What happens when we experience trauma or distress?
When we experience a traumatic or highly distressing event, the body naturally shifts into a fight, flight, or freeze response. When there is enough support, safety, and capacity to process what has happened, the nervous system is usually able to settle and the experience is integrated. The memory becomes part of the past rather than something that continues to intrude into the present.
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For many people, however, this process doesn’t fully complete. The experience can remain ‘stuck’ or fragmented, leaving the nervous system responding as though the event is still happening. This can show up as distressing images, strong emotional reactions, physical sensations, intrusive thoughts, or a sense of being easily overwhelmed.
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Over time, these unresolved experiences can affect relationships, work, confidence, and overall wellbeing. People often develop coping strategies to manage the discomfort, yet still feel held back or disconnected from themselves or others.
How EMIT works
Eye Movement Integration Therapy (EMIT) supports the brain’s natural ability to process and integrate distressing experiences. Through guided eye movements and attention to the full sensory experience of a memory, the nervous system is supported to complete the processing that was interrupted at the time.
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As this happens, memories are no longer experienced as urgent or emotionally charged. Instead, they are “filed away” appropriately - recognised as something that happened in the past, rather than something that continues to shape reactions in the present. This often brings a sense of relief, perspective, and increased emotional balance.
A gentle, integrated approach
Eye Movement Therapy is not like traditional talk therapy. You do not need to share every detail of your story for it to be effective. Sessions are paced carefully and guided with safety and consent at the forefront.
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In my practice, eye movement therapy is integrated with supportive talk therapy modalities. This means there is space to reflect, make sense of your experience, and connect what emerges in sessions with your day-to-day life. Together, these approaches support insight, emotional regulation, and meaningful change.
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Many people find this approach gentler, more contained, and more efficient than talk-based approaches alone, and there is no homework between sessions.
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While everyone’s experience is different, EMIT is often experienced as quicker and longer-lasting than traditional therapy when working with trauma/distress or deeply ingrained patterns.​
What EMIT can help with
Eye Movement Therapy may be helpful for people experiencing:
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Trauma and post-traumatic stress
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Anxiety and panic responses
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Chronic stress or overwhelm
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Relationship difficulties linked to past experiences
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Childhood or developmental trauma
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Grief and loss
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Performance blocks or confidence issues
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Distressing memories or intrusive thoughts
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Emotional reactions that feel disproportionate or hard to control
EMIT can be used for current situations you’re navigating now, or for experiences from earlier in life, including childhood.
Sessions & Fees
​Fees
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50-minutes – $130
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80-minutes – $180
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Location
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In-person sessions: Aberglasslyn, NSW (Hunter Valley)
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Online sessions: Available if you’re outside the area or prefer the comfort of your own home
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If you are noticing that past experiences continue to affect how you feel, react, or relate in the present, Eye Movement Therapy may be a supportive option. A collaborative discussion will help determine whether EMIT is appropriate for you.
Please get in touch to learn more or to book a session.