Find an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist in United Kingdom

What EMDR is and the principles behind it

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. At its core, EMDR is based on the idea that distressing experiences and the memories associated with them can become stuck in the nervous system, causing ongoing emotional and physiological reactions. The therapy uses an intentional process of guided attention and bilateral stimulation - often through paced eye movements, taps, or visual cues - to help the brain reprocess those memories so they are less intrusive and maintain less emotional charge. Therapists trained in EMDR work within a structured protocol that combines history-taking, preparation, focused reprocessing of target memories, and consolidation of adaptive beliefs and resources.

How EMDR is used by therapists in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, EMDR is offered by clinicians from several professional backgrounds, including clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors, and mental health practitioners. Many therapists undertake additional EMDR-specific training and seek accreditation with recognised EMDR training organisations or professional bodies. In day-to-day practice, EMDR is integrated into broader care plans and can be delivered as a short-term, focused intervention or as part of longer-term therapy, depending on your needs. You will find EMDR offered in major urban centres such as London, Manchester and Birmingham, as well as in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, and increasingly via online sessions that make it accessible across regions.

What EMDR is commonly used for

EMDR is commonly used to address the emotional impact of distressing or traumatic memories. People seek EMDR for a range of concerns including ongoing stress from past events, persistent intrusive memories, nightmares, heightened anxiety related to specific incidents, and difficulties linked to loss or sudden change. Therapists may also use EMDR techniques to help with phobias, performance anxiety, complicated grief, and certain forms of test or exam-related stress. While EMDR is often associated with trauma-focused work, therapists will tailor the approach to your particular situation, discussing goals and expected outcomes before starting reprocessing work.

What a typical online EMDR session looks like

Online EMDR sessions follow the same basic protocol as in-person therapy, adapted to work through a video or audio platform. A session usually begins with a brief check-in where you and the therapist review how you have been since the last meeting and confirm a plan for the session. The therapist will ensure you have coping strategies and grounding techniques in place before moving into any memory processing. During the reprocessing phase, the therapist guides you to focus on a target memory while administering bilateral stimulation through eye movements that you follow on-screen, through gentle tapping on yourself, or via auditory signals. Sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes, with time set aside at the end for stabilization and to agree next steps. When working online, practical matters such as a reliable internet connection, a quiet room free from interruptions, and a charged device are important so the session can proceed smoothly. Therapists will also discuss how to handle any intense reactions after the session and may schedule a follow-up contact if needed.

Who is a good candidate for EMDR

You may be a good candidate for EMDR if you have distressing memories or recurring emotional responses linked to specific events and are motivated to work through those memories with a trained clinician. EMDR is often suitable for people who have already built some coping skills and who can remain present while recalling challenging material. If you are currently experiencing severe instability, ongoing abuse, or unmanaged symptoms that interfere with day-to-day functioning, a therapist will typically discuss stabilisation and support options before beginning reprocessing. Many therapists will assess readiness during an initial consultation and will outline how EMDR could fit into a broader plan that may include other forms of psychological support or coordination with health services when appropriate.

Choosing the right EMDR therapist in the United Kingdom

Finding a therapist who is a good fit involves both practical and personal considerations. Start by looking for clinicians who have completed recognised EMDR training and who can explain their approach clearly. It is reasonable to ask about their experience with the particular issue you want to address, whether they work face-to-face in cities such as London, Manchester or Birmingham, and what proportion of their practice is delivered online. Check whether they are registered with a professional body and whether they follow a professional code of practice. Many therapists offer a short introductory call or an initial assessment session - use this opportunity to get a sense of how they explain the EMDR process, how they approach safety and stabilization, and what you can expect in terms of session length, frequency and fees.

Practical considerations

Practical questions make a real difference in finding a therapist you can work with consistently. Consider location if you prefer in-person meetings - larger cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow tend to have more options, but online sessions broaden access beyond those centres. Ask about appointment availability, cancellation policies, sliding scale fees or concessions if cost is a concern, and whether they offer evening or weekend slots. Language needs, accessibility for mobility or hearing considerations, and therapist experience with particular cultural backgrounds are also worth discussing so that logistics and communication are not barriers to effective work.

Preparing for your first EMDR sessions

Before beginning EMDR, many therapists will complete a thorough assessment and build a foundation of coping skills so you feel able to manage distress between sessions. You can prepare by noting key events or memories you wish to address, thinking about goals for therapy, and ensuring you have a comfortable and relatively private room for online work. It is helpful to agree ahead of time how the therapist will contact you if you need support between sessions and what steps will be taken if you experience strong emotional reactions. Clear communication about expectations, pace and goals lets you and your therapist plan a route forward that feels manageable and respectful of your needs.

Finding EMDR support near you

Use therapist profiles to compare training, approach and practical details. Many clinicians list their EMDR credentials, areas of specialism, and whether they see adults, young people or both. If you live in or near London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh or Glasgow, you may find a wider range of specialists to choose from, but online working has made it easier to access experienced EMDR therapists across the UK. Trust your instincts when you review profiles - if a therapist’s description and communication style resonates with you, an initial consultation can help confirm whether you feel comfortable working with them.

EMDR can be a focused and effective way to work with distressing memories when delivered by a trained professional. Taking time to research training, ask practical questions, and consider how the therapist’s approach aligns with your needs will help you make a confident choice about where to begin. When you are ready, reach out to request an initial assessment so you can discuss goals, process and next steps with a clinician who is experienced in EMDR work.