Healing from Trauma with EMDR Therapy: Rewiring the Path to Recovery
- Matthew Vincent
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 6
Reclaim Your Life, One Memory at a Time: Healing from Trauma with EMDR Therapy
Healing from Trauma with EMDR Therapy
By Matt, Trauma Counsellor at Redlands Counselling Service
Trauma doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it lingers quietly in the body, in relationships, and in moments of overwhelm or emotional shutdown. Whether it stems from childhood experiences, grief, relationship wounds, or sudden life events, trauma can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, or reactive in ways we don’t fully understand.
If you’ve found yourself searching for how to heal from trauma, PTSD treatment near me, or EMDR therapy Brisbane, you’re not alone. Importantly, you’re not broken. Healing these wounds is possible with EMDR therapy, which follows years of research on a structured path forward.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a trauma therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories, so they no longer feel overwhelming or intrusive. It doesn’t require you to retell every detail of your experience. Instead, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tapping, to activate your brain’s natural healing process.
Endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the Australian Psychological Society (APS), EMDR is recognised globally as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD.
How EMDR Therapy Works
EMDR is grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which suggests that our brains are designed to process life experiences. However, when trauma occurs, this process can become disrupted—leaving memories raw, emotionally charged, and “stuck.”
Through EMDR, we gently target these memories and help the brain reprocess them. It’s not about forgetting; it’s about changing how the past lives in your nervous system. Many clients describe it as finally closing tabs that have been open for years.
EMDR Therapy Can Help With:
PTSD and complex trauma
Anxiety and panic attacks
Grief and loss
Childhood abuse
Relationship trauma
Phobias and emotional dysregulation
What to Expect in an EMDR Session
At Redlands Counselling Service, I offer EMDR therapy in a safe, trauma-informed environment. Each session is paced according to your readiness, and we integrate grounding strategies from ACT, DBT, and CBT to support your emotional safety. For more information on the 8 phases, click here. Below is a brief overview of the phases.
EMDR Therapy: The 8 Phases
History Taking & Planning
We explore your background and identify key memories or experiences to work on.
Preparation
You’ll learn calming techniques, and we’ll build trust so you feel safe and ready.
Assessment
We pinpoint the specific memory, emotions, and beliefs to target during EMDR.
Desensitization
Using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping), we help reduce the emotional intensity of the memory.
Installation
We strengthen a positive belief to replace the old, distressing one—like “I’m safe now” or “I’m strong.”
Body Scan
You’ll notice any lingering tension or discomfort in your body, and we’ll process it if needed.
Closure
Each session ends with grounding techniques to ensure you leave feeling stable and supported.
Reevaluation
At the next session, we check how things are feeling and decide what to work on next.
Reasons That EMDR Therapy Can Be Life-Changing
Many clients report feeling lighter, more present, and less reactive after EMDR. It’s not a quick fix, but it is a deeply transformative process. EMDR allows you to reclaim your story, your strength, and your sense of self.
If you’ve been searching for how to recover from trauma, EMDR therapy Brisbane, or PTSD treatment near me, trauma counselling at Redlands Counselling Service may be the turning point you’ve been looking for.
Begin Your Healing Journey
As a trauma counsellor, I’ve seen firsthand how EMDR can help people reconnect with themselves and move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re navigating recent trauma or long-standing emotional wounds, EMDR therapy offers a path toward healing that honours your pace and your story.
Ready to take the next step? Book your EMDR consultation today and begin your journey toward healing.
Understanding Trauma and Its Impact
Trauma can manifest in various ways. It may affect your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Recognising its signs is crucial for healing. Common symptoms include anxiety, depression, and difficulty in relationships. Understanding these symptoms can empower you to seek help and take the first step towards recovery.
The Importance of Professional Support
Seeking professional support is vital in the healing process. A trained therapist can provide guidance, tools, and strategies tailored to your specific needs. They can help you navigate the complexities of your trauma and support your journey towards healing.
Building a Support System
In addition to professional help, building a support system is essential. Surround yourself with understanding friends and family who can provide emotional support. Sharing your experiences with trusted individuals can help you feel less isolated and more connected.
Self-Care Practices for Healing
Incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine can significantly aid your healing journey. Activities like mindfulness, meditation, and physical exercise can help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being. Finding what works for you is key to nurturing your mental health.
Conclusion
Healing from trauma is a journey that requires patience and compassion. EMDR therapy offers a structured approach to help you process and heal from your experiences. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the right support and tools, you can reclaim your life and move forward with hope and resilience.
Warm regards,
Matt Vincent - Trauma Counsellor & EMDR Practitioner at Redlands Counselling Service
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