The EMDR Therapy Clinic Auckland

In-Person EMDR Therapy

The In-Person EMDR Therapy Clinic is located in Milford, Parnell and Ponsonby, Auckland.

At the EMDR Clinic we incorporate the latest advancements in modern EMDR therapy equipment to ensure the most effective and comfortable experience for clients. We focus on a comprehensive EMDR therapy experience to enhance the EMDR therapeutic process through multi-sensory bilateral stimulation. 
The EMDR Therapy Clinic - EMDR Therapy Auckland

Light Bar for Eye Movements

The light bar is a key component in EMDR sessions. This innovative tool features a series of LEDs that move back and forth, guiding your eye movements. By following the lights, your brain can more effectively process traumatic memories, helping to reduce their emotional impact.
The EMDR Therapy Clinic - EMDR Therapy Auckland

Vibrating Handheld Pulsators

In addition to visual stimulation, we make use of bilateral tactile stimulation through vibrating handheld pulsator devices. The Pulsators provide tactile stimulation which enhances bilateral stimulation and promotes the EMDR therapy process.
The EMDR Therapy Clinic - EMDR Therapy Auckland

Auditory Bilateral Stimulation

To enhance the multi-sensory experience, Dr JC uses headphones to deliver bilateral auditory stimulation. Soft tones alternate between the left and right ears, further enhancing bilateral stimulation and promoting the EMDR healing process.

Schedule EMDR therapy appointments at any of our Auckland locations

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The EMDR Therapy Clinic Milford Auckland

The EMDR Therapy Clinic Milford, Auckland

The EMDR Therapy Clinic has offices in three convenient locations in Auckland

The EMDR Therapy Clinic, Suite 3G, 3 Milford Road, Milford, Auckland

The EMDR Therapy Clinic Ponsonby Auckland

The EMDR Therapy Clinic Ponsonby, Auckland

Vermont Street Specialists, 25 Vermont Street, Ponsonby, Auckland
The EMDR Therapy Clinic Parnell Auckland

The EMDR Therapy Clinic Parnell, Auckland

PractiSpace, 1 Gibraltar Crescent, Parnell, Auckland
The EMDR Therapy Clinic

EMDR Therapy Q & A

Find clear answers to common questions about EMDR Therapy in New Zealand. Learn how it works, what to expect in sessions, and how it may help you or a loved one heal from trauma, anxiety, and other challenges.

EMDR Therapy New Zealand – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR Therapy) is an evidence-based approach that helps people process and heal from traumatic or distressing experiences. It is widely used throughout New Zealand for trauma recovery and emotional wellbeing.

2. How does EMDR Therapy work?

EMDR Therapy uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, sounds, or taps) while you recall distressing memories. This helps your brain reprocess the memory, reducing emotional intensity and promoting adaptive coping.

3. What issues can EMDR Therapy help with?

EMDR Therapy is highly effective for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can also help with anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, performance issues, and other difficulties linked to stressful or traumatic life events.

4. Is EMDR Therapy safe?

Yes. EMDR Therapy is a safe, structured, and well-researched treatment. Your therapist will guide you through the process carefully to ensure you remain supported and grounded.

5. How is EMDR Therapy different from other therapies?

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR Therapy does not require detailed retelling of trauma. It focuses on how memories are stored in the brain, allowing faster and longer-lasting relief.

6. Does EMDR Therapy work online?

Yes. Online EMDR Therapy is available across New Zealand through secure video platforms. You’ll need a private space, stable internet, and a computer for virtual bilateral stimulation.

7. What happens in the first EMDR Therapy session?

Your first EMDR Therapy session involves understanding your background, current concerns, and therapy goals. The therapist explains EMDR Therapy, answers your questions, and creates a tailored treatment plan.

8. How many EMDR Therapy sessions will I need?

It varies by individual. Some clients notice improvement after a few sessions, while others—especially those with complex trauma—benefit from longer-term EMDR Therapy.

9. What are the 8 phases of EMDR Therapy?

  1. History-taking, 2) Preparation, 3) Assessment, 4) Desensitisation, 5) Installation, 6) Body Scan, 7) Closure, and 8) Re-evaluation.

10. Do I have to talk in detail about my trauma during EMDR Therapy?

No. EMDR Therapy allows you to process distress without recounting every detail. You only focus on what feels safe and relevant.

11. What will I feel during EMDR Therapy?

You might notice strong emotions, sensations, or vivid memories as your brain reprocesses information. Your therapist ensures you stay safe, supported, and in control throughout.

12. Will EMDR Therapy erase my memories?

No. EMDR Therapy doesn’t erase memories—it helps you remember them with less distress and emotional charge.

13. Who provides EMDR Therapy at The EMDR Clinic?

Our EMDR therapists are fully trained clinical psychologists and registered professionals accredited through recognised EMDR training organisations in New Zealand.

14. Where is The EMDR Clinic located?

We are based in Auckland, New Zealand, offering both in-person EMDR Therapy and secure online sessions nationwide.

15. Do I need a referral to begin EMDR Therapy?

No referral is required. You can self-refer and book directly with one of our EMDR therapists in Auckland or online.

16. Is EMDR Therapy covered by ACC or insurance?

Yes, EMDR Therapy may be covered under ACC for sensitive claims or by certain private insurance providers. Check with your insurer or contact us for details.

17. How long is an EMDR Therapy session?

Sessions usually last 50–60 minutes. In some cases, extended sessions are available if clinically appropriate.

18. How much does EMDR Therapy cost?

Our fees align with standard clinical psychology rates in New Zealand. Visit our Fees page or contact us for current pricing.

19. Is EMDR Therapy suitable for children?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can be effectively adapted for children and teenagers to help them process distressing or traumatic experiences.

20. Can EMDR Therapy help with recent stressful events?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can be used soon after a distressing event to reduce emotional distress and prevent longer-term trauma reactions.

21. What if I can’t remember my trauma clearly?

That’s okay. EMDR Therapy works with body sensations, emotions, and fragments of memory. Even unclear recollections can be successfully processed.

22. Do I need to prepare before starting EMDR Therapy?

No special preparation is required. Your EMDR therapist will help you develop grounding and coping skills before trauma processing begins.

23. Can EMDR Therapy be combined with other therapies?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can complement other modalities such as CBT, ACT, or mindfulness-based approaches, enhancing overall therapeutic outcomes.

24. What if I feel worse after an EMDR Therapy session?

Temporary distress can occur as your brain continues to process memories. This is usually short-lived, and your therapist will teach you grounding techniques to manage it.

25. Is EMDR Therapy scientifically proven?

Yes. EMDR Therapy is endorsed by the World Health Organization, the American Psychiatric Association, and the New Zealand Ministry of Health as an effective trauma treatment.

26. How long do EMDR Therapy results last?

Research shows EMDR Therapy provides lasting results. Once traumatic memories are reprocessed, improvements are generally sustained over time.

27. What if EMDR Therapy doesn’t work for me?

While EMDR Therapy helps most people, no therapy works for everyone. If needed, your therapist can integrate other approaches or refer you for additional support.

28. Can EMDR Therapy improve everyday stress and performance?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can also enhance performance, reduce general stress, and build confidence in areas like public speaking, sports, and work challenges.

29. Is EMDR Therapy culturally appropriate?

At The EMDR Clinic, we are committed to culturally responsive care. EMDR Therapy can be adapted to honour your cultural values, identity, and worldview.

30. How do I book an EMDR Therapy appointment in Auckland or online?

You can book EMDR Therapy through our website. Click the Book Now button to choose a time that suits you—either in-person at our Auckland clinic or online anywhere in New Zealand.

31. How quickly can EMDR Therapy reduce trauma symptoms?

Many clients notice changes in emotional intensity or distress after just a few EMDR Therapy sessions. Complex trauma may take longer, but improvements are often faster than with traditional talk therapy.

32. Can EMDR Therapy help with phobias and fears?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can effectively target phobias, such as fear of flying, heights, or social situations, by reprocessing the memories and associations that trigger anxiety.

33. Is EMDR Therapy suitable for adults with complex trauma?

Absolutely. EMDR Therapy is widely used in Auckland and across New Zealand for complex trauma, helping clients safely process multiple distressing experiences over time.

34. Can EMDR Therapy help with anxiety and panic attacks?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can reduce the intensity and frequency of anxiety symptoms and panic attacks by targeting underlying traumatic or distressing memories.

35. How does EMDR Therapy support grief and loss?

EMDR Therapy helps process the painful emotions associated with grief or loss, allowing clients to integrate memories and emotions without overwhelming distress.

36. Can EMDR Therapy help improve sleep and reduce nightmares?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can target memories or experiences contributing to nightmares and sleep disturbances, promoting more restful and restorative sleep.

37. Is EMDR Therapy evidence-based in New Zealand?

Yes. EMDR Therapy is supported by research internationally and is recommended by the New Zealand Ministry of Health for trauma and PTSD treatment.

38. Can EMDR Therapy be used preventatively after stressful events?

Yes. EMDR Therapy can be used shortly after a stressful or potentially traumatic event to reduce long-term psychological impact and promote resilience.

39. Are EMDR Therapy sessions confidential?

Yes. All EMDR Therapy sessions, whether in-person in Auckland or online across New Zealand, are strictly confidential in line with clinical and ethical standards.

40. How do I choose the right EMDR Therapist in Auckland?

Look for accredited EMDR therapists who are registered clinical psychologists or health professionals. At The EMDR Clinic, all therapists are trained in EMDR Therapy and follow best practice guidelines for safe, effective treatment.