Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy Online in Australia | Harlow Psychology

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals process and integrate distressing memories.

It is based on the understanding that some experiences can become “stuck” in the nervous system, leading to ongoing emotional and physiological distress. EMDR supports the brain’s natural ability to reprocess these experiences so that they become less overwhelming and more integrated over time.

EMDR is delivered in a structured and phased way.

This typically involves:

• developing stability and emotional regulation skills

• identifying specific memories or experiences to work on

• engaging in structured reprocessing using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements

• integrating new perspectives and reducing the intensity of emotional responses

The process is collaborative and carefully paced. You remain in control of what is discussed and how therapy progresses.

EMDR is widely used in the treatment of:

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• trauma and complex trauma

• distressing or intrusive memories

• anxiety related to past experiences

• phobias and panic responses

It may also be integrated into treatment for depression, stress, and other difficulties where past experiences continue to have an impact.

EMDR is recognised as a first-line treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in international and Australian clinical guidelines, including those from the World Health Organization and Phoenix Australia.

Research indicates that EMDR can be effective in reducing trauma-related symptoms and improving overall functioning.

At Harlow Psychology, EMDR is delivered within a trauma-informed framework.

This means:

• preparation and stabilisation are prioritised

• therapy is paced according to your capacity

• emotional safety is central to the process

• you are not required to engage in processing before you feel ready

This approach helps ensure that EMDR is both effective and manageable.

Before beginning memory processing, therapy focuses on building the skills and resources needed to support the process.

This may include:

• developing emotional regulation strategies

• increasing a sense of safety and stability

• identifying supports and coping mechanisms

• understanding how trauma affects the mind and body

This phase is essential in ensuring that therapy proceeds safely and effectively.

EMDR is often used alongside other evidence-based approaches.

Depending on your needs, therapy may also incorporate:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• trauma-focused CBT

• regulation-focused and stabilisation strategies

This allows treatment to be tailored and responsive to your individual circumstances.

All sessions are conducted online, allowing flexible and accessible support.

Online EMDR can:

• support a sense of safety and control

• allow you to engage from a familiar environment

• reduce barriers to accessing therapy

Research indicates that EMDR can be effectively delivered in an online format when appropriately structured.

If you are considering EMDR therapy, you can submit an enquiry to discuss your needs and whether this approach is appropriate for you.

Our team can assist you in:

• arranging an initial appointment

• answering any questions about EMDR

• matching you with a psychologist experienced in trauma-focused work

Trauma and distressing experiences can have a lasting impact, particularly when they remain unprocessed.

EMDR provides a structured and evidence-based way of working with these experiences, supporting the brain’s capacity to process and integrate them over time.