs and ensures EMDR is the right approach for you. I’ll also explain how EMDR works so you feel informed and comfortable before we begin.

During an EMDR session, we focus on a specific memory, thought, or image that feels distressing and that we feel is feeding into your current difficulties. At the same time, I will guide you through some bilateral stimulation which might be gentle side-to-side eye movements, taps, or sounds. This process helps your brain to reprocess the memory, so it loses its emotional intensity and feels less distressing over time. EMDR doesn’t erase memories, but it changes the way they’re stored in the brain.

 

Many people find that, after sessions, memories that once felt overwhelming can be recalled without the same level of pain or anxiety. Each person’s experience is different, but clients often describe EMDR as both powerful and surprisingly gentle. The pace is always guided by you, and my role is to ensure you feel safe and supported throughout.

Location

I currently mainly work online but I do offer a limited number of face to face sessions in Perthshire.

Please get in touch using the contact page. Or, you can email me at: susie@cobaltpsychotherapy.co.uk

Accreditations & Memberships
Cobolt Psychotherapy Accreditations
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