Eye movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychotherapy approach that supports people in processing distressing memories and reducing the emotional impact of past trauma.

It combines elements of talk therapy with guided eye movements or other forms of rhythmic stimulation to help your brain “reprocess” stuck or painful memories in a safe and controlled way.

EMDR focuses on helping you make sense of how past experiences are affecting your current emotional responses, and it also prepares you to manage future challenges more effectively.

What can EMDR help with?

EMDR is best known for treating:

• Trauma
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

It may also help with other issues, including:

• Anxiety and panic
• Low self-esteem
• Depression
• Addictions or compulsive behaviours
• Difficult life events that continue to affect your daily life

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Many people who have experienced trauma find that EMDR helps them feel less overwhelmed by their memories. The therapy helps reduce the emotional charge linked to past events and can lessen symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, or emotional numbness.

Over time, people often report:

• Feeling more in control of their emotions
• Increased self-confidence
• Relief from symptoms of anxiety or distress
• Improved ability to function day-to-day

What happens during an EMDR session?

In your sessions, your therapist will guide you through a series of eye movements or sounds while you recall aspects of a distressing memory. You stay fully awake and in control the whole time.

This process allows the brain to “reprocess” the memory—making it feel less intense, while helping you build new, more helpful perspectives.

EMDR is not hypnosis, and you can stop at any time. Your therapist will support you throughout, at a pace that feels right for you.

How to access EMDR in Derby and Derbyshire

You don’t need to speak to your GP to access our services. If you’re aged 16+ and registered with a GP in Derby or Derbyshire, you can self-refer directly through our website or by phone.

Once referred, we’ll assess your needs and recommend the most suitable therapy—EMDR may be one of the options we offer.