What We Help With
EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most evidence-based therapies available for trauma and PTSD, and it's central to the work we do at Bloom.
EMDRAA Accredited · PTSD · Complex Trauma · Creswick, Brisbane & Online
What Is EMDR?
How EMDR helps the brain heal
EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess memories and experiences that have become "stuck." When something overwhelming happens, the memory can be stored in a way that keeps the distress alive, as though the event is still happening. EMDR helps the brain process and integrate these memories so they lose their charge.
The therapy uses bilateral stimulation (typically guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds) while you briefly hold a distressing memory in mind. This activates the brain's natural information-processing system, allowing the memory to be integrated and the emotional intensity to reduce.
EMDR is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a first-line treatment for PTSD.
EMDR can help with
- ✓PTSD and complex PTSD
- ✓Childhood and developmental trauma
- ✓Single-incident trauma (accidents, assault)
- ✓Anxiety and panic
- ✓Phobias
- ✓Grief and loss
- ✓Low self-worth and shame
- ✓Difficult relationship patterns
- ✓Performance anxiety
The Process
What to expect in EMDR therapy
Assessment & preparation
We start by understanding your history, goals, and what you want to work on. A significant part of early EMDR work is building resourcing and stability so you feel safe and grounded before any processing begins.
Processing
Using bilateral stimulation, your therapist will guide you through the EMDR protocol. You hold a memory or distressing image in mind while following the movement. Processing happens naturally, and most people notice the emotional intensity reduce significantly.
Integration
As memories are reprocessed, new associations and perspectives emerge. Your therapist supports you to consolidate these shifts and integrate them into your sense of self and your daily life.
Available locations
FAQ
Common questions about EMDR
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail during EMDR?
No. EMDR is designed to work without requiring you to describe events in detail. You hold the memory in mind while your therapist guides the process — but you don't have to verbalise everything. Many people find this a significant relief.
How is EMDR different from talk therapy?
Talk therapy helps you understand and make sense of your experiences through conversation. EMDR works differently — it targets how traumatic memories are stored in the brain and uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or tones) to help your nervous system reprocess them. The change often feels less like insight and more like the memory simply losing its charge.
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
It varies depending on the nature and history of the trauma. Some people notice significant shifts within 6–12 sessions. Complex or developmental trauma typically takes longer. Your therapist will discuss a realistic timeframe with you after your initial assessment.
I've heard EMDR can bring up strong feelings. Is it safe?
EMDR can bring up emotions during processing, but your therapist works carefully to keep you within a manageable range — what we call the window of tolerance. Preparation and stabilisation work happens before any trauma processing begins, so you're never just thrown in at the deep end.
Ready to Begin?
Take the first step toward healing
Book an appointment or reach out with any questions. We're here to help you find the right fit.