75. EMDR for chronic illness

In this episode, Dr. Caroline Lloyd discusses using EMDR to address the trauma associated with chronic and degenerative illness; including loss of control, anticipatory grief, anger, guilt, and self-blame, among both patients and caregivers. She explains how EMDR can be used to process specific painful memories tied to the illness journey; helping people release fear, shame, and distress, although not the grief itself, which remains a natural expression of love and loss.

Key Points:

1. Chronic/degenerative illness causes deep trauma – as a progressive terminal illness can create fear, disempowerment, and stress for both patients and their families.

2. Complex emotions arise for both patients and carers – These include anticipatory grief, loss of control, anger (at the illness or the medical system), and grief over lost function and identity, and feelings of unfairness.

3. Guilt and self-blame are common – Parents may feel responsible (e.g. passing on a genetic condition), while carers often blame themselves for perceived failures in caregiving, leading to overwhelming guilt.

4. EMDR targets specific painful memories, not grief itself. By processing distressing "stand-out" moments (e.g., a difficult medical update, a caregiving crisis), EMDR can remove fear, shame, and anger—helping carers recognize they "did their best" and helping patients reach greater acceptance, while preserving the natural, love-based process of grief.

Resources Mentioned:

• Upcoming webinar on Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) along with Dr Cate Bearsley-Smith

• 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.

• Consultation & Supervision: Book a supervision session with Dr. Lloyd.

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