What Is EMDR and How Can It Help?

If you’ve experienced something difficult or distressing that still feels “stuck” in your mind or body, you’re not alone, and you’re not broken. Many people carry the weight of past experiences, even long after the event has passed. That’s where EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) can help.

It’s a powerful therapy approach that helps people heal from trauma and emotional distress, without needing to talk in detail about what happened.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess painful or traumatic memories so they no longer feel so triggering. It’s based on the idea that when something overwhelming happens, the brain sometimes struggles to process it properly. Instead, the memory gets “stuck” with all the feelings, body sensations, and beliefs that came with it.

This is why even years later, certain sounds, places, smells, or situations can trigger intense reactions; because the brain still experiences that memory as though it’s happening right now.

EMDR helps unstick those memories so that they feel like something in the past, not something you’re reliving in the present.

How does EMDR work?

During EMDR therapy, we identify the experiences that are still causing distress. These could be big traumatic events or smaller, repeated moments that had a lasting impact. You don’t need to go into full detail. The process uses a technique called bilateral stimulation (usually eye movements, sounds, or taps) while you recall parts of the memory in a safe and structured way.

This allows the brain to process the memory more adaptively, reducing the emotional intensity and helping you to feel more in control of your thoughts and feelings.

What can EMDR help with?

EMDR is best known for treating trauma and PTSD, but it's also effective for a wide range of difficulties, including:

• Anxiety and panic

• Low self-esteem or negative self-beliefs

• Childhood emotional neglect or attachment wounds

• Grief and loss

• Phobias

• Medical trauma or birth trauma

• Stress linked to difficult life events (e.g. bullying, divorce, accidents)

Many people are surprised by how much change can happen in a short amount of time, even with long-standing difficulties.

Is EMDR effective?

Yes, EMDR is supported by a strong and growing evidence base. It's recommended by the NHS, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of PTSD. Research shows that EMDR can reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and distress, often more quickly than traditional talking therapies.

What does EMDR therapy look like?

At Sutton Psychology Practice, EMDR is always paced carefully and adapted to your needs. We’ll never jump into processing before you feel ready. Together, we build emotional safety and grounding first so you feel supported, not overwhelmed.

Some clients come for EMDR specifically to work on a particular memory or experience. Others integrate EMDR into ongoing therapy. It’s flexible, and it works well alongside other approaches like CBT and DBT.

If you’re wondering whether EMDR might help, get in touch for a free, no-pressure initial chat.

You don’t have to keep carrying the past alone.