EMDR Psychologists and Therapists in Cranbourne, VIC

Photo of Fiona Dickie - Perpetual Wellness Counselling Service , Social Worker, AMHSW
I am a Medicare Registered Mental Health Clinician and Registered EMDR therapist, with more than 20 years of clinical experience, offering integrative mind-body psychotherapy, play therapy, incorporating a humanistic trauma-informed and attachment focused approach to facilitate your trauma recovery and relational growth.
Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist utilising attachment-based interventions for couples. Certified family trauma therapist utilising effective techniques to treat traumatized children, adolescents and families. I incorporate EMDR therapy to help individuals process traumatic experiences by processing in a safe and structured way.
I am a Medicare Registered Mental Health Clinician and Registered EMDR therapist, with more than 20 years of clinical experience, offering integrative mind-body psychotherapy, play therapy, incorporating a humanistic trauma-informed and attachment focused approach to facilitate your trauma recovery and relational growth.
Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist utilising attachment-based interventions for couples. Certified family trauma therapist utilising effective techniques to treat traumatized children, adolescents and families. I incorporate EMDR therapy to help individuals process traumatic experiences by processing in a safe and structured way.
(03) 5905 7894 View (03) 5905 7894
Photo of Angela Oldfield - Fresh Horizons Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Fresh Horizons Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Cranbourne, VIC 3977
Hello, my name is Angela Oldfield and I am an accredited Mental Health social worker (AMHSW) with the Australian Association of Social Workers, Level 4 counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association, EMDR therapist (Eye motion Desensitization Reprocessing) registered with EMDR Association Australia (EMDRAA) and I am a Clinical Supervisor.
I am specialized in working within the context of Trauma, EMDR, especially with first responders, veterans and first responders' family members, I support VOCAT's and victims of crime, relationship therapy, adolescent therapy, mental health support including anxiety and depression, neurodiverse, disability and LGTIQA+ friendly.
Hello, my name is Angela Oldfield and I am an accredited Mental Health social worker (AMHSW) with the Australian Association of Social Workers, Level 4 counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association, EMDR therapist (Eye motion Desensitization Reprocessing) registered with EMDR Association Australia (EMDRAA) and I am a Clinical Supervisor.
I am specialized in working within the context of Trauma, EMDR, especially with first responders, veterans and first responders' family members, I support VOCAT's and victims of crime, relationship therapy, adolescent therapy, mental health support including anxiety and depression, neurodiverse, disability and LGTIQA+ friendly.
(03) 8203 5752 View (03) 8203 5752
Photo of Gloria Guo, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Gloria Guo
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
I specialise in trauma therapy, including EMDR and somatic approaches.
You might be someone who holds a lot inside. On the outside, life continues with work, relationships, responsibilities, while you may feel internally overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or tired in a way that rest doesn’t seem to fix. I am experienced working with people who have past experiences that still live in the body, patterns that repeat in relationships, or a sense of not fully belonging. I’m especially passionate about supporting people from a migrant background. I deeply understand the challenges from cultural expectations, unspoken family dynamics, or emotional experiences that do not fit into the mainstream culture.
I specialise in trauma therapy, including EMDR and somatic approaches.
You might be someone who holds a lot inside. On the outside, life continues with work, relationships, responsibilities, while you may feel internally overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or tired in a way that rest doesn’t seem to fix. I am experienced working with people who have past experiences that still live in the body, patterns that repeat in relationships, or a sense of not fully belonging. I’m especially passionate about supporting people from a migrant background. I deeply understand the challenges from cultural expectations, unspoken family dynamics, or emotional experiences that do not fit into the mainstream culture.
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Photo of Karthika Neduveli, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Karthika Neduveli
Counsellor, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We may be functional and live through life stage transitions. Sometimes we struggle with emotional or psychological residues of underlying past trauma, anxiety or depression. We all seek a safe and empathetic space to explore emotions and experiences, aiming to achieve mental well-being and emotional resilience. We want to manage overall impact of stress, anxiety, depression or trauma and seek inner peace, improve relationships, and build a fulfilling life. We often wish to overcome individual challenges so that we develop capacity for growth and positive change. Everyone deserves a chance to heal, be happy, and find inner peace.
We may be functional and live through life stage transitions. Sometimes we struggle with emotional or psychological residues of underlying past trauma, anxiety or depression. We all seek a safe and empathetic space to explore emotions and experiences, aiming to achieve mental well-being and emotional resilience. We want to manage overall impact of stress, anxiety, depression or trauma and seek inner peace, improve relationships, and build a fulfilling life. We often wish to overcome individual challenges so that we develop capacity for growth and positive change. Everyone deserves a chance to heal, be happy, and find inner peace.
0401 693 393 View 0401 693 393
Photo of Arthur De Jesus, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Arthur De Jesus
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist. Inspired by the Filipino gesture of "akbay," my approach is one of warmth, trust, and understanding, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. I recognise and respect your unique experiences, so that you can be in therapy as you are. I practice with safety and inclusivity for all individuals. I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist. Inspired by the Filipino gesture of "akbay," my approach is one of warmth, trust, and understanding, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. I recognise and respect your unique experiences, so that you can be in therapy as you are. I practice with safety and inclusivity for all individuals. I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
(03) 7003 2144 View (03) 7003 2144
Photo of Janis Lee, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Janis Lee
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I utilise evidence-based treatments including EMDR, CBT, CPT and Mindfulness, and self-soothing and coping strategies that can assist you in-between sessions.
There is nothing more important than your mental health. No matter what may have happened in your past, or what may be causing your current distress, it does not have to be your story. If you are feeling stuck in your past, or find yourself repeating destructive patterns of behaviour, or if you have tried therapy in the past and it hasn't helped, there are powerful therapies and strategies that can relieve your current distress and support your longer term coping. It is my aim that you leave each session feeling lighter, better able to manage your emotions, feel more positive more often, and feel more in control of your life.
I utilise evidence-based treatments including EMDR, CBT, CPT and Mindfulness, and self-soothing and coping strategies that can assist you in-between sessions.
There is nothing more important than your mental health. No matter what may have happened in your past, or what may be causing your current distress, it does not have to be your story. If you are feeling stuck in your past, or find yourself repeating destructive patterns of behaviour, or if you have tried therapy in the past and it hasn't helped, there are powerful therapies and strategies that can relieve your current distress and support your longer term coping. It is my aim that you leave each session feeling lighter, better able to manage your emotions, feel more positive more often, and feel more in control of your life.
(03) 5924 0082 View (03) 5924 0082
Photo of Humaira Hamimi, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Humaira Hamimi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Humaira uses patient-centred evidence based approaches such as, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) , Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Gottman method for couples therapy and psychodynamic approaches.
Humaira Hamimi is a bilingual psychologist (Speaks Dari) who helps guide adults and adolescents in resolving personal, social and psychological difficulties. Humaira has extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting difficulties and relationship challenges. She works with issues related to refugees and asylum seekers related to identity, life cycle and grief and loss. She specialises in working with attachment trauma, domestic violence issues and trauma that occur in intimate relationships. Humaira accepts clients on NDIS, work cover and TAC.
Humaira uses patient-centred evidence based approaches such as, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) , Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Gottman method for couples therapy and psychodynamic approaches.
Humaira Hamimi is a bilingual psychologist (Speaks Dari) who helps guide adults and adolescents in resolving personal, social and psychological difficulties. Humaira has extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting difficulties and relationship challenges. She works with issues related to refugees and asylum seekers related to identity, life cycle and grief and loss. She specialises in working with attachment trauma, domestic violence issues and trauma that occur in intimate relationships. Humaira accepts clients on NDIS, work cover and TAC.
(03) 9069 8783 View (03) 9069 8783
Photo of Edita Manak, Psychologist, MPsych
Edita Manak
Psychologist, MPsych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Edita applies principles of EMDR, ACT, CBT, sandplay therapy, mindfulness, family therapy and arts therapy.
Edita has a special interest in supporting young people experiencing a range of difficulties, ranging from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, bullying to explosive behaviour. Edita works from a neurodiversity affirming framework recognizing the importance of valuing differences in how our brains work. Edita recognizes that early support from a therapist can lead to long lasting changes in child’s life. Edita is passionate about helping children (and their families) achieve their best in terms of mental health and emotional well-being, and also creating supportive social networks. She feels strong about building positive partners
Edita applies principles of EMDR, ACT, CBT, sandplay therapy, mindfulness, family therapy and arts therapy.
Edita has a special interest in supporting young people experiencing a range of difficulties, ranging from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, bullying to explosive behaviour. Edita works from a neurodiversity affirming framework recognizing the importance of valuing differences in how our brains work. Edita recognizes that early support from a therapist can lead to long lasting changes in child’s life. Edita is passionate about helping children (and their families) achieve their best in terms of mental health and emotional well-being, and also creating supportive social networks. She feels strong about building positive partners
(08) 8514 9930 View (08) 8514 9930
Photo of Winnie Lau - Bayside Counselling and Consultation (Seaford), Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Bayside Counselling and Consultation (Seaford)
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
We provide individual, EMDR, couple counselling and psychoeducational assessments (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disorders and Psychoeducational and Cognitive Assessments).
Bayside Counselling and Consultation provides psychological support to private and government organisations through Employment Assistance Programs. Our team includes Psychologists and Mental Health Social Worker experienced in the provision of work-based mediation, critical incident debriefing, trauma-focused therapy, the effects of substance abuse in the workplace, anger management, and increasing work attendance and satisfaction. Private counselling is also available in our practice.
We provide individual, EMDR, couple counselling and psychoeducational assessments (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disorders and Psychoeducational and Cognitive Assessments).
Bayside Counselling and Consultation provides psychological support to private and government organisations through Employment Assistance Programs. Our team includes Psychologists and Mental Health Social Worker experienced in the provision of work-based mediation, critical incident debriefing, trauma-focused therapy, the effects of substance abuse in the workplace, anger management, and increasing work attendance and satisfaction. Private counselling is also available in our practice.
(03) 5907 5890 View (03) 5907 5890
Photo of Aphrodite Papageorgiou, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Aphrodite Papageorgiou
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
With my warm, grounded & practical approach, I use EMDR & other methods to help you reconnect with your strength, gain clarity & move forward with genuine confidence.
I have a particular interest in trauma, ADHD, women's mental health and EMDR. Whether it's childhood wounds, past/recent stressful events, season of life changes, anxiety, low mood, confidence and motivation issues, body image concerns, disordered eating - I help you process what's keeping you stuck so that you can move forward with clarity and strength.
With my warm, grounded & practical approach, I use EMDR & other methods to help you reconnect with your strength, gain clarity & move forward with genuine confidence.
I have a particular interest in trauma, ADHD, women's mental health and EMDR. Whether it's childhood wounds, past/recent stressful events, season of life changes, anxiety, low mood, confidence and motivation issues, body image concerns, disordered eating - I help you process what's keeping you stuck so that you can move forward with clarity and strength.
(03) 7500 5751 View (03) 7500 5751
Photo of Rebecca Pike - Rebecca Pike - Lyfetree Therapy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Rebecca Pike - Lyfetree Therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
EMDR Trained, IFS Informed, Resource Therapy, DBR, Grief Certified, Trauma Informed.
My professional goal and passion is to help you understand your inner most parts, explore the pain and burdens they are holding and guide you to reprocess and release the trauma. I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR and draw on other modalities when required.
EMDR Trained, IFS Informed, Resource Therapy, DBR, Grief Certified, Trauma Informed.
My professional goal and passion is to help you understand your inner most parts, explore the pain and burdens they are holding and guide you to reprocess and release the trauma. I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR and draw on other modalities when required.
(03) 5906 7487 View (03) 5906 7487
Photo of Dr Marie-Claire Davis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Marie-Claire Davis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
The combination of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy and internal family systems (IFS) can be a particularly powerful approach for a variety of issues
Life can feel challenging when past experiences, daily stressors, or how your brain works differently creates barriers to fulfillment. Whether navigating trauma, exploring neurodivergent identity, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support you. I believe healing happens in relationship—within a safe space where you can explore at your own pace. My approach combines evidence-based practices with deep respect for your individual needs.
The combination of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy and internal family systems (IFS) can be a particularly powerful approach for a variety of issues
Life can feel challenging when past experiences, daily stressors, or how your brain works differently creates barriers to fulfillment. Whether navigating trauma, exploring neurodivergent identity, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support you. I believe healing happens in relationship—within a safe space where you can explore at your own pace. My approach combines evidence-based practices with deep respect for your individual needs.
(03) 5910 3377 View (03) 5910 3377

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alicia Marie Garrett - Alicia Garrett - Vista Counselling, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Alicia Garrett - Vista Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
Hi, I'm Alicia. I am passionate about providing specialist mental health support. I have worked with teens, adults and families experiencing a diverse range of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, family violence, relationship difficulties/breakdowns, personality disorders, complex trauma/trauma, disordered eating, low self-esteem and substance misuse. I believe in developing respectful, authentic and open-minded relationships with each person I work with. My approach is inclusive, relaxed and when appropriate humorous and playful.
Hi, I'm Alicia. I am passionate about providing specialist mental health support. I have worked with teens, adults and families experiencing a diverse range of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, family violence, relationship difficulties/breakdowns, personality disorders, complex trauma/trauma, disordered eating, low self-esteem and substance misuse. I believe in developing respectful, authentic and open-minded relationships with each person I work with. My approach is inclusive, relaxed and when appropriate humorous and playful.
(07) 5240 9990 View (07) 5240 9990
Photo of Deeva Richardson, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Deeva Richardson
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Frankston South, VIC 3199
Deeva has a special interest in Attachment and Mindfulness-based therapies such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and Internal Family Systems and compliments this with evidence-based practices such as CBT, MBCT and ACT.
She uses creative approaches such as movement, music and art to support people in connecting with their resources, regulating their nervous system and healing the wounds of stress and trauma.
Deeva has a special interest in Attachment and Mindfulness-based therapies such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and Internal Family Systems and compliments this with evidence-based practices such as CBT, MBCT and ACT.
She uses creative approaches such as movement, music and art to support people in connecting with their resources, regulating their nervous system and healing the wounds of stress and trauma.
(03) 5907 5538 View (03) 5907 5538
Photo of Elisha Dowsett - Elisha - Cortex Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Elisha - Cortex Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I believe in the power of therapy to support clarity, insight and real change in a safe, supportive environment. I welcome clients experiencing a wide variety of challenges, including anxiety & stress-related concerns, work-related burnout & adjustment issues, low mood & depressive symptoms, emotion regulation difficulties, perfectionism & self-criticism, trauma & childhood experiences.
I believe in the power of therapy to support clarity, insight and real change in a safe, supportive environment. I welcome clients experiencing a wide variety of challenges, including anxiety & stress-related concerns, work-related burnout & adjustment issues, low mood & depressive symptoms, emotion regulation difficulties, perfectionism & self-criticism, trauma & childhood experiences.
(08) 7008 9830 View (08) 7008 9830
Photo of Rhiannon Williams-Demmon, Social Worker, AASW
Rhiannon Williams-Demmon
Social Worker, AASW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Through embodied practices, EMDR, and some practical strategies, we'll help your nervous system recognise safety, process memories, and explore how you want to approach life.
Hi! I’m Rhiannon, and I work with folks wanting to understands how early experiences shape the way we move through the world. You might be a person who's spent years prioritising everyone else's needs while yours went unmet. Perhaps you struggle to trust your own judgment, find yourself constantly scanning for signs that someone's upset with you, or feel guilty whenever you try to set a boundary. Any of these experience could show up as body tension, disconnection, or a knot in your stomach when conflict arises.
Through embodied practices, EMDR, and some practical strategies, we'll help your nervous system recognise safety, process memories, and explore how you want to approach life.
Hi! I’m Rhiannon, and I work with folks wanting to understands how early experiences shape the way we move through the world. You might be a person who's spent years prioritising everyone else's needs while yours went unmet. Perhaps you struggle to trust your own judgment, find yourself constantly scanning for signs that someone's upset with you, or feel guilty whenever you try to set a boundary. Any of these experience could show up as body tension, disconnection, or a knot in your stomach when conflict arises.
(02) 5017 1516 View (02) 5017 1516
Photo of Vicky Bablas, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Vicky Bablas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I use a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities in my approach, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based interventions, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Schema Therapy approaches and Eye Movement Desensitiation and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am a registered clinical psychologist experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health concerns and clinical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic, specific phobias, chronic pain conditions, stress and adjustment issues, sleep disturbance & insomnia, anger issues, grief & loss, relationship issues, self-esteem issues as well as trauma & PTSD. I work primarily with adults and adolescents and am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for you to feel safe to explore your concerns fully, and work together to develop a plan to suit you.
I use a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities in my approach, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based interventions, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Schema Therapy approaches and Eye Movement Desensitiation and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am a registered clinical psychologist experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health concerns and clinical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic, specific phobias, chronic pain conditions, stress and adjustment issues, sleep disturbance & insomnia, anger issues, grief & loss, relationship issues, self-esteem issues as well as trauma & PTSD. I work primarily with adults and adolescents and am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for you to feel safe to explore your concerns fully, and work together to develop a plan to suit you.
(02) 4504 0213 View (02) 4504 0213
Photo of Sherridan J Green, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sherridan J Green
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Northcote, VIC 3070
Sherridan is a Gestalt therapist and EMDR practitioner.
Sherridan works with a wide variety of presentations including depression, anxiety, anger, sadness, confusion, stress, loss, grief, overwhelm, sexuality, life direction, life-work balance, relationships, lack of purpose, confidence, perspective, emotional insecurity. Sherridan will meet you where you are at and support you to continue on your life’s path.
Sherridan is a Gestalt therapist and EMDR practitioner.
Sherridan works with a wide variety of presentations including depression, anxiety, anger, sadness, confusion, stress, loss, grief, overwhelm, sexuality, life direction, life-work balance, relationships, lack of purpose, confidence, perspective, emotional insecurity. Sherridan will meet you where you are at and support you to continue on your life’s path.
(03) 9118 9081 View (03) 9118 9081
Photo of Jessica Wator, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Jessica Wator
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Hawthorn, VIC 3122
Jess applies evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Operating from a solution-focused, strengths-based, and neuro-affirmative approach, Jess seeks to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to gain insight and self-awareness as a foundation for meaningful change. She supports clients across the lifespan—from infants to older adults—and reassures them that by seeking support, they are giving themselves the opportunity to explore their challenges, strengths, and goals in pursuit of a fulfilling and purposeful life, even in the face of adversity.
Jess applies evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Operating from a solution-focused, strengths-based, and neuro-affirmative approach, Jess seeks to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to gain insight and self-awareness as a foundation for meaningful change. She supports clients across the lifespan—from infants to older adults—and reassures them that by seeking support, they are giving themselves the opportunity to explore their challenges, strengths, and goals in pursuit of a fulfilling and purposeful life, even in the face of adversity.
(03) 8771 5116 x1 View (03) 8771 5116 x1
Photo of Dr Nikki Glavas, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Nikki Glavas
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Nikki is a warm and dedicated clinical psychologist who believes that healing starts with real, human connections. Nikki is committed to helping people explore and heal core wounds, creating space for transformation and deeper connections with themselves and others. She specialises in working with those who have experienced trauma, and has a special interest in helping people navigate intimacy and relationship concerns. Nikki is particularly passionate about guiding those who feel disconnected from their authentic selves — often showing up as people pleasing, perfectionism, or a sense of emotional disconnection from others.
Nikki is a warm and dedicated clinical psychologist who believes that healing starts with real, human connections. Nikki is committed to helping people explore and heal core wounds, creating space for transformation and deeper connections with themselves and others. She specialises in working with those who have experienced trauma, and has a special interest in helping people navigate intimacy and relationship concerns. Nikki is particularly passionate about guiding those who feel disconnected from their authentic selves — often showing up as people pleasing, perfectionism, or a sense of emotional disconnection from others.
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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.