Treatment
Leading EMDR therapy in Ibiza
EMDR, which stands for eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing, is an effective, evidence-based treatment explicitly designed to help individuals reprocess and recover from traumatic experiences, such as childhood trauma.
It can also treat a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, offering personalised care to those seeking effective solutions.
At Ibiza Calm, we recognise that emotional difficulties like trauma, anxiety disorder, and unresolved distress can impact every area of your life, making you feel unsafe and on guard, even when there is no threat or apparent reason to feel this way.
We offer individuals a safe, structured environment to address and reprocess these experiences under the guidance of highly qualified, compassionate clinicians.
overview
Complete privacy. Complete care.
Located within our 13-hectare private estate, La Casita is a secluded two-bedroom residence with its own entrance and gardens. It provides an unparalleled environment for clients who need total anonymity, personalised care, and the reassurance of 24-hour on-site medical support.
Set in northern Ibiza, far from the island’s party scene, La Casita’s tranquil surroundings and natural beauty seep into every part of the recovery journey.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR is a structured form of psychotherapy designed to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories. It is recognised as an effective therapy for PTSD and other mental health conditions.
Psychologist Francine Shapiro initially developed EMDR therapy in the late 1980s, where, on a chance walk in the woods, she discovered that she could reduce the disturbance of thoughts and memories by simply rolling her eyes from side to side.
EMDR was then developed into a structured, integrative form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, and bilateral stimulation (such as side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or tapping).
Why EMDR is so effective in treating trauma
When an individual experiences a shocking or harrowing event, it can leave them feeling stunned and emotionally paralysed, with their brain unable to process the situation effectively.
The human brain is both intricate and fascinating, but it’s not very good at dealing with shocking, unexpected events while they are happening.
What it is great at is prioritising survival over the processing of memories, particularly upsetting or traumatic ones, storing any associated emotions and sensations in the body, which can later materialise as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
When memories are stored ineffectively, the person is left with a disturbing memory that they can’t move on from, sometimes experiencing flashbacks or nightmares, and at other times, emotional numbness and dissociation, depending on their unique nervous system response.
Any later recall of the event is with the full impact of the original memory, meaning the individual repeatedly relives all the associated sights, sounds, smells, and feelings from the time the event first occurred.
Processing traumatic memories safely and effectively
EMDR aims to help the brain process traumatic memories properly, so they are no longer so extreme or intense.
During EMDR sessions, individuals are guided to recall distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation techniques, such as gentle eye rolls or other bodily movements.
This process enables your brain to safely reprocess traumatic memories, making them less vivid and emotionally charged.
Over time, the techniques used in EMDR enable you to develop healthier beliefs and emotional responses associated with the events from your past, helping to reduce feelings of shame, self-blame, and unhealthy coping patterns like substance use.
EMDR is facilitated by a licensed therapist and takes place in a confidential, supportive setting where your safety and well being are prioritised.
What is EMDR therapy used for?
EMDR has been extensively researched and is widely recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the American Psychiatric Association, and NICE (UK) as an effective treatment for the following mental health conditions:
At Ibiza Calm, our approach is rooted in trauma-informed, client-centred care. Treatment is always paced to your comfort level, ensuring you feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout your recovery journey.
How does EMDR therapy work at Ibiza Calm?
At Ibiza Calm, EMDR therapy is integrated into our wider treatment programme to help clients address traumatic experiences that may impact their health, choices, and behaviours in the present.
From your very first session, our experienced clinical team will conduct a comprehensive assessment to create a care plan tailored specifically to your unique needs and goals, making you feel truly understood and supported.
Each plan will be different from person to person.
But to give you some idea of how it works, below is an outline of what you can expect:
→ Regular, one-to-one EMDR sessions with one of our licensed therapists.
→ A safe, confidential environment in which to explore and reprocess traumatic memories from your past.
→ Gentle integration with other therapies, such as individual counselling, group therapy, and holistic modalities like yoga and mindfulness.
→ Ongoing support and aftercare planning to help you maintain your emotional well being and recovery, allowing you to avoid relapse and rebuild your life after treatment.
Eight-phase treatment
The EMDR process follows an eight-phase protocol, which includes the following:
Our approach
What to expect in your first sessions
Starting EMDR can feel daunting, especially if you’ve never had this type of therapy in the past.
At Ibiza Calm, treatment is never rushed. Your therapist will guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and feel comfortable before your sessions begin.
In your first few sessions, you can expect to:
→ Receive a gentle introduction to EMDR and its different phases.
→ Learn strategies to help you manage distress and stay emotionally grounded and regulated.
→ Build trust with your therapist in a confidential, safe, and non-judgemental setting.
→ Set clear goals and intentions for your recovery journey.
What’s included
A carefully composed programme of care and comfort
From the moment you arrive at Ibiza Calm, our clinical team conducts a thorough physical and psychiatric evaluation. This helps us design a personalised care plan that addresses both your immediate challenges and underlying emotional or psychological issues.
Dedicated care team
A personal team of medical staff available around the clock to provide constant support and reassurance.
Comprehensive health screening
Full assessments including blood work, personalised nutrition planning, and a tailored fitness programme.
Specialised therapies
One-to-one counselling, EMDR, equine-assisted therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), selected according to individual needs.
Complementary practices
Restorative activities such as yoga, Pilates, mindfulness, massage, and spa services to support overall wellbeing.
Nutritional excellence
Time to relax and reflect within our 13-hectare private grounds, surrounded by orchards, gardens, and Mediterranean tranquillity.
Total discretion
The choice to receive therapies privately within La Casita, or to join the intimate community of up to 12 residents in the main house.
Every element of your programme is designed around you —flexible, private, and adaptive to your individual needs.
Clinical
Alternative
Physical
THE PATH TO RECOVERY STARTS WITH A SMALL FIRST STEP
How Ibiza Calm can help
EMDR therapy at our treatment centre in Ibiza is facilitated by qualified, experienced practitioners who prioritise your safety, comfort, and goals.
While it’s normal for strong emotions to surface during sessions, our team provides the support and tools needed to process these experiences safely, cultivating a sense of security and groundedness throughout your recovery journey.
We integrate EMDR therapy with other evidence-based treatments.
These include individual counselling, group therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and equine-facilitated therapy, providing holistic, comprehensive care for emotional issues like trauma, addiction, and various other mental health challenges.
EMDR Therapy
The therapeutic approaches we use
Each treatment programme is tailored to your unique needs and preferences, ensuring the most effective path to recovery and sustained emotional well being that extends beyond treatment.
At Ibiza Calm, our clinicians are trained in a wide range of psychotherapeutic modalities, including:
Next steps
Contact our clinical team today to learn more about EMDR therapy or to discuss how we can help you move forward on your healing journey.
Frequently asked questions – EMDR therapy at Ibiza Calm
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment approach that enables individuals to reprocess and recover from past traumatic experiences. The approach uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to support the brain’s natural recovery process.
Who can benefit from EMDR therapy?
EMDR is effective for those who have experienced different types of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, or adverse life events. It can also help those struggling with grief, phobias, and specific types of addiction.
What can I expect during an EMDR session at Ibiza Calm?
Our experienced therapists conduct sessions in a safe and supportive environment. You will be guided through targeted recall of difficult experiences while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as gently following the therapist’s finger with your eyes.
How long does EMDR therapy last?
This depends on your individual needs, but many clients benefit from a series of EMDR sessions over several weeks. Our clinical team will address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the length of treatment during your assessment.
Is EMDR therapy safe?
Yes. EMDR is a well-researched, evidence-based treatment with a strong record of safety. Your therapist will work with you to ensure you feel safe and supported throughout the process.
Will I have to relive traumatic memories?
While EMDR involves recalling distressing memories from the past, the exercise is designed to help you process them safely and reduce their emotional impact. You are always in control and can pause or stop at any time.
How do I know if EMDR is right for me?
During your initial assessment at Ibiza Calm, our team will review your history and goals to determine if EMDR is the right treatment option for you.
EASY STEPS TO IBIZA CALM
Admission process
step 1
Phone call
A family member or a patient calls, we will explain the time frame, suitability, our costs, and answer any other questions.
step 2
Admission assessment
An initial telephone assessment with the client.
step 3
Set a date
We give each client a date for admission and everyone is greeted by our clinical team on arrival.
You’re not alone on this journey.
The path to recovery starts with a small first step.