Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy is an effective treatment for PTSD and trauma symptoms, recommended by NICE. There is reliable detailed information about EMDR here. Within the NHS I specialise in EMDR for chronic pelvic pain, whether trauma-related or of unknown cause. In my independent practice I focus on birth trauma and other traumatic events relating to the transition to parenthood, for example experiences linked to fertility and conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and parenting a baby or young child.
I generally offer EMDR therapy face-to-face in Oxford (OX4), though can sometimes offer therapy online if this is most suitable. Therapy always begins with an assessment phase to get a clear understanding of the difficulties you wish to work on, followed by preparation to help support you through the treatment. I generally offer a course of 12 sessions initially including assessment and preparation. Depending on the nature of the trauma we work on, therapy can be shorter or longer than this – this will always be something we discuss and agree together. Therapy is not a quick fix, and takes courage and commitment to see lasting change. I provide safe and compassionate support as you take on this challenge, and accompany you on the way. EMDR is a collaborative therapy and I support you to be in charge of the material you wish to work on and the pace we take.
Please contact me if you have any questions about EMDR or would like to discuss your needs and circumstances in more detail. There is a wide range of difficulties linked to traumatic or challenging events that EMDR could be helpful for. I am happy to offer a 15-minute initial consultation free of charge.
Before starting EMDR therapy with Guin, I was not really aware of the extent to which I was in a state of hypervigilance, dis-engaged from much of life and struggling. I knew I needed something and that other forms of therapy had not really made any difference. I also knew that I was often reacting to normal events with extreme reactions that made me feel pushed and pulled by forces out of my control. It was scary and I was losing hope of things ever being different. Guin met me in that place with compassion, kindness but also a steadines that made me feel safe and grounded. Her calmness and surety acted like an anchor whilst the seas got a bit choppy during the processing and this meant that I remained feeling safe even when the work was hard. And it was hard. The processing is tiring and often brings up uncomfortable things but the process means that this is held and controlled very carefully and Guin did this so well; I was able to lean into it with the insight that this was part of the processing and not a current reality and the knowledge that I was in control at all times. Now, I feel so much more myself; like I have returned. The storm has cleared, I feel back in control and, thanks to Guin’s skill and care, I am hopeful.
