EMDR Psychologists and Therapists in Freshwater, NSW

Photo of Julie Anne Preston - Julie Preston Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Preston Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders. Julie’s empathic and wholehearted approach creates an environment for clients to feel safe to be able to be vulnerable and explore underlying issues to their presenting problems. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and has been a member of the Australian Psychological Society. Julie also received training from The Institute for the Psychology of Eating and is a qualified Eating Psychology Coach.
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders. Julie’s empathic and wholehearted approach creates an environment for clients to feel safe to be able to be vulnerable and explore underlying issues to their presenting problems. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and has been a member of the Australian Psychological Society. Julie also received training from The Institute for the Psychology of Eating and is a qualified Eating Psychology Coach.
(02) 9909 6171 View (02) 9909 6171
Photo of Katrina Helene, Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Katrina Helene
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I have a very natural approach where I primarily use Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, ACT, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness as my go-to therapy styles.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
I have a very natural approach where I primarily use Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, ACT, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness as my go-to therapy styles.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
(02) 8403 1758 View (02) 8403 1758
Photo of Jo Roome, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jo Roome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I only use evidenced-based therapies such as CBT (which includes exposure and response prevention therapy), DBT & trauma focused therapies such as EMDR
I am a clinical psychologist. I strive to improve the quality of life of the people I work with, using a compassionate, empathic & non-judgmental lens. My aim is to provide the most appropriate therapy in a collaborative way. I am an AHPRA endorsed supervisor. I am an Accredited Practitioner through the EMDR Association of Australia.
I only use evidenced-based therapies such as CBT (which includes exposure and response prevention therapy), DBT & trauma focused therapies such as EMDR
I am a clinical psychologist. I strive to improve the quality of life of the people I work with, using a compassionate, empathic & non-judgmental lens. My aim is to provide the most appropriate therapy in a collaborative way. I am an AHPRA endorsed supervisor. I am an Accredited Practitioner through the EMDR Association of Australia.
(02) 8403 0906 View (02) 8403 0906
Photo of Janine Sharpe - Sharpe Connections Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sharpe Connections Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Her approach blends EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic therapy within a trauma-informed, mind–body framework.
Janine support clients experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, and life changes, as well as professionals who are seeking deeper self-understanding and sustainable ways to manage demanding lives. Therapy with me focuses not only on insight, but also on helping you build the internal resources needed for lasting change.
Her approach blends EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic therapy within a trauma-informed, mind–body framework.
Janine support clients experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, and life changes, as well as professionals who are seeking deeper self-understanding and sustainable ways to manage demanding lives. Therapy with me focuses not only on insight, but also on helping you build the internal resources needed for lasting change.
(02) 8403 2022 View (02) 8403 2022
Photo of Karin Stenberg, Counsellor, PACFA
Karin Stenberg
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With a person-centred foundation we may draw on ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to explore how you can live with more presence and intent, IFS to understand your "parts", Polyvagal Theory to get you out of fight or flight, and possibly also EMDR for trauma reprocessing.
Whether you're seeking support reaching your dreams or are struggling with the many pains of life, such as conflict, depression, anxiety, or grief & loss - counselling can be of real help. There's something very powerful in telling your story in the presence of someone who will listen deeply, accept everything that you are, and help you gain a new perspective. Together we will create a safe platform for change, growth and healing. For individuals and couples.
With a person-centred foundation we may draw on ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to explore how you can live with more presence and intent, IFS to understand your "parts", Polyvagal Theory to get you out of fight or flight, and possibly also EMDR for trauma reprocessing.
Whether you're seeking support reaching your dreams or are struggling with the many pains of life, such as conflict, depression, anxiety, or grief & loss - counselling can be of real help. There's something very powerful in telling your story in the presence of someone who will listen deeply, accept everything that you are, and help you gain a new perspective. Together we will create a safe platform for change, growth and healing. For individuals and couples.
(02) 9100 0248 View (02) 9100 0248

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bruno Giusti, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Bruno Giusti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Neutral Bay, NSW 2089
Combining psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, family systems, and elements of CBT, I help clients understand how past experiences shape the present, fostering deeper self-awareness and more meaningful relationships.
I work with adults struggling with relationships and difficult events in their past, trying to understand why anxiety and other intense emotions have such a big impact on their lives, and what they can do about it. They may feel stuck, disconnected, or caught in repeating patterns they can’t explain.
Combining psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, family systems, and elements of CBT, I help clients understand how past experiences shape the present, fostering deeper self-awareness and more meaningful relationships.
I work with adults struggling with relationships and difficult events in their past, trying to understand why anxiety and other intense emotions have such a big impact on their lives, and what they can do about it. They may feel stuck, disconnected, or caught in repeating patterns they can’t explain.
View
Photo of Andrea Smith - Andrea Smith - Conscious Psychology - EMDR Therapy, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Andrea Smith - Conscious Psychology - EMDR Therapy
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am integrative and client-centred in my approach, incorporating various scientific and evidence-based treatments in my practice, including EMDR, CBT, Ego State Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy.
I work with adults and adolescents, and have a particular interest in the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, adapting during and after stressful experiences, anxiety, depression, self-worth, and personal growth. I also have significant experience working in the specialised field of perinatal mental health including the treatment of birth traumas, attachment difficulties, the transition into parenting, relationship difficulties and parenting struggles. I offer sessions both In-Person (Hillarys WA) or Online Australia-wide.
I am integrative and client-centred in my approach, incorporating various scientific and evidence-based treatments in my practice, including EMDR, CBT, Ego State Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy.
I work with adults and adolescents, and have a particular interest in the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, adapting during and after stressful experiences, anxiety, depression, self-worth, and personal growth. I also have significant experience working in the specialised field of perinatal mental health including the treatment of birth traumas, attachment difficulties, the transition into parenting, relationship difficulties and parenting struggles. I offer sessions both In-Person (Hillarys WA) or Online Australia-wide.
View
Photo of Praveena Rajeswaran, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Praveena Rajeswaran
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am trained in several trauma-informed modalities, including DBT, EMDR, Schema Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
I have worked across a range of clinical & leadership positions within NSW Health. I am also passionate about supporting the next generation of psychologists as a PsyBA Approved Supervisor and Sessional Academic at ACU, supervising & lecturing psychology students, interns and registrars.
I am trained in several trauma-informed modalities, including DBT, EMDR, Schema Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
I have worked across a range of clinical & leadership positions within NSW Health. I am also passionate about supporting the next generation of psychologists as a PsyBA Approved Supervisor and Sessional Academic at ACU, supervising & lecturing psychology students, interns and registrars.
View
Photo of Elizabeth Theiler, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elizabeth Theiler
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I can offer you therapies within a broad range of modalities, including Lacanian Psychonalysis, EMDR therapy, various Psychotherapies (please also see my profile).
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
I can offer you therapies within a broad range of modalities, including Lacanian Psychonalysis, EMDR therapy, various Psychotherapies (please also see my profile).
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
(07) 3186 9444 View (07) 3186 9444
Photo of Trupti Dave, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Trupti Dave
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Windsor, NSW 2756
I draw on evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy and EMDR, tailoring each session to suit your unique needs and pace.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Finding the right practitioner isn’t just about choosing someone who is highly skilled; it’s about finding the person who is the right fit for you. True therapeutic progress is built on genuine connection, mutual trust, and a relational dynamic that makes you feel safe, heard, and understood.
I draw on evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy and EMDR, tailoring each session to suit your unique needs and pace.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Finding the right practitioner isn’t just about choosing someone who is highly skilled; it’s about finding the person who is the right fit for you. True therapeutic progress is built on genuine connection, mutual trust, and a relational dynamic that makes you feel safe, heard, and understood.
(02) 8806 0662 View (02) 8806 0662
Photo of Nick Gotsis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nick Gotsis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I utilise a solution-focused, integrative approach, including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy and EMDR.
You may be navigating a difficult life transition, managing a complex personal history, or seeking a truly affirmative space within the LGBTQIA+ community. Many of my clients feel "stuck" in cycles of persistent stress, relationship conflict, or emotional exhaustion and want more than just a listener; they want a clear strategy for change. Your goal is to move past the mental fog to regain a sense of purpose and connection. You need a professional who understands that your well-being is tied to your values and that you deserve a life where you feel in control, rather than just reacting to the next challenge.
I utilise a solution-focused, integrative approach, including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy and EMDR.
You may be navigating a difficult life transition, managing a complex personal history, or seeking a truly affirmative space within the LGBTQIA+ community. Many of my clients feel "stuck" in cycles of persistent stress, relationship conflict, or emotional exhaustion and want more than just a listener; they want a clear strategy for change. Your goal is to move past the mental fog to regain a sense of purpose and connection. You need a professional who understands that your well-being is tied to your values and that you deserve a life where you feel in control, rather than just reacting to the next challenge.
View
Photo of Mechelen Maria D'Souza, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Mechelen Maria D'Souza
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I’m Mechelen, a psychologist passionate about supporting individuals through a wide range of challenges. I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, relationship conflicts, mood fluctuations, loss, and workplace challenges. I’m passionate about improving communication and empowering my clients to navigate life’s stressors with confidence and resilience. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, tailored to meet your unique needs, and I truly believe that you are the expert of your own life. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space to explore your concerns and work towards meaningful change.
I’m Mechelen, a psychologist passionate about supporting individuals through a wide range of challenges. I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, relationship conflicts, mood fluctuations, loss, and workplace challenges. I’m passionate about improving communication and empowering my clients to navigate life’s stressors with confidence and resilience. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, tailored to meet your unique needs, and I truly believe that you are the expert of your own life. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space to explore your concerns and work towards meaningful change.
(02) 9100 0660 View (02) 9100 0660
Photo of Natalie Harman, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Natalie Harman
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Approaches include EMDR, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness-based somatic therapies, compassion-focused therapy, and solution-focused wellbeing coaching.
PACFA-registered Clinical Counsellor and psychotherapist, Natalie Harman has extensive experience and an unrivalled understanding of hospital workplace culture. As the Founder of Becoming Mindful Natalie Harman delivers tailored wellbeing programs in hospital workplaces which include individual counselling and coaching to equip doctors with the tools needed to move beyond survival to thriving. Natalie’s trauma-informed clinical approach and deep understanding of hospital environments enables her to integrate several therapeutic techniques that are tailored to meet the individual needs of both the client and department.
Approaches include EMDR, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness-based somatic therapies, compassion-focused therapy, and solution-focused wellbeing coaching.
PACFA-registered Clinical Counsellor and psychotherapist, Natalie Harman has extensive experience and an unrivalled understanding of hospital workplace culture. As the Founder of Becoming Mindful Natalie Harman delivers tailored wellbeing programs in hospital workplaces which include individual counselling and coaching to equip doctors with the tools needed to move beyond survival to thriving. Natalie’s trauma-informed clinical approach and deep understanding of hospital environments enables her to integrate several therapeutic techniques that are tailored to meet the individual needs of both the client and department.
(02) 8355 9759 View (02) 8355 9759
Photo of Miranda Shtein, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Miranda Shtein
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I use an integration of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, ACT, DBT, Play therapy & I collaboratively work with childcare, schools, universities and workplaces.
I am a warm and empathetic Psychologist with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents and adults to lead healthier and happier lives by overcoming their concerns with practical solutions that empower them to achieve their goals. My treatment includes various issues, some of which include anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, parenting and relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, communication, grief and loss and emotion-regulation issues. I provide a warm and collaborative space where challenges can be safely explored and worked through. I also conduct ASD and ADHD assessments.
I use an integration of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, ACT, DBT, Play therapy & I collaboratively work with childcare, schools, universities and workplaces.
I am a warm and empathetic Psychologist with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents and adults to lead healthier and happier lives by overcoming their concerns with practical solutions that empower them to achieve their goals. My treatment includes various issues, some of which include anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, parenting and relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, communication, grief and loss and emotion-regulation issues. I provide a warm and collaborative space where challenges can be safely explored and worked through. I also conduct ASD and ADHD assessments.
0421 149 299 View 0421 149 299
Photo of Samantha McDonnell, Psychotherapist
Samantha McDonnell
Psychotherapist
Paddington, NSW 2021
I work somatically and creatively, also incorporating movement, Attachment-Focused EMDR techniques and Ruth Culver's IFS 'Drawing into Self' approach.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Deep Brain Reorienting, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
I work somatically and creatively, also incorporating movement, Attachment-Focused EMDR techniques and Ruth Culver's IFS 'Drawing into Self' approach.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Deep Brain Reorienting, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
(02) 9100 0083 View (02) 9100 0083
Photo of Srijana Darnal - Your Mind at Ease, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Your Mind at Ease
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Your Mind at Ease is centrally located in Parramatta Square and has, over the years, supported the diverse therapeutic needs of clients through a range of holistic and psychological interventions. We believe healing is deeply rooted in culture and spirituality and when thoughtfully integrated with evidence-based psychological practice, they create meaningful and lasting change that individuals can truly embody in their everyday lives. Your Mind at Ease offers experience in delivering tailored, client-centred therapeutic approaches. Taking the first step is overwhelming but the most important step. Call us for free 15mins chat.
Your Mind at Ease is centrally located in Parramatta Square and has, over the years, supported the diverse therapeutic needs of clients through a range of holistic and psychological interventions. We believe healing is deeply rooted in culture and spirituality and when thoughtfully integrated with evidence-based psychological practice, they create meaningful and lasting change that individuals can truly embody in their everyday lives. Your Mind at Ease offers experience in delivering tailored, client-centred therapeutic approaches. Taking the first step is overwhelming but the most important step. Call us for free 15mins chat.
(02) 7804 4439 View (02) 7804 4439
Photo of Evelina Medin - Dr Evelina Medin, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Evelina Medin
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I hold a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from London and I have completed extensive additional training focusing of working with difficulties relating to trauma and stress including EMDR, Compassion-Focused Therapy and Somatic Therapy.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist providing telehealth therapy for adults across NSW. The people I work with are thoughtful, capable individuals who find themselves struggling because of anxiety, overwhelm, burnout, trauma, self-criticism, relationship difficulties, or the cumulative impact of stress over time. I have a special interest in peri and postnatal difficulties and adjustment to parenthood - I work a lot with parents and caregivers navigating the emotional demands of family life including neurodivergent families. I also work a lot with first responders and other helping professionals.
I hold a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from London and I have completed extensive additional training focusing of working with difficulties relating to trauma and stress including EMDR, Compassion-Focused Therapy and Somatic Therapy.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist providing telehealth therapy for adults across NSW. The people I work with are thoughtful, capable individuals who find themselves struggling because of anxiety, overwhelm, burnout, trauma, self-criticism, relationship difficulties, or the cumulative impact of stress over time. I have a special interest in peri and postnatal difficulties and adjustment to parenthood - I work a lot with parents and caregivers navigating the emotional demands of family life including neurodivergent families. I also work a lot with first responders and other helping professionals.
View
Photo of Wuyuan Antony-John Jia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wuyuan Antony-John Jia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
Mr W. Antony-John Jia is a registered psychologist with a deep interest in psychodynamic-interpersonal therapy and pastoral psychotherapy. With a focus on individual therapy, Mr Jia is also preparing to offer Yalom-style group therapy in the future. In the initial session, Mr Jia assesses compatibility with the client, welcoming individuals of all ages, genders, and clinical presentations.
Mr W. Antony-John Jia is a registered psychologist with a deep interest in psychodynamic-interpersonal therapy and pastoral psychotherapy. With a focus on individual therapy, Mr Jia is also preparing to offer Yalom-style group therapy in the future. In the initial session, Mr Jia assesses compatibility with the client, welcoming individuals of all ages, genders, and clinical presentations.
(02) 8403 0669 View (02) 8403 0669
Photo of Sandy Macken, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sandy Macken
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Balmain East, NSW 2041
Are you feeling stuck inside despite all the effort and many attempts to get it right? Do you look ok on the outside but get the sense you’re crumbling internally or are you at war with yourself? Are you facing dilemmas or change that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? Are the difficulties of your past disturbing your dreams and giving you cause to lash out, cycle though addictions or want to disappear completely?
Are you feeling stuck inside despite all the effort and many attempts to get it right? Do you look ok on the outside but get the sense you’re crumbling internally or are you at war with yourself? Are you facing dilemmas or change that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? Are the difficulties of your past disturbing your dreams and giving you cause to lash out, cycle though addictions or want to disappear completely?
(02) 4501 7792 View (02) 4501 7792
Photo of Alicia Merlino, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Alicia Merlino
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I’m a registered psychologist with 18 years of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges. My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed perspective, where I work to understand your unique background and history, and how these have shaped your present thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I believe that by understanding the roots of our difficulties, we can begin to heal and make lasting change. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their concerns.
I’m a registered psychologist with 18 years of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges. My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed perspective, where I work to understand your unique background and history, and how these have shaped your present thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I believe that by understanding the roots of our difficulties, we can begin to heal and make lasting change. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their concerns.
(02) 8000 1302 View (02) 8000 1302

See more therapy options for Freshwater

EMDR Therapists
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.