EMDR Therapy Adelaide
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 practitioners provide trauma-informed, collaborative care to support recovery from PTSD, complex trauma, early life trauma, and trauma-related anxiety.
Select your preferred format (Face-to-Face or Telehealth) and book your session directly through our live calendar.
Complete a brief form and our intake team will contact you to answer your questions and discuss the next steps.
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:
- History and assessment – Understanding the client’s concerns, trauma history, and current symptoms.
- Preparation – Developing coping strategies and emotional regulation skills to ensure readiness for trauma processing.
- Processing traumatic memories – Using bilateral stimulation to support reprocessing of distressing memories.
- 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:
- Phone: (08) 7079 9529
- Email: admin@primepathpsychology.com.au
EMDR FAQ
What is EMDR therapy?
A structured, evidence-based psychological treatment designed to help the brain process and heal from traumatic or distressing memories.
How does EMDR work?
It uses bilateral stimulation (BLS)—such as side-to-side eye movements, alternating audio tones, or rhythmic tapping. This dual attention stimulates the brain’s natural information processing system (similar to what happens during REM sleep), allowing traumatic memories to be safely integrated and losing their painful emotional charge.
Is EMDR evidence-based?
Yes. It is globally recognized and strongly recommended by major health authorities, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
What conditions can EMDR help with?
While primarily famous for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it is highly effective for:
- Generalized and social anxiety
- Panic attacks and phobias
- Depression
- Chronic pain and complicated grief
- Eating disorders and substance use
Is EMDR suitable for complex trauma and childhood trauma?
Yes. It is widely used for Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and developmental or childhood trauma. However, complex trauma typically requires an extended preparation phase to establish safety and coping strategies before memory processing begins.
Is EMDR safe?
Yes, when conducted by a properly trained clinician. It does not have the medical side effects of pharmaceuticals. However, it can temporarily heighten emotional awareness or vivid dreams between sessions as the brain continues to process the memories.
What happens during an EMDR session?
An EMDR session follows a structured 8-phase protocol:
- History taking and treatment planning
- Preparation (learning emotional grounding tools)
- Assessment (identifying the specific memory and negative belief)
- Desensitisation (recalling the memory while using BLS)
- Installation (strengthening a positive belief)
- Body scan (checking for physical tension)
- Closure (returning to a safe state)
- Re-evaluation (checking progress at the next session)
Will I need to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. Unlike traditional talk therapy, you do not need to verbally recount every distressing detail. You only need to keep the memory in mind while processing it with the therapist.
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
For a single-incident trauma (like a car accident), significant relief can often be achieved in 3 to 7 sessions. Multiple, complex, or long-term childhood traumas will require more sessions over a longer period.
Do I need a referral for EMDR?
Technically no—you can book directly with an EMDR therapist. However, if you are looking to claim Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), you will need a referral from a General Practitioner (GP) or psychiatrist.
Can EMDR be combined with CBT or other therapies?
Yes. Therapists frequently combine EMDR with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, or Internal Family Systems (IFS) to build a comprehensive, holistic treatment plan.
