EMDR Therapy in Australia
Discover how EMDR therapy at Resplora helps you recover from trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. Learn how EMDR works, its benefits, and why choose our certified team.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a contemporary, evidence-based psychotherapy approach that helps individuals overcome trauma and deeply rooted emotional issues by reprocessing difficult memories and using bilateral brain stimulation.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR treatment is based on the Adaptive Information Processing model, which states that traumatic or disturbing experiences can become “stuck” in the nervous system, making it hard for the mind to fully process them.
During a session, the therapist guides the client to access specific memories while using bilateral stimulation—usually guided eye movements, alternating hand taps, or sounds in both ears—which stimulates both cerebral hemispheres.
This helps reframe distressing memories, reducing symptoms such as anxiety, fear, anger, or sadness, enabling recall without intense suffering.
The Eight Phases of EMDR
- Comprehensive assessment and identification of target memories
- Preparation and psychoeducation
- Evaluation of beliefs and physical sensations
- Desensitization with bilateral stimulation
- Installation of positive beliefs
- Body scan for residual tension
- Closure
- Reevaluation in following sessions
Benefits and Indications
- Relief from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance
- Reduction in the intensity of traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, chronic pain, and addictions
- Improved self-esteem and fewer recurring negative thoughts
- More effective processing of past experiences, fostering emotional balance
Who Is EMDR For?
- Adults, adolescents, and children who have experienced major trauma (violence, disasters, accidents)
- Difficult life events, bullying, loss, breakups, or emotional abuse
- Anxiety disorders and panic attacks
- Chronic depression and self-limiting beliefs
- Low self-esteem and difficulty adapting to major life changes
Effectiveness and Safety
EMDR is recognized by leading organizations like the WHO and APA for its effectiveness, fast symptom relief, and safety when delivered by accredited professionals.
Why Choose EMDR at Resplora?
At Resplora, sessions are delivered by certified professionals using internationally recognized protocols, in a welcoming and safe environment. Treatment is personalized to each individual’s needs, with a focus on well-being and long-lasting emotional balance.
Frequent Questions
What is EMDR therapy and how does it work?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy approach that helps people recover from trauma and distressing life experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation, like guided eye movements, to help reprocess painful memories so they become less distressing and are integrated more adaptively
Is EMDR safe and effective?
Yes, EMDR is a safe, evidence-based therapy approved by organizations like the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association. It has been shown to be highly effective for treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other emotional problems
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies for each person, depending on the complexity of the issues being treated. Many people experience noticeable improvement within 6–12 sessions, but some may need more or fewer sessions based on individual needs
What if I’m uncomfortable with eye movements?
Alternatives to eye movements, such as tapping or listening to tones, are available and shown to be just as effective. Your therapist will choose the technique that makes you feel most comfortable
Is EMDR only for treating major trauma?
No, EMDR is helpful for a wide range of issues, not just severe trauma. It can also support people dealing with anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, and negative self-beliefs, whether these difficulties come from multiple events or everyday life stress