When the past still feels present, EMDR can help you process it.
A structured, trauma-focused therapy with EMDR-trained psychologists.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy that can help reduce the distress linked to difficult memories. Answer a few short questions to see whether EMDR may be worth exploring for you, and our team will be in touch to talk through your options.
- AHPRA-registered psychologists
- EMDR-trained clinicians
- Medicare rebates may be available
- In clinic and telehealth options
See if EMDR may suit you
4 short steps. About 60 seconds. Your answers stay confidential.
Some experiences stay with us long after they've passed.
Feeling stuck is not a personal failing.
Difficult or traumatic experiences can leave the brain holding on to memories in a way that still feels raw. You might know logically that it's over, yet your body and mind keep reacting as if it isn't. EMDR is designed to work with exactly this kind of stuck memory.
Memories that feel vivid or intrusive
Nightmares or disrupted sleep
Feeling on edge or easily startled
Avoiding people, places or reminders
Anxiety or panic without a clear cause
Negative beliefs about yourself that won't shift
A structured therapy that helps the brain reprocess difficult memories.
Developed by Dr Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a trauma-focused therapy. While you briefly bring a memory to mind, your psychologist guides you through bilateral stimulation, usually side-to-side eye movements, taps or sounds. Over time, this can reduce the emotional charge attached to the memory so it feels less distressing.
EMDR is one of the trauma-focused therapies recommended in the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Acute Stress Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Complex PTSD (Phoenix Australia). How it works is still being researched, and how people respond varies from person to person.
- You don't need to talk through every detail
- Sessions are paced so you feel safe
- You stay in control and can pause at any time
Eight phases, at a pace that feels safe.
Your psychologist guides each step.
EMDR follows a clear, structured approach. Preparation and safety come first, before any memory work begins.
- 1
History and treatment planning
Your psychologist gets to know you, your history and your goals, and together you decide what to focus on.
- 2
Preparation
You learn what to expect and practise grounding and calming techniques you can use during and between sessions.
- 3
Assessment
You identify a target memory along with the images, feelings, body sensations and beliefs connected to it.
- 4
Desensitisation
Using bilateral stimulation, your psychologist helps you reprocess the memory so its emotional intensity can reduce.
- 5
Installation
A more helpful, balanced belief about yourself is strengthened in place of the old one.
- 6
Body scan
You check in with your body for any remaining tension linked to the memory.
- 7
Closure
Each session ends with calming techniques so you leave feeling settled.
- 8
Re-evaluation
At the next session you and your psychologist review progress and decide on next steps.
EMDR may help with more than trauma alone.
A psychologist will help you decide if it's the right fit.
EMDR was first used for post-traumatic stress, and research has since explored its use for a range of concerns where past experiences shape how you feel today. It is not the right approach for everyone, which is why your first consultation focuses on understanding your needs.
Post-traumatic stress (PTSD)
Including symptoms after accidents, assaults, loss or other distressing events.
Anxiety
When anxious reactions feel tied to earlier experiences.
Panic and phobias
Where specific fears or panic responses link back to a particular event.
Depression
When low mood is connected to unresolved past experiences and negative self-beliefs.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
As part of a broader treatment plan, where appropriate.
Other trauma-related concerns
Your psychologist can talk you through whether EMDR fits.
EMDR-trained psychologists in Merewether.
Part of a multidisciplinary clinic for psychology, naturopathy and medicine.
At CK Health, EMDR is provided by AHPRA-registered psychologists with specific training in EMDR. You'll be matched with a psychologist based on your needs, availability and preference for in clinic or telehealth sessions.
Dr Catherine Jones
Clinical Psychologist · EMDR practitioner
Works with adults 18+ experiencing post-traumatic stress, complex PTSD, anxiety, grief and the impact of trauma on chronic health conditions. Also draws on CBT and ACT.
Taking new patients 18+
Margaret Conaghan
Psychologist · EMDR-trained
Completed EMDR training in 2022 and works collaboratively with clients on the effects of past traumatic experiences, alongside a CBT approach.
Clear information about cost before you start.
Our reception team can talk you through it.
Medicare rebates may be available with a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from your GP. A gap fee applies. Our team will confirm current fees, any rebate you may be eligible for and appointment availability when they contact you.
Private health insurance may cover some psychology sessions depending on your policy and level of cover. Check with your insurer.
How to use a Mental Health Treatment Plan
- 1
Book a longer appointment with your GP and ask about a Mental Health Treatment Plan.
- 2
Ask your GP for a referral to a psychologist at CK Health.
- 3
Send us your referral, or bring it to your first appointment.
No referral yet? You can still complete the suitability check and we'll explain your options.
Care that starts with safety, and moves at your pace.
You'll never be rushed into memory work.
Registered and accountable
All our psychologists are registered with AHPRA and follow professional standards of practice.
Preparation comes first
We build coping and grounding skills before any reprocessing begins.
Whole-person support
As a multidisciplinary clinic, we can consider how your physical and mental health connect.
Local and accessible
See us in Merewether, or ask about telehealth if it suits your situation.
Have a question that isn't answered here? Call (02) 4077 3803 or email admin@ckhealth.com.au.
Ask about EMDR
Answers general questions instantly
Hi, I can answer general questions about EMDR therapy and how to get started at CK Health. I can't give personal clinical advice. What would you like to know?
General information only, not clinical advice. In an emergency call 000 or Lifeline 13 11 14.
Take the first step, in your own time.
Answer a few questions, and we'll guide you from there.
- 136 Glebe Rd, Merewether NSW 2291
- (02) 4077 3803
- admin@ckhealth.com.au
- Monday - Friday, 9am - 5:30pm