What is EMDR?

What does EMDR feel like during a session?

Experiences vary, but many people report:

· A gradual reduction in emotional intensity

· New insights or shifts in perspective

· Feeling less “stuck” in the memory

You remain aware and in control throughout the session.

Can I do EMDR therapy online with a clinical psychologist in Australia?

Yes. EMDR therapy can be delivered effectively through telehealth sessions with a clinical psychologist. For many clients, the added comfort and convenience of being at home can actually enhance engagement in therapy. But telehealth doesn’t suit everyone and so you may prefer to find a psychologist who has availability for face-to-face sessions.

What happens in an online EMDR session?

It depends on what stage of EMDR therapy you are in. Some sessions look very much the same as any other therapy. EMDR processing sessions are the ones that feel quite different to traditional ‘talk therapy’. In a processing session you will:

· Work with a clinical psychologist to identify key experiences

· Use structured techniques to process distressing memories

· Engage in bilateral stimulation

Do I have to talk in detail about my trauma?

No – not in detail. In history taking you will share information that will help your therapist understand your past, particularly the things that contributed to your current challenges. Usually ‘headline information’ is enough for EMDR to be effective. One of the advantages of EMDR is that it does not require detailed verbal descriptions of distressing experiences. You will briefly focus on aspects of a memory, but the therapy emphasises processing rather than retelling. This can make it a good option if talking about the experience feels overwhelming.

Does EMDR therapy actually work?

Yes. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy, particularly for trauma and PTSD, and is recognised by the World Health Organization.

Research shows that telehealth psychological therapy can be as effective as face-to-face treatment when delivered appropriately.

How much does EMDR therapy cost in Australia?

At Hill Psychology the 50-minute session costs are the same for EMDR sessions as for other psychological interventions our clinical psychologists offer.

However, EMDR processing sessions are usually 80-minute sessions and are priced accordingly.

How many EMDR sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your history, goals, and the complexity of the difficulties. Single-incident trauma may resolve in fewer sessions. More complex or long-standing issues may take longer. Your clinical psychologist will discuss a tailored treatment plan after your initial assessment.

Can I get a Medicare rebate for online psychology sessions?

Yes. You may be eligible for Medicare rebates for telehealth sessions with a registered psychologist if you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan. If you have private health insurance you should check with them what your policy covers.

Do I need a referral to see a clinical psychologist?

You do not need a referral to book privately. If you would like to access Medicare rebates, you will need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.

How do I get started?

Getting started is simple. Complete a contact form and we will be in touch as soon as possible. Or press the Book Now button and select the next available appointment.

EMDR is a therapy that can help traumatic memories heal. It is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy based on the Adaptive Information Processing model, which explains how unprocessed distressing experiences can continue to affect thoughts, emotions, and the body. EMDR helps the brain process these experiences so they no longer feel overwhelming or intrusive. EMDR is commonly used for:

· Trauma and PTSD

· Anxiety and panic

· Depression

· Distressing memories

Online EMDR therapy with clinical psychologists

Belinda Hill and Madeleine Cavicchi.