Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that was originally developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Since its development in the late 1980s, EMDR has become one of the most widely recognised and researched trauma therapies in the world. It is recommended by the World Health Organisation and the Australian Psychological Society as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD.
At Unbound Minds, we have trained EMDR practitioners who use this approach to help people process distressing experiences and move forward.
EMDR is based on the idea that our brains have a natural capacity to process and heal from difficult experiences. However, when an experience is particularly overwhelming, the brain's processing system can become stuck. The memory gets stored in a way that keeps it feeling vivid and present, as though the event is still happening.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, most commonly guided eye movements, to help the brain reprocess these stuck memories. The goal is not to erase the memory but to help your brain store it in a way that no longer triggers the same level of distress.
EMDR follows a structured eight-phase protocol. Your psychologist will guide you through each phase at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
Preparation - Your psychologist will take time to understand your history, explain how EMDR works, and make sure you have strategies in place to manage any distress. This phase is about building trust and ensuring you feel safe.
Processing - Your psychologist will ask you to bring a specific memory to mind while following their hand movements with your eyes. You stay fully conscious and in control throughout. This is not hypnosis.
Closing and Review - At the end of each session, your psychologist will help you return to a calm state. Between sessions, you may notice continued processing, such as new thoughts or dreams related to the material you worked on. This is a normal part of the process.
While EMDR was originally developed for trauma, research now supports its use for a broader range of concerns:
EMDR does not require you to describe the distressing event in detail. Your psychologist needs only enough information to guide the process. This can make EMDR a particularly good fit for people who find it difficult or overwhelming to talk about their experiences at length.
EMDR also tends to work faster than some other trauma-focused therapies for certain presentations.
Our team includes psychologists who are trained in EMDR and experienced in working with trauma across all age groups. EMDR is often used alongside other evidence-based approaches at our practice. Your psychologist will work with you to determine the best path forward.
If you think EMDR might be helpful for you, the first step is to book an appointment. You can self-refer and pay privately, or visit your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan to access Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
When you get in touch, let our team know that you are interested in EMDR so we can match you with a psychologist who is trained in this approach.
Ready to take the first step? Book an appointment or call us on 1300 151 110.
