EMDR therapy
I'm a BACP-accredited counsellor and certified EMDR practitioner, offering EMDR in New Malden, easy to reach from Kingston, Wimbledon and Surbiton.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy, first developed for trauma. It helps the brain process memories that feel 'stuck' and still upsetting, sometimes years later.
It uses a structured method, including guided eye movements or tapping, alongside talking. The aim isn't to forget what happened, but for the memory to stop feeling as if it's happening now.
Who it can help
- Trauma and PTSD
- A specific frightening event, such as an accident or assault
- Difficult childhood experiences
- Distressing memories that still feel raw
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
What happens in EMDR sessions
1
Assessment
We talk about your history, the memories you'd like to work on, and whether EMDR is right for you. It isn't suitable for everyone, and if another approach would suit you better, I'll tell you.
2
Preparation
Before working on any memory, we find a way for you to feel calm and grounded that you can come back to if a session feels too intense. This is part of what keeps EMDR safe.
3
Processing
You bring a memory to mind while following a structured process, usually side-to-side eye movements or tapping. You don't have to relive it in full detail.
4
Settling
Strong feelings during early sessions are normal. We always finish by helping you feel settled before you leave, even if we haven't finished working on a memory.
Most people need several sessions to work through a significant memory, and everyone is different. You'll never be rushed faster than feels manageable.
Sessions and fees
- Initial consultation (up to 1 hour): £70
- EMDR session (60 minutes): £90
- Extended EMDR session (90 minutes): £110
Sessions are one-to-one, in person in New Malden or online. All fees
How I use EMDR
I'm a certified EMDR practitioner, trained to EMDR Europe standard with the EMDR Academy. I often combine EMDR with other approaches, such as CBT, depending on what you need.
Other approaches I use: CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy
Common questions
- Do I have to talk about the memory in detail?
- No. You bring the memory to mind, but you don't have to describe it in full or relive it. The structured process is designed to help you work through it without being overwhelmed.
- How many EMDR sessions will I need?
- It varies. Most people need several sessions for a significant memory, and some notice a change sooner than others. We'll review progress together as we go.
- Why are EMDR sessions longer?
- EMDR needs time for the structured process and for you to feel settled again before we finish, so sessions are 60 or 90 minutes rather than the usual 50.