EMDR therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy uses guided eye movements and bilateral stimulation to help process traumatic memories and reduce their impact on daily life. It supports the development of healthier coping patterns without requiring detailed retelling of traumatic events.
When to see a specialist
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic experiences, including accidents, sexual and/or physical abuse
- Panic disorder and panic attacks
- Eating disorders, such as binge eating
- Anxiety, including performance anxiety, exam anxiety, or competition anxiety
- Phobias, such as fear of flying, driving anxiety, fear of dental procedures, or fear of blood tests
- Disturbing memories related to bullying, humiliation, rejection, accidents, or failed performances
- Grief and loss
- Trauma related to medical procedures or childbirth
- Chronic pain without a clear physical cause
- Addictive or compulsive behaviours linked to unresolved traumatic memories
Common symptoms
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Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural internal state of tension and the body’s reaction to danger, changes, or emotionally significant situations. -
Avoidance
Avoiding places, people, or situations connected to the experience. -
Difficulties in everyday life
Emotional triggers such as sounds, smells, or situations interfere with relationships, work, or daily functioning. -
Emotional numbness or dissociation
Feeling detached, emotionally numb, or disconnected from reality. -
Fatigue and exhaustion
Fatigue persists even after rest, and everyday activities feel exhausting. -
Hypervigilance and irritability
Feeling constantly alert, tense, easily startled, or emotionally reactive. -
Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares
Traumatic experiences return unexpectedly through thoughts, images, or dreams. -
Negative thought patterns
Negative thoughts about yourself affect your self-esteem, and it is difficult to distance yourself from them.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Eat before the appointment and drink enough water so you feel physically comfortable during the session.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to sit and relax easily during the session.
- If you wear glasses or contact lenses, glasses are usually recommended during the session, as contact lenses may irritate the eyes during eye movement exercises.
- Avoid large jewellery or distracting accessories that may interfere with following visual movements.
- It may be helpful to leave yourself some quiet time after the session, as therapy can be emotionally intensive.
- Please bring an identification document with you.
What to expect during your appointment
Introduction and assessment
We discuss your concerns, goals, and previous support experiences. The therapist explains how EMDR works and agrees with you on the treatment approach.
Stabilisation and self-regulation skills
You learn grounding and calming techniques to support emotional safety during and after sessions. Additional stabilisation sessions may be recommended if needed.
Assessing readiness
The therapist evaluates whether you are ready to begin processing distressing experiences.
Choosing a focus
A specific memory, experience, emotion, or belief is selected as the focus of the session.
Processing with bilateral stimulation
The therapist guides eye movements or uses sounds or tapping techniques to help process the memory safely.
Observing change and building new connections
Together, you monitor how emotional reactions decrease, memories shift, and new insights or perspectives emerge.
Strengthening positive beliefs and body awareness
The session focuses on reinforcing supportive beliefs and noticing changes in physical sensations and emotional responses.
Closing the session
At the end of the session, calming exercises are used to restore balance and discuss the next steps.
Payment & Appointment Info
Prices
Tallinn
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 20 € |
| Preparation of a mental health certificate, extract or specialist assessment based on medical documentation at the patient's request 15–60 min | 25–75 € |
Everywhere else in Estonia
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 13 € |
| EMDR therapy | 135 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Preparation of a mental health certificate, extract or specialist assessment based on medical documentation at the patient's request 15–60 min | 25–75 € |
Payment methods
Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.
In case of a referral from Ohvriabi (Victim Support), the service is funded by Victim Support. To book an appointment, please call +372 605 1500, write to klienditugi@meliva.ee, or fill out the form.
In case of a referral from the Tervisekassa (Health Insurance Fund), the service is funded by the Health Insurance Fund. To book an appointment, please call +372 605 1500, write to klienditugi@meliva.ee, or fill out the form.
Referral
An appointment with a specialist is required first to assess whether the service is suitable or necessary.
Clinics offering this service
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Open
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is EMDR therapy only used for trauma?
EMDR is most commonly used for treating PTSD, but it may also help with anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and symptoms connected to distressing memories.
Do I need to describe traumatic events in detail during EMDR therapy?
Usually not. EMDR does not generally require detailed retelling of traumatic experiences. The therapist guides the process in a way that feels safe and manageable.
Can EMDR therapy be emotionally intensive?
Yes. Processing traumatic memories can sometimes feel emotionally intense. The therapist supports the process carefully and teaches calming and stabilisation techniques.
How many EMDR therapy sessions are usually needed?
For a single traumatic event, 3–6 sessions may be sufficient. More complex or repeated traumatic experiences may require 6–12 or more sessions depending on individual needs.
Can EMDR therapy help if I do not have a clear memory of the event?
Yes. EMDR can begin with emotions, body sensations, or negative beliefs even if there is no complete memory of the event.
Can EMDR therapy help with childhood trauma?
Yes. EMDR is often used to process difficult childhood experiences and long-term emotional patterns connected to them.
Will I lose control during EMDR therapy?
No. You remain aware and in control throughout the session. The therapist helps ensure that the process feels as safe and manageable as possible.
Can EMDR therapy help with anxiety and panic attacks?
Yes. EMDR may help reduce anxiety and panic symptoms when they are connected to distressing experiences or unresolved memories.
Is EMDR therapy evidence-based?
Yes. EMDR is a scientifically supported psychotherapy approach recommended internationally for the treatment of trauma and PTSD.
What happens after an EMDR session?
Some people feel tired, emotional, or reflective after a session. Others may notice new thoughts, emotions, dreams, or memories emerging as the brain continues processing experiences.
