Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing, or EMDR, is a structured psychological treatment sometimes used for trauma-related difficulties. It is not hypnosis or a self-guided exercise to try from online videos.
An idea does not need to fit perfectly to be useful. Take what is relevant and leave aside what does not reflect your experience.
What this may look like day to day
Choosing a therapeutic approach is a conversation, not a test. Different practitioners use different methods, and the useful question is whether the approach fits your goals, preferences, safety and circumstances.
Some experiences worth recognising include:
- Trauma memories can carry intense sensations and meanings.
- Preparation and stabilisation matter before memory-focused work.
- Safety, consent and a clear treatment plan are essential.
When a suggestion feels overwhelming, make it smaller. Breaking a step down or seeking practical help is not the same as avoiding the issue altogether.
A few options to experiment with
The following ideas are starting points, not a checklist you have to complete:
- Ask about the clinician's EMDR qualifications and experience.
- Discuss how distress will be monitored between sessions.
- Request a clear explanation of preparation, processing and follow-up.
You do not need to practise every idea at once. Choose the one that feels safest and most realistic for the coming week.
The role of counselling and assessment
EMDR should be delivered by an appropriately trained professional after assessment. For some people other trauma-focused therapies or additional support may be more suitable.
Before starting, you can ask about qualifications, confidentiality, session length, fees and how progress is reviewed. In Australia, psychologists are registered health practitioners; counsellors have different training and professional arrangements.
If the first approach does not help, it is reasonable to review it rather than assuming you have failed. Different concerns and stages of life may call for different kinds of support.
Checking what genuinely helps
Some changes are visible to others; some are private. Being more honest with yourself, tolerating uncertainty or setting one boundary can be meaningful work.
You might notice that difficult moments take up less room in your day, that you recognise your needs sooner, or that you feel more able to make considered choices. It is worth checking whether a strategy actually improves your life rather than simply making you look as though you are coping.
Progress can be quiet: a clearer boundary, a steadier choice, a kinder response.
Pause and reflect
What would help you feel safe enough to ask questions before treatment begins?
You could use that question in a journal, reflect on it while walking, or bring it to a conversation with a professional or someone you trust. You do not have to find the perfect answer immediately. The purpose is to notice what matters and what support may be needed.
When professional advice matters
Consider reaching out to a GP or qualified mental health professional if the issue continues, intensifies or affects sleep, relationships, work, study or everyday functioning. A professional can help you understand your options and whether further assessment or specialist care is appropriate.
If someone is in immediate danger in Australia, call 000. For crisis support, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14. These services do not replace ongoing assessment or treatment.
Further reading: healthdirect: PTSD treatment options. This article is general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for personal professional advice.
Book with Backing U Counsellors
If you would like to explore this in a supportive setting, Backing U offers confidential, person-centred counselling. Choose telehealth by video or phone, or discuss an in-person appointment in Southport on the Gold Coast.
Book with Backing U Counsellors →
For general enquiries, contact assist@backingu.com.au. Counselling is not an emergency or crisis service.