EMDR Program

Who is the program for? 

The Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Program is a specialised program for patients who suffer from PTSD and other trauma-related psychological conditions. 

EMDR is an evidence based trauma treatment that according to the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD 2020, EMDR is listed as a strong recommendation treatment intervention for adults with PTSD. EMDR is also endorsed by the World Health Organization and Phoenix Australia – Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health. 
 

How does it work? 

EMDR Therapy is based on the idea that negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours stem from unprocessed memories of stressful or traumatic experiences. The structured treatment focuses simultaneously on a) an upsetting issue or traumatic memory and its associated thoughts, feelings and sensations, and b) bilateral stimulation that is most commonly in the form of repeated eye movements. EMDR is an 8 phase model of treatment that involves assessment, stabilisation, resource development, trauma processing and desensitisation as well as an integration phase.
 

How will it help me? 

EMDR Therapy is believed to disrupt working memory and mimic the natural memory processing characteristics of sleep, thus facilitating the brain to successfully process a memory or issue. Once traumatic memories have been desensitised and reprocessed, they no longer have the same negative impact. Memories typically become less vivid and upsetting, intrusive symptoms such as nightmares and flashbacks reduce or cease, and more adaptive beliefs emerge.

While EMDR Therapy was originally developed for PTSD, research is continuing to support its application to a range of other psychological issues, including:

• Anxiety    
• Chronic pain
• Complicated grief
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Panic Attacks
• Personality disorders
• Phobias    
   

When does the program run?

The EMDR Program requires a 4-week inpatient admission that includes individual and group treatment components. Patients see their EMDR therapist for two 90-minute sessions each week, a total of 8 EMDR sessions per admission. Patients also attend daily group therapy sessions.
 

How do I access the program?

Admission to an Inpatient Program requires a referral from a Geelong Clinic accredited psychiatrist.

Your GP can refer you for an initial consultation by addressing a referral to ‘Dear Doctor’, or to one of our accredited psychiatrists. Your referral should be faxed to Intake on 03 5240 0799.

• Please click HERE for our Specialist Directory and referral process.
   

How much does it cost?

All referrals are subject to a health fund check prior to admission or commencing a program.

Your inpatient stay is generally covered by private health insurance or by Workcover, DVA and TAC. Self-funding is also an option.

Please call us to discuss any questions you may have in relation to cost.
 

More information

• Any questions regarding this program can be directed to:

Valya Bazalicki
EMDR Trauma Coordinator
Phone: 03 5240 0700 or 03 5240 0752
Email: tgc.admin@healthscope.com.au

• Inpatient EMDR Program – Please click HERE for the information brochure