EMDR Therapy
in Mount ElizaHelping people process trauma, distressing memories, anxiety and life experiences that continue to impact their wellbeing.
What is EMDR Therapy ?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing
EMDR is an evidence-based psychological therapy recommended for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. It may also be used for other difficulties involving distressing memories, following an individual assessment.
EMDR is an evidence-based psychological therapy that helps people process distressing memories and experiences that may continue to affect their thoughts, emotions and daily life.
Rather than focusing solely on talking through the past, EMDR uses guided bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess experiences, which research suggests can reduce their emotional intensity over time.
EMDR is recommended by the World Health Organization and Phoenix Australia’s guidelines for the treatment of PTSD. As with all psychological therapies, outcomes vary between individuals and your psychologist will discuss whether EMDR is appropriate for your situation.
What can EMDR Therapy help with ?
Difficulties and experiences EMDR may be used for
EMDR is recommended for the treatment of PTSD and may also be considered for other difficulties involving distressing or traumatic memories. Suitability is assessed individually by your psychologist.
Trauma-related distress
PTSD
Childhood trauma
Birth trauma
Anxiety linked to distressing experiences
Panic symptoms linked to distressing experiences
Workplace trauma
Trauma following motor vehicle accidents
Distressing or traumatic grief
Medical trauma
What happens during EMDR Therapy ?
A simplified overview of the EMDR process
EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol, which may extend across a number of sessions.
History and preparation
Your psychologist gets to know you, your history and your goals. Together you identify the memories or experiences to work on, and build the coping skills you’ll need during the process.
Assessment
You identify a specific distressing memory to target, including the image, beliefs and body sensations associated with it. Your psychologist sets a clear baseline for how distressing it currently feels.
Desensitisation with bilateral stimulation
While holding the memory in mind, you follow guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. This process aims to reduce the distress associated with the memory. The way EMDR produces therapeutic change is still being studied.
Installation and body scan
The psychologist helps you strengthen a more adaptive or helpful belief associated with the memory. A body scan is then used to notice any remaining physical tension or distress and guide whether further processing is needed.
Closure and review
Sessions generally finish with closure or grounding strategies. Your psychologist will discuss how you are feeling and help you prepare for the period between sessions.
Why choose Vita Health Care for EMDR Therapy ?
Psychiatry & psychology services on the Mornington Peninsula
Registered psychologists
At Vita Healthcare, EMDR is provided by registered psychologists who have undertaken relevant EMDR training.
Evidence-based therapies
We offer only treatments supported by strong clinical research, including EMDR for trauma and PTSD.
Medicare rebates available
Eligible psychology sessions may attract a Medicare rebate under Better Access when the required treatment plan and written referral are in place. Referrals may come from an eligible GP or prescribed medical practitioner, psychiatrist or paediatrician.
Mount Eliza location
Vita Health Care provides EMDR therapy from our Mount Eliza clinic for clients across the Mornington Peninsula, including Mornington, Frankston, Mount Martha and surrounding areas. The clinic is located at 1281 Nepean Hwy, Mount Eliza.
Telehealth available
Access EMDR therapy from home via secure telehealth if you can’t travel to the clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about EMDR
Is EMDR covered by Medicare?
Yes. To claim a Medicare rebate, an eligible referral must be provided before your first Medicare-funded appointment.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the nature and complexity of the trauma. Many people see meaningful change within 6–12 sessions. Your psychologist will discuss a treatment plan with you after the initial assessment.
Do I need a referral?
You do not need a referral to book privately. To claim a Medicare rebate, an eligible referral must be provided before your first Medicare-funded appointment.
Is EMDR suitable for everyone?
Book an initial appointment to discuss your needs and whether EMDR may be a suitable treatment option.
Ready to take the next step?
Our team is here to help.
Book an appointment online or call us to discuss whether EMDR is right for you.
Call us (03) 5972 2444
Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm