Alex and Paul Corcoran, Clinical Psychologists, have both trained in EMDR therapy, and is passionate about helping people to recover from trauma.
Symptoms of trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can include:
- Recurring, distressing memories, while awake, or in dreams
- Sudden flashbacks to the traumatic event
- Distress triggered by reminders that link back to the traumatic event
- Avoiding or attempting to avoid thoughts / feelings associated with the trauma
- Avoiding activities / places / people which trigger recollections of the trauma
- Diminished interest in normal activities
- Emotionally distant
- Less positive feelings.
- Pessimism about the future.
- Sleep difficulties
- Concentration difficulties
- Increased irritability or anger
- A sense of being on guard
- Being easily startled
EMDR therapy can help people resolve trauma by creating a safe environment in which the experience of the traumatic event can be desensitised, and re-processed.
EMDR is not suitable for all, and some people need additional help in developing skills in managing and reducing emotional arousal. Whilst EMDR looks simple, there are many important procedural steps for the therapist to follow. It takes over 50 hours of training and supervision to fully train an EMDR therapist.
EMDR is endorsed by many international bodies including
- World Health Organisation (2013)
- Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health (2007)
- The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (2009)
- National Health and Medical Research Council (2007)
- American Psychiatric Association (2004)
- US Department of Veterans Affairs (2004)
- Israel National Council for Mental Health (2002)
- Clinical Division of the American Psychological Association (1998)
If you are having suicidal thoughts and / or feeling unsafe, please contact lifeline 131114 or the mental health access line 1800 011 511 for assistance. If the circumstances are urgent, please seek immediate assistance by attending your local emergency department or by calling 000.
At Moving Forward, we take an individualised approach to helping people with their problems. Therapy is tailored to the individual’s unique needs, and some individuals may benefit from a combination of therapeutic approaches, and in some cases, the input of other health professionals and services.