Nenita Batica
- Registered Psychologist & EMDR Therapist
- Women's Mental Health • Trauma Therapy • In-person and Telehealth
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro, PhD, whose research showed that guided eye movements could help the brain process traumatic memories safely. Today, EMDR therapy is recognised internationally as an effective approach for trauma, anxiety, stress, and related mental health challenges.
EMDR therapy is an 8-phase, structured, evidence-based approach that helps the brain process difficult or unresolved experiences safely. It uses guided eye movements and other forms of bilateral stimulation to reduce the emotional impact of past events, allowing them to stop unconsciously shaping thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Unlike traditional approaches, EMDR does not require you to relive trauma in a destabilising way.
Watch a short video from the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA) explaining EMDR and its benefits.
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR is structured and phased, ensuring treatment is safe, paced, and tailored to each person’s needs. Therapy doesn’t rush into processing, with each phase builds the foundation for effective change.
1. History Taking & Treatment Planning
We begin by understanding your experiences, current difficulties, and what you’d like to shift. Together, we identify target memories and develop a treatment plan that feels manageable and safe.
2. Preparation
This phase focuses on building trust, safety, and emotional regulation skills. You’ll learn strategies to manage distress so you feel grounded throughout the process.
3. Assessment
A specific memory is selected and mapped in detail, including images, beliefs about yourself, emotions, and body sensations connected to it.
4. Desensitisation
This is where bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) is used while you briefly focus on the memory. Over time, the emotional intensity of the memory reduces.
5. Installation
Positive beliefs about yourself are strengthened and “installed,” replacing older negative beliefs linked to the experience.
6. Body Scan
Attention is brought to the body to check for any remaining tension or disturbance related to the memory. Processing continues if needed.
7. Closure
Each session ends with grounding and stabilisation, ensuring you leave feeling contained and regulated, even if processing is still in progress.
8. Re-evaluation
At the start of the next session, we review progress and check how the memory feels now, ensuring treatment is moving in the right direction.
If you have questions about EMDR, feel free to contact me below:
Sessions are conducted with attunement, creating a space where change can feel manageable and possible.
I welcome any questions about my approach or EMDR, or if you are unsure if I am the right fit to meet your needs. You can contact me on 0420 807 463 or via the Contact Form.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy can help adults experiencing:
- Trauma or PTSD
- Anxiety or panic disorders
- Stress related to life transitions
- Unresolved childhood or relational experiences
- Emotional blocks affecting relationships or decision-making
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does EMDR therapy take?
The number of sessions depends on the complexity of your experiences and goals.
Is EMDR therapy safe?
Yes. EMDR is structured and evidence-based, delivered in a supportive environment that prioritises your safety and emotional wellbeing.
Do I need to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. EMDR allows processing to happen gradually and safely, respecting your pace and readiness.
Can EMDR help with anxiety or stress?
Yes. EMDR therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety, panic, and stress symptoms while helping clients feel more in control of their emotions.
Who is EMDR suitable for?
EMDR is suitable for individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, stress, or emotional blocks affecting relationships and daily functioning.
Is EMDR the right fit for me?
Like other forms of therapy, EMDR does not work the same way for everyone. Some people notice changes quickly, while others may need more time or benefit from combining EMDR with other approaches. It is important that you feel emotionally steady enough when difficult memories arise. Having some ability to manage strong feelings and stay grounded helps make the process safe and effective.
EMDR is more than just the memory reprocessing part. It also includes assessment, preparation, and building a sense of stability. I will work with you to determine whether EMDR is a good fit for you, and we will go at a pace that feels safe, focusing on preparation and strengthening coping skills before moving into memory reprocessing if suitable.