A gentle, evidence-based way to process what still feels raw.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a focused, evidence-based therapy for trauma and distressing memories
When something overwhelming happens, the memory can become “stuck” — stored in a way that keeps it feeling raw, so reminders bring back the same distress, images or physical sensations long afterwards. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories so they lose their intensity and can settle into the past, where they belong. It's recognised by NICE and the World Health Organisation as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress, many people find it helpful for a wider range of distressing experiences too.
What is EMDR?
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We begin with time to get to know one another and to understand what's brought you here. Nothing is rushed.
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Before any processing, we make sure you feel safe, steady and resourced.
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You briefly bring a memory to mind while following a gentle side-to-side movement — your eye movements or soft alternating taps or sounds — which supports the brain's natural processing.
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Over time the memory becomes less vivid and less distressing, and the beliefs attached to it — such as “I'm not safe” — can begin to shift toward something more settled and true.
How EMDR works
You stay in control throughout, and you don't need to share every detail of what happened.
What EMDR can help with
Trauma and post-traumatic stress (PTSD)
Childhood or longstanding difficult experiences
A single distressing event — an accident, assault or loss
Anxiety, phobias and panic
Grief, and distressing memories that intrude on the present
What to expect
Some people come specifically for EMDR; for others it becomes one part of our wider work together. Whichever is true for you, we'll decide together what feels right. If you think EMDR might help, or you're simply curious whether it's for you, do get in touch; there's no pressure, and we can talk it through.
FAQs
How long are the sessions?
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EMDR sessions are usually 75 or 90 minutes rather than the standard 50. Trauma work benefits from the extra time — it means we can open something up and settle again properly before you leave, rather than stopping partway.
How many sessions will I need?
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How many sessions you’ll need varies a great deal. A single distressing event can sometimes be worked through relatively briefly; longstanding or repeated experiences take longer. We’ll talk about this openly as we go, and you’re never committed to more than feels right.
Does EMDR work online?
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EMDR can be done in person in Woking or online via Zoom — the bilateral stimulation is adapted for online work and remains just as effective.
What training do you have?
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Trained in EMDR, with training accredited by the EMDR Europe Association, working with trauma and distressing memories. I am also a member of the EMDR Association UK.
I’m also trained in the REWIND technique for trauma and PTSD, and I’ve worked with trauma throughout thirty years in mental health, including acute NHS settings.
Ask about EMDR
Making contact can be the hardest part, so there’s no pressure here. If you have a question, or you’d simply like to see whether we might work well together, I’d be glad to hear from you.