A specialist approach
EMDR
A structured, evidence-based therapy for processing trauma and distress — so the past stops living in the present.
What is EMDR?
A way to help the brain reprocess what feels stuck.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy developed by Dr Francine Shapiro. It helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they become less overwhelming.
Unlike talking therapies, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation — eye movements, taps, sounds or buzzers — to help the brain process experiences that have become stuck.
It is recommended by both NICE and the WHO as a research-backed method of working with trauma, and can be used as a standalone therapy or woven into longer-term integrative work when something feels stuck.
EMDR UK AssociationThe eight phases
Gentle, paced, and always at your speed.
EMDR unfolds across eight phases. We move through them together, returning to earlier phases whenever you need more grounding or stabilisation before we continue.
History taking & preparation
These stages are most like traditional talking therapy. We explore your background, what brings you to therapy, and your goals, and build a safe, trusting relationship. It's important to make sure trauma processing is appropriate and suitable, and that you feel well equipped to manage before moving on. You may revisit this phase at various points for further grounding and stabilisation.
Assessment & desensitisation
Here we prepare a memory, or 'target' — which can be a cluster of memories or experiences — and begin the desensitisation and processing. This doesn't require you to talk through your trauma or disclose uncomfortable details, though difficult thoughts, emotions and sensations may surface. Often the best way through is to keep going; at other times we may return to the preparation phase to make sure you feel resourced and able to continue.
Closure & re-evaluation
When distress has been sufficiently reduced, the processing comes to a close. This may be the end of the work, or you may have other memories or experiences you'd like to revisit — in which case we return to phase 3 and begin again with new material.
What it can help with
EMDR is effective for a wide range of experiences.
Single-event trauma
Complex trauma
PTSD
Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
Anxiety and panic attacks
Phobias
Sessions & fees
£60
50 minutes
£90
75 minutes
Sessions are available by phone, online, or in person from Stevenage — for adults and young people aged 16 and over.
Let's talk