EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing
Past experience often casts a shadow on our present, but there's a path to positive change through Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.
EMDR is a proven psychotherapy technique endorsed by the UK's National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) for treating trauma, especially Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This method is effective in addressing distressing experiences by mitigating the impact of memories that manifest as nightmares, overwhelming feelings, flashbacks, or panic. EMDR uses rapid bilateral stimulation, involving eye movements or tapping, to facilitate the brain's processing of memories.
If you have been through an experience causing distress, shock or trauma, you may consider EMDR.
Specialising in sexual and domestic violence, I offer expertise in using EMDR to reduce the shock and associated symptoms from such events. With a combination of experience, knowledge, and understanding, I provide professional and empathic guidance throughout the process.
The eight-stage model of EMDR
EMDR operates within an eight-stage model, beginning with assessment and goal-setting, followed by a focus on safety, stabilisation, and resourcing. During this phase, we develop tools and strategies to ensure you feel grounded and present throughout the treatment. Together, we identify target memories – specific memories we will address during the process.
The desensitisation phase aims to diminish the emotional intensity of the memory through bilateral stimulation, achieved by left-to-right eye movements or tapping. This is done while concentrating on the target memory, associated beliefs, and feelings.
Positive cognition involves cultivating a belief to replace the limiting beliefs associated with the traumatic event. Once this process feels complete, a body scan helps identify and address any sensations or memories stored in the body.
Reconnecting with your internal resources is a continual theme in the treatment, providing support for emotional regulation. The reevaluation phase concludes the treatment, allowing for a review of the process and assessment for any additional targets that may have emerged.
Practicalities
Where to start
The 1st step is to determine your availability. Once we find suitable dates and times for both of us, we can begin to gauge our compatibility for working together. You are welcome to book an initial session or arrange a complimentary 15 minute call.
Agreement and Funding
Upon confirmation, you'll receive a registration form outlining the terms and conditions of therapy. If you are self-funding, kindly ensure that the session cost is settled before the appointment. For those covered by healthcare or an organisation, I will directly invoice them.
Establishing a regular therapy appointment
Upon your decision, I'll provide you with a registration form, confirming all the necessary information for your sessions.
The initial phase involves an information-gathering process where I learn about your background, including family, relationships, and any trauma history. This aids in understanding the context of your life, enabling us to work together safely.
During this process, you'll have the opportunity to reflect on what you hope to achieve through therapy, and we'll collaboratively work towards these goals.
Format and Prices
Typically, an EMDR session lasts for 50 minutes, but discussions with your therapist may determine longer or biweekly sessions if necessary. EMDR can serve as a standalone treatment or be effectively integrated with talking therapy. It takes place face to face and the location is Surbiton.
Sessions are for 50 minutes and cost £85.
I am a registered provider for: Aviva, Axa, Bupa, Cigna, Geo-Blue, Onebright, Vitality, WPA
With 15 years of experience in the field of trauma, I've found that EMDR serves as a valuable complement to talking therapy.
This method effectively addresses the distressing consequences of trauma, offering relief from symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance, anxiety, phobias and panic.
I am certified in EMDR Parts One, Two, and Three, qualifying me to work with a broad spectrum of trauma, ranging from isolated incidents to complex trauma sustained over an extended period. Ensuring the quality of my practice, I participate in monthly supervision with an EMDR accredited consultant and engage in a monthly peer supervision group. As a member of EMDR UK, I consistently pursue Continued Professional Development and adhere strictly to the EMDR Europe Association Code of Ethics.