What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer trigger overwhelming emotional reactions. Unlike traditional talking therapies, EMDR works directly with the way traumatic memories are stored in the nervous system — helping you heal at a deeper level.
EMDR is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Australian Psychological Society as a first-line treatment for PTSD and trauma.
How Does EMDR Work?
During an EMDR session, your psychologist guides you through a series of bilateral stimulation — typically eye movements, tapping, or audio tones — while you briefly focus on a distressing memory. This process activates the brain’s natural healing mechanism, allowing traumatic memories to be reprocessed and stored in a healthier, less distressing way.
Over the course of treatment, the emotional charge attached to painful memories reduces significantly. Many clients describe feeling a sense of distance from memories that once felt overwhelming.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is highly effective for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Childhood trauma and abuse
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Phobias
- Grief and loss
- Workplace trauma and accidents
- Motor vehicle accident trauma (CTP)
- Complex trauma and emotional dysregulation
EMDR at Sue Stern Psychology
Sue Stern has over 30 years of clinical experience and is a specialist in trauma-focused therapies including EMDR. Treatment is tailored to your individual history, pace, and goals. Sessions are available in person at our Harris Park clinic, just minutes from Parramatta, as well as via telehealth.
EMDR is often used in combination with other therapies such as Neurofeedback and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy for a truly integrated approach to trauma recovery.
Funding Options
EMDR therapy at Sue Stern Psychology is available under:
- Medicare — with a GP Mental Health Care Plan (up to 10 sessions per year)
- NDIS — under Capacity Building supports
- Workers Compensation and CTP — for workplace or motor vehicle injury claims
- Private payment — no referral required
Frequently Asked Questions
This varies depending on the nature and complexity of your trauma. Some clients experience significant relief within 6–12 sessions. Your psychologist will discuss a treatment plan with you after an initial assessment.
Yes. With a GP Mental Health Care Plan, Medicare rebates apply to EMDR sessions delivered by a registered psychologist.
Yes, EMDR can be adapted for children and adolescents. Sue Stern Psychology provides EMDR for both adults and children.
No — one of the benefits of EMDR is that you do not need to describe your traumatic experiences in extensive detail. The therapy works with the memory itself rather than requiring you to retell the story.