Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-established, evidence-based psychological therapy used to treat trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and distressing or intrusive memories. EMDR therapy supports individuals in processing overwhelming or traumatic experiences so that they can be remembered without the same emotional intensity, distress, or physical reactivity.

Originally developed by Dr Francine Shapiro, EMDR is based on the understanding that traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in the brain in an unprocessed form, continuing to trigger emotional and physiological responses long after the event has passed. EMDR therapy uses structured bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements, tapping, or sound tones) to help the brain reprocess these memories in a more adaptive and integrated way.

At Prime Path Psychology, EMDR therapy Adelaide practitioners provide trauma-informed, collaborative care to support recovery from PTSD, complex trauma, early life trauma, and trauma-related anxiety.

How EMDR Works

EMDR involves recalling aspects of a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This process assists the brain in re-processing the memory, reducing emotional distress and helping individuals develop more adaptive beliefs about themselves, others, and the world.

Through EMDR therapy, clients may experience:

  • Reduced emotional and physiological distress related to trauma
  • Fewer nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive memories
  • Greater emotional regulation and stability
  • Increased sense of safety, control, and empowerment

The EMDR Process

EMDR therapy is structured and typically includes the following phases:

  1. History and assessment – Understanding the client’s concerns, trauma history, and current symptoms.
  2. Preparation – Developing coping strategies and emotional regulation skills to ensure readiness for trauma processing.
  3. Processing traumatic memories – Using bilateral stimulation to support reprocessing of distressing memories.
  4. Consolidation and follow-up – Strengthening adaptive beliefs and ensuring emotional stability post-treatment.

EMDR therapy is often more memory-focused than traditional talk therapy and does not require clients to describe their trauma in detail if they do not wish to.

Conditions Commonly Treated with EMDR

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Complex trauma and developmental trauma
  • Childhood trauma and attachment trauma
  • Sexual assault trauma
  • Domestic violence trauma
  • Motor vehicle accident (MVA) trauma
  • First responder and military/veteran trauma
  • Anxiety, panic, and trauma-related phobias
  • Grief and loss
  • Distressing or intrusive memories

EMDR Therapy Adelaide | Prime Path Psychology

Our EMDR psychologists in Adelaide provide EMDR in a calm, collaborative, and trauma-informed environment. Sessions are available in-person at our Adelaide clinic and via EMDR telehealth across Australia for clients who prefer or require remote access to care.

To make an appointment or enquire about EMDR therapy, please contact us: