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Photo of M.Saini and Associates, Registered Social Worker in East York, ON
M.Saini and Associates
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
My speciality CBT, DBT, , EMDR, narrative, Solution foccussed, spirituallaly integrated therapy, Psychanalytic therapy.
I understand that life can be overwhelming at times. I can help you navigate through life’s difficulties. My goal is to provide a safe ,confidential and supportive environment where you can gain self-awareness and take control of your life and make positive changes. I am specialized in a range of therapeutic approaches and my 30 years of experience of working with individuals, couples, families and teenagers has given me knowledge and skills to customize a treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I am committed to helping you reach your goals and develop a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
My speciality CBT, DBT, , EMDR, narrative, Solution foccussed, spirituallaly integrated therapy, Psychanalytic therapy.
I understand that life can be overwhelming at times. I can help you navigate through life’s difficulties. My goal is to provide a safe ,confidential and supportive environment where you can gain self-awareness and take control of your life and make positive changes. I am specialized in a range of therapeutic approaches and my 30 years of experience of working with individuals, couples, families and teenagers has given me knowledge and skills to customize a treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I am committed to helping you reach your goals and develop a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
(289) 272-7410 View (289) 272-7410
Photo of Estelle Morrison, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Estelle Morrison
Registered Psychotherapist, B Sc , M Ed , RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Alongside of multiple trainings including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR I have also trained as a health coach and incorporate the building of successful outcomes from coaching, wherever possible.
I believe that most human struggles can be connected to the quest for meaningful intimacy and love. Sometimes, this shows up in mood issues, anxiety, conflict or addictions. At other times, historical trauma may overshadow your ability to feel comfort and happiness. Whether your goal is to improve your relationship with yourself to achieve more positive self-regard or to focus on your connection to others, we can work together to understand and create the pathway forward.
Alongside of multiple trainings including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR I have also trained as a health coach and incorporate the building of successful outcomes from coaching, wherever possible.
I believe that most human struggles can be connected to the quest for meaningful intimacy and love. Sometimes, this shows up in mood issues, anxiety, conflict or addictions. At other times, historical trauma may overshadow your ability to feel comfort and happiness. Whether your goal is to improve your relationship with yourself to achieve more positive self-regard or to focus on your connection to others, we can work together to understand and create the pathway forward.
(416) 440-1736 View (416) 440-1736
Photo of The Counselling Centre, Registered Social Worker in East York, ON
The Counselling Centre
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Thornhill, ON L4J
We use Cognitive-Behavioral & Solution-Focused approach, Mindfulness and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, DBT and EMDR to tailor therapy to meet each individual client's needs.
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
We use Cognitive-Behavioral & Solution-Focused approach, Mindfulness and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, DBT and EMDR to tailor therapy to meet each individual client's needs.
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
(647) 699-3128 View (647) 699-3128
Photo of Myles Chisholm, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Myles Chisholm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
(365) 645-9181 View (365) 645-9181
Photo of Nisrine Maktabi, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Nisrine Maktabi
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5B
Modalities used include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing); CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy); Emotion Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapies.
Seeking therapy is a radical act of self love. It takes courage to reach out when in pain or transition. Wanting support is a sign of the impulse to thrive. I hold space for you to heal your attachment and other wounds. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Masters of Psychology, with a private practice in downtown Toronto. My special interests include transitions across the life span, attachment and trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress, newcomer and multi cultural issues, intersecting with LGBTQ issues, women's mental health, transitioning genders, and newcomer issues.
Modalities used include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing); CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy); Emotion Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapies.
Seeking therapy is a radical act of self love. It takes courage to reach out when in pain or transition. Wanting support is a sign of the impulse to thrive. I hold space for you to heal your attachment and other wounds. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Masters of Psychology, with a private practice in downtown Toronto. My special interests include transitions across the life span, attachment and trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress, newcomer and multi cultural issues, intersecting with LGBTQ issues, women's mental health, transitioning genders, and newcomer issues.
(647) 952-1830 View (647) 952-1830
Photo of Stacey Gorlicky, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Stacey Gorlicky
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4N  (Online Only)
I am a registered Psychotherapist and bestselling author of "Food, Sex and You". I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy in the Toronto area. My areas of expertise are addictions, eating disorders, anxiety, trauma and depression. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for both couples and individuals.
I am a registered Psychotherapist and bestselling author of "Food, Sex and You". I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy in the Toronto area. My areas of expertise are addictions, eating disorders, anxiety, trauma and depression. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for both couples and individuals.
(855) 705-4743 View (855) 705-4743
Photo of Alpana Das-Daffern, Registered Social Worker in East York, ON
Alpana Das-Daffern
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1W  (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 Michael Richard Cottrell, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Michael Richard Cottrell
Registered Psychotherapist, ECE, BSW, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
Life is an adventure on a path that is long and winding.For over 35 years I have been; parent, teacher, counselor, spiritual leader, healer and therapist. My work with you will be a creative experience of support, therapy, healing and personal development. "You will go out of your mind and come back to your senses." You will discover within yourself a broader range of choices for living your life fully ... just the way you want. How do we do this... together we work with what is showing up in the Here and Now.
Life is an adventure on a path that is long and winding.For over 35 years I have been; parent, teacher, counselor, spiritual leader, healer and therapist. My work with you will be a creative experience of support, therapy, healing and personal development. "You will go out of your mind and come back to your senses." You will discover within yourself a broader range of choices for living your life fully ... just the way you want. How do we do this... together we work with what is showing up in the Here and Now.
(855) 631-2431 View (855) 631-2431
Photo of Natalia Brajak, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Natalia Brajak
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4V
I work with adults who want freedom from negative patterns and who want to get to the root of repetitive reactivity and triggers. They want calm and peace. They want help with healthy boundaries, anxiety, self-worth, depression, life direction, co-dependency, communication, addiction, relationships (with self, the Divine, life partner, ex-partner, children, family, co-workers), emotional regulation, grief, loss/divorce, chronic pain, parenting, spiritual growth and psychedelic integration. Carrying the past makes current life difficult. Helping clients accept the past, learn from it and then let it go is what I love doing best.
I work with adults who want freedom from negative patterns and who want to get to the root of repetitive reactivity and triggers. They want calm and peace. They want help with healthy boundaries, anxiety, self-worth, depression, life direction, co-dependency, communication, addiction, relationships (with self, the Divine, life partner, ex-partner, children, family, co-workers), emotional regulation, grief, loss/divorce, chronic pain, parenting, spiritual growth and psychedelic integration. Carrying the past makes current life difficult. Helping clients accept the past, learn from it and then let it go is what I love doing best.
(226) 406-5974 View (226) 406-5974
Photo of NuVista Mental Health - Toronto, Psychologist in East York, ON
NuVista Mental Health - Toronto
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Are you wanting to feel good and have more ease in your life? Are you a parent worried about your child who may be having challenges? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more lovingly in your relationship? You are in the right place. NuVista Menthal Health - Toronto is a specialized treatment Centre that focuses on both brain based healing approaches and psychotherapy. Most symptoms are directly connected to our brain patterns and the clinic offers multiple forms of treatment to target brain regulation and overall healing. Take a virtual clinic tour here: https://www.youtube.com/
Are you wanting to feel good and have more ease in your life? Are you a parent worried about your child who may be having challenges? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more lovingly in your relationship? You are in the right place. NuVista Menthal Health - Toronto is a specialized treatment Centre that focuses on both brain based healing approaches and psychotherapy. Most symptoms are directly connected to our brain patterns and the clinic offers multiple forms of treatment to target brain regulation and overall healing. Take a virtual clinic tour here: https://www.youtube.com/
(647) 691-4678 View (647) 691-4678
Photo of Arthi Bala Specialized Couples And Sex Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Arthi Bala Specialized Couples And Sex Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Do you feel Lack of Libido, Sexual Pain, Infertility, Shame or Guilt around your Sexuality? Are you and your partner stuck in a pattern of negative communication , lack of empathy & respect for each other ? Together we can create healthy , meangful deep realtionships and work through any sexual issues you may have that is holding you from living in your true expresssion of yourself.
Accepting new clients. Do you feel Lack of Libido, Sexual Pain, Infertility, Shame or Guilt around your Sexuality? Are you and your partner stuck in a pattern of negative communication , lack of empathy & respect for each other ? Together we can create healthy , meangful deep realtionships and work through any sexual issues you may have that is holding you from living in your true expresssion of yourself.
(226) 780-6672 View (226) 780-6672
Photo of Josie Marando, Registered Social Worker in East York, ON
Josie Marando
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A  (Online Only)
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and it can seem impossible and hard to carry forward. Josie provides therapy to treat anxiety, depression, loss and grief, relationship or family breakdown, or coping with stress. In addition she has special interest in women experiencing mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum. It was her experience in becoming a parent that lead her to specialize in supporting new parents in the adjustment to parenthood. She is passionate about helping clients thrive during these times, and times of life transitions (ex. new job, school, blended family..etc)
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and it can seem impossible and hard to carry forward. Josie provides therapy to treat anxiety, depression, loss and grief, relationship or family breakdown, or coping with stress. In addition she has special interest in women experiencing mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum. It was her experience in becoming a parent that lead her to specialize in supporting new parents in the adjustment to parenthood. She is passionate about helping clients thrive during these times, and times of life transitions (ex. new job, school, blended family..etc)
(365) 800-6432 View (365) 800-6432
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in East York, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L3T  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(437) 747-8880 View (437) 747-8880
Photo of Centre of the HeART Art & Somatic Therapy, Art Therapist in East York, ON
Centre of the HeART Art & Somatic Therapy
Art Therapist, RCAT, RTC, CT, DKATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
Has anxiety and depression become amplified for you with issues from the past resurfacing? Maybe you have been to counselling before but would like to try a more holistic approach; one that will teach you the tools needed to overcome feelings of sadness, dread and uncertainty? Often times, experiences buried from childhood and the past resurface as adults which can greatly affect the way we feel and our sense of purpose in the world. It isn’t until things get so uncomfortable, that we feel the only option available is to make a change. This isn’t always easy but reaching out for support, is the first and most important step.
Has anxiety and depression become amplified for you with issues from the past resurfacing? Maybe you have been to counselling before but would like to try a more holistic approach; one that will teach you the tools needed to overcome feelings of sadness, dread and uncertainty? Often times, experiences buried from childhood and the past resurface as adults which can greatly affect the way we feel and our sense of purpose in the world. It isn’t until things get so uncomfortable, that we feel the only option available is to make a change. This isn’t always easy but reaching out for support, is the first and most important step.
(587) 805-3184 View (587) 805-3184
Photo of Jennifer Kaplan, Registered Social Worker in East York, ON
Jennifer Kaplan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4T
Please feel free to look at my website JenniferKaplantherapy.com. I am an empathic practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. My focus is to address your areas of concern with skill and determination. You will guide the work we do. We will set goals and work towards them in a reasonable time frame. Take the first step towards yourself and call me.
Please feel free to look at my website JenniferKaplantherapy.com. I am an empathic practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. My focus is to address your areas of concern with skill and determination. You will guide the work we do. We will set goals and work towards them in a reasonable time frame. Take the first step towards yourself and call me.
(365) 598-5988 View (365) 598-5988
Photo of Nastaran Adibrad Ph.d Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Nastaran Adibrad Ph.d Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CCCP, OAMHP, EMDR
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2M  (Online Only)
Nastaran Adibrad, Ph.D. is a Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Canadian Counsellour and Psychotherapist (CCCP) with a specialty in Couple and Family Therapy and 17 years experience. She received her undergraduate degree, B.A in psychotherapy from Esfahan University in 1992, M.A In Psychotherapy from Allameh Tabatabaee University in 1998. She got her Ph.D in psychotherapy from Teacher Training University of Iran in 2004. From 1996 to 2008, she taught at Psychology and Educational Science Department at Esfahan University and Shahid Beheshti University where she had an opportunity to educate many B.A and M.A's students in Iran
Nastaran Adibrad, Ph.D. is a Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Canadian Counsellour and Psychotherapist (CCCP) with a specialty in Couple and Family Therapy and 17 years experience. She received her undergraduate degree, B.A in psychotherapy from Esfahan University in 1992, M.A In Psychotherapy from Allameh Tabatabaee University in 1998. She got her Ph.D in psychotherapy from Teacher Training University of Iran in 2004. From 1996 to 2008, she taught at Psychology and Educational Science Department at Esfahan University and Shahid Beheshti University where she had an opportunity to educate many B.A and M.A's students in Iran
(647) 800-9997 View (647) 800-9997
Photo of Kelly-Lee Mansi, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Kelly-Lee Mansi
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, PCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4N
Hello, my name is Kelly-Lee, I believe that every person is entitled to live a life that is healthy, wealthy and wise. For almost 20 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from a diverse range of socioeconomic, cultural and sexually diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome misaligned belief systems that were blocking their mental health, their sense of harmony and well-being. My psychotherapy and counselling work are primarily Adlerian based and incorporates an eclectic array of cognitive, psychodynamic, experiential, somatic and evidence-based therapies.
Hello, my name is Kelly-Lee, I believe that every person is entitled to live a life that is healthy, wealthy and wise. For almost 20 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from a diverse range of socioeconomic, cultural and sexually diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome misaligned belief systems that were blocking their mental health, their sense of harmony and well-being. My psychotherapy and counselling work are primarily Adlerian based and incorporates an eclectic array of cognitive, psychodynamic, experiential, somatic and evidence-based therapies.
(289) 797-1229 View (289) 797-1229
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in East York, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(226) 400-7197 View (226) 400-7197
Photo of Duke Oliogu, Registered Psychotherapist in East York, ON
Duke Oliogu
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, Clinica, Counsel, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3S
l have diverse backgrounds as a pastor, Registered Psychotherapist, licensed Supervisor and a Spiritual Care practioner. I offer supervision & case consultations for student interns, RP qualifying registrants & new psychotherapist . For over 10yrs, I also provide evidence based Emotional Counseling Supports to Clients dealing with Mental health concerns: Mood change, neurological issues, Trauma, Tragic pains, ODD, ADHD, ASD, Depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Anxiety, Fear, Grief/loss, Addiction, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths &wellness
l have diverse backgrounds as a pastor, Registered Psychotherapist, licensed Supervisor and a Spiritual Care practioner. I offer supervision & case consultations for student interns, RP qualifying registrants & new psychotherapist . For over 10yrs, I also provide evidence based Emotional Counseling Supports to Clients dealing with Mental health concerns: Mood change, neurological issues, Trauma, Tragic pains, ODD, ADHD, ASD, Depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Anxiety, Fear, Grief/loss, Addiction, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths &wellness
(289) 207-6256 View (289) 207-6256
Photo of Dr. Lisa Bradford, Psychologist in East York, ON
Dr. Lisa Bradford
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
Do you feel lonely, empty, overwhelmed or stuck? Does it seem like bad things are always happening to you while everyone else is living a happy life? Do you and your partner have the same fights over and over again? I can help you resolve these issues. I am a warm, down-to-earth, authentic, honest, and empathic person who genuinely cares about your well-being. I help individuals work through a wide variety of issues including those related to anxiety, depression, obsessionality, trauma, dissociation, guilt, shame, insomnia, relationships, sexual orientation, eating, and identity and self-esteem. I embrace and celebrate diversity.
Do you feel lonely, empty, overwhelmed or stuck? Does it seem like bad things are always happening to you while everyone else is living a happy life? Do you and your partner have the same fights over and over again? I can help you resolve these issues. I am a warm, down-to-earth, authentic, honest, and empathic person who genuinely cares about your well-being. I help individuals work through a wide variety of issues including those related to anxiety, depression, obsessionality, trauma, dissociation, guilt, shame, insomnia, relationships, sexual orientation, eating, and identity and self-esteem. I embrace and celebrate diversity.
(647) 724-5122 View (647) 724-5122

See more therapy options for East York


EMDR Counsellors

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimising its ability to trigger anxiety.