Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
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Alongside my integrative psychotherapeutic approach I offer EMDR, an evidence-based therapy that can be particularly effective in working with trauma and other emotional difficulties. In my years of practice I have seen how past experiences, whether obvious or more subtle, can continue to shape how we feel about ourselves and thus seriously impact our lives. These experiences can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed and held back. EMDR offers a way of working that can help the mind to process these experiences so they no longer carry the same emotional charge.
What is EMDR?
Unlike more traditional talking therapies, EMDR works by helping the brain to reprocess distressing memories, allowing them to be integrated in a healthier and less overwhelming way. The therapy uses bilateral stimulation—often in the form of guided eye movements—to support this natural healing process. EMDR was originally used to treat post-traumatic stress, however it is now routinely used for many clinical presentations, including: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, phobias, addictions and obsessive or intrusive patterns of thinking.
How I work with EMDR
As with all my work, I offer EMDR within a safe, thoughtful and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We begin by taking time to understand what has brought you to therapy and ensuring that you feel supported and resourced before working with more difficult material. When you feel ready, I will guide you through the EMDR process. This involves bringing aspects of a memory to mind whilst engaging in bilateral stimulation. Over time, many people notice that the intensity of the memory reduces - that it feels less intrusive and easier to manage. Sessions usually last between 90 and 120 minutes. The number of sessions varies depending on the nature of the work - some people notice changes relatively quickly, particularly when focusing on a single experience, whilst others may need longer to work through more complex or longstanding difficulties.
Training and approach
EMDR is a specialist therapy that requires specific training and experience. I have completed accredited EMDR training with EMDR Europe and integrate the approach carefully and thoughtfully into my wider therapeutic work. My aim, as always, is not simply to use a particular technique, but to work with you as an individual - at your pace, with sensitivity and respect for your experience. Feeling safe and understood is central to therapeutic work, particularly when working with difficult memories.
Please note: I will undertake a full client assessment to ensure suitability for this treatment and a resource building phase is required before EMDR therapy can begin,
Testimonial
I wanted to share my experience in case it helps someone who’s struggling the way I was.
Over the past year, my contamination OCD gradually took over my life. It got to the point where I couldn’t do simple, everyday tasks. I would spend hours worrying, going over things again and again, and feeling terrified about the impact on my kids and family. I honestly couldn’t imagine ever getting back to things like grocery shopping or eating out again.
Starting therapy with Kate changed everything.
From the very first sessions, I felt an instant rapport. She understood me, not just the OCD but my personality, and that made such a difference. We started EMDR, which I’ll admit I was sceptical about at first. But even in the first session, I felt a sense of calm and relaxation that I hadn’t experienced in a long time.
Within a week, the OCD that had dominated my life for months began to feel hazy. I noticed I wasn’t spending hours fixating on fears or constantly checking things that I thought could harm me. Slowly, I started returning to my normal routines.
After a second session, that feeling deepened. The best way I can describe it is “level”. Not anxious, not overly confident, just calm, stable, and in control. It was a feeling I hadn’t had in a very long time, and one I genuinely thought I might never experience again.
Kate is professional, empathetic, and incredibly supportive. As someone working in a professional environment, I had felt weak for struggling with OCD, but now I feel stronger, more in control, and no longer consumed by the compulsions that once filled my mind.
I cannot recommend EMDR enough, and I’m so grateful to have found Kate.
Lynsey, Dubai, March 2026