Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based and effective psychotherapeutic approach for trauma. Trauma is any experience where a person is exposed to a threat and experiences a sense of hopelessness and/or strong distress as a result. Although people often think of major life-threatening events like car accidents, natural disasters, war, or physical assault/abuse, trauma also involves experiences that are emotionally threatening and/or prolonged, such as bullying, emotional abuse, sexual assault/abuse, neglect, abandonment by a loved one, or loss of a loved one.
Since traumatic experiences are associated with such intense emotional and bodily reactions, our minds tend to store memories of these events differently to those of normal everyday events. Whilst everyday memories typically fade with time, traumatic memories can get ‘stuck’. We can continue to experience the sensations, emotions and meaning of these memories vividly, as though they are still happening in the present (flashbacks). In EMDR, the therapist guides you through the process of ‘unblocking’ your brain’s natural information processing system, so that trauma memories can be processed and integrated into a more adaptive understanding of yourself and the world.
At ANIMA ouur team of Clinical Psychologists and Neuropsychologists are dedicated to delivering comprehensive and empathetic care to our patients. With a wide array of expertise and extensive experience in the field, our team is highly capable of addressing a wide range of mental health issues and assisting individuals in achieving long-lasting growth, recovery, and enduring positive transformations.
What we do
-
Schema Therapy is an impactful therapeutic intervention designed to empower individuals in overcoming entrenched, counterproductive emotional and behavioural patterns that may interfere with interpersonal relationships, career prospects and life satisfaction. Schema therapy aims to help uncover "Early Maladaptive Schemas" (EMS), which are subconscious and enduring emotional and cognitive patterns that develop in response to challenging childhood experiences. At ANIMA Health Network, all of our clinical psychologists are trained in Schema Therapy. Our aim is to help you address the root causes of emotional and psychological distress and empower you to create lasting meaningful change. find out more about Schema Therapy.
-
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that, if left undiagnosed and untreated in childhood, can have substantial negative impacts in adulthood. In adults, ADHD can manifest in several ways, including difficulty with focus, impulsive actions leading to regrettable decisions, procrastination, organisation and time management challenges, constant inner restlessness, and difficulties regulating emotions, which can significantly affect work and relationships. At ANIMA, our team have expertise lies in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. find out more about adult ADHD
-
Our assessment service for autistic adults is centered on your needs and preferences, fostering a collaborative journey where your comfort and participation are prioritised. Our patient-centered approach values clear communication, understanding your strengths and challenges through meaningful conversations rather than a mere checklist. find out more about Autism here and contact our friendly reception to find out more about the assessment process and how we can help you.
-
In OCD, individuals often grapple with persistent, intrusive thoughts known as obsessions. These thoughts often provoke significant anxiety or distress. In response to these distressing thoughts, individuals may feel compelled to perform certain actions or mental rituals, known as compulsions, to alleviate the anxiety or prevent a feared event or outcome. The repetitive nature of these behaviours is driven by a need to establish a sense of control or reduce the anxiety associated with obsessive thoughts. OCD can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life, and treatment often involves a combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication. Contact our friendly admin team who can help find the most appropriate clinician to help support you on your journey.
-
Depression is a mental health condition that goes beyond just feeling sad or down. It involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in once enjoyable activities. People with depression may experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns, have difficulty concentrating, and often feel fatigued. It's like being stuck in a heavy fog of sadness that affects daily life. Fortunately the symptoms of depression can often be alleviated. Treatment can include therapy, medication, or a combination of both to help lift the cloud of depression, improve your mood, and restore a sense of autonomy.
-
Anxiety is a common emotional experience where a person feels worried, nervous, or uneasy about something. It's like having a sense of fear or unease, often accompanied by physical sensations like a racing heart, sweating, or a tense feeling. While a bit of anxiety is normal, excessive or constant worry that interferes with daily life might be an anxiety disorder. It's like your mind is stuck on the "what-ifs" and can make simple tasks feel overwhelming. Let us help you acquire the tools you need to help manage your anxiety so that you can once again meaningfully reengage in the world.
-
At ANIMA Health Network we offer one-off Diagnostic Mental Health Assessments to evaluate the nature, severity, and functional impairment for a range of psychological difficulties. You will also be provided with a complemented by a detailed report and recommendations outlining the assessment findings. Find out more.
-
At ANIMA Health Network, we offer neuropsychological assessments and diagnostic clarification for children (ages 8+), adolescents, adults and older adults.
We assess a broad range of neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychological disorders, allowing us to develop a comprehensive diagnostic and clinical picture of the presenting issues considering all aspects of a person’s functioning.
-
Our Clinical Psychologists all have training in Imagery Rescripting, which is a therapeutic approach designed to address and alleviate emotional distress caused by upsetting mental images or memories. When individuals have distressing memories, the traditional response might be to replay them as they originally occurred, reinforcing negative emotions. In imagery rescripting, however, the person collaborates with a therapist to transform these troubling mental images. It's akin to jointly editing the script of a mental movie to introduce a more positive and constructive narrative.
During therapy, individuals actively engage in modifying the imagery associated with a distressing memory. By reshaping the mental representation of the event, the aim is to create a new, less distressing ending or perspective. This process enables individuals to reinterpret the meaning of the memory, fostering a sense of empowerment and control over their emotional responses.