EMDR FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Is An EMDR Session?
EMDR sessions at Listening 2 U typically last between 60 and 90 minutes.
The length of the session will depend on your individual needs, the stage of therapy, and the work being undertaken during the session.
Longer sessions can be particularly beneficial for EMDR as they allow sufficient time for preparation, memory processing, grounding, and reflection without feeling rushed.
During your initial conversation, we can discuss the most appropriate session length for you and tailor the work to your needs and circumstances.
What Does EMDR Stand For?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.
It is a therapeutic approach that helps people process distressing memories, traumatic experiences, and difficult life events that may continue to affect them in the present. EMDR is recognised as an effective treatment for trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that helps the brain process memories that may have become "stuck" following a traumatic or overwhelming experience.
Rather than simply talking about difficult events, EMDR helps the brain reprocess how those memories are stored, reducing their emotional intensity and impact on daily life.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is commonly used to support people experiencing:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Childhood trauma
- Abuse and neglect
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Phobias
- Grief and bereavement
- Attachment difficulties
- Low self-esteem
- Relationship difficulties
- Medical trauma
- Birth trauma
- Workplace stress and trauma
- Distressing life experiences
Sometimes difficulties arise from one significant event. For others, they may stem from a series of experiences that have shaped how they view themselves and the world around them.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, which may involve eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds.
While focusing on aspects of a memory, the brain is supported to process the experience differently. Over time, many people find that memories become less distressing and no longer trigger the same emotional reactions.
Will I Have To Relive My Trauma?
No.
EMDR is not about forcing you to relive traumatic experiences.
Before any memory processing takes place, time is spent building emotional resources, coping strategies, and a safe therapeutic relationship. The process is paced according to your needs, and you remain in control throughout.
Do I Have To Talk About Everything That Happened?
Not necessarily.
Unlike some forms of therapy, EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of a traumatic experience. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you, and you only share what feels comfortable and appropriate.
Is EMDR The Same As Hypnosis?
No.
EMDR is not hypnosis. You remain fully aware, present, and in control during sessions. You can pause, slow down, or stop the process at any time.
How Many EMDR Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions varies from person to person.
Factors that can influence the length of therapy include:
- The nature of the difficulties being experienced
- Whether there was a single traumatic event or multiple experiences
- The level of current support and coping resources
- Individual therapy goals
Some people notice positive changes within a relatively short period, whilst others benefit from longer-term work.
Can EMDR Be Used Online?
Yes.
EMDR can be delivered both face-to-face and online when appropriate. Many people successfully engage in EMDR remotely from the comfort of their own home.
Is EMDR Safe?
EMDR is considered a safe and well-established therapeutic approach when delivered by a suitably trained therapist.
As with any therapy that involves processing difficult experiences, emotions and memories can sometimes feel more noticeable between sessions. Your therapist will help you develop strategies to manage this and ensure you feel supported throughout the process.
What Might I Experience Between Sessions?
People's experiences vary.
Some people notice:
- Increased awareness of thoughts or emotions
- New memories surfacing
- Changes in dreams
- Greater insight into patterns and experiences
- A sense of emotional relief
How Will I Know If EMDR Is Right For Me?
EMDR may be helpful if past experiences continue to affect your life in the present.
During an initial appointment, we can explore your experiences, current difficulties, and therapy goals together. This allows us to consider whether EMDR is the most appropriate approach for your individual needs.
What Happens During The First Appointment?
The first appointment is an opportunity to get to know each other and explore what has brought you to therapy.
We will discuss:
- Your current difficulties
- Relevant life experiences
- Your goals for therapy
- Whether EMDR may be appropriate
- Any questions or concerns you may have
There is no expectation that memory processing will begin during the first session. Time is taken to ensure you feel safe, supported, and fully informed.
How Do I Arrange An Appointment?
|
Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, especially when difficult experiences have been carried for a long time.
If you would like to learn more about EMDR, explore whether it may be right for you, or to arrange an initial appointment, please click the Contact Us button. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and discuss how we can support you on your journey forward. |