What is Counselling?

Counselling is a form of psychological or talking therapy that offers people chance to change how they feel, maybe view things differently and ultimately gain a sense of overall wellbeing.

What is Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing [EMDR]?

The mind usually heals itself naturally in the same way the body does. Much of our natural coping mechanisms occur during sleep, Rapid Eye Movement [REM] Sleep.

Often disturbing events happen that stay with us in our memories and we feel distressed when we think about them. The brain cannot process traumatic or stressful experiences as it ordinarily does. The memory becomes ‘frozen in time’ and remembering the distressing event may feel as bad as going through it for the first time because the images and feelings haven’t changed. Such memories have a lasting negative effect that interferes with the way we see the world and how we relate to other people.

Advantages of EMDR:

  • Treatment reduces symptoms
  • Conducted in session [no homework]
  • EMDR works quickly [2 – 7 sessions]
  • Benefits are maintained over time

What is the EMDR session like?

For a brief overview of how EMDR works :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNN1lQ-AHoo

Please ask Michelle for further information with regards to EMDR and/or www.emdraa.org.au provides detailed information with regards to this technique plus current research and peer reviewed articles.

EMDR works for many people

Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for post-traumatic stress. However, clinicians also have reported success using EMDR in treatment of the following conditions:

Panic attacks/anxiety

Complicated grief

Phobias

Surgical trauma

Pain disorders

Emergency services/combat

Attachment based issues

Addictions

Family violence

EMDR therapy with children

EMDR was initially developed for adults. However, when innovative child therapists discovered its value, they quickly adapted it to be used with children.  Children’s experiences of trauma can be different from adults, because they are dependent on adults for survival, and their brains are still developing rapidly. We know that trauma can impact on this development, particularly if the trauma is prolonged.   If a child is stuck in a fear-based response, the brain finds it almost impossible to concentrate on important tasks like learning new things. Children often have difficulty concentrating at school; some get into trouble for being disruptive, others go unnoticed or are seen as “daydreaming”.

I use play, games, and other child friendly and developmentally appropriate ways to help children feel safe and benefit from EMDR.  EMDR therapy with children and adolescents is very effective and helps healing occur early, so they can get on with being kids.

Get in touch with us today

For enquiries and referrals phone 0430 023 342 Fax: 03 8513 0756