EMDR:
Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is
a type of evidence-based therapy and is most commonly known for treating post-traumatic stress and trauma, but it can also be used for other presentations, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, panic and phobias.
It works by targeting how memories are stored in the brain, helping to reduce their emotional charge so they feel less triggering in the present. This is achieved through the use of bilateral stimulation, which usually involves guided eye movements (visual) back and forth across a field of vision. This aids desensitisation of the memory, making it less powerful, and allows new adaptive beliefs to be associated with the memories being processed. Bilateral stimulation can also be auditory (alternating sounds to the left and right ear), or tactile (alternating physical sensations, such as tapping shoulders or thighs).
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I’m currently undertaking EMDR training with EMDR All Ireland and will be incorporating this into my practice later in the year. In the meantime, I have a limited number of spaces for case study clients who are interested in EMDR and these are offered at a reduced rate.
Psychotherapy:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based type of talking therapy. CBT is often used as an umbrella term that encompasses over 30 different evidence-based approaches, which largely focus on understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Through developing more awareness and understanding of our responses to thoughts and emotions, we can start to develop new ways of coping. I believe in the importance of this coming from a place of curiosity, rather than judgement, as we work collaboratively to find strategies that support your way of thinking and being, without trying to ‘fix’ who you are.
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While CBT is often seen as an active, tools-based therapy, it also allows space to explore past experiences and understand how they’ve shaped belief systems that continue to influence how we respond to situations today.
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I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into my practice, having completed additional training in this area. This allows me to offer a more holistic approach to therapy. ACT is a mindfulness-based behavioural therapy, which teaches us how to accept unpleasant thoughts and feelings, rather than trying to eliminate them, whilst taking meaningful action in our lives.​ While we can't always control what happens around us, what we think or what we feel, we can choose how we respond, guided by what matters to us.
What to expect:​
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Treatment usually starts with an assessment session, this is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, to explore your current challenges, background, and goals in a supportive and non-judgmental space. This session allows me to understand your unique experiences and determine how we can tailor therapy to best support you. The assessment phase often extends out over the first few sessions and also involves use of visual diagrams to map out and understand your symptoms. This helps us create a treatment plan, based on your presentation and goals, as well as the therapy research.
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EMDR protocol can differ as it can involve a more in-depth history taking and assessment of target memories for processing, as well as time spent on developing a safe environment for you, and teaching you some coping and grounding mechanisms that will help when it comes to later processing work.
Sessions are typically weekly, and last for 50 minutes. Some sessions are up to 90 minutes if needed.
There are many types of therapy and if I feel that what I offer is not the most appropriate fit for your presenting difficulties and therapy goals, I would discuss this with you. It’s important that each individual is accessing the type of treatment that is most appropriate for them.
If you would like to arrange a 30 minute free discovery call to find out more, please click here to request a booking.
Equine Facilitated Services:
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Equine Facilitated Learning or Equine Facilitated Therapy
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Horses have been recognised for their therapeutic benefits for many years and the interactions that we can have between equines can be used to facilitate therapeutic interventions. Horses are sensitive animals who live wholly in the present moment and interactions with them can encourage us to look inward to explore our own human behaviour and better understand our thinking patterns and emotions. The non-judgemental nature of horses can create a safe space for individuals to explore and address emotional challenges.
Some key components of equine therapy / interactions might include:
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Observing and reflecting: participants are often encouraged to observe the behaviour of the herd and reflect on their own emotions and reactions. Working with horses can help individuals to express and process emotions. These experiences can offer a powerful experience that talking in the clinic room may not do.
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Grounding techniques: practising mindfulness-based exercises are of great benefit, especially when outdoors, in addition to this, horses can teach us a lot about being mindful, as we can observe how horses live in the present moment, rather unlike humans can have tendency to live in the future, or ruminate on the past. Interacting with horses can encourage individuals to be more mindful and present. This can be particularly beneficial to those dealing with trauma or stress.
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Interacting with the horse: this might include participating in activities with the horse, such as grooming, or feeding and in some cases leading the horse if appropriate. These interactions can have a range of benefits, such as learning communication skills and assertiveness, to building trust and setting boundaries.
Our sessions take place in a peaceful, natural setting surrounded by open space, trees, and animals. This calm environment can support grounding and emotional regulation, and may be more appealing for clients who find traditional therapy rooms overwhelming or hard to engage in.​
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I have trained with Athena Herd Foundation, Level 2 and Level 4 Equine Facilitated Interactions, and am an accredited ACCPH Member (registration number 00002900). This can be offered from Avoca, Co Wicklow, Ireland.
