Unlocking Healing and Growth through EMDR Therapy in Harley Street, London

Specialist Trauma Therapy with Dr Comfort Shields, Chartered Clinical Psychologist

At my practice in the Harley Street Medical District, I specialise in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) — a powerful, evidence-based treatment that helps people move beyond trauma and reclaim their lives. I am an approved provider for Bupa Global, Cigna, WPA, and Allianz, offering direct billing for international clients, finance professionals, and expats in London.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a gold-standard treatment for trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD. Recommended by NICE and the World Health Organisation, EMDR helps the brain reprocess distressing experiences so you no longer feel “stuck” in them.

Unlike trauma psychotherapy, which can often take years, EMDR is often effective within a shorter timeframe. It is widely used across NHS and Veterans hospitals and is considered the leading therapy for PTSD.

What EMDR Can Help With

Many clients come to me for EMDR after experiencing:

Childhood sexual, physical, or emotional abuse
Domestic violence and neglect
Road traffic accidents and serious injury
Natural disasters, war, refugee trauma, or trafficking
Traumatic loss, including suicide or sudden death

In addition to trauma, EMDR can also help with:

Anxiety and panic disorders
Phobias (fear of flying, diving, public speaking)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What to Expect in EMDR Sessions

Initial sessions (1–2): A detailed history and treatment plan. We discuss your background and help you feel comfortable and supported.
Preparation sessions (2–3): We work with coping tools, including the “safe place” protocol, and identify key distressing memories alongside negative and positive beliefs.
Processing sessions (3–6+): Using bilateral stimulation (lights or auditory tones), traumatic memories are reprocessed until the distress decreases. Positive, empowering beliefs are then installed.
Review: At the start of each session, we assess your progress and adapt as needed.

Every EMDR process is paced gently. I will always ensure you feel safe, in control, and able to pause if needed.

How Many EMDR Sessions Will I Need?

For single-event trauma, a structured block of six sessions may be enough:

2–3 sessions for history taking and preparation
3–4 sessions for EMDR processing

For complex or repeated trauma (C-PTSD), a total of 12 or more sessions may be required. We will review your progress together and adjust accordingly.

EMDR Therapy Fees

£300 per 90-minute session
Block of 6 sessions for £1,500 (payable in advance; sixth session free; valid for 12 months)

Please note: blocks are non-refundable once booked. This is because time is reserved in Dr Shields’ diary specifically for you, and new clients may be turned away in order to keep that time available.

Investing in a block is the recommended way to begin EMDR, as it provides continuity and structure for your therapy process.

EMDR may be paid for by bank transfer or credit card.

Are There Side Effects?

Most clients experience relief and greater calm after sessions. Some may notice:

Vivid dreams
Heightened emotions or physical sensations during sessions
Temporary tiredness

These are normal signs of your brain reprocessing trauma. For this reason, many clients schedule EMDR later in the day.

Who Is EMDR Suitable For?

EMDR is effective for most people with trauma. However, if you have a severe dissociative disorder or a personality disorder, EMDR should only be done with specialist psychiatric oversight. We can discuss suitability in your first consultation.

EMDR with Dr Comfort Shields in Harley Street

My practice at 4 Devonshire Street, Harley Street Medical District, London W1W 5DT provides a discreet, confidential environment where you can safely engage in this transformative therapy.

“I never thought healing was possible until EMDR therapy. It changed my perspective and allowed me to finally let go of the past.” — Verified Client

Insurance and Accessibility

I am an approved provider for:

Bupa Global
Cigna
WPA
Aetna
Aviva

This means therapy can often be billed directly to your insurer, reducing stress and making high-quality trauma treatment accessible immediately.

EMDR

IN THE REGION OF TRAUMA, ALL DURATION OR STRETCHING ALONG COLLAPSES; PAST BECOMES PRESENT, AND FUTURE LOSES ALL MEANING OTHER THAN ENDLESS REPETITION.