Photo of Mackenzie Kinmond - Emdr Ifs Intensive Trauma Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mackenzie Kinmond - Emdr Ifs Intensive Trauma Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
My approach includes: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR); Deep Brain Re-orienting (DBR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
If you are ready to dive into your healing journey - to understand the patterns and where, why and how you are stuck, and how to get unstuck - then I might be the therapist for you. My approach is different - I offer longer therapy sessions (often 90 minute sessions) so that we can get to the deep healing work that is often required for you to make the shifts that you want for yourself. We go at the pace you need but with longer sessions we tend to get there more quickly, allowing you to get on with your life in the ways that align with your values, goals and vision for yourself.
My approach includes: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR); Deep Brain Re-orienting (DBR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
If you are ready to dive into your healing journey - to understand the patterns and where, why and how you are stuck, and how to get unstuck - then I might be the therapist for you. My approach is different - I offer longer therapy sessions (often 90 minute sessions) so that we can get to the deep healing work that is often required for you to make the shifts that you want for yourself. We go at the pace you need but with longer sessions we tend to get there more quickly, allowing you to get on with your life in the ways that align with your values, goals and vision for yourself.
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Photo of Heather Morton, RSW, MSW, HBA, Registered Social Worker
Heather Morton
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, HBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
I work with a range of therapeutic methods tailored to meet each person's needs including, Grief; Attachment, Emotional & Solution focused therapies; EMDR for fears, phobias & traumatic stress (PTSD) that are all culturally sensitive, research-based & evidence informed.
Need someone who "gets you" to talk with or listen as you go through a difficult time or life transition? I'm empathetic and pragmatic, focused on you and your needs. Together, we'll develop strategies that help navigate obstacles interfering with you enjoying the life you envision. We'll follow an holistic approach to draw on self knowledge to find answers that reside within you, honing your abilities to work through life's challenges. I'm a Registered Social Worker, (RSW) with a Masters of Social Work (MSW) specializing in Mental Health, and hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) in English Literature & Aboriginal Studies.
I work with a range of therapeutic methods tailored to meet each person's needs including, Grief; Attachment, Emotional & Solution focused therapies; EMDR for fears, phobias & traumatic stress (PTSD) that are all culturally sensitive, research-based & evidence informed.
Need someone who "gets you" to talk with or listen as you go through a difficult time or life transition? I'm empathetic and pragmatic, focused on you and your needs. Together, we'll develop strategies that help navigate obstacles interfering with you enjoying the life you envision. We'll follow an holistic approach to draw on self knowledge to find answers that reside within you, honing your abilities to work through life's challenges. I'm a Registered Social Worker, (RSW) with a Masters of Social Work (MSW) specializing in Mental Health, and hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) in English Literature & Aboriginal Studies.
(289) 272-7194 View (289) 272-7194
Photo of Deb Maybury, RP, HBA PSY, Registered Psychotherapist
Deb Maybury
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, HBA PSY
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of clients. Many are professionals struggling with stress, anxiety, overwhelm, rumination and relationships. Several present quite well yet have a history, and beliefs, which impede their ability to feel at peace, content and joyful. As a spiritual therapist, clients usually have a spiritual nature regarding purpose, meaning and healing. I combine, and integrate, a holistic approach using psycho-somatic technics, Havening, EMDR, Inner Child, Hypnosis, talk therapy and psychoeducation. These modalities offer a wide range of approaches to assist clients with change and a deeper understanding of themselves.
I work with a variety of clients. Many are professionals struggling with stress, anxiety, overwhelm, rumination and relationships. Several present quite well yet have a history, and beliefs, which impede their ability to feel at peace, content and joyful. As a spiritual therapist, clients usually have a spiritual nature regarding purpose, meaning and healing. I combine, and integrate, a holistic approach using psycho-somatic technics, Havening, EMDR, Inner Child, Hypnosis, talk therapy and psychoeducation. These modalities offer a wide range of approaches to assist clients with change and a deeper understanding of themselves.
(647) 370-2390 View (647) 370-2390
Photo of Felicity Bohnet, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicity Bohnet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
ACT, GSERD-affirming, EMDR, EFT).
Welcome! I might be a good match for you as a therapist if you want support around existential, sexual, or relationship issues. Existential issues might include exploring meaning and purpose in life. Sexual issues might include things like processing shame and moving toward a picture of sexual health and wellness - whatever that looks like for you. Relationship issues might include deepening your understanding of your relationship with yourself, your family of origin, your chosen family, your partner/s, and/or your community.
ACT, GSERD-affirming, EMDR, EFT).
Welcome! I might be a good match for you as a therapist if you want support around existential, sexual, or relationship issues. Existential issues might include exploring meaning and purpose in life. Sexual issues might include things like processing shame and moving toward a picture of sexual health and wellness - whatever that looks like for you. Relationship issues might include deepening your understanding of your relationship with yourself, your family of origin, your chosen family, your partner/s, and/or your community.
(825) 502-5484 View (825) 502-5484
Photo of Ashlyn James, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashlyn James
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I'm informed in mindfulness, EMDR, somatic IFS (parts work), & attachment theory.
Hi, I’m Ashlyn, owner of Mindful Pleasures Therapy. I hold a master’s from the University of Toronto and focus on individuals and couples. My approach blends anti-oppressive, holistic, somatic, and evidence-based techniques. I’m passionate about creating a warm, judgment-free space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. In our sessions, you’ll be an active participant—challenged, not just listened to—as we work together to reach your goals & deepen your connection to yourself.
I'm informed in mindfulness, EMDR, somatic IFS (parts work), & attachment theory.
Hi, I’m Ashlyn, owner of Mindful Pleasures Therapy. I hold a master’s from the University of Toronto and focus on individuals and couples. My approach blends anti-oppressive, holistic, somatic, and evidence-based techniques. I’m passionate about creating a warm, judgment-free space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. In our sessions, you’ll be an active participant—challenged, not just listened to—as we work together to reach your goals & deepen your connection to yourself.
(437) 747-8028 View (437) 747-8028
Photo of Emily Kedar, MEd, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Emily Kedar
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I work from a resolutely inclusive and trauma-informed model of practice and draw from my training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused therapy, and Psychodynamic therapies.
Life can feel too intense, sometimes. We all deserve support. Psychotherapy can be a powerful way to work through those moments in life when we can’t see a way forward- when we feel stuck, alone, disconnected, overwhelmed, and small. I specialize in helping with feelings of low self-worth, isolation, and shame, and support folks in regaining a sense of safety and presence in their bodies, choices, and relationships. Whatever you may be struggling with, you don’t have to do it alone. In the context of a strong therapeutic relationship, we can make sense of your experience and help you work through it, together.
I work from a resolutely inclusive and trauma-informed model of practice and draw from my training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused therapy, and Psychodynamic therapies.
Life can feel too intense, sometimes. We all deserve support. Psychotherapy can be a powerful way to work through those moments in life when we can’t see a way forward- when we feel stuck, alone, disconnected, overwhelmed, and small. I specialize in helping with feelings of low self-worth, isolation, and shame, and support folks in regaining a sense of safety and presence in their bodies, choices, and relationships. Whatever you may be struggling with, you don’t have to do it alone. In the context of a strong therapeutic relationship, we can make sense of your experience and help you work through it, together.
(647) 490-4248 View (647) 490-4248
Photo of Laura Dziuba, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Laura Dziuba
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V  (Online Only)
In an effort to offer you the most effective support possible, I have completed post-graduate certificates in evidence-based therapies such as Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and perinatal mental health.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Many people initiate therapy when something big is going on in their life – mental health symptoms, a big life change, or a sudden loss. But you don’t have to wait until life feels overwhelming to seek support. I welcome it all into my practice - no concern is too big or too small to bring to therapy. I specialize in supporting adults (18+) in healing from trauma, depression and anxiety, and supporting those navigating the perinatal period (including perinatal mental health issues), perfectionism/people pleasing, and those that identify as empaths and highly sensitive people (HSP).
In an effort to offer you the most effective support possible, I have completed post-graduate certificates in evidence-based therapies such as Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and perinatal mental health.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Many people initiate therapy when something big is going on in their life – mental health symptoms, a big life change, or a sudden loss. But you don’t have to wait until life feels overwhelming to seek support. I welcome it all into my practice - no concern is too big or too small to bring to therapy. I specialize in supporting adults (18+) in healing from trauma, depression and anxiety, and supporting those navigating the perinatal period (including perinatal mental health issues), perfectionism/people pleasing, and those that identify as empaths and highly sensitive people (HSP).
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Photo of Sonya Deol, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sonya Deol
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
Are you feeling a bit stuck in the daily grind, like life's just passing you by? Maybe you're finding it hard to focus, and those anxious thoughts just won't let up, making it tough to get a good night's sleep or stay present in the moment. And in your relationships, do emotionally-charged conflicts keep popping up, leaving you feeling lost when it comes to expressing yourself and putting your needs first? I get it. It's not easy to show up as your true, authentic self when feelings of guilt, shame, fear, or sadness are holding you back. But here's the thing – you don't have to do it alone.
Are you feeling a bit stuck in the daily grind, like life's just passing you by? Maybe you're finding it hard to focus, and those anxious thoughts just won't let up, making it tough to get a good night's sleep or stay present in the moment. And in your relationships, do emotionally-charged conflicts keep popping up, leaving you feeling lost when it comes to expressing yourself and putting your needs first? I get it. It's not easy to show up as your true, authentic self when feelings of guilt, shame, fear, or sadness are holding you back. But here's the thing – you don't have to do it alone.
(365) 305-0113 View (365) 305-0113
Photo of Erin Mensch, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Erin Mensch
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
I’m a Registered Psychotherapist who is passionate about improving mental health within BIPOC communities. I work with clients who feel stuck or unsure about the path they’re on in life as well as those who may find it difficult as they navigate the challenges of stress, burnout, periods of adjustment following big life changes, painful past experiences or unique racialized experiences. I also work with couples navigating different cultural and racial identities together, those dealing with the impact of mental health issues in their relationship as well as couples who may feel uncertain about their future together.
I’m a Registered Psychotherapist who is passionate about improving mental health within BIPOC communities. I work with clients who feel stuck or unsure about the path they’re on in life as well as those who may find it difficult as they navigate the challenges of stress, burnout, periods of adjustment following big life changes, painful past experiences or unique racialized experiences. I also work with couples navigating different cultural and racial identities together, those dealing with the impact of mental health issues in their relationship as well as couples who may feel uncertain about their future together.
(647) 578-6379 View (647) 578-6379
Photo of Janay King, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Janay King
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
You’ve been through so much. Life has thrown you curve balls, and it isn’t always fair. It’s been overwhelming to say the least. You are doing your utmost best to keep it together in a hectic world with work stress, complex relationships, and unhealed wounds. Working together, we can understand the source of your emotional pain, increase your self-awareness and understanding and help you learn to self-validate. My belief is that you have the tools and wisdom you need to heal, already within you; my role as a therapist is to help you access it.
You’ve been through so much. Life has thrown you curve balls, and it isn’t always fair. It’s been overwhelming to say the least. You are doing your utmost best to keep it together in a hectic world with work stress, complex relationships, and unhealed wounds. Working together, we can understand the source of your emotional pain, increase your self-awareness and understanding and help you learn to self-validate. My belief is that you have the tools and wisdom you need to heal, already within you; my role as a therapist is to help you access it.
(647) 371-0763 View (647) 371-0763
Photo of Stephen Fleming - FVB Psychologists, PhD, Psychologist
FVB Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Our assessment and therapy services are conducted by an experienced team of clinicians who joined Fleming Vigna Balmer after gaining many years of valuable experience in the public sector; for example, working in hospitals, universities, rehabilitation centres, social service agencies, and community-based clinics. As a team, we are able to offer a rich, experience-based range of clinical services. All of our clinicians are psychologists or psychological associates registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. This means we are independent practitioners licenced to assess, diagnose, and treat the full range of psychological disorders ranging from problems in living to serious mental health issues. In addition, we are consulting psychologists to the pilot recruitment programmes of a number of airlines including Air Canada, Jazz Aviation LP, and Sky Regional Airlines. At Fleming Vigna Balmer services are provided in English, French, Italian, Vietnamese, and Afrikaans.
Our assessment and therapy services are conducted by an experienced team of clinicians who joined Fleming Vigna Balmer after gaining many years of valuable experience in the public sector; for example, working in hospitals, universities, rehabilitation centres, social service agencies, and community-based clinics. As a team, we are able to offer a rich, experience-based range of clinical services. All of our clinicians are psychologists or psychological associates registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. This means we are independent practitioners licenced to assess, diagnose, and treat the full range of psychological disorders ranging from problems in living to serious mental health issues. In addition, we are consulting psychologists to the pilot recruitment programmes of a number of airlines including Air Canada, Jazz Aviation LP, and Sky Regional Airlines. At Fleming Vigna Balmer services are provided in English, French, Italian, Vietnamese, and Afrikaans.
(844) 245-7821 View (844) 245-7821
Photo of Maria Mihailoska, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Maria Mihailoska
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Taking this first step toward healing is the most courageous, yet intimidating and vulnerable experience one may ever take. I recognize this, and welcome you into a safe space with compassion, warmth and empathy. Over the last few years, I have worked with couples, families and individuals searching for hope in times of crisis. I will work collaboratively with you to process and explore the roots of your emotional distress and support you toward increasing resilience and self-awareness. I can also help you to navigate through feeling "stuck" and/or "lost" due to life transitions and traumatic experiences.
Taking this first step toward healing is the most courageous, yet intimidating and vulnerable experience one may ever take. I recognize this, and welcome you into a safe space with compassion, warmth and empathy. Over the last few years, I have worked with couples, families and individuals searching for hope in times of crisis. I will work collaboratively with you to process and explore the roots of your emotional distress and support you toward increasing resilience and self-awareness. I can also help you to navigate through feeling "stuck" and/or "lost" due to life transitions and traumatic experiences.
(844) 462-8623 View (844) 462-8623
Photo of Kerrie Kortis, RSSW, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kerrie Kortis
Registered Social Worker, RSSW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I have a strong belief in your capacity to change. I’ve worked for over 25 years supporting people who are struggling from both physical and emotional pain. I help people find stability and reconnect with themselves, as they do the important work of reclaiming and changing their life for the better. If you have done "healing" work in the past and feel like it is time to tackle new challenges or wish to experience new and innovative therapy interventions, we might be a great fit.
I have a strong belief in your capacity to change. I’ve worked for over 25 years supporting people who are struggling from both physical and emotional pain. I help people find stability and reconnect with themselves, as they do the important work of reclaiming and changing their life for the better. If you have done "healing" work in the past and feel like it is time to tackle new challenges or wish to experience new and innovative therapy interventions, we might be a great fit.
(289) 809-9811 View (289) 809-9811
Photo of Alpana Das-Daffern, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alpana Das-Daffern
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Hi, I wanted to share with you that I am a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a part of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). One of my top priorities is to stay current and well-informed for both you and the clients I serve. I have attended numerous evidence-based trainings to ensure that I can provide you with the best care possible.
Hi, I wanted to share with you that I am a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a part of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). One of my top priorities is to stay current and well-informed for both you and the clients I serve. I have attended numerous evidence-based trainings to ensure that I can provide you with the best care possible.
(365) 544-3478 View (365) 544-3478
Photo of Brittany Courteau, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brittany Courteau
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
I am currently accepting new clients and look forward to connecting with you! I come to this field, first, as a fellow human being who appreciates struggles, unknowns, and challenges. My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and interactive. It's about you, your life, your goals and how I can be a strong, skillful support to help you navigate whatever you are facing. Together, we will explore not just hopes, ideas, and dreams, but also the demons, fears, confusion and dark spaces we all wrestle with. In these spaces we peel back the layers to uncover and honour our deepest truths. There will be tears and lots of laughter too.
I am currently accepting new clients and look forward to connecting with you! I come to this field, first, as a fellow human being who appreciates struggles, unknowns, and challenges. My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and interactive. It's about you, your life, your goals and how I can be a strong, skillful support to help you navigate whatever you are facing. Together, we will explore not just hopes, ideas, and dreams, but also the demons, fears, confusion and dark spaces we all wrestle with. In these spaces we peel back the layers to uncover and honour our deepest truths. There will be tears and lots of laughter too.
(226) 794-5275 View (226) 794-5275
Photo of Alexandra Podgorska, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Alexandra Podgorska
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M8V
Have you been struggling with personal issues lately? From experiencing anxiety, self-esteem concerns, relationship problems, to trauma - let's talk. I am here to be your support - to help ask you the questions that will offer some insight and challenge your thinking - to explore coping tools with you - to help you better understand yourself and foster personal growth and change. I offer a non-judgemental and safe place for you to express yourself and process whatever you are going through.
Have you been struggling with personal issues lately? From experiencing anxiety, self-esteem concerns, relationship problems, to trauma - let's talk. I am here to be your support - to help ask you the questions that will offer some insight and challenge your thinking - to explore coping tools with you - to help you better understand yourself and foster personal growth and change. I offer a non-judgemental and safe place for you to express yourself and process whatever you are going through.
(647) 493-3812 View (647) 493-3812
Photo of Chantel Simm, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Chantel Simm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Trauma is concretely defined as an emotional response to a terrible event, however this definition does not encompass all of the undertakings you may be experiencing. Trauma can occur from family generations, a close friend's experience, or seeing something on the media that affects us deeply. Your trauma will not look the same as another person's and that's okay. If you are looking to process and heal from the heavy weight of trauma, through a collaborative effort, I can help you unpack your story to be able to move forward.
Trauma is concretely defined as an emotional response to a terrible event, however this definition does not encompass all of the undertakings you may be experiencing. Trauma can occur from family generations, a close friend's experience, or seeing something on the media that affects us deeply. Your trauma will not look the same as another person's and that's okay. If you are looking to process and heal from the heavy weight of trauma, through a collaborative effort, I can help you unpack your story to be able to move forward.
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Photo of Aliye Guclu, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aliye Guclu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Living with the unresolved pain of childhood trauma can feel like carrying invisible scars that shape every interaction you have with yourself and those around you. Self-doubt can make trusting yourself feel impossible, while distrust in relationships may lead you to isolate, even when you crave closeness. Perfectionism and self-criticism can become constant companions, driving you to push harder, yet never feeling like you’re enough. You may feel trapped in painful patterns, questioning your worth, or giving so much that there’s little left. Even when life seems calm, you might be waiting for the next storm to hit.
Living with the unresolved pain of childhood trauma can feel like carrying invisible scars that shape every interaction you have with yourself and those around you. Self-doubt can make trusting yourself feel impossible, while distrust in relationships may lead you to isolate, even when you crave closeness. Perfectionism and self-criticism can become constant companions, driving you to push harder, yet never feeling like you’re enough. You may feel trapped in painful patterns, questioning your worth, or giving so much that there’s little left. Even when life seems calm, you might be waiting for the next storm to hit.
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Photo of Kseniya Bulat, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kseniya Bulat
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Are you navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions? I’m here to help. As a compassionate therapist, I provide a safe space for you to explore your emotions and understand your thoughts and behaviours. Together, we'll develop skills to tackle everyday challenges, aiming for emotional balance, self-awareness, and resilience. I am here to empower you to transform struggles into strengths and build a fulfilling life. Your path to healing starts here.
Are you navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions? I’m here to help. As a compassionate therapist, I provide a safe space for you to explore your emotions and understand your thoughts and behaviours. Together, we'll develop skills to tackle everyday challenges, aiming for emotional balance, self-awareness, and resilience. I am here to empower you to transform struggles into strengths and build a fulfilling life. Your path to healing starts here.
(647) 699-5405 View (647) 699-5405
Photo of Paitra Surerus- Marsh - Piece of Mind Counselling, MA, RP, MSW, RSW
Piece of Mind Counselling
MA, RP, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
You have found this site as you are taking the first step towards change. These first steps are often scary & difficult but we are here to support you! Our highly trained and compassionate therapists provide a range of services that are usually covered by your extended healthcare plan. We strive to create a safe & comfortable environment in which, you will be able to work through the issues that you are finding yourself struggling with. We are dedicated to helping people maintain a state of wellness for themselves & their families. New to our practice: student therapists offering compassionate rates. Please inquire.
You have found this site as you are taking the first step towards change. These first steps are often scary & difficult but we are here to support you! Our highly trained and compassionate therapists provide a range of services that are usually covered by your extended healthcare plan. We strive to create a safe & comfortable environment in which, you will be able to work through the issues that you are finding yourself struggling with. We are dedicated to helping people maintain a state of wellness for themselves & their families. New to our practice: student therapists offering compassionate rates. Please inquire.
(289) 805-6691 View (289) 805-6691
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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.