EMDR Counselling in Mid North Coast, NSW

Photo of Basia Radlinska - Reflective Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Reflective Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
We are a group practice with expertise in helping people who struggle with experiences like depression, anxiety, trauma (including EMDR), eating disorders, ocd and perinatal mental health.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, or trauma, and just want to feel like yourself again, then we can help. At Reflective Psychology, we support people just like you to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence. Whether you're navigating emotional pain, stress, or life transitions, you're not alone. Reach out and we can a path forward together, with expert support from our experienced practitioners.
We are a group practice with expertise in helping people who struggle with experiences like depression, anxiety, trauma (including EMDR), eating disorders, ocd and perinatal mental health.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, or trauma, and just want to feel like yourself again, then we can help. At Reflective Psychology, we support people just like you to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence. Whether you're navigating emotional pain, stress, or life transitions, you're not alone. Reach out and we can a path forward together, with expert support from our experienced practitioners.
(02) 5602 8107 View (02) 5602 8107
Dr Julie-May Brown
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I am an experienced, accredited EMDR and trauma-oriented clinician with extensive expertise in treating clinicians, veterans, and civilians.
With over two decades of experience, I offer a down-to-earth, solution-focused, and nonjudgmental approach. I support my clients in feeling validated and understood—especially those who have never disclosed their trauma previously. EMDR is a respectful treatment, and does not require a detailed discussion of the trauma(s) in order to be effective.
I am an experienced, accredited EMDR and trauma-oriented clinician with extensive expertise in treating clinicians, veterans, and civilians.
With over two decades of experience, I offer a down-to-earth, solution-focused, and nonjudgmental approach. I support my clients in feeling validated and understood—especially those who have never disclosed their trauma previously. EMDR is a respectful treatment, and does not require a detailed discussion of the trauma(s) in order to be effective.
0421 778 204 View 0421 778 204
Photo of AJP Psychology - AJP Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
AJP Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
As an EMDR clinician I have been honoured to support people across the lifespan to process historical events, current triggers and formulate healthier adaptive ways to navigate life.
A life event that destabilises us can create all range of emotions and behavioural responses without our awareness and in turn, cause additional distress to your life. When we feel threatened, challenged or overwhelmed - our thoughts, feelings and behaviours can be all consuming. Without emotional processing and resolving the distress can form unhealthy maladaptive responses and associations. Engaging in professional help to support you through these events can provide you adaptive ways to respond to your world. Be brave and reach out.
As an EMDR clinician I have been honoured to support people across the lifespan to process historical events, current triggers and formulate healthier adaptive ways to navigate life.
A life event that destabilises us can create all range of emotions and behavioural responses without our awareness and in turn, cause additional distress to your life. When we feel threatened, challenged or overwhelmed - our thoughts, feelings and behaviours can be all consuming. Without emotional processing and resolving the distress can form unhealthy maladaptive responses and associations. Engaging in professional help to support you through these events can provide you adaptive ways to respond to your world. Be brave and reach out.
(02) 5302 8029 View (02) 5302 8029
Photo of Michella Elizabeth Wherrett, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Michella Elizabeth Wherrett
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
I am an EMDR therapist and use this modality as part of my clinical practice.
I believe we all have capacity to deal with issues we meet along the way, however sometimes we get out of touch with that part of ourselves. I love to work together with clients to help them get back to that part of themselves, to be able to Identify what is stopping them from reaching their goals. Often it’s things we believe about ourselves from our past, which are not always true. Beliefs about self-worth, not being good enough, not being loveable! These negative beliefs about ourselves may have been formed in childhood or in relationships that have been unhealthy. I am able to work with you, collaboratively, to achieve your goal
I am an EMDR therapist and use this modality as part of my clinical practice.
I believe we all have capacity to deal with issues we meet along the way, however sometimes we get out of touch with that part of ourselves. I love to work together with clients to help them get back to that part of themselves, to be able to Identify what is stopping them from reaching their goals. Often it’s things we believe about ourselves from our past, which are not always true. Beliefs about self-worth, not being good enough, not being loveable! These negative beliefs about ourselves may have been formed in childhood or in relationships that have been unhealthy. I am able to work with you, collaboratively, to achieve your goal
(08) 7665 9816 View (08) 7665 9816
Photo of Tricia Ang, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tricia Ang
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
Waitlist for new clients
Therapeutic modalities I offer include EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Havening Techniques, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Tension & Trauma Release Exercises (TRE).
I specialise in assisting children, adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma from shocking/terrifying events, or developmental/complex trauma, and are struggling with symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, overwhelming feelings of anger/ sadness/ anxiety/ shame, numbness, low self-worth, relationship/ boundary/ trust issues, powerlessness, and disconnection from self/others. Using a holistic approach that honours the mind-body connection, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals to transform chronic stuck patterns into deeper experiences of wellbeing, self-empowerment, freedom, joy and fulfilment.
Therapeutic modalities I offer include EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Havening Techniques, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Tension & Trauma Release Exercises (TRE).
I specialise in assisting children, adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma from shocking/terrifying events, or developmental/complex trauma, and are struggling with symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, overwhelming feelings of anger/ sadness/ anxiety/ shame, numbness, low self-worth, relationship/ boundary/ trust issues, powerlessness, and disconnection from self/others. Using a holistic approach that honours the mind-body connection, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals to transform chronic stuck patterns into deeper experiences of wellbeing, self-empowerment, freedom, joy and fulfilment.
(02) 5605 2890 View (02) 5605 2890
Photo of Robert M Curtis - Learning Curves Psychological Consultancy, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Learning Curves Psychological Consultancy
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Taree, NSW 2430
Treatment often needs to be trauma informed and we offer EMDR therapy, CBT and gold standard psychometric assessment when requested.
There are times in life when we are not at our best. We find ourselves without the energy and insight into how to make it right again. Your psychologist will work with you in a safe and respectful way, helping you to reconnect with inner resources and values that will enable you to make meaning of your life journey and once more step forward with purpose and enjoyment.
Treatment often needs to be trauma informed and we offer EMDR therapy, CBT and gold standard psychometric assessment when requested.
There are times in life when we are not at our best. We find ourselves without the energy and insight into how to make it right again. Your psychologist will work with you in a safe and respectful way, helping you to reconnect with inner resources and values that will enable you to make meaning of your life journey and once more step forward with purpose and enjoyment.
(02) 5564 4097 View (02) 5564 4097
Photo of Relatable Jessica White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Relatable Jessica White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Some of the tools in my tool kit include EMDR, family therapy, CBT and TF CBT.
Hi, I provide a gentle approach to evidence based therapy for children, teens, adults and families to navigate through challenging times such as life transitions, family changes, mental health and all kinds of trauma. You are the expert in your life and my role is to support you to help you improve your connection to self, family and life your life, your way!
Some of the tools in my tool kit include EMDR, family therapy, CBT and TF CBT.
Hi, I provide a gentle approach to evidence based therapy for children, teens, adults and families to navigate through challenging times such as life transitions, family changes, mental health and all kinds of trauma. You are the expert in your life and my role is to support you to help you improve your connection to self, family and life your life, your way!
(02) 5503 7620 View (02) 5503 7620
Photo of Donna-Marie Thompson, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Donna-Marie Thompson
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
She is also trained to an advanced level in EMDR.
Dee Thompson is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in supporting women's health and mental health in an integrative and holistic framework. Dee is available for individual therapy for women seeking support with issues related to: - Adjustment difficulties (e.g., change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
She is also trained to an advanced level in EMDR.
Dee Thompson is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in supporting women's health and mental health in an integrative and holistic framework. Dee is available for individual therapy for women seeking support with issues related to: - Adjustment difficulties (e.g., change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
Catherine Stokoe
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Using a range of modalities including EMDR, Gestalt therapy, IFS, ACT, and CBT I can help you regain your sense of trust in yourself and in life.
I am a qualified, skilled and highly experienced therapist with over 20 years in practice. My approach is warm, compassionate and effective. I am committed to working in collaboration with you to develop an individualised and specifically tailored course of therapy that works. I offer short term counselling to target specific issues, and longer term therapy to identify, explore, and resolve the deeper underlying patterns and drivers of distress. I will help you understand yourself better, gain the skills you need to stay well and happy, and move towards living a life of choice, freedom and peace.
Using a range of modalities including EMDR, Gestalt therapy, IFS, ACT, and CBT I can help you regain your sense of trust in yourself and in life.
I am a qualified, skilled and highly experienced therapist with over 20 years in practice. My approach is warm, compassionate and effective. I am committed to working in collaboration with you to develop an individualised and specifically tailored course of therapy that works. I offer short term counselling to target specific issues, and longer term therapy to identify, explore, and resolve the deeper underlying patterns and drivers of distress. I will help you understand yourself better, gain the skills you need to stay well and happy, and move towards living a life of choice, freedom and peace.
(02) 5603 4216 View (02) 5603 4216
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 Ashlea Sutton, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashlea Sutton
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
With Care Psychology is a telehealth practice providing services across Australia. Owner and registered psychologist Ashlea has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults presenting with various difficulties, including: trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues. Ashlea enjoys working with Veterans, Current serving ADF members and First Responders. Trauma-informed and neuro-affirming, she integrates evidence-based therapies such as CBT and EMDR. She is passionate about fostering a comfortable and collaborative therapeutic experience that supports individuals in achieving their therapeutic goals
With Care Psychology is a telehealth practice providing services across Australia. Owner and registered psychologist Ashlea has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults presenting with various difficulties, including: trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues. Ashlea enjoys working with Veterans, Current serving ADF members and First Responders. Trauma-informed and neuro-affirming, she integrates evidence-based therapies such as CBT and EMDR. She is passionate about fostering a comfortable and collaborative therapeutic experience that supports individuals in achieving their therapeutic goals
(03) 4237 7602 View (03) 4237 7602
Photo of Patricia Torres Arauz - PTA Clinical Psychology (Telehealth only), Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
PTA Clinical Psychology (Telehealth only)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a clinical psychologist who specialises in trauma-focused therapy, using EMDR and parts/schema work.
If you’re carrying the weight of past trauma, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, or stuck in unhelpful patterns, you may be yearning for clarity and change. You might be seeking to understand your inner world more deeply, break free from what’s holding you back, and reconnect with your true, authentic self.
I am a clinical psychologist who specialises in trauma-focused therapy, using EMDR and parts/schema work.
If you’re carrying the weight of past trauma, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, or stuck in unhelpful patterns, you may be yearning for clarity and change. You might be seeking to understand your inner world more deeply, break free from what’s holding you back, and reconnect with your true, authentic self.
(07) 4074 9432 View (07) 4074 9432
Photo of Kellie Dundon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kellie Dundon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I offer various therapeutic techniques, including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, ACT, and EMDR, to tailor our work to your unique needs.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need extra support to navigate through. I offer online (telehealth) psychology to help you cope better with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and other challenges. My approach is client-centred, meaning we will work together to understand your unique needs and find solutions that are right for you. I provide a warm and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore and address your concerns. My practice is founded on principles of self-compassion, trauma-informed care, and inclusivity.
I offer various therapeutic techniques, including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, ACT, and EMDR, to tailor our work to your unique needs.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need extra support to navigate through. I offer online (telehealth) psychology to help you cope better with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and other challenges. My approach is client-centred, meaning we will work together to understand your unique needs and find solutions that are right for you. I provide a warm and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore and address your concerns. My practice is founded on principles of self-compassion, trauma-informed care, and inclusivity.
(03) 7003 2431 View (03) 7003 2431
Photo of Carmen Teodor, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Carmen Teodor
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach includes evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR for complex trauma.
Whether you're facing the challenges of battling depression, managing anxiety, wrestling with low self-esteem, navigating parenting difficulties, relationship issues, coping with stress, dealing with life crises, family issues, complex trauma, PTSD, cross-cultural dilemmas, coping with grief and loss, tackling workplace stress, or providing support for children after separation—I'm here for you. Expect a reset button for your life. In our Telehealth sessions, we connect virtually to explore and understand your experiences. It's a conversation that helps you focus on what matters most – you.
My approach includes evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR for complex trauma.
Whether you're facing the challenges of battling depression, managing anxiety, wrestling with low self-esteem, navigating parenting difficulties, relationship issues, coping with stress, dealing with life crises, family issues, complex trauma, PTSD, cross-cultural dilemmas, coping with grief and loss, tackling workplace stress, or providing support for children after separation—I'm here for you. Expect a reset button for your life. In our Telehealth sessions, we connect virtually to explore and understand your experiences. It's a conversation that helps you focus on what matters most – you.
(02) 8105 6074 View (02) 8105 6074
Photo of Sujata Khatri, Credentialed Mental Health Nurse
Sujata Khatri
Credentialed Mental Health Nurse
Serves Area
I utilise a holistic approach grounded in mindfulness and somatic practices, complemented by Hakomi method, Internal Family Systems (IFS) principles and EMDR therapy techniques, among others.
Sujata Khatri is a highly skilled Psychotherapist and Mental Health Nurse who embraces a holistic mind-body approach to therapy, recognising how our thoughts often restrict our perspectives and disconnect us from the insight of our bodies. Sujata's therapeutic approach fosters mindfulness, self-discovery, self-compassion and transformative change by bringing the unconscious aspects of ourselves into conscious awareness.
I utilise a holistic approach grounded in mindfulness and somatic practices, complemented by Hakomi method, Internal Family Systems (IFS) principles and EMDR therapy techniques, among others.
Sujata Khatri is a highly skilled Psychotherapist and Mental Health Nurse who embraces a holistic mind-body approach to therapy, recognising how our thoughts often restrict our perspectives and disconnect us from the insight of our bodies. Sujata's therapeutic approach fosters mindfulness, self-discovery, self-compassion and transformative change by bringing the unconscious aspects of ourselves into conscious awareness.
(02) 9100 0231 View (02) 9100 0231
Photo of Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically.
I help women navigate challenges by combining empathy and curiosity to uncover patterns and foster self-awareness. I'm passionate about EMDR and Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics. Using evidence-based approaches like sensormotor psychotherapy and ACT I create actionable steps for growth, integrating psychoeducation and other holistic strategies
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically.
I help women navigate challenges by combining empathy and curiosity to uncover patterns and foster self-awareness. I'm passionate about EMDR and Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics. Using evidence-based approaches like sensormotor psychotherapy and ACT I create actionable steps for growth, integrating psychoeducation and other holistic strategies
(02) 9100 0843 View (02) 9100 0843
Photo of Roza Hammon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Roza Hammon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Therapy works best as a collaborative process, and together, we’ll explore what works best for you—whether that’s EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, or another tailored approach.
Hi, nice to meet you and welcome :) Finding the right therapist is a journey, and I’m here to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with warmth, understanding, and evidence-based strategies that are helpful for mental wellbeing. I offer private sessions, sessions for people with Mental Health Care Plan from GP, DVA cardholders, WorkCover (QLD, NSW, VIC), and NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed). I also offer limited bulk-billing sessions to eligible clients.
Therapy works best as a collaborative process, and together, we’ll explore what works best for you—whether that’s EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, or another tailored approach.
Hi, nice to meet you and welcome :) Finding the right therapist is a journey, and I’m here to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with warmth, understanding, and evidence-based strategies that are helpful for mental wellbeing. I offer private sessions, sessions for people with Mental Health Care Plan from GP, DVA cardholders, WorkCover (QLD, NSW, VIC), and NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed). I also offer limited bulk-billing sessions to eligible clients.
(08) 7666 2681 View (08) 7666 2681
Photo of Kerryn Smith - Kerryn Smith - Life Changes Tamworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Kerryn Smith - Life Changes Tamworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I love using EMDR therapy to help process those "stuck" memories and bring back a sense of peace, acceptance and normality to your life.
If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re navigating one of the most intense and transformative times of your life—whether that’s trying to conceive, experiencing a loss, going through pregnancy, or adjusting to the early days of parenthood. It’s a journey filled with joy, anticipation, and sometimes, overwhelming challenges. You might be looking for a place where you can catch your breath, feel understood, and get the support you need. I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’ve been where you are, feeling the weight of uncertainty, the hurt, the emotional ups and downs, and the need for someone who really gets it.
I love using EMDR therapy to help process those "stuck" memories and bring back a sense of peace, acceptance and normality to your life.
If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re navigating one of the most intense and transformative times of your life—whether that’s trying to conceive, experiencing a loss, going through pregnancy, or adjusting to the early days of parenthood. It’s a journey filled with joy, anticipation, and sometimes, overwhelming challenges. You might be looking for a place where you can catch your breath, feel understood, and get the support you need. I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’ve been where you are, feeling the weight of uncertainty, the hurt, the emotional ups and downs, and the need for someone who really gets it.
(02) 5748 4723 View (02) 5748 4723
Photo of Susanne McAllister, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Susanne McAllister
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I help with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, depression, addiction, grief, and mental health with EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and Amino Acid Therapy.
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation), Attachment Healing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, (ACT), Inner Child Work, Trauma Informed Practices and Amino Acid Therapy to help you to restore wholeness and reclaim your core powers to live a more balanced and joyful life.
I help with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, depression, addiction, grief, and mental health with EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and Amino Acid Therapy.
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation), Attachment Healing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, (ACT), Inner Child Work, Trauma Informed Practices and Amino Acid Therapy to help you to restore wholeness and reclaim your core powers to live a more balanced and joyful life.
(03) 7003 2035 View (03) 7003 2035
Photo of Kelly Breen, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT.
I believe that each person is doing the best they can with the resources they have. I humbly support you in developing more adaptive patterns, and support networks, and help you tap into your innate wisdom and healing potential.
My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT.
I believe that each person is doing the best they can with the resources they have. I humbly support you in developing more adaptive patterns, and support networks, and help you tap into your innate wisdom and healing potential.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
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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.