EMDR Therapy:
A Guide for Clients

Allie Mackay

Introduction

About EDMR Therapy

EMDR therapy is a unique and powerful form of psychotherapy that has helped millions of people overcome a wide range of emotional and psychological issues. The therapy is based on the principle that the brain has a natural ability to heal itself and that when we experience traumatic events, the natural healing process can become disrupted. EMDR therapy helps to reprocess these traumatic memories and restore the brain’s natural healing process, leading to lasting relief from symptoms.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of therapy that was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. The therapy is based on the idea that the brain has a natural ability to heal itself, but sometimes this process can become disrupted, particularly after a traumatic event. EMDR therapy works by reprocessing traumatic memories so that they no longer have a negative impact on our lives.

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

EMDR therapy works by stimulating the brain’s natural healing process. The therapist will guide you through a series of eye movements, taps or sounds while you focus on a particular memory or thought.

This process is designed to help you reprocess the traumatic memory, so that it becomes less distressing and no longer interferes with your daily life. During the therapy, you will remain in control and can stop the process at any time if you feel uncomfortable. You will also be taught techniques to help you manage any distress that may arise during the therapy.

Allie Mackay with a client

What Can EMDR Therapy Help With?

EMDR therapy can be used to treat a wide range of emotional and psychological issues, including:

What are the Benefits of EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy can offer several benefits, including:

EMDR Therapy is a unique and powerful form of psychotherapy

It can help you overcome a wide range of emotional and psychological issues. It is based on the idea that the brain has a natural ability to heal itself, and the therapy works by reprocessing traumatic memories so that they no longer have a negative impact on our lives. If you are struggling with any emotional or psychological issues, EMDR therapy may be able to help you. Speak to a qualified EMDR therapist to find out more about the therapy and whether it’s right for you.

Allie Mackay

Allie Mackay

Principal Psychologist and Founder, AHPRA

Natalie Vivas

Natalie Vivas

Psychologist, AHPRA

  • Clinical Psychologist Registrar AHPRA
  • Masters Clinical Health/Psychology
  • Spanish speaking Therapist
  • Complex trauma
  • Depression
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
  • Eating disorders
  • Bipolar affective disorder (BAD)
  • Low self-esteem
  • Grief
  • Acute or chronic stress
  • Relationship breakdown. 
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
  • Mindfulness
Athena Cranston

Athena Cranston

Psychologist, AHPRA

  • BA (Psychology) (Hons)
  • Diploma of Psychological Practice
  • Member of APS
Kaoru Sato

Kaoru Sato

Provisional Psychologist, AHPRA

  • B. Psych (Hons), M. Couns & PsychTh
  • Grad. Dip Couns&PsychoTh
  • M.Phil (USyd)
  • Accredited Counsellor ( PACFA)?
  • EMDR trained therapist
  • Work Cover Accredited
  • Victims services Accredited
  • Japanese speaking Therapist

Meet our founder, Allie Mackay

Passionate about guiding individuals through various challenges, Allie Mackay, founder of Due North Psychology (previously Allie Mackay Psychology), brings extensive experience as a Registered Psychologist. Allie’s impactful research, published in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrates the effectiveness of her interventions in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, particularly in conditions like multiple sclerosis and migraines. As an AHPRA Board-Approved supervisor, she actively contributes to advancing the field, offering knowledge in Attachment Informed and IFS informed EMDR therapy Supervision. Allie’s special interest lies in the transformative potential of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) for various conditions and traumas.

In her practice, Allie often encounters patients with physical symptoms signaling underlying stress, emphasizing the importance of understanding the connection between emotions and physical well-being. Beyond addressing symptoms, Allie delves into the profound impact of self-talk on relationships, including those with oneself. Drawing on her personal transformation through compassion-focused therapy, she guides others toward cultivating kinder internal dialogues and fostering healthier relationships.

Allie Mackay

Think EMDR could be right for you?