EMDR therapy in Cambridge & online

What is EMDR?

EMDR stands for eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing. It is a therapy used to help people process distressing experiences and reduce the impact those memories have in the present.

The NHS lists EMDR among treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This does not mean every distressing experience requires EMDR: suitability needs to be considered with a trained therapist.

Further reading: NHS: PTSD and its treatments

More than eye movements

EMDR is a structured therapeutic process, not simply an eye-movement exercise. During memory-processing work, a therapist may guide side-to-side eye movements or use alternating sounds or taps.

It should be delivered by a suitably trained therapist. The EMDR Association explains that the approach aims to make distressing memories feel less intense. Experiences and outcomes differ, and no particular result or number of sessions can be promised.

Further reading: EMDR Association UK: the basics

Considering EMDR with Kate

Kate is a registered mental health nurse and psychological therapist, and an EMDR UK member. She also works with CBT and IPT, recognising that no single approach fits everyone.

A first conversation gives you space to talk about what brings you to therapy, ask questions and consider whether Kate’s approach feels right. You do not need to arrive having chosen a type of therapy.