The EMDR Doctor Podcast

In this episode, we explore one of the most common emotional experiences brought to therapy: fear—in all its forms, from anxiety to full-blown panic. We unpack how fear manifests in the body, why it sometimes gets “stuck,” and how EMDR can help calm and retrain the brain’s response to fear triggers. Fear doesn’t have to rule your life. Panic attacks and chronic anxiety are highly treatable. With EMDR, it’s possible to teach the brain that those old danger signals no longer apply—allowing calm and confidence to return. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What is fear for? • How fear can become trauma triggered by memories • How EMDR can help process these memories… triggers for trauma • What panic attacks are and how EMDR can help • What is the difference between are ‘big-T’ and ‘little-t’ trauma? Key Highlights: • Understanding Fear and Its Purpose • When traumatic fear becomes PTSD or CPTSD • How EMDR Helps • Panic Attacks and the Fear of Fear • EMDR for Anxiety and Panic Resources Mentioned: • EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you. • EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve worked with Dr. Lloyd before and need ongoing support, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly opportunities to continue EMDR therapy. Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email admin@therapynest.com.au Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone. Subscribe & Stay Connected: • Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. • See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy.   Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

In this episode, we explore two of the most complex and misunderstood emotions in human psychology — shame and guilt. While guilt tells us “I’ve done something bad,” shame tells us “I am bad.” Drawing on the groundbreaking research of Dr. Brené Brown, we unpack how shame develops, why it’s often hidden even within therapy, and — most importantly — how it can be healed. Through deep clinical experience and reflections on EMDR practice, this episode offers a compassionate and hopeful roadmap to move from shame toward self-acceptance, self-compassion, and healing. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • The difference between shame and guilt • How shame can serve an adaptive purpose — but only when it’s specific • How childhood shame can show up as adult anxiety, perfectionism, or self-sabotage. • How avoiding shame often deepens it. • How healing shame requires both emotional reprocessing (EMDR) and self-compassion practices.  Key Highlights: • Shame vs. Guilt • Adaptive vs. Maladaptive Shame • Defences against shame: Brené Brown’s “shame shields” • Schema therapy perspectives – overcompensation, avoidance, and surrender • Using EMDR therapy to reprocess shame at its root  Resources Mentioned: • EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you . • EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve experienced EMDR before and want to continue your EMDR journey, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly, low cost opportunities to continue EMDR therapy.  Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email admin@therapynest.com.au Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone.  Subscribe & Stay Connected: • Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. • See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy.   Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, discover the science of EMDR, and explore how EMDR can help recovery and resilience.

Today we are talking about anger... the 'bodyguard' of sadness, fear or shame. It has such connotations in our society, especially for women. Anger in women can be a little bit taboo, or we may also be a bit afraid of anger, if it has been a feature of our young years. If we repress our anger, it has ways of spilling out, and keeping anger under wraps, can be physically demanding and exhausting, in the longer term leading to adrenal overload, high blood pressure, and eventually adrenal fatigue and depletion, and possibly depression. So what do we do about it? In this episode we explore the relationship of anger with sadness, fear and shame, arising from trauma, and how these emotions can trigger the fight response of anger. We explore what role EMDR can play in addressing memories associated with these triggers and underlying trauma. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • How trauma is connected to triggers of the fight response (anger) • The role of EMDR in settling traumatic memories that trigger anger Key Highlights: • The consequences of expressing, or repressing, anger • The role of anger as a mask, or ‘bodyguard’, of underlying sadness, fear or shame Resources Mentioned: • EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you .• EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve experienced EMDR before and want to continue your EMDR journey, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly, low cost opportunities to continue EMDR therapy. Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email admin@therapynest.com.au Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone. Subscribe & Stay Connected: • Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. • See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy.   Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, discover the science of EMDR, and explore how EMDR can help recovery and resilience.

Is it normal to cry during EMDR therapy? This is one of the most common questions clients ask before their first session. In this episode of the EMDR Doctor Podcast, I explain why crying in EMDR is not only normal, but often a sign that meaningful processing is occurring. Many people are surprised to find strong emotions arise in EMDR, even when they feel they’ve already “dealt with” a memory. EMDR accesses memories differently than talking alone, allowing unresolved emotional material to be safely processed and released.   In this episode, you will learn: • Why EMDR often brings up tears and strong emotions • Why crying during EMDR does not mean you’re getting worse • How bilateral stimulation supports emotional processing • What it means when emotions continue after a session • Why some people struggle to cry and how EMDR works with emotional blocks • How EMDR helps with chronic sadness, attachment trauma, and emotional neglect Crying during EMDR often signals that the brain is releasing emotion that has been stored with a memory. As processing continues, the emotional charge reduces and the memory becomes less distressing — allowing you to remember without reliving. Some emotional waves may continue for a few days after a session as related memories are processed. This is a normal part of healing. If emotions feel overwhelming, your EMDR therapist can provide additional support. Crying in EMDR is not a setback or a sign of weakness. For many people, it is a pathway to lasting emotional relief.   Resources Mentioned: • EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you .• EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve worked with Dr. Lloyd before and need ongoing support, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly opportunities to continue EMDR therapy.   Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email admin@therapynest.com.au Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from betrayal trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone.   Subscribe & Stay Connected: • Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. • See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy.   Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

In the first episode of the EMDR Doctor podcast for 2026, I return to basics by asking the fundamental questions; what is EMDR, how does it work, and why do so many people, who have done years of therapy, suddenly find that they have fast tracked their recovery with EMDR? I explain the basics of EMDR therapy, dispelling misconceptions about its name and methodology. Listeners will learn about the role of bilateral stimulation in uncoupling distress from traumatic memories, allowing for natural emotional healing and positive belief shifts. The episode also previews an upcoming four-part series on EMDR applications; for sadness, for anger, for fear, and for shame. For those who have done the insight work, but still feel stuck on their therapy journey, EMDR might provide the necessary breakthrough  In this episode you will learn: • What is EMDR? • How EMDR Works • EMDR vs Traditional Therapy • Benefits of EMDR • Upcoming Series on EMDR  esources Mentioned: • EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you .• EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve worked with Dr. Lloyd before and need ongoing support, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly opportunities to continue EMDR therapy.  Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email admin@therapynest.com.au Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from betrayal trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone.  Subscribe & Stay Connected: • Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. • See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy.   Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

This week’s episode of The EMDR Doctor Podcast comes from a heavier place. Following the devastating Bondi attack, it didn’t feel right to carry on with a light, festive conversation. Instead, I wanted to pause, acknowledge the collective grief many in our community are feeling, and speak about something practical and hopeful — how Group EMDR can support people after traumatic events. In this episode, I share information about free group EMDR offerings, explain how the Group Traumatic Event Protocol (GTEP) works, and explore why this approach can be so powerful in the days and weeks following collective trauma — without requiring people to relive or retell their stories. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How Group EMDR differs from traditional group therapy or debriefing Why talking about traumatic details isn’t necessary for healing How distress is measured and reduced using the GTEP protocol Who group EMDR is suitable for after disasters or violent events How early intervention can reduce long-term trauma symptoms and build resilience Key Highlights: Acknowledging collective grief and the emotional impact of the Bondi attack What Group EMDR (GTEP) is and why it was developed for recent traumatic events How group EMDR works without sharing personal trauma stories Why self-administered bilateral stimulation is effective and safe in group settings Research and real-world outcomes showing reduced distress after just one session Resources Mentioned:  EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you. EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve worked with Dr. Lloyd before and need ongoing support, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly opportunities to continue EMDR therapy. Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email admin@therapynest.com.au Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from betrayal trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy. Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

It’s Christmas… and I’m embracing my inner Grinch just a tiny bit this week. In this episode, we’re unpacking the Christmas Blues — the stress, the chaos, the pressure, the grief, the perfectionism, the money stuff, the complicated families… all of it. Because honestly? A lot of people don’t love Christmas, and there are so many valid reasons why. From impossible expectations to old wounds that get stirred up, we’re taking a gentle, honest look at why this time of year can feel overwhelming — and how you can soften the edges, protect your energy, and give yourself permission to do the holidays your way. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why Christmas can be emotionally overwhelming (and you’re not imagining it!) How old patterns, trauma, and family dynamics get activated this time of year Practical ways to lower the pressure, drop the perfectionism, and simplify How to navigate grief, loneliness, or complicated feelings with more compassion Why EMDR can help with the deeper, stickier stuff Christmas brings to the surface How to create a calmer, more authentic holiday experience — without guilt Key Highlights: How Christmas pressure — time, expectations, and perfectionism — quietly ramps up stress. Why family gatherings can feel emotionally loaded, especially when old wounds get stirred. How grief, loss, or loneliness often resurface this time of year (and why that’s normal). The financial and emotional fatigue that makes December feel heavier than it looks on paper. Simple, compassionate ways to soften the season and make Christmas feel safer, calmer, and more “you.” Resources Mentioned: EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you. EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve worked with Dr. Lloyd before and need ongoing support, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly opportunities to continue EMDR therapy. Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au . Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from betrayal trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy. Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

In this week’s episode of The EMDR Doctor Podcast, we’re diving deep into one of the most painful and complex issues people face in relationships: lies. Whether it’s a small fib or a web of deception, lies can be devastating, especially when they come from the people we trust the most. Betrayal trauma and the aftermath of being deceived can feel like a loss of reality itself, and healing from that is no small feat. Today, we’ll explore why people lie, the pain of betrayal trauma, and how EMDR therapy can help untangle the webs of deceit that keep us trapped in hurt and confusion. We’ll also talk about the impact of lies on self-worth, trust, and healing, and how to work through the difficult feelings of shame and self-blame. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The difference between prosocial and antisocial lies and why people lie for different reasons — from making others feel good, to protecting themselves, to avoiding consequences. How betrayal trauma from lies can upend your sense of stability and self-worth, leaving you feeling disoriented and distrustful. Why lies often come with half-truths and how to spot the signs of deceit, especially when a person is a practiced liar. The emotional toll of being lied to and the complexities of trauma when you feel like your reality is being manipulated. The healing journey after betrayal trauma — how to rebuild trust in yourself, your relationships, and the world around you, with the help of EMDR. Key Highlights: Lies are everywhere: Lies come in all shapes and sizes. Some are small “white lies” designed to protect someone’s feelings, while others serve to protect the liar or gain an advantage. But even the “harmless” ones can leave us feeling disconnected from reality. Betrayal trauma from lies is deeply painful: When the person you trust most betrays you with lies, it’s a wound that goes beyond just being deceived. It’s a loss of trust in yourself and in others, and the pain can feel all-consuming. The big lie often hides deeper pain: Lying is sometimes a defense mechanism, stemming from unresolved past trauma. People who lie frequently may have deeply buried truths about their own past that are too painful to face. The child’s dilemma with truth-telling: When children are faced with difficult truths — like reporting abuse — the consequences of lying or withholding the truth can be staggering. Protecting someone else’s feelings may come at the expense of their own safety or well-being, which leaves deep scars. The paradox of telling the truth: While telling the truth is difficult, especially when the consequences are severe, it ultimately leads to healing. Lies, on the other hand, can erode self-esteem and happiness, leaving a person in a constant state of inner conflict. How to spot a liar: There are some classic signs of deception — like excessive details, avoiding eye contact, or changing the subject — but the best way to know if someone is lying is to fact-check or catch them in a contradiction. Healing betrayal trauma with EMDR: Betrayal trauma can absolutely be healed, but it requires deep work. EMDR therapy helps process the emotional pain, rebuild trust, and help you reclaim a sense of stability. While you can’t change the past, you can change how you respond to it and rebuild your self-worth and confidence. Resources Mentioned: EMDR Therapy for Betrayal Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you. EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve worked with Dr. Lloyd before and need ongoing support, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly opportunities to continue EMDR therapy. Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au . Remember, healing from betrayal trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy. Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

Welcome back, everyone — and yes, I owe you an apology for disappearing last week! Life threw a few curveballs (as it tends to do right before the year wraps up), and the podcast had to take a tiny unplanned holiday. But I’m here, tea in hand, and diving straight into a topic that touches every single one of us whether we like it or not… money. We don’t usually talk about money honestly — not with friends, not with partners, and definitely not with our therapists. Yet our money beliefs, habits, fears, and even the chaos in our bank accounts are often shaped by some of our earliest experiences and unhealed emotional wounds. Today we’re unpacking all of it: the guilt, the avoidance, the “I don’t deserve it,” the overspending, the under-spending, the financial trauma, and the sneaky little messages we absorbed when we were too young to know better. And of course, we’ll talk about how EMDR helps untangle those old money stories so you can relate to finances without fear, shame, or self-sabotage. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Your money patterns aren’t random — they’re rooted in early emotional experiences and learned beliefs. Financial trauma is real, and it shapes how we save, spend, and set boundaries. You can rewire how you relate to money just like any other trauma response. EMDR helps reduce the emotional charge around past financial wounds, making practical change easier. It’s safe to have money, safe to enjoy it, and safe to keep it — those beliefs can be learned. Financial stability and emotional safety are deeply connected. Healing money beliefs can improve boundaries, decision-making, and self-worth. You deserve to feel confident, capable, and empowered when it comes to money. Key Highlights: The surprising childhood experiences that shape adult money beliefs. The hidden cultural prejudices around wealth, especially in Australia. Why so many helpers (including therapists!) feel guilty about earning well. How money trauma shows up in behaviour: overspending, hiding bills, avoiding accounts, maxing cards. How EMDR helps shift money beliefs from fear and shame to safety and empowerment. What it actually looks like to heal your emotional relationship with money.     Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.S Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.  

In this week’s episode of The EMDR Doctor Podcast, we’re diving into something many people quietly relate to — the struggle to form or maintain friendships after trauma. What happens when connection feels unsafe, or when friendship becomes more exhausting than fulfilling? And what does it really mean when someone says, “I don’t do friends”? This episode unpacks how early relational wounds, social exclusion, and even subtle emotional injuries can shape how we connect with others as adults — and how EMDR therapy can help us rebuild safety, trust, and authenticity in our relationships. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How early experiences of rejection, bullying, or conditional love can shape our adult friendships. Why some people withdraw socially — not from preference, but from emotional exhaustion or fear. The difference between solitude (a healthy choice) and isolation (a protective response to pain). How EMDR helps untangle the past wounds that make connection feel risky. The role of people-pleasing in friendships — and why healing may mean losing some unbalanced relationships along the way. Key Highlights: “I don’t do friends” is often not a preference — it’s a legacy of relational trauma. EMDR helps reprocess painful memories of exclusion, betrayal, or bullying that shaped our sense of worthiness and belonging. Healing people-pleasing patterns may temporarily change friendships — but it also creates space for healthier, mutual connections. Neurodivergent individuals may find friendships draining due to masking or performance — EMDR can support self-acceptance and boundary setting. True connection begins with authenticity — the ability to show up as ourselves without fear of rejection. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Interested in exploring EMDR for pregnancy-related anxiety, trauma, or physical symptoms? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, I dive into new and sometimes surprising ways EMDR can support healing — from easing anxiety to transforming how we respond to pain and stress. See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

This week on The EMDR Doctor Podcast, we’re talking about something we’ll all face eventually — getting older, and more importantly, staying happy as we do. Inspired by my mum’s 85th birthday (and her recent overseas adventure!), I found myself reflecting on what it really means to age well — beyond just staying active or eating our vegetables. It turns out, the secret to happiness in later life isn’t just health or money… it’s belonging. Research shows that social connectedness — how many groups we belong to and how supported we feel — is the strongest predictor of happiness in retirement. But what if, like me, you’re more introverted, or you find joining new groups awkward? That’s where EMDR can help. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Happiness is learned — and practiced. EMDR helps clear away old beliefs that block joy and connection. You can rewire how you relate to others. Healing early experiences of rejection or self-doubt opens space for genuine connection. EMDR isn’t just for trauma. It’s also for personal growth, confidence, and creating a more connected future. It’s never too late to change. Whether you’re planning for retirement or just wanting a richer social life now, healing old patterns can make a huge difference. Key Highlights: Why happiness in later life is closely tied to social connectedness — not wealth, health, or housing. The challenges introverts face when building or maintaining friendships and communities. How EMDR can help reduce anxiety and self-judgment around socializing. The role of EMDR in resolving old beliefs like “I don’t belong” or “I’m socially awkward.” How replacing these beliefs with positive ones — like “I can be myself” or “I deserve connection” — can transform your sense of belonging. Practical ways to bring these new beliefs to life, from joining book clubs to volunteering or simply reconnecting with old friends. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.S Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.

This week on The EMDR Doctor Podcast, we’re exploring a truly fascinating (and unexpected) use of EMDR — helping with hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. If you’ve ever experienced pregnancy nausea, you’ll know how relentless it can feel. But hyperemesis takes it to another level — constant sickness, dehydration, and an inability to eat or drink without vomiting. Yet, research now shows that EMDR therapy may help stop this cycle — not by treating the stomach, but by calming the brain’s learned response to triggers like smells, tastes, or even sights associated with nausea. In this episode, I unpack a series of remarkable case studies where women hospitalised with hyperemesis experienced dramatic improvement — some able to eat and go home after just one or two EMDR sessions. We’ll talk about how this works, what it tells us about the mind-body connection, and why EMDR continues to surprise us with its reach and potential for healing. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What hyperemesis gravidarum is — and why it’s more than “just bad morning sickness.” How the brain learns to associate certain smells and sensations with danger, triggering nausea. The science behind how EMDR helps “reset” those learned responses and calm the body. Why EMDR can sometimes bring rapid relief — even in physical conditions linked to trauma or fear. How understanding the mind-body connection can help reframe the way we think about healing. Key Highlights: EMDR can interrupt the body’s nausea response by breaking the brain’s link between smell, fear, and sickness. Research shows that even one or two sessions of EMDR may significantly reduce symptoms of hyperemesis. The brain’s protective mechanisms — like heightened smell sensitivity in pregnancy — can sometimes overreact, leading to physical distress. EMDR isn’t just for trauma memories — it can also soothe the body’s learned responses to stress and danger. The power of EMDR lies in its simplicity: no medication, no IVs, just the brain’s natural healing ability guided in the right direction. Resources Mentioned: EMDR for Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Case Series by Onder Kavakci and Gonca Imir Yenicesu Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Contact and Feedback: Interested in exploring EMDR for pregnancy-related anxiety, trauma, or physical symptoms? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, I dive into new and sometimes surprising ways EMDR can support healing — from easing anxiety to transforming how we respond to pain and stress. See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, explore the science of EMDR, and share real stories of recovery and resilience.

If you’ve ever been called a “strong, independent woman” (or man!) and felt a quiet exhaustion behind the compliment, this episode will speak to you. In this week’s episode, I’m unpacking something many of us carry without realising it — hyper-independence. That deep belief that you have to do everything on your own — not because you want to, but because somewhere along the way, you learned that asking for help wasn’t safe or worthwhile. We’ll explore where this pattern comes from, how it quietly shapes our relationships and sense of belonging, and most importantly, how trauma therapy — especially EMDR — can help soften those edges. Because healing doesn’t just mean surviving alone. It’s about learning to trust, to connect, and to let others in again. If you’ve ever felt lonely in your strength, this one’s for you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Independence can be healthy — until it starts to isolate you. Hyper-independence is often a trauma response, not a personality trait. EMDR therapy helps uncover and heal the old wounds that created the need to “do it all alone.” True strength isn’t about avoiding help — it’s about allowing it. Letting others in can be one of the most healing experiences of all. Key Highlights: What hyper-independence really is — and how it hides behind “strength” The roots of self-reliance in childhood trauma, neglect, or betrayal How hyper-independence shows up in adulthood: work, relationships, and loneliness Why accepting help can feel uncomfortable — and what that reveals How EMDR therapy can release the pain driving over-independence, helping you open up to trust and connection again Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.

This week’s episode is a special one — we’re revisiting one of the most popular topics of all time: What actually is EMDR? Whether you’ve just discovered EMDR therapy or you’re curious about how it works, this episode breaks it all down — from what “Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing” really means to how it helps your brain process trauma and move toward healing. I’m also thrilled to share that The EMDR Doctor Podcast has officially made it to the Top 100 Mental Health Podcasts in Australia! Thank you to everyone who’s tuned in, rated, and shared the show — your support truly helps this healing conversation reach more people who need it. If you’ve ever wondered how EMDR helps turn painful memories into “just something that happened that time,” this episode is for you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Traumatic memories get “stuck” in the emotional part of the brain — EMDR helps them move safely into long-term memory. Healing doesn’t mean erasing what happened — it means reducing its emotional charge. You don’t need to process every single painful event — working on key memories helps the whole network heal. EMDR isn’t just for PTSD — it can help with anxiety, depression, phobias, eating disorders, and more. The brain’s capacity to heal is powerful — EMDR simply helps it do what it’s naturally meant to do. Key Highlights:  What EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) really is — explained in simple, human terms. How EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic or distressing memories. The role of bilateral stimulation — and why moving your eyes from side to side can actually calm the emotional brain. How EMDR transforms trauma from a current crisis into a past event. Why EMDR works across many diagnoses — because it’s memory-based, not diagnosis-based. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.S Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.

This week on The EMDR Doctor Podcast, I’m taking you on a slightly different kind of journey. As I pack my bags for a holiday adventure, I couldn’t help but think about how EMDR itself is an adventure too. It’s a therapy that invites us to step into the unknown, follow the brain’s natural pathways, and sometimes even get creative with imagination and new perspectives. Just like any great adventure, it’s full of surprises, discoveries, and the potential for transformation. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Healing can be an adventure — curiosity and openness often lead to breakthroughs. Creativity isn’t separate from therapy; it’s a powerful part of how our brains heal. Imaginative resources (like nurturing figures) can help us feel safe when facing tough memories. You don’t have to “have it all figured out” before EMDR — your brain knows where it needs to go. Simple preparation tools, like practicing calm or safe place visualisations, can make EMDR more effective and less overwhelming. Key Highlights: How EMDR unfolds after the setup: client-led, fluid, and organic. The role of creativity in EMDR — from re-scripting moments to introducing nurturing or wise figures. Why imagination can help unlock stuck points in healing. Ways EMDR connects current distress to earlier memories, uncovering deeper roots. Practical tips on how to prepare for EMDR sessions (like calm place visualisations). Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback:  Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.

This week, I want to share something powerful that I recently learned at an EMDR Association of Australia training event. It’s a new way of looking at violence against women — not just through the cycle of violence, which many of you might already know, but also through the vortex of violence model, which offers a deeper understanding of how violence impacts survivors over time. As a therapist working with women who’ve experienced trauma, I’ve seen how naming and understanding these patterns can be life-changing. When survivors recognize the cycle and the vortex, they often feel relief — because it’s no longer just “their fault,” but part of a much larger pattern. In this episode, I’ll walk you through both models, explain how they can help survivors understand their experience, and share how EMDR therapy can support healing by restoring safety, strength, and self-worth. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why violence in relationships so often follows a cycle — and how to recognize the phases. How the “vortex of violence” explains the losses survivors face, from health to confidence to relationships. Why education is vital: understanding these frameworks can give survivors knowledge and language to protect themselves. How EMDR can help survivors process trauma, release fear and grief, and rebuild a sense of safety and strength. Key Highlights: The cycle of violence: what it looks like and why it keeps repeating. The vortex of violence: a new model that shows how violence spirals, pulling in safety, trust, and health while spinning off hope and stability. How recognizing these patterns can empower women to understand it’s not their fault and spot the signs earlier. The role of EMDR therapy in healing after violence — restoring confidence, rebuilding self-worth, and helping women feel safe again. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss next week’s episode — we’ll be exploring even more about how EMDR can shape our lives and relationships. You won’t want to miss the insights. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. And if you’d like to put a face to the voice, come join me on YouTube. Sometimes seeing the person behind the mic makes the connection feel a little more real — and who knows, it might even give you the nudge you need to book your own session. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she demystifies PTSD and provides hope for recovery, showing that healing is possible with the right tools and support.  Please reach out if you need help:  Police 0001800 RESPECTKids helpline 1800 55 1800Men's Referral Service 1300 766 491WIRE (Women's Information and Referral Exchange) 130013413013YARN 13 92 76

Hi everyone,  in this week’s episode of The EMDR Doctor Podcast I’m diving into a topic that so many of us wrestle with — Imposter Syndrome. Whether you’re a doctor, a teacher, in corporate, or even just starting something new, that nagging voice of “I’m not good enough” or “I don’t belong here” can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I unpack what imposter syndrome really is (and isn’t), share some of my own experiences with it, and explore how EMDR therapy can help you rewrite those old, unhelpful beliefs into something much more supportive and freeing. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re unqualified — it means old wounds are still shaping your present. Thoughts are not truths — that critical voice doesn’t define your reality. EMDR therapy helps uncover and reprocess the origins of imposter beliefs, reducing their power. Strengthening positive experiences is just as important as resolving painful ones. Confidence isn’t about never feeling anxious — it’s about removing the blocks that stop you from stepping into your flow. Key Highlights: Honest conversations with young doctors feeling stretched thin by fear, anxiety, and “not good enough” thoughts. Why imposter syndrome isn’t about lack of skill — it’s about deep, old beliefs that resurface in adulthood. How imposter syndrome can hide behind perfectionism, overwork, or constant fear of being “found out.” My own journey with imposter syndrome early in my career and how I carried those fears for years. The difference between normal job anxiety and true imposter syndrome. EMDR approaches that help — from reprocessing early shame to bolstering positive beliefs and allowing yourself to actually feel praise. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Don’t miss next week’s episode — we’ll be exploring even more about how EMDR can shape our lives and relationships. You won’t want to miss the insights. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. And if you’d like to put a face to the voice, come join me on YouTube. Sometimes seeing the person behind the mic makes the connection feel a little more real — and who knows, it might even give you the nudge you need to book your own session. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she demystifies PTSD and provides hope for recovery, showing that healing is possible with the right tools and support. 

In this week’s episode of The EMDR Doctor Podcast, I’m answering a thoughtful listener question: “Who should not do EMDR?” It’s a great one, because while I truly believe EMDR can benefit almost everyone, there are some important physical considerations to keep in mind. From high blood pressure and heart conditions, to epilepsy, eye disorders, pregnancy, chronic illness, and even post-surgery recovery, I’ll walk you through what to look out for and how EMDR can be adapted safely. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why having high blood pressure doesn’t mean EMDR is unsafe — as long as it’s well managed. How EMDR can be safely adapted for elderly clients, including pacing and titrating memories. The role of agitation and blood pressure during trauma processing — and why healing ultimately benefits physical health. Safety considerations for pregnancy and postpartum trauma work. Adjustments for epilepsy and eye disorders (e.g. using tapping or auditory bilateral stimulation). EMDR and surgery, chemotherapy, and chronic illness — tailoring the pace and process to support both body and mind. Key Highlights: EMDR is highly adaptable — physical conditions rarely mean exclusion, just adjustments. Trauma resolution can improve both mental and physical health. Informed consent and collaborative decision-making are key in tailoring EMDR for each individual. Age is never a barrier to healing — it’s about pacing and support. With thoughtful modifications, even those with chronic illness or ongoing treatments can benefit from EMDR. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback: Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.

This week, I wanted to talk about something that comes up a lot in therapy and in life: the way shame and self-pity get tangled together. So often, when we find ourselves feeling sorry for ourselves, shame quickly follows — telling us we’re weak, indulgent, or that we shouldn’t be feeling that way at all. But here’s the thing: self-pity is usually a sign that something inside us really needs care. And when we meet that place with compassion — real, genuine compassion — something powerful happens. Instead of staying stuck in fear, helplessness, or injustice, we can come out feeling nurtured, strengthened, and even loved. In this episode, I explore how compassion transforms the way we experience shame and self-pity, and why this shift matters so much for healing.  In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Compassion is not indulgence — it’s a healing force. Self-pity doesn’t mean weakness, it means something inside us needs tending. When we meet shame with compassion, we shift from helplessness to hope. Key Highlights: Why shame and self-pity are so closely linked How self-pity is often misunderstood, but actually signals a need for support. The transformative power of compassion in healing shame. How EMDR therapy creates space for new, kinder responses to suffering. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback:  Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.

Hi everyone, it’s Dr. Caroline Lloyd here, and in this week’s episode I’m unpacking the Drama Triangle — a powerful framework that explains the roles we can slip into in relationships: victim, rescuer, and perpetrator. I share how these roles can quietly shape our families, partnerships, and even therapy spaces, and why they’re ultimately disempowering. More importantly, I talk about how EMDR can help us move beyond these rigid roles into healthier, empowering alternatives — stepping into coach, creator, and challenger. If you’ve ever felt stuck replaying the same dynamics with people in your life, this episode will help you see a new path forward. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: All roles in the Drama Triangle are limiting and disempowering. Awareness of the role we’re playing is the first step to change. EMDR can process stuck beliefs (like “I’m powerless” or “I’m responsible for everyone else”) and replace them with empowering truths. Moving into the Empowerment Dynamic allows for healthier, freer relationships. Healing is about reclaiming agency, choice, and balance in how we show up with others. Key Highlights: The Drama Triangle: victim, rescuer, and perpetrator — and how easily we slip between them. Why “rescuing” clients, partners, or family members can unintentionally keep them in victim mode. The dangers of being cast as perpetrator when withdrawing from rescuer mode. How family dynamics often push children into rigid roles — with lasting effects. The alternative Empowerment Dynamic (creator, coach, challenger). How EMDR helps shift beliefs that keep us stuck in these roles.  Resources Mentioned: Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma Contact and Feedback:  Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au. Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure you’re following The EMDR Doctor podcast so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll be exploring even more ways EMDR can transform your life — from deepening your relationships to building a stronger sense of self. Each episode is packed with expert insights, real stories, and practical tools to help you on your path to recovery. Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.