EMDR Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine, VIC

Photo of Cass Kozulin, Social Worker, AASW
Cass Kozulin
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
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 Renee Hughes, Social Worker, AMHSW
Renee Hughes
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Photo of Brett Mackie, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Brett Mackie
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS, I tailor support to what actually works for you.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS, I tailor support to what actually works for you.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
(03) 7303 3771 View (03) 7303 3771
Photo of Michelle Phan, Social Worker, MA
Michelle Phan
Social Worker, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use a range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Positive Psychology.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
I use a range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Positive Psychology.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
(03) 9958 8772 View (03) 9958 8772
Photo of Nick Chien-Hung Koyang, Counsellor, AASW
Nick Chien-Hung Koyang
Counsellor, AASW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
To address each person's unique needs, he integrates skills from EMDR, Mindful CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Method.
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
To address each person's unique needs, he integrates skills from EMDR, Mindful CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Method.
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
0468 863 690 View 0468 863 690
Photo of Mary Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mary Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I mainly use ACT, EMDR, and CBT in my work.
I'm a Clinical / Educational and Developmental Psychologist who's passionate about working with you in an engaging, collaborative, and compassionate way. Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
I mainly use ACT, EMDR, and CBT in my work.
I'm a Clinical / Educational and Developmental Psychologist who's passionate about working with you in an engaging, collaborative, and compassionate way. Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
(03) 8566 7768 View (03) 8566 7768
Photo of Josephine Borg, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Josephine Borg
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use EMDR, emotion focused therapy & CBT to heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, heal money story.
Life can feel heavy at times. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, or major life transitions, I offer a grounded, evidence‑based approach to help you regain clarity and confidence. As a psychologist and behaviour support practitioner, I support children, adolescents, and adults to develop practical skills, improve emotional wellbeing, and strengthen relationships — including your relationship with money and everyday stressors. I also provide NDIS psychology and behaviour support services for self‑managed and plan‑managed participants, with a focus on emotional safety, capacity building, and meaningful change.
I use EMDR, emotion focused therapy & CBT to heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, heal money story.
Life can feel heavy at times. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, or major life transitions, I offer a grounded, evidence‑based approach to help you regain clarity and confidence. As a psychologist and behaviour support practitioner, I support children, adolescents, and adults to develop practical skills, improve emotional wellbeing, and strengthen relationships — including your relationship with money and everyday stressors. I also provide NDIS psychology and behaviour support services for self‑managed and plan‑managed participants, with a focus on emotional safety, capacity building, and meaningful change.
(03) 8104 9494 View (03) 8104 9494
Photo of Samantha Taffe, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Samantha Taffe
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT.
Professional Trainings - 2025 IFS Level 3, 2025- Program Assistant Level 1 IFS Training, 2024- EMDR Level 1 and 2 -2023- IFS Level 2 (Addictions and Eating Disorders), 2021- IFS Level 1, 2020- Comprehensive DBT, 2017 - Level 1 Schema Therapy
I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT.
Professional Trainings - 2025 IFS Level 3, 2025- Program Assistant Level 1 IFS Training, 2024- EMDR Level 1 and 2 -2023- IFS Level 2 (Addictions and Eating Disorders), 2021- IFS Level 1, 2020- Comprehensive DBT, 2017 - Level 1 Schema Therapy
(03) 4422 4836 View (03) 4422 4836
Photo of Geetha Chetty, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Phuong Tran, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Phuong Tran
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
These include CBT to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, EMDR to process trauma, DBT skills to support emotional regulation and relationships, mindfulness to build calm awareness, and ACT to help clients live in line with their values while responding to distress with flexibility and compassion.
Phuong Tran is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychotherapist and counsellor with over 15 years of expertise. She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc. Phuong provides a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Clients come to her feeling overwhelmed, seeking not only relief but also personal growth, clarity, and purpose. Phuong’s holistic, culturally sensitive approach empowers them to regain control, build emotional resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
These include CBT to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, EMDR to process trauma, DBT skills to support emotional regulation and relationships, mindfulness to build calm awareness, and ACT to help clients live in line with their values while responding to distress with flexibility and compassion.
Phuong Tran is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychotherapist and counsellor with over 15 years of expertise. She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc. Phuong provides a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Clients come to her feeling overwhelmed, seeking not only relief but also personal growth, clarity, and purpose. Phuong’s holistic, culturally sensitive approach empowers them to regain control, build emotional resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
(03) 7302 8767 View (03) 7302 8767
Photo of Dominica Dorning, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dominica Dorning
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We can do this by increasing our understanding of how trauma impacts you, learning skills to cope with strong emotions and agitation, and EMDR to provide relief from traumatic memories and unhelpful beliefs about yourself.
Hi there, I offer online counselling for survivors of trauma, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and folks from diverse cultural backgrounds. We can work together to help you heal and recover from the impacts of trauma, better understand and accept yourself, improve your relationships and live a full and authentic life. I am a Clinical Psychologist with 13 years experience in the trauma field. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am passionate about human rights and social justice issues.
We can do this by increasing our understanding of how trauma impacts you, learning skills to cope with strong emotions and agitation, and EMDR to provide relief from traumatic memories and unhelpful beliefs about yourself.
Hi there, I offer online counselling for survivors of trauma, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and folks from diverse cultural backgrounds. We can work together to help you heal and recover from the impacts of trauma, better understand and accept yourself, improve your relationships and live a full and authentic life. I am a Clinical Psychologist with 13 years experience in the trauma field. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am passionate about human rights and social justice issues.
(03) 7302 2372 View (03) 7302 2372
Photo of Bandai Choi, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bandai Choi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My clinical focus includes EMDR and ACT for complex trauma, alongside formalized, neuro-affirming diagnostic evaluations for Adult ADHD and Autism (ASD).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult? Many of my clients seek targeted support for emotional dysregulation, attachment struggles, or the weight of unmanaged trauma. They require a therapeutic space that is not only evidence-based but neuro-affirming, culturally responsive, and practical. They want clear steps and a clinician who explains the "why" behind every intervention. We help by prioritizing stabilization, moving at a pace that ensures psychological safety while building usable strategies for daily life.
My clinical focus includes EMDR and ACT for complex trauma, alongside formalized, neuro-affirming diagnostic evaluations for Adult ADHD and Autism (ASD).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult? Many of my clients seek targeted support for emotional dysregulation, attachment struggles, or the weight of unmanaged trauma. They require a therapeutic space that is not only evidence-based but neuro-affirming, culturally responsive, and practical. They want clear steps and a clinician who explains the "why" behind every intervention. We help by prioritizing stabilization, moving at a pace that ensures psychological safety while building usable strategies for daily life.
(03) 8771 4314 View (03) 8771 4314
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR & ACT to help you manage stress, improve mental health & strengthen connections with those you care about.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR & ACT to help you manage stress, improve mental health & strengthen connections with those you care about.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Lyons, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jessica Lyons
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melbourne, VIC 3004
She uses a blend of structured support and somatic-informed care, drawing from EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Many people who see Jessica appear capable and “functioning” on the outside, yet feel privately stuck in patterns that are exhausting and difficult to shift. Her clients are often thoughtful adults who have spent years masking ADHD challenges, navigating cycles of burnout, or feeling pulled into reactive trauma responses. Jessica works collaboratively to understand the deeper “system” shaping these patterns. We work on moving beyond surface symptoms to identify what is driving them, and what allows genuine, lasting change so clients can experience a steadier, more grounded way of living.
She uses a blend of structured support and somatic-informed care, drawing from EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Many people who see Jessica appear capable and “functioning” on the outside, yet feel privately stuck in patterns that are exhausting and difficult to shift. Her clients are often thoughtful adults who have spent years masking ADHD challenges, navigating cycles of burnout, or feeling pulled into reactive trauma responses. Jessica works collaboratively to understand the deeper “system” shaping these patterns. We work on moving beyond surface symptoms to identify what is driving them, and what allows genuine, lasting change so clients can experience a steadier, more grounded way of living.
(03) 7040 8197 View (03) 7040 8197
Photo of Jessica Lorna Crowther - Wildflower Psychology and Assessments, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wildflower Psychology and Assessments
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
- Autism - ADHD - Perinatal Psychology - Children, Teens, Adults - EMDR/Trauma Therapy - Play Therapy - Assessments including: Cognitive, learning disorders, autism, and ADHD.
Hi, I’m Jessica. I am a psychologist, a mother, neurodivergent, and a flower lover. I have been described as having a quiet confidence, calming vibe, and quirky persona. I aim to be authentic and unmasked in our interactions together so that you feel comfortable to be yourself. I am passionate about holding space for those who need it. My driving force is to be the psychologist who I would want to support my own loved ones. I believe each client is special, worthy of connection, and that their story deserves to be heard. My approach is never to fix. It is to support.
- Autism - ADHD - Perinatal Psychology - Children, Teens, Adults - EMDR/Trauma Therapy - Play Therapy - Assessments including: Cognitive, learning disorders, autism, and ADHD.
Hi, I’m Jessica. I am a psychologist, a mother, neurodivergent, and a flower lover. I have been described as having a quiet confidence, calming vibe, and quirky persona. I aim to be authentic and unmasked in our interactions together so that you feel comfortable to be yourself. I am passionate about holding space for those who need it. My driving force is to be the psychologist who I would want to support my own loved ones. I believe each client is special, worthy of connection, and that their story deserves to be heard. My approach is never to fix. It is to support.
0434 000 116 View 0434 000 116
Photo of Dr Hana Guo, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Hana Guo
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Moonee Ponds, VIC 3039
My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am Clinical Psychologist trained in EMDR, CBT and ISTDP psychodynamic therapy.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in managing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), grief and perinatal struggles. My focus on psychodynamic therapy means I work with my clients to explore the root causes of their emotional challenges and develop strategies accordingly. I can also provide therapy in Madnarin Chinese.
My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am Clinical Psychologist trained in EMDR, CBT and ISTDP psychodynamic therapy.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in managing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), grief and perinatal struggles. My focus on psychodynamic therapy means I work with my clients to explore the root causes of their emotional challenges and develop strategies accordingly. I can also provide therapy in Madnarin Chinese.
0401 649 365 View 0401 649 365
Photo of Julijana Chochovski - Pre-Emptive Healthcare , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Pre-Emptive Healthcare
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Balwyn North, VIC 3104
We offer psychology, psychiatry, dietetics, autism and ADHD assessments, EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies, NDIS and DVA support, and low-cost counselling.
Our clients are children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, neurodivergence, and family concerns. Many come to us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin. We help by providing thoughtful, evidence-based care that gives people clarity, direction, and the right support for their next step.
We offer psychology, psychiatry, dietetics, autism and ADHD assessments, EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies, NDIS and DVA support, and low-cost counselling.
Our clients are children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, neurodivergence, and family concerns. Many come to us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin. We help by providing thoughtful, evidence-based care that gives people clarity, direction, and the right support for their next step.
(03) 7003 2901 View (03) 7003 2901
Photo of Cass Knight - Cass Knight Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist
I have certification in EMDR and Depth Inquiry, supervision and group therapy.
I am passionate about working with adults and older teens who are experiencing a diverse range of difficulty and challenge in their life. My style and pace is tailored to each client's needs and my work is collaborative and client-centred. I consider mental wellbeing from a wholistic view point that considers all aspects of my client's life and circumstances. I bring with me a wealth of experience, skills and approaches collected over a lifetime of working in the counselling and mental health field. My style is informal, welcoming, non-pathologising, trauma informed, culturally responsible and inclusive.
I have certification in EMDR and Depth Inquiry, supervision and group therapy.
I am passionate about working with adults and older teens who are experiencing a diverse range of difficulty and challenge in their life. My style and pace is tailored to each client's needs and my work is collaborative and client-centred. I consider mental wellbeing from a wholistic view point that considers all aspects of my client's life and circumstances. I bring with me a wealth of experience, skills and approaches collected over a lifetime of working in the counselling and mental health field. My style is informal, welcoming, non-pathologising, trauma informed, culturally responsible and inclusive.
(03) 8400 0527 View (03) 8400 0527
Photo of Kelly Hunt, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kelly Hunt
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I create personalised therapeutic strategies in collaboration with my clients, drawing on my expertise in CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support diagnoses from Adjustment Disorder, anxiety, and depression, to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and grief and loss.
With a focus on evidence-based care, I partner with clients to develop achievable treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals, particularly for those dealing with traumatic psychological injuries. I have experience of the NSW Workers Comp system and work well in a multidisciplinary team setting.
I create personalised therapeutic strategies in collaboration with my clients, drawing on my expertise in CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support diagnoses from Adjustment Disorder, anxiety, and depression, to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and grief and loss.
With a focus on evidence-based care, I partner with clients to develop achievable treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals, particularly for those dealing with traumatic psychological injuries. I have experience of the NSW Workers Comp system and work well in a multidisciplinary team setting.
(02) 8105 5490 View (02) 8105 5490
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My practice supports adults experiencing psychological injury, trauma, and complex mental health conditions, including individuals in CTP and medico-legal contexts. Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors. Clients typically seek clarity, validation, and a structured path forward. Services are culturally sensitive and evidence-based, integrating thorough assessment with targeted intervention to support recovery, functional improvement, and informed decision-making.
My practice supports adults experiencing psychological injury, trauma, and complex mental health conditions, including individuals in CTP and medico-legal contexts. Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors. Clients typically seek clarity, validation, and a structured path forward. Services are culturally sensitive and evidence-based, integrating thorough assessment with targeted intervention to support recovery, functional improvement, and informed decision-making.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837

See more therapy options for Sunshine

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.