Difficult experiences do not always stay in the past. Some memories can continue to feel vivid and overwhelming, returning as flashbacks, nightmares or a strong physical reaction to reminders. EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) was developed to help people process these memories so they feel less distressing.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured psychotherapy developed by Dr Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is recommended by NICE and the World Health Organization for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it is also used for a range of other difficulties connected to painful experiences.

The idea behind EMDR is that some memories are not fully processed at the time they happen. They stay stored with the original emotions and body sensations, which is why they can feel as though they are happening again.

How does EMDR work?

During EMDR, you briefly focus on a memory while your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation, usually side-to-side eye movements, tapping or sounds. This seems to help the brain reprocess the memory, so it can be remembered without the same intensity of distress.

What to expect from sessions

• Preparation – your therapist gets to know your history and helps you build ways to feel calm and grounded before any memory work begins.
• Processing – you work on specific memories at a pace that feels manageable. You stay in control throughout and can pause at any time.
• Integration – you look at how you now feel and think about the memory, and build more positive beliefs about yourself.

The number of sessions varies. A single-incident trauma may need relatively few sessions, while more complex or long-standing experiences usually take longer.

Who can EMDR help?

EMDR is most widely known for trauma and PTSD, but it may also help with anxiety and panic, phobias, grief, and low self-esteem linked to earlier experiences. A qualified EMDR therapist will talk with you first about whether it is the right approach for you.

EMDR in Hackney and online

Learn more about EMDR therapy at Hackney Therapy House or browse our therapists to find a practitioner trained in EMDR. You can also read our FAQs for more about how therapy works.

If you are in crisis or feel unsafe, please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call Samaritans free on 116 123.