EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals heal from the emotional distress and symptoms resulting from traumatic events or disturbing life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR specifically targets the way distressing memories are processed. Originally developed to treat symptoms of post-traumatic stress, EMDR can also effective for conditions such as anxiety, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, and persistent negative beliefs.

EMDR therapy consists of eight phases. During the processing phase, distressing memories, present triggers, and future scenarios are addressed through a structured process that emphasises both the emotional and somatic experiences of the client. During an EMDR session, the therapist guides the client through a series of eye movements or other forms of stimulation while the client focuses on a distressing memory, trigger or future scenario. This process activates the brain's natural ability to reprocess and integrate distressing experiences, reducing the associated emotional charge. Many clients report that the target memory feels more distant and neutral, often describing it as 'feeling like a normal memory now'.

EMDR intensive therapy

Hanna provides the option (depending on availability and clients eligibility) to see clients more frequently and for extended sessions. This can be particularly helpful if a client would like to address a particular issue or theme, a client who is already working with another therapist who is not trained in EMDR and refers the client for targeting a particular issue. An intensive format provides the opportunity to work in a particularly targeted, contained and efficient way.

Session length can range from 2 to 3 x 50 minutes sessions, 1 up to 3 times a week depending on your needs. A combination of attending sessions in person and via Telehealth is possible to make bookings easier. Please note that only one Medicare rebate per day can be accessed, the rest of the cost needs to be covered privately.

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