EMDR Therapy —
processing the past to free the present
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that has helped millions of people worldwide find relief from trauma, distressing memories, and a wide range of mental health concerns.
What is EMDR?
EMDR was developed in the late 1980s and has since become one of the most thoroughly researched and widely endorsed psychological treatments available. It works by helping the brain process memories and experiences that have become "stuck" — often as a result of trauma or overwhelming life events.
You don't have to recount your experience in detail. Unlike some talk therapies, EMDR does not require you to narrate every aspect of a traumatic event — many clients find this a significant relief.
Lasting results. Research consistently shows that EMDR's benefits are sustained long after therapy concludes, unlike some treatments that require ongoing maintenance.
Widely endorsed. EMDR is recommended by the World Health Organisation, Phoenix Australia, the American Psychiatric Association, SAMHSA, and NICE (UK), among others.
EMDR for a range of presentations
Originally developed for PTSD, EMDR is now used effectively for many different presentations.
PTSD & complex trauma
Processing difficult or overwhelming life events
Single-incident trauma (accidents, assaults)
Anxiety & panic disorder
Phobias & specific fears
Grief & complicated bereavement
Depression
Performance anxiety
Medical trauma & health anxiety
The eight phases of EMDR
EMDR follows a structured eight-phase protocol. Each phase has a specific purpose and builds on the one before it. Carmel will guide you through this process carefully and at your own pace.
Phase 1
History & Treatment Planning
Understanding your history, identifying target memories and experiences, and developing a treatment plan together.
Phase 2
Preparation
Building trust, explaining the process, and equipping you with stabilisation and resourcing techniques before processing begins.
Phase 3
Assessment
Identifying the specific target memory, the negative belief associated with it, and what you'd prefer to believe instead.
Phase 4
Desensitisation
Processing the target memory using bilateral stimulation — typically eye movements or tapping — until distress reduces significantly.
Phase 5
Installation
Strengthening the positive belief you want to associate with the memory, replacing the old negative belief.
Phase 6
Body Scan
Checking for any remaining tension or disturbance held in the body, and processing these until the body feels clear.
Phase 7
Closure
Ensuring you leave each session feeling settled, with techniques to manage anything that arises between sessions.
Phase 8
Re-evaluation
At the start of each subsequent session, reviewing progress and checking that previous work has held before moving forward.
"EMDR works with the brain's own natural processing system — the same system that already helps you make sense of most experiences. It's not about forgetting; it's about the memory losing its power to distress you."
What EMDR sessions look like
Before processing begins
Carmel will spend as much time as needed on preparation — getting to know you, explaining the approach, and ensuring you have strong stabilisation skills before any processing work begins. You will never be rushed.
During processing
You'll be asked to hold the target memory in mind while engaging in bilateral stimulation — typically following Carmel's hand movements with your eyes, or tapping on alternate sides of your body. The processing happens naturally; you don't have to analyse or talk through the memory in detail.
Telehealth EMDR
EMDR is effective via telehealth. Carmel uses adapted bilateral stimulation techniques for video sessions. Many clients across Australia access EMDR with Carmel this way.
Between sessions
Processing can continue between sessions, with memories sometimes spontaneously resolving further. Carmel will equip you with tools to manage anything that arises between appointments.
Carmel is one of only approximately 130 EMDRAA Accredited Consultants in Australia, reflecting her advanced expertise in EMDR therapy and supervision.
EMDR FAQs
It's natural to have questions about EMDR before starting. Here are the questions Carmel hears most often.
Yes. EMDR is a well-researched therapy with an excellent safety record. It is recommended by major health organisations worldwide and has been used with millions of people across diverse clinical populations.
Carmel will not begin processing work until you feel adequately prepared and resourced. Your wellbeing throughout the process is always the priority.
No. This is one of EMDR's significant advantages. Unlike some therapies, EMDR does not require you to describe your experience in detail or repeatedly revisit it in a narrative way.
You will be asked to briefly identify the memory and hold it in mind during processing, but you are not required to explain or analyse it verbally.
This varies considerably depending on the nature and complexity of what you're working through. Single-incident traumas (e.g. a car accident) can sometimes be resolved in a small number of sessions, while complex or developmental trauma typically takes longer.
Carmel will give you her best assessment of likely treatment length after your initial consultation, and will review progress with you as you go.
Yes. EMDR via telehealth has been shown to be effective. Carmel uses adapted bilateral stimulation techniques for video sessions and has extensive experience delivering EMDR this way.
Telehealth also makes EMDR accessible to people across Australia who may not have access to a trained EMDR therapist locally.
EMDR sessions with Carmel are eligible for a Medicare rebate in the same way as any other psychological treatment, provided you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from your GP.
See the fees & bookings page for current fee and rebate information.
Most people find bilateral stimulation — whether eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones — to be quite gentle and unremarkable in itself. It's the combination of holding the target memory in mind while engaging in bilateral stimulation that facilitates processing.
Many clients are surprised that the process feels more like a natural unfolding than an intense or confronting experience.
Take the first step with EMDR
If you'd like to explore whether EMDR is right for you, send Carmel a short enquiry. There's no obligation, and all questions are welcome.
Therapists interested in EMDR consultation — see the For Therapists page.