Why I’m Curious About EMDR (And Also a Little Sceptical)
EMDR is one of the fastest-growing therapy approaches in Australia.
It’s often described as:
Highly effective
Evidence-based
Powerful
Life-changing
Many clients ask about it.
Many clinicians train in it.
Many clinics advertise it.
And I’ll be honest.
I’m interested in EMDR.
But I’m also a little sceptical.
Not in a dismissive way.
In a thoughtful, curious way.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.
In simple terms, it involves:
Bringing difficult memories to mind
While doing bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds)
In a structured therapeutic process
The idea is that this helps the brain “reprocess” stuck memories so they feel less distressing.
Many people report strong benefits.
Some feel significant relief.
Some notice real shifts.
My Question Isn’t “Does It Work?”
It’s “Why Does It Work?”
That’s where my curiosity comes in.
When someone does EMDR well, they are usually:
With a therapist they trust
In a calm, focused environment
Feeling supported
Allowed to speak freely
Exploring meaningful memories
Paying close attention to their inner world
Expecting the process to help
In other words, they are doing something very close to deep, relational therapy.
… So I often wonder:
How much of the change comes from the eye movements?
And how much comes from:
Feeling safe
Feeling understood
Being emotionally present
Free associating
Making sense of their story
Letting feelings move
Being witnessed
These are powerful ingredients in any therapy.
The Power of Belief and Meaning
Another honest factor in all therapy is belief.
If someone truly believes:
“This therapy works. This will help me.”
Their nervous system relaxes.
Their defences soften.
Their mind opens.
Change becomes more possible.
Context matters.
Expectation matters.
Relationship matters.
This Doesn’t Mean EMDR Is “Just Placebo”
To be clear: I’m not saying EMDR is meaningless.
Research suggests it can be helpful, especially for trauma.
Many respected clinicians use it.
Many clients benefit.
That deserves respect.
My stance isn’t rejection.
It’s curiosity.
How I Currently Work With EMDR
At this stage, I’m learning more about EMDR.
I’m exploring it.
I’m seeing how it fits.
I’m paying attention to what actually helps clients.
I’m listening to colleague’s who use it.
I’m listening to people who have experienced it.
If I use it, it will be as part of a broader, relational approach.
Not as a stand-alone “fix”.
Not as a shortcut.
Not as a promise.
A Note From a Psychologist in Wollongong
As a psychologist in Wollongong, I often see people who are searching for specific therapies.
But, usually what they really need is:
The right relationship, with the right therapist, at the right time.
That’s what I aim to offer.
If This Resonates
If you value honesty, depth, and thoughtful therapy, you’re welcome to get in touch.