When a person has experiences a traumatic or upsetting event the brain is unable to full process what is going on. The memory becomes 'stuck'. When reminders occur, the 'stuck' memory is triggered and the person re-experience the emotional distress that they felt as though it is happening in the present.

EMDR helps the brain 'unstick' and reprocess the memory properly and aims to desensitise the person to the emotional impact of the memory. The person will be able to think about the memory without it being so distressing to them.

During your initial appointment a detailed history will be taken and you will discuss what has led you to be seeking help. In EMDR you do not have to discuss traumatic events in detail as the approach focuses on the importance of the emotions and feelings around the event instead. After the initial appointment you will be supported with learning strategies to help you manage your emotions and feeling during and between sessions. Next you will be asked to recall the memories whilst moving your eyes from side to side or alternately tapping your hands. These side to side sensations help to 'unstick' the 'stuck' memory so that your brain can reprocess the information, as it would a with an ordinary memory, making it less intense. EMDR can help people replace distressing emotions and memories with more positive thoughts and emotions.
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