Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based approach that helps people process and recover from distressing experiences. Originally developed for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR is now widely used to treat a range of concerns — including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias, grief, and emotional dysregulation.
At Cova Psychology in Melbourne, our experienced psychologists offer EMDR in a safe, structured, and supportive way. We understand that starting trauma-focused work can feel intimidating, and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.
Trauma can sometimes leave memories feeling “stuck” in the brain, triggering emotional responses long after the event has passed. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation — like eye movements or tapping — to help the brain reprocess these memories. Over time, the memory becomes less emotionally charged, and you may feel more in control and less reactive to reminders of the event.
In a typical session, you’ll focus on a distressing image or thought while following a visual or tactile stimulus. This process helps shift how the memory is stored, allowing emotional healing to unfold naturally.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require you to go into all the details of the event. Instead, it gently helps your brain integrate the experience, so it no longer feels as overwhelming.
(Yes — “desensitisation” is a mouthful. You don’t need to memorise the name. We’ll walk you through every step.)
This method was initially developed for PTSD, but it’s now used to support people with a wide range of issues, including:
Some people choose EMDR as their main approach to therapy, while others use it alongside CBT or DBT. Your psychologist will help you decide what’s right for your situation, and may recommend some preparation first — like learning emotional regulation skills — to ensure the work feels safe and effective.
If you’re exploring different approaches to trauma therapy, you may find our overview of trauma-focused services in Melbourne helpful.
There are several reasons people are drawn to this approach — especially when they feel stuck, frustrated, or like talking hasn’t helped in the past.
EMDR is backed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Australian National Centre for Excellence in Post-Traumatic Mental Health, and it’s recognised as one of the most effective treatments for trauma recovery.
Curious about common misconceptions? Read our blog on EMDR myths to separate fact from fiction.
EMDR follows a structured eight-phase process. While it might sound a little clinical written out like this, the sessions themselves are supportive, responsive, and adapted to your needs.
Here’s a quick overview of how it works:
For some people, especially those with a single traumatic event, meaningful changes can happen in just a few sessions. For others — like those with complex trauma — the process takes longer and may be one part of a broader therapy plan.
Our psychologists offer EMDR at our Melbourne CBD clinic, with the option to attend sessions in person or via telehealth. Online EMDR can be effective for many people, especially those living regionally or juggling a busy schedule. That said, in-person therapy may be more suitable if you’re experiencing dissociation, flashbacks, or more complex trauma symptoms.
We’ll always take time to understand your goals and comfort level before recommending a treatment path.
If you’re considering EMDR but still have questions, you’re not alone — we’ve answered some of the most common ones below to help you feel more informed and confident about getting started.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a psychological therapy that helps people process and reduce distress linked to traumatic or overwhelming experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation — like guided eye movements — to support the brain in reprocessing memories so they feel less emotionally charged.
While recalling a distressing memory, your psychologist guides you through bilateral stimulation (e.g. eye movements or tapping), which activates both hemispheres of the brain. This helps reorganise how the memory is stored, reducing its emotional intensity over time.
EMDR is one of the few trauma therapies recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Unlike traditional talk therapy, it doesn’t rely on long conversations about the past. It’s more focused on helping your brain resolve distress naturally and gently.
Yes — it often is. EMDR can be integrated with other approaches like CBT or DBT, depending on what you need. Your psychologist will help you find the right combination.
It’s best known for PTSD, but EMDR is also effective for anxiety, panic attacks, grief, phobias, emotional dysregulation, and distress linked to difficult past experiences — whether from childhood or more recent events.
No. EMDR doesn’t require full memory recall. It focuses on the emotional and physical reactions connected to the memory, even if some details are missing or unclear.
If you’re experiencing trauma symptoms, distressing memories, or feel stuck in unhelpful emotional patterns, EMDR could be a good fit. Your psychologist will explore this with you in early sessions.
Some people may need extra preparation before starting memory reprocessing — especially if they’re experiencing dissociation or have difficulty with emotional regulation. Others may find that a different approach, like talk therapy, feels more comfortable. Either way, we’ll help you figure that out together.
No — this is one of the reasons many people prefer EMDR. You won’t be asked to go through every detail of the experience. Instead, the focus is on how it’s affecting you now and helping your brain process it safely.
Not in the structured way that CBT often includes. Your therapist may suggest grounding strategies, journaling, or other techniques to help reinforce your progress, but it’s always optional and tailored to your needs.
Sometimes people feel more emotionally sensitive as their brain continues processing between sessions. This is normal and usually short-term. We’ll give you tools to stay grounded and support you if anything comes up between appointments.
EMDR is safe and evidence-based, but it can bring up strong emotions, physical sensations, or vivid dreams. These are usually temporary and part of your brain’s healing process. Your therapist will check in with you regularly to make sure you feel supported.
You might feel strong emotions at times, but your psychologist will move at your pace and teach regulation skills along the way. We focus on helping you feel safe and in control, not flooded.
It depends on the nature of the trauma. A single-event trauma may resolve in a few sessions, while more complex or long-standing experiences may require longer-term therapy. We’ll give you a clearer picture after your initial assessment.
Standard sessions are around 50–60 minutes, but some clinicians offer extended sessions (up to 90 minutes) to support deeper processing. We’ll discuss what works best for you.
Yes — and it can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many people. We also offer telehealth sessions at Cova Psychology. For complex trauma or dissociation, in-person sessions may be more appropriate.
Look for someone who is trained in EMDR, has experience working with your concerns (like PTSD or anxiety), and offers a trauma-informed approach. At Cova Psychology, our team includes EMDR-trained psychologists who will work with you collaboratively and respectfully.
Session fees vary based on the psychologist and whether you choose standard or extended sessions. You can read more about session costs on our fees page.
Yes. EMDR is eligible under Medicare’s Better Access initiative if you have a referral and a Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP or psychiatrist. You may be able to access up to 10 rebated sessions per calendar year.
Yes. Research shows EMDR can lead to lasting improvements, especially when the full treatment process is completed. Many clients report benefits that continue well after therapy ends.
Some debate has focused on whether the eye movements are essential — but a growing body of research confirms EMDR’s effectiveness. Major organisations, including WHO and the Australian Psychological Society, recognise it as a valid and powerful treatment for trauma.
EMDR is being explored for a growing range of conditions, including:
Recent research continues to support EMDR’s effectiveness in addressing trauma-related challenges beyond PTSD.
No — it’s not a quick fix. While some people feel significant relief early on, EMDR works best when you complete the full process. Think of it as a step-by-step pathway toward long-term change.
No — EMDR has been rigorously tested and consistently outperforms placebo controls and some other treatment methods. Its benefits are backed by clinical trials, real-world use, and decades of research.
For a deeper dive, the Australian Psychological Society has published a position statement outlining its support for EMDR.
If you’re considering EMDR therapy, we’re here to help. Whether you’re recovering from trauma, dealing with anxiety, or looking for an approach that feels different from traditional talk therapy, EMDR could be a great fit.
To learn more or book an appointment, call us on (03) 9654 3557 or email contact@covapsychology.com. We’ll talk through your needs and help you connect with the right psychologist.
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Cova Psychology acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land where our Melbourne CBD practice is located—the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong/Boon Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. We pay respect to their Elders, past and present, as well as the Elders of other Aboriginal communities in Melbourne and beyond.
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