Poipoia te wairua: EMDR therapy for smokers

The project aims to offer Māori in the region an alternative way to address the underlying reasons behind their smoking behavior through Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. This evidence-based psychological intervention helps people break free from addiction by dealing with the root causes rather than just the behavior. The project will provide up to six free EMDR therapy sessions to Māori participants, with incentives for attendance and successful quitting.

The core message is that addressing the emotional drivers behind smoking can make quitting easier. The project is designed to support those who have tried other methods but are still struggling with smoking addiction.