EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EDMR), is an evidence-based treatment used to decrease levels of distress related to traumatic and/or painful memories.
Our approach to EMDR
EMDR
Most commonly used to assist in processing traumatic memories among individuals with PTSD, EMDR is beginning to be incorporated into the treatment of other mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression and (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) OCD.
One of the reasons this treatment approach has gained such regard is because it can process traumatic memories much faster than the traditional prolonged exposure techniques, which can be unnecessarily painful and distressing, when compared to EMDR.
Learn more
In order to undertake EMDR treatment, specific aspects of the targeted memory (i.e. traumatic or distressing memory) are identified. The individual seeking treatment is then asked to recall specific aspects of the memory while making eye movements which are directed by the therapist.
The exact underlying mechanism of change in EMDR treatment remains a mystery, however research is beginning to understand these mechanisms with greater precision. The most compelling theory, however, is that EMDR simulates Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, which is one of the deepest parts of our sleep cycle. During REM sleep, it is proposed, our memories are consolidated and the limbic system shuts down momentarily, allowing painful memories to be processed without interference from the part of the brain responsible for the ‘Fight or Flight’ response, called the amygdala.
At Breathe Psychology, all of our psychologists undertake training in EMDR and receive regular supervision from an accredited EMDR trainer and therapist. Contact us below to chat with one of our team.
It should be noted that there are no known negative side-effects to EDMR therapy. For more information about EMDR click on the links below:
We’re here to help you find the right support.
If you would like to see one of our psychologists, please submit an enquiry using the form below or call our team on (03) 9989 0107.
Please note that Breathe Psychology is not a crisis or emergency service and wait times to see a psychologist can vary. If you need immediate help, please contact:
- 000 – Emergency Services
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
- Barwon Mental Health Services (24/7): 1300 094 187
- Suicide Line: 1300 651 251
- Safe Steps (Family Violence, 24/7): 1800 015 188
-1800RESPECT (Sexual, Domestic & Family Violence): 1800 737 732
-MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
- Rainbow Door (LGBTIQA+ Support): 1800 729 367
Before you contact us:
To help save you time, we want to be clear about when Breathe Psychology may not be the right service.
We are unable to provide support for:
-psychosis
-eating disorders and treatment under an eating disorder management plan.
-alcohol or substance use as the primary concern
-People under the age of 16
-court-related assessments, legal reports, or medico-legal matters
-services funded under TAC, WorkCover/WorkSafe, NDIS, or FAS
For some mental health conditions, a psychiatrist referral is required:
If you have a history of mania, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder, a referral from a psychiatrist is required before engaging in our service. This helps us ensure your treatment pathway is safe, appropriate, and well supported.
If we are the right service for you:
We will ask you to complete an intake form. Your answers help us:
-understand what you would like support with
-learn about your goals and preferences
-identify any safety or clinical factors
-match you with a psychologist whose skills and availability fit your needs
Our Intake Officer and Admin Team review your information as part of our matching process. This process was developed by our Principal Clinical Psychologist to make sure matching is ethical, safe, and aligned with best practice.
If you have any questions or prefer to speak with someone first, please call our friendly admin team otherwise please submit an enquiry below.