Evidence based therapy approaches for emotional health
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
At Vivamus, we use EMDR to help you safely and gently process traumatic memories and distressing experiences that may be holding you back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, low mood, low self esteem or trauma, our compassionate therapists work with you at your pace to help you find relief and move forward with confidence.
What is EMDR and how can it help?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. It is a well researched and highly effective therapy that was originally developed to treat post traumatic stress disorder PTSD. Today it is also used to help with many other challenges including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, phobias and obsessive compulsive difficulties.
Unlike traditional talking therapies, EMDR helps your brain process distressing memories so they feel less powerful and overwhelming. It draws on elements of other therapies and uses a unique technique called bilateral stimulation to support natural healing.
Why choose Vivamus for EMDR?
We understand that choosing to start EMDR therapy is a big step and it is important to feel safe and supported. At Vivamus:
- All EMDR is provided by licensed psychologists and therapists who have completed accredited EMDR training and are registered with recognised professional bodies
- We create a warm, compassionate and non judgmental environment where you can feel secure
- We tailor EMDR to your individual needs and work at a pace that feels right for you
- We have experience supporting people with both single event traumas and more complex histories
Our focus is always on helping you feel understood, safe and empowered throughout the process.
What happens in an EMDR session?
During EMDR, your therapist will guide you to bring a distressing memory to mind while using bilateral stimulation, such as following their hand movements with your eyes. This helps your brain process and integrate the memory so it feels less distressing. Many clients find that painful memories lose their emotional intensity and feel easier to cope with.
Sessions typically last between 50 and 90 minutes. The number of sessions varies depending on your situation. People processing a single traumatic event may notice improvement in as little as one or two sessions. More complex experiences often require more sessions but many clients feel a sense of progress early on.
What should I look for in an EMDR therapist?
EMDR is a powerful therapy that requires the right training and experience. When choosing an EMDR therapist, it is important to look for someone who:
- Has completed formal EMDR training through an accredited organisation such as EMDR Europe or EMDRIA
- Is registered with a recognised professional body that ensures accountability and ethical practice
- Has the experience to tailor EMDR to your unique needs
At Vivamus, we meet all of these standards. More importantly, we are committed to creating a supportive and trusting relationship so that you can feel confident and safe as you work through difficult memories.
Looking for a faster approach?
If you are keen to make quicker progress, you may wish to explore our EMDR Intensives. These offer a focused and accelerated way to reduce distress over a shorter period of time.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact us today to find out how EMDR can help or to book an initial consultation. We are here to answer your questions and support you in making the right choice for your needs.
Reach Out to Our Team
Whether you’re reaching out for yourself or someone you care about, taking that first step matters – and you don’t have to do it alone.
Our team is experienced in EMDR and offers this as part of our wider therapeutic support in Dubai.
Complete the form and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours.
Dubai Healthcare City, near City Hospital