EMDR THERAPY BRISBANE NORTHSIDE
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR Therapy)
Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR Therapy)
Get the help and support you need from an EMDR
psychologist in Brisbane
Get the help and support you need from an EMDR psychologist in Brisbane
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy used to support people experiencing trauma-related difficulties, anxiety, depression and other psychological concerns. EMDR works by helping the brain process distressing memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity and ongoing impact.
EMDR can be particularly helpful for individuals with complex trauma or those who find it difficult to talk in detail about past experiences. Rather than relying solely on verbal processing, EMDR uses guided bilateral stimulation to support emotional processing in a safe and contained way.
Although EMDR may be less widely known than therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), it is strongly supported by research and is widely recognised as an effective treatment for PTSD. At Brisbane Centre for Psychology, our psychologists offer EMDR therapy as part of a tailored, trauma-informed approach to treatment, supporting recovery, emotional regulation and long-term wellbeing.
How effective is EMDR therapy?
Most studies conducted on the effectiveness of EMDR therapy relate to PTSD, with the majority of these studies showing that EMDR therapy sessions are highly effective for treating PTSD symptoms. Moreover, EMDR is a recommended treatment for PTSD in the World Health Organisation’s ‘Guidelines for the Management of Conditions Specifically Related to Stress.’ Australia’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs recommends EMDR therapy as a suitable treatment for PTSD for members of the Australian Defence Force.
EMDR training ensures that our clinical psychologists use the most advanced techniques to treat trauma, including eye movements and bilateral stimulation. These methods help clients reprocess traumatic experiences by addressing both emotional and physical sensations associated with past events.
What can EMDR therapy help with?
EMDR therapy can assist with PTSD, anxiety, depression and more.
On our team, an EMDR therapist at Brisbane Centre for Psychology, will most commonly use this therapy to treat PTSD. Our caring and highly qualified psychologists offer EMDR therapy sessions for PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety disorders and other conditions including:
- Panic attacks
- Eating disorders
- Addictions
- Borderline personality disorder
At Brisbane Centre for Psychology, EMDR therapy incorporates techniques such as dialectical behaviour therapy, schema therapy, and eye movement desensitisation. These approaches help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences in a structured and supportive environment.
If you’re interested in EMDR therapy at our Stafford clinic or you’d like to learn more about the EMDR therapies, costs, and plans that we offer, contact Brisbane Centre for Psychology.
What to expect in an EMDR session
If you’re considering EMDR therapy, understanding what happens in a session can help you feel more comfortable and prepared. The process is structured into several phases, including:
1. History-taking & treatment planning
Your psychologist will assess your history, current symptoms, and therapy goals.
2. Preparation
You’ll learn techniques to manage emotional distress, such as grounding exercises and bilateral stimulation techniques.
3. Assessment
The therapist helps you identify specific traumatic memories to target.
4. Desensitisation
Using eye movements, tapping or sounds, you’ll reprocess traumatic experiences in a safe and controlled manner.
5. Installation
Positive beliefs and emotions are reinforced to replace distressing thoughts.
6. Body scan
You’ll notice and address any physical or body sensations tied to past trauma.
7. Closure & re-evaluation
The therapist ensures you leave each session feeling stable and discusses progress in subsequent sessions.
EMDR is a progressive therapy, and while some people notice changes quickly, others may need multiple sessions to fully process traumatic memories.
Research & effectiveness of EMDR
EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and is backed by leading mental health organisations worldwide. Studies have shown that EMDR is highly effective in treating PTSD symptoms, with many people experiencing significant improvements in a relatively short period.
- The Australian Psychological Society acknowledges EMDR as an evidence-based approach for trauma therapy.
- The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends EMDR as a frontline treatment for PTSD.
- Studies show that eye movement desensitisation significantly reduces distress associated with traumatic experiences and helps individuals regain emotional balance.
If you’re interested in EMDR therapy at our Brisbane northside clinic or you’d like to learn more about the EMDR therapies, costs, and plans that we offer, contact Brisbane Centre for Psychology.
How EMDR differs to other therapies
Each therapeutic approach offers unique benefits, and the right choice depends on an individual’s specific needs and experiences. EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) are all effective, evidence-based treatments that support mental health recovery.
While these therapies differ in approach, they can complement one another, and in some cases, clinicians integrate elements of multiple therapies to create a personalised treatment plan. The best therapy for you will depend on your history, current challenges, and therapeutic goals.
- EMDR therapy is particularly effective for individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms and complex trauma. It uses bilateral stimulation and eye movements to help the brain reprocess distressing memories, reducing emotional intensity and associated physical sensations.
- Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is widely used for anxiety disorders, depression and other mental health concerns. It focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
- Schema therapy is beneficial for those with long-standing emotional patterns, often rooted in early life experiences. It integrates elements of CBT, attachment theory, and experiential techniques to change deep-seated patterns of thinking and behaviour.
- Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) is particularly helpful for individuals with borderline personality disorder, emotional dysregulation, and self-destructive behaviours. It emphasises mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Meet our EMDR THERAPY Psychologists
Our Team
EMDR Brisbane Centre for Psychology: FAQs
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
The number of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) sessions required can vary greatly from person to person, depending on factors such as the complexity and duration of the trauma, the individual’s personal history, and how they respond to treatment. Some individuals experience noticeable improvement after just a few sessions, while others may require a longer course of therapy. It is common for individuals dealing with complex trauma or multiple traumatic events to need more sessions to achieve optimal results. Your therapist will work closely with you to assess your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Is EMDR safe?
Yes, EMDR is considered a safe and effective evidence-based therapy. It is recommended by mental health professionals for the treatment of trauma-related conditions, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When conducted by a licensed and trained psychologist, EMDR presents minimal risks. It’s normal for some individuals to experience temporary emotional discomfort as they process distressing memories during sessions. However, therapists are trained to guide clients through these moments and provide coping mechanisms to help manage any emotional reactions. The therapy is designed to promote healing and resilience while minimising harm.
Can EMDR be combined with other therapies?
Yes, EMDR can be effectively combined with other therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and Schema Therapy. This integrative approach allows therapists to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the individual’s specific needs. EMDR can enhance the benefits of these therapies by targeting the emotional and cognitive responses linked to trauma, while other therapies can help with developing coping strategies, improving emotional regulation, and addressing thought patterns. A personalised approach ensures a well-rounded and effective treatment experience.
Is EMDR suitable for children?
Yes, EMDR can be adapted to suit children and adolescents, particularly those who have experienced trauma. In these cases, therapists modify the standard EMDR protocols to be age-appropriate, using creative techniques such as storytelling, drawing, and other interactive methods that engage younger clients in the healing process. Children may find it easier to process difficult emotions when they can express themselves in ways that feel safe and comfortable. A trained therapist will work closely with the child and their family to ensure the therapy is effective and supportive.
How does EMDR help with PTSD symptoms?
EMDR is particularly effective in treating PTSD symptoms by helping individuals reprocess and integrate traumatic memories. Through bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tapping, EMDR facilitates the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing the individual to process distressing memories in a less overwhelming way. Over time, traumatic memories are no longer associated with intense emotional or physical reactions, which reduces the severity of PTSD symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety and hypervigilance. EMDR can help individuals develop healthier ways of thinking and feeling about past traumatic events, leading to a reduction in symptoms and a greater sense of emotional stability.
How do I book an EMDR therapy session?
Booking an EMDR therapy session is easy! You can either book an appointment online through our website or contact the Brisbane Centre for Psychology directly to speak with one of our friendly staff members. They will assist you in scheduling an appointment with one of our experienced psychologists, who specialise in EMDR therapy. If you have any questions or need more information before booking, feel free to reach out, and we’ll be happy to guide you through the process.