Bessel van der Kolk
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
“EMDR is a bizarre and wondrous treatment … anybody who first hears about it, myself included, thinks this is pretty hokey and strange … It activates some natural processes in the brain that’s helped you to integrate these past memories.”
Clinical Overview & Scientific Approach
The key components of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy are structured into eight distinct phases, each building systematically to support trauma reprocessing and emotional healing.
The process begins with history taking and treatment planning, where the therapist gathers background information, develops rapport, and identifies trauma targets. In the preparation phase, the client learns coping strategies, manages expectations, and is introduced to bilateral stimulation techniques such as eye movements or tactile tapping.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Treatment
Assessment involves pinpointing a specific target memory, associated negative beliefs, emotions, and body sensations, often measured using scales like SUD (Subjective Units of Disturbance) and VOC (Validity of Cognition). During desensitisation, the client revisits the distressing memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation to reduce emotional intensity.
The installation phase focuses on strengthening positive beliefs to replace negative cognitions. A body scan follows, checking for any residual physical tension related to the memory, and addressing it if necessary.
Closure ensures the client is stabilised at the end of the session, even if processing is incomplete, using containment techniques. Finally, reevaluation at future sessions assesses progress, ensuring that therapeutic gains are maintained and new targets can be addressed if needed.
Consultants Delivering This Service
Our accredited psychologists and psychotherapists experienced in this clinical area.
Dr Joyce Blake
Consultant Psychologist
Consultant psychologist specializing in young people (10-17) and adult psychotherapeutic interventions, CBT, and EMDR.
Tami Greene
Consultant Psychotherapist
Consultant psychotherapist offering EMDR, trauma-informed CBT, and emotional regulation support.
Session Attendance Policy for Minors
We work with adults from 18 years of age, and with young people aged from 10 to 17. For children aged 10 to 15 years, a second responsible adult must be in attendance during sessions.
Begin Consultation with Clear Thinking Clinic
Contact our confidential reception to discuss availability, fees, or to arrange an initial session for eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (emdr).