EMDR
Image by Bogdan
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help people recover from trauma and distressing life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds) to help the brain reprocess and integrate difficult memories so they no longer cause ongoing distress.
Image by Arthur Savary
How does EMDR work?
When a traumatic event occurs, the brain can become “stuck” in how it processes the memory. This means the memory remains vivid, emotionally charged, and can trigger strong reactions long after the event.
EMDR helps by activating the brain’s natural healing process. Through guided bilateral stimulation, the memory is reprocessed in a way that reduces its emotional intensity. Over time, the distressing memory feels more like a neutral fact from the past rather than an ongoing threat.
What Types of Trauma Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is highly effective in treating a wide range of trauma-related conditions:
Car or Work Accidents – Helps survivors manage flashbacks, anxiety, and hypervigilance, restoring a sense of safety.
Childhood Abuse & Neglect – Supports release of deeply embedded negative beliefs about trust, self-worth, and relationships.
Combat, Police & Emergency Responders – Effective for PTSD, flashbacks, or emotional numbness in veterans and first responders.
Natural Disasters – Aids recovery from floods, bushfires, and earthquakes, restoring emotional stability.
Domestic Violence & Abusive Relationships – Reduces fear, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms from past abuse.
Grief & Loss – Eases intense emotional pain following sudden loss, promoting healthy grief processing.
Beyond Trauma: EMDR is also effective for:
✔ Panic attacks
✔ Phobias & fears (e.g., fear of flying, social anxiety)
✔ Depression & low self-esteem
✔ Chronic pain & stress-related conditions
EMDR Benefits
Evidence-Based & Highly Effective – Endorsed by the National Center for PTSD and leading Australian health organisations. Up to 90% of single-trauma PTSD clients experience relief within 3–5 sessions.
Reduces Anxiety & Depression – Addresses root causes, not just symptoms.
Improves Sleep & Reduces Nightmares – Restores healthy sleep patterns.
Fast & Long-Lasting Results – Noticeable changes often within 3–5 sessions.
Safe, Non-Invasive & Natural – No medication required.
Recognized by the APS, AAPi, and Phoenix Australia – Recommended for PTSD and trauma-related disorders.HOW HYPNOTHERAPY CAN HELP
How Hypnotherapy and EMDR Can Be Complementary
EMDR and hypnotherapy are different, yet complementary approaches to emotional healing:
EMDR focuses on trauma recovery by reprocessing distressing memories using bilateral stimulation. It is primarily used for PTSD, anxiety, and phobias.
Hypnotherapy helps modify subconscious beliefs through deep relaxation and guided suggestions. It is effective for habit control (smoking, overeating), stress management, and sleep improvement.
We offer both EMDR and hypnotherapy, which can be used separately or combined for enhanced healing and transformation.
What clients say…
Image by Sam McNamara
Before hypnotherapy for anxiety some clients reported feeling powerless and frustrated.
These clients have successfully reduced panic attacks, feelings of overwhelm, self-doubt, and have rebuilt their confidence with effective strategies, shifting focus away from fear and failure towards meaningful action and solution-based states of mind.
“Most of us would like to be better versions of ourselves and I have been so fortunate to have worked with Andrea to help me towards this. Thanks to her wonderful sessions, I have changed old patterns of thinking. I’m now able to escape from the thoughts that were imprisoning me and view life from a new perspective. I feel such lightness, more joy and a real sense of freedom. It has helped me both personally and professionally. Andrea genuinely cares about your wellbeing, is truly passionate about her work and wants you to thrive. A very big thank you to Andrea. She is incredible!”
Inti B. (Vic)
“I didn’t expect that just two sessions with The Beautiful Mind Hypnotherapy would have me feeling entirely different. If you’re considering changing how you are in the world, you really need to have a conversation with Andrea and then get started on this very effective treatment. It just works!”
Annabelle F. (Vic)
“I found the sessions were very personalised and tailored to me as an individual, which made them much more effective. I’ve been a much calmer, confident and more centred person and have this service to thank for that.”
Sarah J. (Vic)
“This has been a life changing experience for me! I could not recommend Andrea more. She has been amazing. Thank you.”
John C. (Vic)