What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a trauma-focused therapy designed to help people process distressing memories and reduce their impact. When trauma isn’t fully processed, it can feel as though the event is “stuck” in the nervous system, triggering flashbacks, hyperarousal, or avoidance.
EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories in a safe and structured way. Through guided eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation), EMDR allows the nervous system to file away traumatic experiences as past events, rather than ongoing threats.
At Living Free, EMDR is always paced carefully. You are never forced to relive trauma; instead, the therapy helps you gradually reclaim control and reduce the emotional charge of painful memories.
How It Works
Preparation and stabilisation before trauma processing.
Identifying target memories or distressing experiences.
Using eye movements or tapping (bilateral stimulation) while recalling the memory.
Reprocessing the memory until distress decreases and new perspectives emerge.
Who It Helps
- PTSD
- Trauma
- Complex Trauma
- Stress Disorders
Evidence Base
EMDR is one of the most evidence-based trauma therapies and is recommended in clinical guidelines worldwide, including those aligned with DSM-5. Research shows EMDR significantly reduces PTSD symptoms and helps regulate the nervous system.
