Why I'm Training in EMDR – And Why I Believe It Has the Potential to Change Lives

As a therapist, one of the things I hear most often is:

"I thought I'd be over this by now."

It's something so many people say, often with frustration, sadness or even guilt.

Perhaps you've spent years trying to move on from something that happened in the past. Maybe you've talked about it, buried yourself in work, focused on everyone else's needs, or simply convinced yourself to "keep going."

Yet something still feels stuck.

You might find yourself feeling anxious for no obvious reason, struggling to sleep, avoiding certain places or situations, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed by memories that seem to appear out of nowhere.

If any of this sounds familiar, I want you to know something.

You're not weak, and you're certainly not alone.

Our brains are incredibly good at protecting us, but sometimes after distressing or traumatic experiences, they don't get the chance to fully process what happened. Instead, those memories can continue to affect how we think, feel and respond long after the event has passed.

It's one of the reasons I became interested in EMDR.

Why I'm Choosing to Train in EMDR

As a therapist, I'm committed to continuing my professional development so I can offer the best possible support to my clients.

The more I've learned about EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), the more I've been inspired by the research behind it and the difference it has made to so many people's lives.

I'm currently undertaking accredited EMDR training because I believe it's an incredibly valuable therapeutic approach, particularly for people living with trauma, anxiety and distressing life experiences.

Although I'm still in training, I feel it's important to share what I've learned about this approach and why I'm so passionate about incorporating it into my practice.

So, What Is EMDR?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.

Whilst the name sounds technical, the concept is surprisingly straightforward.

Normally, our brains process experiences naturally. Most memories are stored away without causing ongoing distress.

However, when something particularly frightening, overwhelming or traumatic happens, that natural processing can become disrupted.

Instead of becoming part of the past, the memory can remain emotionally "stuck."

That's why certain situations, sounds, smells or even thoughts can trigger intense emotional or physical reactions years later.

EMDR is designed to help the brain process those memories so they no longer have the same emotional impact.

The memory doesn't disappear—but it no longer has to control your present.

Trauma Looks Different for Everyone

One thing I've learned throughout my work is that trauma isn't always what people expect.

Many people think trauma only refers to life-threatening events.

In reality, trauma can also stem from experiences such as:

• Childhood emotional neglect

• Bullying

• Difficult relationships

• Bereavement

• Birth trauma

• Medical procedures

• Workplace stress

• Living with constant criticism

• Feeling unsafe over a prolonged period

What matters isn't whether someone else thinks an experience was traumatic.

What matters is how it affected you.

Why EMDR Interests Me So Much

One of the reasons I'm drawn to EMDR is that it recognises something many people already know deep down.

Sometimes we understand something logically...

...but we don't feel it emotionally.

You might know you're safe now, yet your body still reacts as though you're in danger.

You might know something wasn't your fault, yet still carry feelings of guilt or shame.

EMDR aims to bridge that gap by helping the brain process experiences in a different way.

I find that both fascinating and hopeful.

It's Not About Erasing Memories

A common misconception is that EMDR makes people forget what happened.

It doesn't.

The goal isn't to erase your memories.

The goal is to reduce the emotional distress attached to them.

Many people who have undergone EMDR describe being able to remember difficult experiences without feeling overwhelmed by them.

That possibility is one of the reasons I'm so passionate about learning this approach.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my EMDR training, I'm excited to expand the support I can offer within my practice.

Learning never stops in this profession, and I believe that's a positive thing. Every new skill, every course and every piece of research helps me become a better therapist for the people who place their trust in me.

I'll continue to share what I'm learning about EMDR, how it works and who it may benefit, so if you're curious about this approach, keep an eye on my blog and social media.

Taking the First Step

If you're struggling with anxiety, trauma or difficult life experiences, reaching out for support can feel daunting.

Whether EMDR is the right approach for you or another therapeutic method is more appropriate, taking that first step is often the beginning of meaningful change.

At Greengates Therapy, my aim is to provide a warm, supportive and non-judgemental space where you can explore what's been happening and begin moving towards the life you want to live.

If you'd like to find out more about the therapies I offer, or discuss whether EMDR may be suitable for you once I've completed my training, I'd love to hear from you.

Greengates Therapy