EMDR Therapy in Wellington, Somerset and Online

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WHAT EMDR IS

​​​EMDR is an evidence based and NICE recommend therapy, it aims to support the processing of blocked and unprocessed experiences through bilateral stimulation which are causing disturbance in the here and now. Through this process the vividness of the memory and associated distress and disturbance reduces. 

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WHAT EMDR CAN HELP WITH

EMDR is highly effective for:

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• PTSD and Complex Trauma

• Flashbacks and Nightmares

• Panic, fear and hyper-vigilance

• Childhood or developmental trauma

• Medical and accident trauma

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In addition to the above, EMDR is also proving to be effective for Depression, OCD and Anxiety. EMDR is effective in reducing the vividness of traumatic experiences and the associated distress. I can support you and go at your pace.

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EMDR THEORY

The Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model is the foundation of EMDR. The AIP model proposes adverse memories with the original emotion, belief and bodily sensations are not processed fully or processing is blocked which leads to psychological disturbance and distress. When processing is blocked the memory can be triggered in the present day and lead to the following symptoms: Intrusive memories; nightmares; flashbacks, intense emotional reactions and negative self beliefs. 

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Example of adaptive processing:

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Daily stress - memory of a minor argument or setback without intense emotional distress because the brain has integrated other information from other experiences and learning that you have got through it. 

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Example of blocked processing where adaptive information processing has not happened:

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Being in a road traffic accident - continuing to feel the physical sensations, emotions and cognitions as if the accident were still happening. This gives the sense of reliving and continuing to feel in danger even though the danger has passed.

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Processing being blocked or information not being adaptively processed is not your fault or anything you have done wrong. It is likely the nature of what you have lived through was experienced at such an intensity that regions of the brain automatically respond in a different way. EMDR can support processing to reduce the vividness and associated disturbance being experienced.

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HOW EMDR WORKS

Neuroplasticity is a beacon of hope that reminds us of our brain's ability to change and restructure. Just because an experience has not been processed or integrated and has become stuck does not mean it has to stay like this. 

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EMDR works through 

• Reactivating the traumatic memory, through reactivating the memory is temporarily liable for change

• Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) is introduced, BLS taxes working memory to reduce the vividness and emotionality to support adaptive information processing and enhances communication between the left and right hemisphere in the brain.

• New and adaptive information is integrated. 

• The memory is re-stored adaptively, when the memory is brought to mind less disturbance is experienced.

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EMDR is not seeking to rewrite an experience or invalidate what happened, the aim is to integrate information which then impacts on reducing the disturbance experienced when it is brought to mind and the impact it has on you in the here and now.​

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WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

EMDR is characterised by distinct phases:

History Taking Phase - exploration of presenting problem, trauma history, past memories linked to current problem, present triggers. The purpose of this phase is to develop a shared understanding and form a therapy plan.

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Preparation Phase - this includes psychoeducation, establish safety and trust, develop resources (e.g. calm space, container, attachment figures). Purpose of this phase is to develop emotional stability and readiness for processing. Emotional regulation and the ability to access and be alongside distressing experiences is needed at this stage before proceeding to the processing phase. If dissociation is experienced a longer period of time is often needed to spent here in the preparation phase before moving into processing. This is to ensure safe and ethical EMDR.

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Processing Phase (Assessment, Desensitisation, Installation, Body Scan, Closure) - Purpose is to support adaptive information processing. EMDR uses a three pronged approach, targets processed in this phase may be past experiences that led to the current problem, present triggers that activate distress or future templates to support adaptive resources.

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ONLINE EMDR THERAPY

Online EMDR is just as effective online as it is in person. I use specific, secure programs that deliver the bilateral stimulation (Bilateral Base) when meeting online. As long as you have a private, confidential space to meet online where you will be uninterrupted this can work well. Offering online EMDR has been great for working with people who are not local to Somerset. 

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IN PERSON EMDR THERAPY

I have a peaceful therapy room, I have taken time to create a space that feels comfortable and warm. Elements of the room can be modified for your comfort, there are also a number of fidget toys available. You are welcome to bring resources to session that help you feel grounded. Working in person bilateral stimulation can be delivered via a light bar, headphones or handheld buzzers. 

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I am experienced in supporting with PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Low Self Esteem. I have an adaptive style where I would tailor the support to you and go at your pace. EMDR therapy appointments are delivered weekly or as an intensive.​ To read more about EMDR Intensive please click the 'EMDR Intensive' button. Alternatively, if you would like to explore how EMDR may help you please book your free initial consultation, please click the 'book now' button in the banner below. I would be delighted to hear from you.​

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