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"EMDR for complex trauma"

About: Fife Adult Mental Health Psychology St Andrews Community Hospital / Psychology

(as a service user),

I have recently completed an 18-month process of EMDR for complex trauma. When I started the process I wasn't sure I would be able to achieve relief of the symptoms that were affecting my ability to cope or see a way forward.

However the excellent care, guidance and support I received over this period from my Psychologist (Dr Phail) along with my own commitment to the process meant that I have been able to process the most troubling memories and have felt the gradual relief of both physical and psychological symptoms (flashbacks, nightmares, hyperarousal, lower back pain, general overwhelm).

I have also been able to unpick and understand other issues affecting my mental health (mainly related to hormonal changes, neurodivergence and addiction issues) and have been supported to accessing relevant support services to help with manage these.

I am so grateful to Dr McPhail and to NHS Fife for providing me with this opportunity to get to the root of my mental health struggles. 

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Responses

Response from Dr Andy Summers Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Consultant Clinical Psychologist / Head of Fife Adult Mental Health Psychology, Adult Mental Health Psychology, NHS Fife last week
Dr Andy Summers Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Consultant Clinical Psychologist / Head of Fife Adult Mental Health Psychology, Adult Mental Health Psychology,
NHS Fife
Submitted on 04/07/2025 at 10:01
Published on Care Opinion at 10:16


Dear Survivor3344,

Thank you for taking the time to provide this feedback, which I have shared with Dr McPhail.

As you highlighted, working with complex trauma and mental health difficulties takes time, commitment to change and the strength to face difficult emotions from you, and I am delighted to hear that Dr McPhail has guided and supported you through this process.

I wish you well in your continuing recovery.

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