EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
the intentional look inward
What is EMDR?
Do you feel that past experiences are still casting a shadow over your life today? Sleep disturbances, inner restlessness, or sudden flashbacks can be signs of an unprocessed experience. Especially for Germans living abroad, it can be difficult to find suitable therapeutic support in their native language.
With EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), PrivateSpace Psychotherapy offers a modern, effective method that has proven particularly successful in treating trauma-related disorders, anxiety, and distressing life events. EMDR is based on the targeted reprocessing of traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation – efficient, structured, and deeply effective.
You will be guided through the process by Natja Du Preez, a licensed psychotherapist with decades of international experience – with professional confidence and human warmth. Discover now how EMDR can help you regain inner calm and emotional stability.
The Story Behind EMDR
How was EMDR developed?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) was developed in the late 1980s by the American psychologist Francine Shapiro – originally for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. During a walk, she noticed that distressing thoughts suddenly felt less frightening after certain eye movements. From this observation, a structured method emerged that is now considered one of the most scientifically researched trauma therapies in the world.
EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in the brain in a “disordered” way and can be reprocessed and emotionally relieved through bilateral stimulation (e.g. eye movements).
- Scientifically grounded and internationally recognized (including by the WHO and APA)
- Particularly effective for trauma, anxiety, flashbacks, and chronic stress
- No medication-based treatment required
- Quick access to distressing memories – without overwhelming you
- Gentle yet profound processing of traumatic experiences
- Effective as a short-term therapeutic approach – even for complex issues
Whether trauma, anxiety, or chronic stress
Who is EMDR suitable for?
Understanding trauma. Relieving memories.
Whether it is an accident, violence, or loss – EMDR helps redirect what has been experienced into new pathways.
EMDR for stress-related symptoms
Constant stress, nervousness, or panic? EMDR helps regulate the nervous system.
psychosomatic symptoms or emotional blockages
EMDR can help resolve emotional causes of physical symptoms.
Sustainable processing of distressing experiences
How does EMDR treatment work?
Step 1: Preparation & Stabilization
A safe framework for your change
In this phase, you get to know your therapist, clarify your concerns, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. You will be given techniques for emotional stabilization so that you feel safe and supported before we address distressing topics in a targeted way.
Step 2: Activation & Processing
Targeted work with distressing memories.
This is where the actual EMDR work begins. Using bilateral stimulation (e.g. eye movements), we support the reprocessing of emotionally distressing experiences. The goal is to restructure the memory so that it no longer has a distressing effect – without having to relive it.
Step 3: Integration & Strengthening
What is allowed to heal becomes part of your story again.
In the final phase, what has been worked through is consolidated and integrated into your everyday life. Positive self-images, new perspectives, and a sense of inner control are strengthened – so that you can move into the future with stability, resilience, and renewed energy.
Processing that starts to move
How and why does EMDR work?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is based on the understanding that our brain is sometimes unable to fully process distressing experiences – for example after a shock, traumatic events, or severe emotional overwhelm.
The result: memories remain stored in a “disordered” way and can trigger strong emotional or physical reactions even years later.
This is exactly where EMDR comes in: Through targeted bilateral stimulation – such as guided eye movements – both hemispheres of the brain are activated and the brain’s natural information processing is stimulated.
This method can help place distressing memories into a more neutral and less distressing context. At PrivateSpace Psychotherapy, we guide you through this process in a structured, safe, and individualized way – without overwhelming you and in an online setting that adapts to your life situation abroad.
Because trust begins with answers
Your questions about EMDR at PrivateSpace.
Especially when dealing with sensitive topics such as trauma, anxiety, or emotional overload, it is important to clarify all open questions in advance. At PrivateSpace Psychotherapy, we place great value on transparency and professional guidance – especially in the online setting.
Below, we answer three frequently asked questions that patients ask Natja Du Preez. If you have any further concerns, we look forward to hearing from you – personally, confidentially, and always accessible.
What exactly does an online EMDR session look like?
The online EMDR session at PrivateSpace follows clearly structured phases: after a brief introduction and stabilization, the actual EMDR sequence begins with bilateral stimulation (e.g. guided eye movements or auditory stimuli via screen). The session is individually adapted to your current level of resilience – you remain in control at all times, even in the digital setting. Everything takes place in compliance with GDPR, securely, and in a protected atmosphere.
Is EMDR suitable for me even if I have not experienced a classic trauma?
Yes. EMDR is used not only for “severe” trauma, but also for ongoing stress, anxiety, experiences of separation, stress-related issues, or psychosomatic symptoms. Many patients report old patterns or memories that continue to hold them back emotionally. EMDR can help process these experiences – even if they are not classified as trauma at first glance.
How quickly can I expect to get a therapy appointment at PrivateSpace?
As PrivateSpace operates as an online practice independent of regional appointment allocation, you can usually expect an initial consultation promptly – often within just a few days. This is a major advantage especially for Germans living abroad, as local waiting times are often considerably longer. Appointments are scheduled flexibly to match your time zone.