Please note I am unable to take on new clients until February 2026.

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I’m a therapist with two decades of practice, offering trauma-focused counselling both online and face to face. I've also been an EMDR practitioner for some years (I offer EMDR currently face to face only). Both methods of counselling specialise in helping individuals cope with the after-effects of trauma; I have a deep understanding of the impact of this on mental health and well-being.

 

If we work together, one of the first tasks will be an assessment as to whether EMDR is suitable at this time for what you are bringing. If not, trauma-focused counselling is an effective and powerful alternative.

In my consulting rooms you'll be offered a safe and supportive space, helping you process the troubling emotions aroused when the present collides with the past (sometimes called triggering).

I'm based in Alnwick, and cover Amble, Rothbury, Morpeth, Cramlington, Ashington, Shilbottle and Warkworth and surrounding areas, and trauma-focused counselling can be online.

 

Sessions are available on Mondays to Wednesdays (daytime and early evening).  EMDR is face to face only, but all other counselling can be online if preferred. Fees are £55 per one-hour session. 

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What is EMDR and how can it help me?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing, a specialist area of trauma counselling. Here are some of the benefits you may get from the therapy -

Trauma Processing: Trauma can raise its head when the past and present collide. EMDR can help you process and make sense of traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity.

EMDR is very targeted to what’s troubling you now, rather than rehashing the past for no reason.

Reduction of Symptoms: It may alleviate symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and other stress-related conditions.

Emotional Regulation: You may find it easier to regulate your emotions and respond to stressors more calmly.

Greater Insight: The process can lead to deeper insights about yourself and your experiences, fostering personal growth.

Can I do it online ?

EMDR can be done online, although currently I do not offer this type of trauma therapy online.

What happens in EMDR sessions?

During initial sessions, I’ll gather information about your history and traumatic experiences and memories you want to address.

You’ll learn about EMDR and what to expect. We'll spend time developing the ways you use to calm and steady yourself, and then we’ll work together to identify specific disturbing memories or feelings you want to address.

 

Throughout the next set of sessions, we'll follow this pattern - 
 

You’ll focus on a distressing memory or bodily feeling while following a moving dot on a light bar, or listening to a sound to the left then to the right, or tapping on the right then left hand or knee, or holding buzzers. There is no need for physical contact or proximity to the therapist, and you'll choose the method with which you feel most comfortable.

This process, similar to rapid eye movement (REM) in sleep, may help to process the disturbing memory or sensation and reduce its emotional charge, so that you’ll keep the memory but without the associated distress.

You can stop whenever you like, and won’t be taken into places which are too much for you. There is no element of hypnosis or suggestion involved; you are always in control of the process. I’ll support you, guide you and ensure you feel safe throughout. It’s a collaborative effort, so your input and comfort level are essential.

Is EMDR safe?

Yes, EMDR is considered safe when conducted by professionally trained and experienced trauma therapists. Most people experience positive outcomes. It’s not suitable for all, and we will discuss your specific situation before starting.

Other trauma-focused talking therapies are available; these are also powerful ways to address trauma-related distress. In addition to being an EMDR counsellor, I have many years experience in trauma-focused talking therapies in the NHS and private practice - click here for details

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Ruth McIlroy Reg NCPS (Snr Accred) Counsellor and Supervisor

BSc(Hons)Person-Centred Psychotherapy

Advanced Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Skills

Post-Graduate Diploma in Supervision

EMDR Europe qualified practitioner