EMDR Counselling in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

Photo of Melanie McInneny, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melanie McInneny
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Essendon, VIC 3040
To help clients achieve the change they are seeking, I use a range of treatment modalities including CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, exposure therapy, CBT-E (Eating Disorders) and MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults).
Hi! My name is Mel and I am a Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience. I enjoy working with individuals 13+ years presenting with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood difficulties, emotional difficulties, low self esteem, adjustment and life stressors, OCD, Phobias, burnout, work stress, trauma, PTSD and body image. I believe that we all have strengths that we draw upon and help us function in the world and it's our job to help you identify what these are and how to utilise them.
To help clients achieve the change they are seeking, I use a range of treatment modalities including CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, exposure therapy, CBT-E (Eating Disorders) and MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults).
Hi! My name is Mel and I am a Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience. I enjoy working with individuals 13+ years presenting with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood difficulties, emotional difficulties, low self esteem, adjustment and life stressors, OCD, Phobias, burnout, work stress, trauma, PTSD and body image. I believe that we all have strengths that we draw upon and help us function in the world and it's our job to help you identify what these are and how to utilise them.
(03) 8104 9955 View (03) 8104 9955
Photo of Kate Mellody, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kate Mellody
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Caring Cove Psychology with Kate Mellody: For referral information, please visit caringcove.com.au. Kate has gained experience in diverse clinical settings across Victoria, including public healthcare (i.e., hospitals and outpatient programs), private practice, and not-for-profit organisations. Kate’s experience has allowed her to support individuals with a range of difficulties and mental health challenges. Kate is particularly passionate about working with people affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns and anxiety.
Caring Cove Psychology with Kate Mellody: For referral information, please visit caringcove.com.au. Kate has gained experience in diverse clinical settings across Victoria, including public healthcare (i.e., hospitals and outpatient programs), private practice, and not-for-profit organisations. Kate’s experience has allowed her to support individuals with a range of difficulties and mental health challenges. Kate is particularly passionate about working with people affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns and anxiety.
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Photo of Cass Kozulin, Social Worker, AASW
Cass Kozulin
Social Worker, AASW
Maidstone, VIC 3012
I am a trained Art Therapist and EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitisation Therapy).
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
I am a trained Art Therapist and EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitisation Therapy).
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
(03) 7003 2538 View (03) 7003 2538
Photo of Dr Nuwan Leitan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Nuwan Leitan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Wheelers Hill, VIC 3150
Waitlist for new clients
I use Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) as primary approaches, tailoring therapy with CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to suit individual needs.
I’m a registered Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Supervisor with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD in the field. Alongside my clinical work, I have a strong background in research, which informs my evidence-based, thoughtful approach to therapy. I bring both expertise and compassion to help clients create real, lasting change.
I use Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) as primary approaches, tailoring therapy with CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to suit individual needs.
I’m a registered Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Supervisor with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD in the field. Alongside my clinical work, I have a strong background in research, which informs my evidence-based, thoughtful approach to therapy. I bring both expertise and compassion to help clients create real, lasting change.
(03) 8771 4430 View (03) 8771 4430
Photo of Dean William Constantineas, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dean William Constantineas
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Mentone, VIC 3194
In my treatment, I rely on a behavioural and neuroscience based approach, using treatment modalities such as CBT, ACT and EMDR to assist clients work through their mental health struggles and improve their level of wellbeing.
My name is Dean Constantineas and I am a registered psychologist with training and experience in both sport and clinical psychology. I am passionate about normalising working to improve community mental health. I love to work with my clients on a process of learning about what is stopping them from living their best life and aim to help them discover ways to flourish.
In my treatment, I rely on a behavioural and neuroscience based approach, using treatment modalities such as CBT, ACT and EMDR to assist clients work through their mental health struggles and improve their level of wellbeing.
My name is Dean Constantineas and I am a registered psychologist with training and experience in both sport and clinical psychology. I am passionate about normalising working to improve community mental health. I love to work with my clients on a process of learning about what is stopping them from living their best life and aim to help them discover ways to flourish.
(03) 7500 5299 View (03) 7500 5299
Photo of Sarah McMurtrie, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Sarah McMurtrie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Camberwell, VIC 3124
With over a decade of experience, I offer trauma-informed therapy for adolescents and adults using EFT, EMDR, and integrative approaches like CBT, ACT, IFS and Flash Technique.
Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by past experiences, stuck in patterns they can’t shift, or unsure how to heal old emotional wounds. They are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress that affect all areas of their lives including their relationships and work. They want relief, clarity, and a sense of inner calm and confidence. They’re seeking a safe, supportive space to understand themselves, process trauma, and reconnect with what matters to them.
With over a decade of experience, I offer trauma-informed therapy for adolescents and adults using EFT, EMDR, and integrative approaches like CBT, ACT, IFS and Flash Technique.
Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by past experiences, stuck in patterns they can’t shift, or unsure how to heal old emotional wounds. They are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress that affect all areas of their lives including their relationships and work. They want relief, clarity, and a sense of inner calm and confidence. They’re seeking a safe, supportive space to understand themselves, process trauma, and reconnect with what matters to them.
(03) 8771 5307 View (03) 8771 5307
Photo of Claudette Ogilvie - Victorious Minds, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Victorious Minds
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mentone, VIC 3194
If you want better mental health, general support, to thrive in changes to life circumstances, adjust well to another culture or being away from home, overcome conflicts in the workplace, improved relationships and more; we’d love to come alongside you to help you overcome any challenges and regain or maintain good health in spirit, mind and body.
If you want better mental health, general support, to thrive in changes to life circumstances, adjust well to another culture or being away from home, overcome conflicts in the workplace, improved relationships and more; we’d love to come alongside you to help you overcome any challenges and regain or maintain good health in spirit, mind and body.
(03) 8771 5086 View (03) 8771 5086
Photo of Cody Potter, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Cody Potter
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Hi, I'm Cody! I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides psychological support for exclusively for children, adolescents and their families. I am experienced in providing assessment, treatment and parenting advice for a range of mental health issues of issues including anxiety, depression, challenging behaviours, social skills, sleep, trauma and school-based issues. I am also trained to administer cognitive and educational assessments as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder assessments. I have worked in both private and public health services including the Royal Children's Hospital, where I was Senior Mental Health Clinician.
Hi, I'm Cody! I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides psychological support for exclusively for children, adolescents and their families. I am experienced in providing assessment, treatment and parenting advice for a range of mental health issues of issues including anxiety, depression, challenging behaviours, social skills, sleep, trauma and school-based issues. I am also trained to administer cognitive and educational assessments as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder assessments. I have worked in both private and public health services including the Royal Children's Hospital, where I was Senior Mental Health Clinician.
(03) 7003 2120 View (03) 7003 2120
Photo of Frossa Mrakas, Social Worker, AMHSW
Frossa Mrakas
Social Worker, AMHSW
Surrey Hills, VIC 3127
Hi lovely, Have you recently received a diagnosis of ADHD and feeling overwhelmed or perhaps relieved and wanting to talk through where to from here? Working with women with at diagnosis of ADHD later in life is my passion and I am here to help. Have you discovered your ADHD later in life? You're not alone. Many women are only now learning what they've lived with for years. But here's the powerful truth: a late diagnosis doesn’t mean it’s too late to thrive. With professional and lived experience I offer a non judgemental neuro affirming space to help you unlock the many positives and strengths that come with ADHD.
Hi lovely, Have you recently received a diagnosis of ADHD and feeling overwhelmed or perhaps relieved and wanting to talk through where to from here? Working with women with at diagnosis of ADHD later in life is my passion and I am here to help. Have you discovered your ADHD later in life? You're not alone. Many women are only now learning what they've lived with for years. But here's the powerful truth: a late diagnosis doesn’t mean it’s too late to thrive. With professional and lived experience I offer a non judgemental neuro affirming space to help you unlock the many positives and strengths that come with ADHD.
(03) 8771 4297 View (03) 8771 4297
Photo of Julijana Chochovski - Pre-Emptive Healthcare , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Pre-Emptive Healthcare
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Balwyn North, VIC 3104
Our team offers therapy for children, teens, and adults, using approaches like EMDR and other trauma-focused methods.
We’re conveniently located close to the Eastern Freeway with plenty of street parking and just a short walk from Burke Road, making access simple. Our psychologists currently have availability for new clients. Call today to find out how we can help you or your family heal from trauma, manage mental health challenges, and move forward with confidence.
Our team offers therapy for children, teens, and adults, using approaches like EMDR and other trauma-focused methods.
We’re conveniently located close to the Eastern Freeway with plenty of street parking and just a short walk from Burke Road, making access simple. Our psychologists currently have availability for new clients. Call today to find out how we can help you or your family heal from trauma, manage mental health challenges, and move forward with confidence.
(03) 7003 2901 View (03) 7003 2901
Photo of Mithzay Pomenta, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Mithzay Pomenta
Counsellor, ACA-L4
3 Endorsed
Warrandyte, VIC 3113
Often, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is used to explore how negative thoughts influence your emotions and experiences, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to provide self-regulation skills and nurture relationships, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to process traumatic memories.
The first step to getting help is the hardest. When you feel vulnerable, it's difficult to know who to trust. This can make us anxious, fearing the worst, or worried, wondering if our situation will be seen as trivial. All of those are valid feelings. Imagine stepping into a space where you feel safe, heard, and deeply understood and having someone gently guide you through a journey of self-discovery, highlighting the aspects of yourself that empower and uplift you as you work through the things troubling you.
Often, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is used to explore how negative thoughts influence your emotions and experiences, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to provide self-regulation skills and nurture relationships, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to process traumatic memories.
The first step to getting help is the hardest. When you feel vulnerable, it's difficult to know who to trust. This can make us anxious, fearing the worst, or worried, wondering if our situation will be seen as trivial. All of those are valid feelings. Imagine stepping into a space where you feel safe, heard, and deeply understood and having someone gently guide you through a journey of self-discovery, highlighting the aspects of yourself that empower and uplift you as you work through the things troubling you.
(03) 8771 4067 View (03) 8771 4067
Photo of Catherine Dwyer, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Catherine Dwyer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Northcote, VIC 3070
Catherine has received advanced training and attends ongoing supervision in EMDR, a gold standard treatment for trauma.
Catherine Dwyer is a Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years of experience. She is a respected Senior Psychologist within the public mental health system. Catherine has worked as a private practitioner for the last 19 years. Catherine is skilled in treating mood disorders, trauma, grief and anger, and issues related to life adjustment, stress and relationship difficulties. Catherine is committed to providing evidence-based treatment to the people that she sees. Catherine is particularly interested in the application of the principles of neuroscience and neuroplasticity to therapeutic work.
Catherine has received advanced training and attends ongoing supervision in EMDR, a gold standard treatment for trauma.
Catherine Dwyer is a Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years of experience. She is a respected Senior Psychologist within the public mental health system. Catherine has worked as a private practitioner for the last 19 years. Catherine is skilled in treating mood disorders, trauma, grief and anger, and issues related to life adjustment, stress and relationship difficulties. Catherine is committed to providing evidence-based treatment to the people that she sees. Catherine is particularly interested in the application of the principles of neuroscience and neuroplasticity to therapeutic work.
(03) 7003 2240 View (03) 7003 2240
Photo of Dr Sakshi Dhir, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Sakshi Dhir
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
Sakshi is a Clinical Psychologist, and is accepting new clients. Sakshi's clients are often experiencing a range of difficulties, including symptoms of anxiety, low mood, struggling with negative and critical self-talk, experiencing difficulties in regulating their emotions, or having challenges in their relationships. Many of Sakshi's clients are also neurodivergent and/or are from LGBTIQA+ communities. Sakshi helps her clients through these challenges, in the context of their past life experiences, so that they are no longer stuck in unhelpful patterns.
Sakshi is a Clinical Psychologist, and is accepting new clients. Sakshi's clients are often experiencing a range of difficulties, including symptoms of anxiety, low mood, struggling with negative and critical self-talk, experiencing difficulties in regulating their emotions, or having challenges in their relationships. Many of Sakshi's clients are also neurodivergent and/or are from LGBTIQA+ communities. Sakshi helps her clients through these challenges, in the context of their past life experiences, so that they are no longer stuck in unhelpful patterns.
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Photo of Dr Maddy Fernando, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Maddy Fernando
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
I draw on ACT, DBT, CFT, EMDR, and gentle body-based approaches like vagus nerve yoga to support regulation and healing, especially after complex trauma.
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
I draw on ACT, DBT, CFT, EMDR, and gentle body-based approaches like vagus nerve yoga to support regulation and healing, especially after complex trauma.
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
0426 415 617 View 0426 415 617
Photo of Kelly Maltman, Psychologist, MC, PsyBA General
Kelly Maltman
Psychologist, MC, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
Her therapeutic practice is predominately grounded in validated treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, & Schema Therapy, all tailored towards reducing distress and improving quality of life.
Kelly is a highly compassionate senior psychologist with experience supporting individuals and families through complex and often deeply personal challenges associated with chronic illness, psycho-oncology (cancer), trauma, and significant life transitions. Challenging life events can create unique traumatic stressors, and it’s not uncommon for individuals and family members to feel overwhelmed or develop stress disorders as a consequence. These conditions can significantly affect a person’s quality of life long after the diagnosis.
Her therapeutic practice is predominately grounded in validated treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, & Schema Therapy, all tailored towards reducing distress and improving quality of life.
Kelly is a highly compassionate senior psychologist with experience supporting individuals and families through complex and often deeply personal challenges associated with chronic illness, psycho-oncology (cancer), trauma, and significant life transitions. Challenging life events can create unique traumatic stressors, and it’s not uncommon for individuals and family members to feel overwhelmed or develop stress disorders as a consequence. These conditions can significantly affect a person’s quality of life long after the diagnosis.
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Photo of Tali Budlender, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Tali Budlender
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Gardenvale, VIC 3185
As a psychologist, I draw on evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, schema therapy and EMDR.
I have a special interest in working with clients experiencing anxiety. This may show up as general anxiety, OCD or anxiety related to social situations or health concerns. I support people to feel less afraid of anxiety and to loosen its grip. My practice also focuses on low mood and depression, life transitions, childhood trauma and challenges during the perinatal period. I balance deep listening and curiosity with practical strategies to manage stress, anxiety and low mood. I am also interested in your past experiences and how they impact on your present day relationships and sense of self.
As a psychologist, I draw on evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, schema therapy and EMDR.
I have a special interest in working with clients experiencing anxiety. This may show up as general anxiety, OCD or anxiety related to social situations or health concerns. I support people to feel less afraid of anxiety and to loosen its grip. My practice also focuses on low mood and depression, life transitions, childhood trauma and challenges during the perinatal period. I balance deep listening and curiosity with practical strategies to manage stress, anxiety and low mood. I am also interested in your past experiences and how they impact on your present day relationships and sense of self.
0494 398 170 View 0494 398 170
Photo of Marion Rudge, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Marion Rudge
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Camberwell, VIC 3124
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist, having qualified 15 years ago. My particular areas of interest are working with adults experiencing anxiety and/or depression, but I also have experience working with a range of difficulties. I offer a range of evidence based therapies, and draw on these to suit your needs. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach in therapy and we work very much together as a team toward your goals. I value creating a solid and safe therapeutic space where you can genuinely express yourself, and from which you can be empowered and supported to make change.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist, having qualified 15 years ago. My particular areas of interest are working with adults experiencing anxiety and/or depression, but I also have experience working with a range of difficulties. I offer a range of evidence based therapies, and draw on these to suit your needs. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach in therapy and we work very much together as a team toward your goals. I value creating a solid and safe therapeutic space where you can genuinely express yourself, and from which you can be empowered and supported to make change.
(03) 7003 2990 View (03) 7003 2990
Photo of Claire Raworth - Claire Raworth Counselling & Supervision, Social Worker, AMHSW
Claire Raworth Counselling & Supervision
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Coburg, VIC 3058
I also utilise EMDR for targeting traumatic experiences.
I am an empathetic, compassionate and experienced counsellor who utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to assist you to make positive changes in your life. I have been a social worker for many years and in that time have provided counselling and support to a wide range of people. I can support you with various issues such as life transitions, work stress, relationship and parenting challenges, grief & loss, anxiety and depression. I am a fully Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and so you can claim a rebate from Medicare for my services of $85.00.
I also utilise EMDR for targeting traumatic experiences.
I am an empathetic, compassionate and experienced counsellor who utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to assist you to make positive changes in your life. I have been a social worker for many years and in that time have provided counselling and support to a wide range of people. I can support you with various issues such as life transitions, work stress, relationship and parenting challenges, grief & loss, anxiety and depression. I am a fully Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and so you can claim a rebate from Medicare for my services of $85.00.
(03) 8338 4975 View (03) 8338 4975
Photo of Julia Kefford - The Wholeness Path, Social Worker, MA, AASW
The Wholeness Path
Social Worker, MA, AASW
2 Endorsed
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindful Self-Compassion, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma-Informed Therapy, among others.
With a background in Psychology and Clinical Counselling, I believe in creating a space where you feel truly listened to, respected, and supported. Our work together is a collaborative process, helping you explore your challenges, gain insight, and nurture your well-being. By tailoring my approach to your unique needs, I encourage you to connect with your inner wisdom and embrace positive transformation. More than anything, I want you to leave feeling valued and optimistic about the path ahead.
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindful Self-Compassion, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma-Informed Therapy, among others.
With a background in Psychology and Clinical Counselling, I believe in creating a space where you feel truly listened to, respected, and supported. Our work together is a collaborative process, helping you explore your challenges, gain insight, and nurture your well-being. By tailoring my approach to your unique needs, I encourage you to connect with your inner wisdom and embrace positive transformation. More than anything, I want you to leave feeling valued and optimistic about the path ahead.
(03) 8771 4102 View (03) 8771 4102
Photo of Craig Russouw, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Craig Russouw
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Camberwell, VIC 3124
My therapeutic approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
With 20 years’ experience working in psychology, I have supported many community members on their mental health journeys and helped a wide range of people, including adults and children. I am a relationship based professional and I pride myself on being able to establish engaging relationships with my clients and their carers, in a safe and calming space. I work with women and men, and specialise in being able to connect with men and young people.
My therapeutic approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
With 20 years’ experience working in psychology, I have supported many community members on their mental health journeys and helped a wide range of people, including adults and children. I am a relationship based professional and I pride myself on being able to establish engaging relationships with my clients and their carers, in a safe and calming space. I work with women and men, and specialise in being able to connect with men and young people.
(03) 7003 2316 View (03) 7003 2316

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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.