EMDR Counselling in Saint Peters, NSW

Photo of Ilona Gaudin, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Ilona Gaudin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, NSW 2044
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
1300 045 646 View 1300 045 646
Photo of Ruth Berendt, Psychotherapist in Saint Peters, NSW
Ruth Berendt
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, NSW 2044
My work is dedicated to providing people experiencing emotional distress and difficult life events with relief and a new way forward. As a registered psychotherapist, I've assisted many people like you to reconnect to their bodies, hearts and minds and move forward in positive ways. I create a nurturing space, where you can be yourself, and grow to make deep and lasting positive changes to your wellbeing and quality of life. I use a combination of trauma-based approaches, body-focussed psychotherapy, and creative therapies.
My work is dedicated to providing people experiencing emotional distress and difficult life events with relief and a new way forward. As a registered psychotherapist, I've assisted many people like you to reconnect to their bodies, hearts and minds and move forward in positive ways. I create a nurturing space, where you can be yourself, and grow to make deep and lasting positive changes to your wellbeing and quality of life. I use a combination of trauma-based approaches, body-focussed psychotherapy, and creative therapies.
(02) 9541 8461 View (02) 9541 8461
Photo of Michelle Lin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Peters, NSW
Michelle Lin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, NSW 2044
I specialise in Anti-Oppressive Practice, relationships, self-growth and identity, search for meaning, grief & loss, work-life stuff, victim-survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence (domestic violence and structural oppression), cultural identity, the LGBTIQA+ community, family of origin issues, and relational trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect. I enjoy working with individuals to really unpack their experiences of relationships and sense of self. I also provide clinical supervision for students, new grads, activists and peers working in counselling and helping professions.
I specialise in Anti-Oppressive Practice, relationships, self-growth and identity, search for meaning, grief & loss, work-life stuff, victim-survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence (domestic violence and structural oppression), cultural identity, the LGBTIQA+ community, family of origin issues, and relational trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect. I enjoy working with individuals to really unpack their experiences of relationships and sense of self. I also provide clinical supervision for students, new grads, activists and peers working in counselling and helping professions.
(02) 8074 5461 View (02) 8074 5461

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Valentina Dragicevic, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Valentina Dragicevic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010  (Online Only)
Hey there, I'm Valentina, the face and heart behind Soul Soothing Psychology! My passion is utilising the powerful benefits of EMDR and schema therapy with clients who are curious, reflective and recognize that painful experiences affect every aspect of their being. I believe that painful experiences can break us, leaving us with shattered fragments, and affecting our hearts, mind, body, and soul. Together, we embark on a journey towards more joy, meaningful moments, and a deeper connection to yourself and your loved ones.
Hey there, I'm Valentina, the face and heart behind Soul Soothing Psychology! My passion is utilising the powerful benefits of EMDR and schema therapy with clients who are curious, reflective and recognize that painful experiences affect every aspect of their being. I believe that painful experiences can break us, leaving us with shattered fragments, and affecting our hearts, mind, body, and soul. Together, we embark on a journey towards more joy, meaningful moments, and a deeper connection to yourself and your loved ones.
(07) 3132 1936 View (07) 3132 1936
Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Peters, NSW
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Darlington, NSW 2008
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
(02) 9100 0621 View (02) 9100 0621
Photo of Kelly Breen, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
Kelly has extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. Kelly also helps people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. Kelly has an integrative therapy style, she utilizes evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and ACT. Kelly’s a yoga teacher, she weaves these practices along with somatic work into therapy. She is appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration support.
Kelly has extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. Kelly also helps people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. Kelly has an integrative therapy style, she utilizes evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and ACT. Kelly’s a yoga teacher, she weaves these practices along with somatic work into therapy. She is appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration support.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Photo of EMDR/ Trauma Therapist, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
EMDR/ Trauma Therapist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Waterloo, NSW 2017  (Online Only)
I am a general psychologist (registered with AHPRA) with a focus on providing a convenient EMDR telehealth service (using video-conferencing such as Zoom, or phone) for adult individuals from anywhere in Australia or overseas. My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space online where you can talk openly about your life without feeling judged. I take referrals from adult individuals and welcome those of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities/expressions, and cultural backgrounds.
I am a general psychologist (registered with AHPRA) with a focus on providing a convenient EMDR telehealth service (using video-conferencing such as Zoom, or phone) for adult individuals from anywhere in Australia or overseas. My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space online where you can talk openly about your life without feeling judged. I take referrals from adult individuals and welcome those of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities/expressions, and cultural backgrounds.
(07) 2000 4831 View (07) 2000 4831
Photo of Andrea Michelle Schilder, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Andrea Michelle Schilder
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Camperdown, NSW 2050
My therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, EMDR and Schema Therapy.
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 20 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
My therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, EMDR and Schema Therapy.
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 20 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
(02) 9159 6581 View (02) 9159 6581
Photo of Stacey Walsh, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Stacey Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
(02) 9100 0392 View (02) 9100 0392
Photo of Dylan Nicholls, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Dylan Nicholls
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive using evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ACT, and EMDR.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or trauma? As a Clinical Psychologist, I can provide a supportive environment for you to work through your struggles and develop the skills you need to lead a healthier life. I am currently offering online private and medicare-rebated psychology sessions.
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive using evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ACT, and EMDR.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or trauma? As a Clinical Psychologist, I can provide a supportive environment for you to work through your struggles and develop the skills you need to lead a healthier life. I am currently offering online private and medicare-rebated psychology sessions.
(02) 9100 0301 View (02) 9100 0301
Photo of Rochelle Whatman, Psychotherapist in Saint Peters, NSW
Rochelle Whatman
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I take an integrative approach to my practice based on the needs of each individual client, and utilise a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, EMDR, schema and interpersonal psychotherapy.
Psychological well-being is more than just an absence of mental illness. It underpins many elements of our emotional and physical health and can determine whether we move through life thriving, or just surviving. Whether you are in need of support during a period of instability or crisis, seeking to improve your interpersonal relationships, or need an impartial space to navigate a difficult decision, counselling and psychotherapy can equip you with insight and strategies to improve the quality of your life.
I take an integrative approach to my practice based on the needs of each individual client, and utilise a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, EMDR, schema and interpersonal psychotherapy.
Psychological well-being is more than just an absence of mental illness. It underpins many elements of our emotional and physical health and can determine whether we move through life thriving, or just surviving. Whether you are in need of support during a period of instability or crisis, seeking to improve your interpersonal relationships, or need an impartial space to navigate a difficult decision, counselling and psychotherapy can equip you with insight and strategies to improve the quality of your life.
(02) 8806 0381 View (02) 8806 0381
Photo of Daniel Cohn, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Daniel Cohn
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I draw mainly on psychodynamic psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who brings a warm and compassionate approach to my work with the aim of creating a therapeutic space in which each person feels respected and understood. Together we can examine how your problems have come about, help you understand your internal world more deeply, and provide you with the opportunity to take action to make meaningful changes. Many people benefit from therapy by learning to recognise and handle painful feelings, building their capacity to cope with stress, and cultivating new ways to thrive in their relationships, work, and lives.
I draw mainly on psychodynamic psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who brings a warm and compassionate approach to my work with the aim of creating a therapeutic space in which each person feels respected and understood. Together we can examine how your problems have come about, help you understand your internal world more deeply, and provide you with the opportunity to take action to make meaningful changes. Many people benefit from therapy by learning to recognise and handle painful feelings, building their capacity to cope with stress, and cultivating new ways to thrive in their relationships, work, and lives.
0412 555 439 View 0412 555 439
Photo of Claudia Vayda, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Claudia Vayda
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Stanmore, NSW 2048
I am trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, with my main modality being EMDR Therapy.
With over 25 years’ experience as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, I have worked both in crisis and outpatient settings with drug and alcohol, at-risk, and acute mental health populations as well as in private practice with couples, families, and individuals. My work now focusses on working together to facilitate and create sustained positive change with my clients, and to assist recovery from abuse, trauma, and adverse life events.
I am trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, with my main modality being EMDR Therapy.
With over 25 years’ experience as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, I have worked both in crisis and outpatient settings with drug and alcohol, at-risk, and acute mental health populations as well as in private practice with couples, families, and individuals. My work now focusses on working together to facilitate and create sustained positive change with my clients, and to assist recovery from abuse, trauma, and adverse life events.
0493 838 567 View 0493 838 567
Photo of Sharon Gold, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Sharon Gold
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
As an EMDR Therapist and Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trained psychologist, I am able to provide you with comprehensive, tailored assessments and an integrative treatment approach within a biopsychosocial framework drawing from evidence-based cognitive and behavioural therapies.
Are you tired of arguing with your partner and feeling misunderstood? Unhappy, anxious and stressed by trauma and/or substance issues? Drinking too much? Or perhaps you are not sleeping because of nightmares or overthinking? Or you've been in therapy for long standing issues (eg childhood trauma) and progress is still not being made? Perhaps you have recently suffered a loss or going through a major life transition or chronic illness? If you are sick of feeling isolated, lonely and exhausted by how it is, then Max, my Animal Assistant Therapy dog and I would both love to help you live better in your life.
As an EMDR Therapist and Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trained psychologist, I am able to provide you with comprehensive, tailored assessments and an integrative treatment approach within a biopsychosocial framework drawing from evidence-based cognitive and behavioural therapies.
Are you tired of arguing with your partner and feeling misunderstood? Unhappy, anxious and stressed by trauma and/or substance issues? Drinking too much? Or perhaps you are not sleeping because of nightmares or overthinking? Or you've been in therapy for long standing issues (eg childhood trauma) and progress is still not being made? Perhaps you have recently suffered a loss or going through a major life transition or chronic illness? If you are sick of feeling isolated, lonely and exhausted by how it is, then Max, my Animal Assistant Therapy dog and I would both love to help you live better in your life.
(02) 4062 8754 View (02) 4062 8754
Photo of Roberta Iavarone - The Listening Pod, Counsellor in Saint Peters, NSW
Roberta Iavarone - The Listening Pod
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
Are you struggling to navigate a difficult life event such as a relationship break-up, diagnosis of a medical condition or loss of a loved one? You may feel depressed, anxious and alone and don't know where to start to get your life back on track. You may have tried to manage things on your own but feel as though you've hit a wall & have decided that it's time to reach out for help? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life to help them move through life's challenges so they can live their best & most meaningful life!
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
Are you struggling to navigate a difficult life event such as a relationship break-up, diagnosis of a medical condition or loss of a loved one? You may feel depressed, anxious and alone and don't know where to start to get your life back on track. You may have tried to manage things on your own but feel as though you've hit a wall & have decided that it's time to reach out for help? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life to help them move through life's challenges so they can live their best & most meaningful life!
(02) 9100 0107 View (02) 9100 0107
Photo of Kurt Bayly, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Kurt Bayly
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I have training in a number of therapies: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CBT & Mindfulness.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space where you are able to talk openly about your life, without feeling judged. As your therapist, I will give you the time and care to really understand where you are coming from and give you constructive feedback that empowers you to set realistic goals, make appropriate changes and have strong, genuine relationships. In three words I am kind, honest, attuned.
I have training in a number of therapies: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CBT & Mindfulness.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space where you are able to talk openly about your life, without feeling judged. As your therapist, I will give you the time and care to really understand where you are coming from and give you constructive feedback that empowers you to set realistic goals, make appropriate changes and have strong, genuine relationships. In three words I am kind, honest, attuned.
(02) 9100 0328 View (02) 9100 0328
Photo of A-Okay Psychology, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
A-Okay Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Stanmore, NSW 2048
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds (EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds (EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
(02) 8074 5401 View (02) 8074 5401
Photo of Preeti Phartiyal, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Preeti Phartiyal
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
Drawing upon evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive-Behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness based interventions, and various psychodynamic frameworks, I collaborate with my clients to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with individuals aged 18 and above. I completed my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Queensland and since have worked in both private and public sectors treating diverse presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma. I aim to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Drawing upon evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive-Behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness based interventions, and various psychodynamic frameworks, I collaborate with my clients to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with individuals aged 18 and above. I completed my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Queensland and since have worked in both private and public sectors treating diverse presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma. I aim to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(02) 9100 0564 View (02) 9100 0564
Photo of Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Saint Peters, NSW
Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Trauma informed, EMDR Certified and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate the barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships or even offering parenting skills. She is dedicated to helping you have the most healing and positive experience possible and honored to walk this journey with you. She is committed to providing a quality experience including a strong vision towards social justice and social equality especially with LGBTQI folks.
Trauma informed, EMDR Certified and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate the barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships or even offering parenting skills. She is dedicated to helping you have the most healing and positive experience possible and honored to walk this journey with you. She is committed to providing a quality experience including a strong vision towards social justice and social equality especially with LGBTQI folks.
(02) 8074 5705 View (02) 8074 5705
Photo of Freedom Psychology and Life Coaching, Psychologist in Saint Peters, NSW
Freedom Psychology and Life Coaching
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camperdown, NSW 2050  (Online Only)
I specialise in EMDR, Positive Psychology, and CBT.
Welcome! I’m Malika, a clinical psychologist who works via telehealth. Maybe you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, dissatisfied, or a bit lost? Do you feel like it’s time to face what's holding you back? I’m passionate about helping people to overcome challenges, to find their authentic voice, heal, build their resilience, take charge of their lives, & reach their full potential. To do this I draw from evidence-based, collaborative and holistic methods, where I listen closely not just to understand a person’s challenges, but I also listen & ask questions to help people uncover & lean into their unique strengths, values, & goals.
I specialise in EMDR, Positive Psychology, and CBT.
Welcome! I’m Malika, a clinical psychologist who works via telehealth. Maybe you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, dissatisfied, or a bit lost? Do you feel like it’s time to face what's holding you back? I’m passionate about helping people to overcome challenges, to find their authentic voice, heal, build their resilience, take charge of their lives, & reach their full potential. To do this I draw from evidence-based, collaborative and holistic methods, where I listen closely not just to understand a person’s challenges, but I also listen & ask questions to help people uncover & lean into their unique strengths, values, & goals.
(02) 9100 0395 View (02) 9100 0395

See more therapy options for Saint Peters

EMDR Counsellors

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimising its ability to trigger anxiety.