Discover the Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Written on: 27 June 2025

EMDR Therapy: A Powerful Approach for Healing and Personal Growth

At some point, we all face difficult experiences. These may include past trauma, ongoing stress, or struggles with emotions. Sometimes, we carry the emotional weight of these experiences, making us feel stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed. If this resonates with you, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy may offer a transformative approach.

EMDR is often linked to trauma, but it’s a versatile therapy. It helps with anxiety, phobias, and low self-esteem. This therapy supports emotional healing and promotes lasting change. Let’s explore what EMDR is, why it’s effective, and how it may benefit you.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR was developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro to help individuals process traumatic experiences. This structured therapy allows distressing memories to be reprocessed using bilateral stimulation, often in the form of eye movements.

By using this method, the brain reprocesses memories, reducing their emotional charge. EMDR helps to integrate these experiences more healthily. This can lessen anxiety, fear, or sadness linked to the memory. The therapy not only eases emotional responses but also challenges negative beliefs formed due to the experience.

How Does EMDR Work?

During an EMDR session, the therapist helps you identify targets to work on using bilateral stimulation, such as following their fingers with your eyes. Tapping or auditory stimulation can also be used.

This process helps your brain create new connections between emotional memories and positive, adaptive thoughts. Over time, you may experience reduced distress related to past events. The goal isn’t to ‘erase’ memories but to change how they affect your emotions and well-being.

Though the process may feel unusual at first, most clients find it calming and effective. Many experience a noticeable reduction in distress after a few sessions. Some report feeling lighter, more in control, and more at peace with their past.

What Can EMDR Help With?

Originally developed for trauma and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), EMDR is now a respected treatment for many emotional and mental health challenges. It benefits individuals beyond those who have experienced severe trauma.

For example, EMDR helps with anxiety, stress, depression, and low self-esteem. It shifts negative beliefs and fosters a more positive self-image. Additionally, research shows that EMDR benefits those with OCD. Studies in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research found EMDR as effective as exposure/response prevention (ERP) in reducing obsessive thoughts and compulsions.

The therapy also aids those with phobias by addressing emotional memories linked to fear. Phobias often stem from distressing events, like a frightening flight or a negative encounter with an animal. EMDR reprocesses these memories, reducing their emotional intensity. This helps individuals develop a more balanced perspective

Man in therapy consultation with female clinician
two women in therapy consultation
two men in consultation meeting

The Evidence Behind EMDR

Extensive research supports EMDR’s effectiveness across various conditions. In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) officially recommends it for PTSD treatment. Clinical studies consistently demonstrate its success in reducing trauma and anxiety symptoms. Research also shows that EMDR results are often long-lasting.

The British Psychological Society (BPS) endorses EMDR as a proven treatment for trauma and anxiety disorders. This recognition further cements its credibility as a trusted therapeutic approach.

Is EMDR Right for You?

If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move past experiences, EMDR may help. Whether you have experienced trauma or difficult life events, anxiety, depression, or phobias, this therapy offers relief and lasting change.

EMDR is an evidence-based, approachable therapy with proven results. It provides a powerful tool for emotional healing and personal growth. At Shore We have several clinicians and associates trained and experienced in offering EMDR.

If you’re curious about how EMDR could benefit you, consider reaching out for more information or to book a consultation. You can call us on 0131 378 9700 or email us at [email protected]