Whakaora - The EMDR Recovery Group

Finding joy in everyday life doesn’t always require grand gestures or significant events. In this week's post, Dr Chris talks about the importance of a positive mindset and shares several practical techniques you can use.

We're reimagining mental health care, incorporating cutting-edge science and indigenous wisdom. and learn more

Developing a Positive Mindset and Finding Joy in Small Moments Finding joy in everyday life doesn’t always require grand gestures or significant events. Often, it’s the small moments that bring the most happiness and help us cultivate a positive mindset. As spring arrives in New Zealand, there’s no better time to embrace the season’s opportunities to re...

One Study, Many Findings
Whakaora and Restore EMDR are proud to share our mahi with the world - beginning at the New Zealand Psychological Society's 2024 Annual Conference.
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Have a look at our results and analysis. We're chuffed with the many significant outcomes and are so happy that our participants have found relief with our sessions. We've done so much already and we're only getting started!

Happy International Left Handers Day to all our fellow southpaws! Remember, while the world may be designed for righties, we lefties keep things interesting by adding that extra twist...literally!

Our next ACC funded sessions start on 4 September. Spaces are still available at 10:00am at 5:30pm.
Details and referral information: www.whakaora.org

Are you ready for the next big thing in group therapy? Our team of clinical psychologists has been hard at work over the past several months adapting our approach to therapy for Aotearoa, and today we have launched the first of several new initiatives.

as we continue to reimagine mental health in Aotearoa.

Details and referral information: www.whakaora.org

This service is fully funded for ACC Sensitive Claims clients, appointments are available with clinical psychologists now.

Te Whare Tapa Whā & Group EMDR has done it again! Our team of clinical psychologists has integrated Māori wisdom and cutting-edge technology to bring an entirely new approach...

Nau mai, haere mai to Whakaora, your recovery partners in Aotearoa. as we unveil the only group EMDR programme for all of New Zealand.
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Where were you when group EMDR changed?
on Friday as we reimagine mental healthcare. By kiwis, for all of Aotearoa.
#26/07

We are so excited to bring you the next evolution of group EMDR in Aotearoa. as we rethink mental health care.
#27/07

Whakaora stands in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community on this International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. We believe in a world where everyone is free to love and express themselves without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

It's here! We are so excited for Trauma Aid Aotearoa to be hosting this event with our friends from Napier Family Centre. There is still room, so sign up right now at www.traumaaid.org.nz/events

We are honoured to be presenting to the TEP International group this morning.

TEP International is a group of psychologists and EMDR thought leaders from around the world who gather to share research and best practices in the delivery of group EMDR. Today's session is focused on all the amazing work being done throughout Aotearoa New Zealand by EMDR therapists. The session includes 3 presentations that feature Whakaora! We comprise half of the entire agenda!

Thanks to our partners Trauma Aid Aotearoa and RestorEMDR in Christchurch for including us on this journey, and to the TEP International community for thoughtfully considering our research.

Not long now! Join Trauma Aid Aotearoa's next free therapy event on May 8!
www.traumaaid.org.nz/events for signup and more information

For we are excited to share our next free therapy events - EMDR therapy with clinical psychologists! Online, totally confidential, and free thanks to Napier Family Centre!

www.traumaaid.org.nz/events for all the details

We are so proud to share this newly published research! With our friends at Trauma Aid Aotearoa, we were able to help hundreds of kiwis following Cyclone Gabrielle. This article is dedicated to the survivors of the storm - Ngā mihi nui, kia kaha.

Group Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Treatment for Survivors of Cyclone Gabrielle in Aotearoa New Zealand | Published in Journal of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists By Chris Neuenfeldt, Ananda Sleeman & 1 more. Dr. Chris Neuenfeldt, Nishtha Saini and Ananda Sleeman describe the use of the EMDR group traumatic episode protocol (G-TEP) in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle

Ever wanted to know more about Group EMDR therapy? Wondered if it actually works? We've got all the details, and original research that demonstrates our therapy works for clients like you.

and continue your recovery journey today!

Research | Whakaora Live and automatically updating results and analysis of group EMDR. A first for New Zealand, a first for group EMDR worldwide. Whakaora: Leading the Way in Group EMDR Recovery.

This is true for so many people

People can be so quiet about their pain

https://wix.to/l8UAtWQ

Some great ideas from our friends at EMDR International Association about ways to stay engaged and get the most out of your sessions with our team.

6 Things Therapists Wish You'd Stop Doing in Your Sessions | Livestrong.com Learn things you should not do at your therapist's office because they'll affect the value of your sessions. Get tips on how to open up to your therapist.

Trigger Warning: This post discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault.

Taking the First Step:

If you're a survivor of sexual assault, considering EMDR therapy may be a crucial step on your path to healing. However, it's essential to work with a trained and experienced EMDR psychologist who specializes in trauma. Our team at Whakaora are all experts in supporting survivors of sexual assault. We provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your emotions and experiences.

Remember, healing is a deeply personal journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. Seeking help is a courageous choice, and you deserve to live a life free from the pain of the past.

Please reach out to Whakaora if you believe EMDR therapy may be right for you. You don't have to walk this path alone, and there is hope for a brighter future. Kia kaha.

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

Trigger Warning: This post discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault.

Why EMDR for Sexual Assault Survivors?

Targeted Healing: EMDR therapy directly addresses the traumatic memories associated with sexual assault, providing a focused and systematic approach to healing.
Empowerment: EMDR therapy empowers survivors by giving them control over their healing journey. It allows you to process your trauma in a safe and supportive environment.
Reduced Symptoms: Many survivors of sexual assault experience symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, and nightmares. EMDR therapy has been shown to significantly reduce these distressing symptoms.
Restoration of Self-Esteem: Sexual assault can shatter self-esteem. EMDR therapy helps rebuild self-worth and self-compassion, helping survivors regain their confidence.

Ready to take the next step on your healing journey? Contact us today.

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

Trigger Warning: This post discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault.

Understanding EMDR Therapy:

EMDR therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals process traumatic experiences. It was initially developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but has since been found to be effective in addressing a wide range of trauma-related issues, including sexual assault.

This week we will share more information about how EMDR therapy can help survivors of sexual assault. Contact us for more information on this important therapy at

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

Trigger Warning: This post discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, please remember that you are not alone, and there is help available.

Healing from the trauma of sexual assault can be a long and challenging journey. Mental health professionals like the clinical psychology team at Whakaora can provide the necessary tools and support to help you cope and recover.

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy:

Effective Trauma Resolution: EMDR has shown remarkable success in addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related conditions. It helps individuals confront and process traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity.

Anxiety and Phobia Treatment: EMDR is also used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder and specific phobias. By reprocessing anxious thoughts and associations, patients often experience significant relief.

Enhanced Emotional Regulation: This therapy can improve emotional regulation, empowering individuals to respond to life's challenges in a more balanced manner.

Accelerated Healing: EMDR therapy typically yields faster results compared to traditional talk therapy, making it an attractive option for those seeking relief from distressing symptoms.

Lasting Change: The changes achieved through EMDR therapy tend to be long-lasting, as it addresses the root causes of emotional distress.

Ready to see some real change?

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy involves a structured eight-phase approach, during which trained therapists help patients process distressing memories. The unique aspect of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation, typically in the form of rapid eye movements, sounds, or taps, to guide the processing of these memories. This bilateral stimulation helps rewire the brain, allowing patients to reprocess traumatic experiences more adaptively.

Want to give it a try?

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

Understanding EMDR Therapy:
EMDR therapy was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since evolved into a widely accepted treatment method. Its core principle revolves around the belief that traumatic experiences can become 'stuck' in the brain, causing emotional and psychological disturbances. EMDR aims to process these traumatic memories, enabling individuals to integrate them into their past and reduce their disruptive impact on the present.

More info:

Whakaora | The EMDR Recovery Group for Aotearoa Whakaora is a new programme available to clients throughout the motu. We work directly with employers to provide the highest quality EMDR group therapy following a workplace incident. Whakaora is also available for clients with an established ACC Sensitive Claim.

🌟 Explore EMDR Therapy: A Path to Healing 🌟

Have you heard of EMDR therapy? It's a remarkable approach to healing and transforming your life. Let's dive into what EMDR stands for and how it can benefit you:

🧠 EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.

🤔 What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is an evidence-based psychological treatment designed to help individuals process distressing memories and experiences. It's particularly effective in addressing:

1️⃣ Trauma: Whether it's a single traumatic event or a series of difficult experiences, EMDR can help reduce the emotional impact and facilitate healing.

2️⃣ Anxiety: If you struggle with anxiety or panic attacks related to specific triggers, EMDR can help you regain control and reduce your anxiety levels.

3️⃣ PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): EMDR has been widely used to treat PTSD, allowing individuals to work through traumatic memories and find relief.

🌈 How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR therapy involves a structured eight-phase process where the therapist guides the client through a series of bilateral stimulation, typically eye movements. This process helps the brain reprocess distressing memories, making them less emotionally charged and more manageable.

💪 The Benefits of EMDR Therapy:

✨ Rapid Relief: Many individuals experience significant improvements in just a few sessions.
✨ Emotional Healing: EMDR helps you confront and process painful memories, reducing their power over your present life.
✨ Improved Mental Health: It can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
✨ Empowerment: EMDR gives you tools to manage triggers and cope with stress effectively.

👩‍⚕️ Seeking Help:

If you're curious about EMDR therapy or believe it could benefit you, reach out to us!. We can provide more information and assess whether EMDR is the right fit for your unique needs.

Remember, healing is possible, and you don't have to carry your emotional burdens alone. EMDR therapy could be the key to a brighter, more peaceful future. 🌻

We still have room available for our free online EMDR sessions beginning in September. If you are an ACC client, here's the details and information for your therapist on how to sign up.

We're always available to help, contact us at www.whakaora.org

Still on the fence about EMDR? Not sure if Whakaora can help your clients? Kia Ora, We get it. It’s new, and it’s different, which raises both questions and solutions to common problems faced by providers. We have received a great response from providers, with many reaching out to us for more information regarding how GTEP works and whether it is suitable for their cli...

Ngā mihi Napier! It was great to help in the Hawke’s Bay over the weekend, and our participants had great things to say about our free therapy sessions.

Thanks to Napier Family Centre for hosting us! It is always great to mahi with you. We’ll have many pictures and posts in the next few weeks, and we’re already looking forward to our next sessions in the Hawke’s Bay. Stay tuned for more info!

Kia ora, Greetings from Whakaora: The EMDR Recovery Group. We understand the challenges faced by both practitioners and clients in navigating mental health journeys, and which is why we wanted to introduce you to Whakaora. Formed in 2022, we are a team of dedicated clinical psychologists committed to providi...