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Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a trauma-focused therapy that uses guided eye movements to process and resolve distressing memories, ideal for PTSD and identity-related trauma.

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s as a therapeutic approach to help individuals process and resolve trauma. This evidence-based therapy has since become one of the leading treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tactile inputs, to reprocess distressing memories, reduce their emotional intensity, and allow for healthier integration.


Types of Trauma Treated with EMDR:

EMDR is highly effective for a wide range of traumas, including:


  • Acute Trauma: Resulting from single events like accidents, assaults, or natural disasters.

  • Complex Trauma: Stemming from ongoing or repeated experiences such as abuse, neglect, or domestic violence.

  • Identity-Related Trauma: Associated with discrimination, rejection, or violence due to gender identity, sexual orientation, or cultural background.

  • Developmental Trauma: Related to adverse experiences in childhood that affect emotional and psychological development.


Types of EMDR:

There are several variations of EMDR, each tailored to different needs and advancements in the field:


  1. Standard EMDR:The original eight-phase model developed by Francine Shapiro.
    Focuses on identifying target memories, processing them using bilateral stimulation, and replacing negative beliefs with adaptive ones.
    Well-suited for clients who need a structured, step-by-step approach to healing.

  2. EMDR 2.0:A modern adaptation of EMDR created by Dr. Ad de Jongh and Dr. Suzy Matthijssen.
    Utilises accelerated techniques to address the emotional intensity of memories more efficiently.
    Incorporates a focus on broader distress patterns rather than isolated memories, making it especially useful for clients with complex trauma or co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.

Brydan’s Experience:

Brydan is highly trained and experienced in both standard EMDR and EMDR 2.0. He has undergone advanced training directly with Dr. Ad de Jongh and Dr. Suzy Matthijssen, the creators of EMDR 2.0. This ensures a deep understanding of how to adapt EMDR to the unique needs of each client, including those in the LGBT community.


How EMDR Benefits LGBT Clients:


  • Addressing Identity-Related Trauma: Reprocessing memories of discrimination or rejection.

  • Reducing Internalised Stigma: Resolving negative beliefs tied to societal prejudice.

  • Supporting Self-Acceptance: Strengthening adaptive beliefs about identity and worth.


Whether working with standard EMDR or EMDR 2.0, Brydan offers a compassionate and skilled approach to trauma healing, empowering clients to move forward with resilience and confidence.

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