Therapists in Mississauga, ON
Ivona D. Zager
Registered Psychotherapist, MAPsych, CRPO-RP, CBT CPT, EMDR, hypno
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Put to use my 30+ years of proven ability to tackle anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, fear of public speaking, trauma, mental blocks, low confidence, parenting challenges, social anxiety, relationship problems, feeling lost or stuck, anger, or cultural adaptation in Canada. Empowerment, Assertiveness, Life Coaching and self-improvement are my professional hobby. I aspire to help you on a quest for empowering yourself and your well-being so that you can deploy your full potential. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Clinician, NGH Board Certified Master Hypnotherapist, Instructor - CBT-hypnosis and Milton Erickson's hypnosis.
Put to use my 30+ years of proven ability to tackle anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, fear of public speaking, trauma, mental blocks, low confidence, parenting challenges, social anxiety, relationship problems, feeling lost or stuck, anger, or cultural adaptation in Canada. Empowerment, Assertiveness, Life Coaching and self-improvement are my professional hobby. I aspire to help you on a quest for empowering yourself and your well-being so that you can deploy your full potential. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Clinician, NGH Board Certified Master Hypnotherapist, Instructor - CBT-hypnosis and Milton Erickson's hypnosis.
Christine El-Dairy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5V (Online Only)
Do you worry about the future? Are you experiencing relational difficulties & frustrations, and do you feel triggered by important others in your life? Do you cope by shutting down or avoidance, and end up feeling drained? Do you sometimes 'people please' or to achieve to feel a sense of self-worth and safety, and to avoid your feelings? Do you procrastinate and have difficulties focusing? Have you experienced losses or failures that have impacted your confidence and sense of self. If you are interested in self-exploration, coping better, managing anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, ADHD or depression, we can help.
Do you worry about the future? Are you experiencing relational difficulties & frustrations, and do you feel triggered by important others in your life? Do you cope by shutting down or avoidance, and end up feeling drained? Do you sometimes 'people please' or to achieve to feel a sense of self-worth and safety, and to avoid your feelings? Do you procrastinate and have difficulties focusing? Have you experienced losses or failures that have impacted your confidence and sense of self. If you are interested in self-exploration, coping better, managing anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, ADHD or depression, we can help.
First Step Men's Therapy - (In-Person & Online)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just not yourself lately? You're not alone. As men, we often carry burdens silently, facing pressures from work, relationships, and life itself. But you don't have to go it alone. Here, it's about real conversations and practical strategies that help you regain control, find balance, and start living the life you deserve. Ready to take the first step towards feeling better? Let's work together to tackle what's holding you back and build the resilience you need to thrive. We offer counselling for men across Ontario and Canada. Reach out to book a free consultation because your mental health matters.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just not yourself lately? You're not alone. As men, we often carry burdens silently, facing pressures from work, relationships, and life itself. But you don't have to go it alone. Here, it's about real conversations and practical strategies that help you regain control, find balance, and start living the life you deserve. Ready to take the first step towards feeling better? Let's work together to tackle what's holding you back and build the resilience you need to thrive. We offer counselling for men across Ontario and Canada. Reach out to book a free consultation because your mental health matters.
Are you feeling unsatisfied with your connection to your partner? Are you frustrated because you know that you are stuck in a pattern of interaction, but don't know how to change it? Are you happy with your sexual relationship? Our intimate, partner relationships are often among the most important in our lives. When we feel emotionally and physically connected to our partners, we feel at peace and happy. But for a variety of reasons, our intimate relationships can become challenged, leading to feeling emotionally disconnected and adrift from our significant other(s), causing difficulties with communication and relationship satisfaction.
Are you feeling unsatisfied with your connection to your partner? Are you frustrated because you know that you are stuck in a pattern of interaction, but don't know how to change it? Are you happy with your sexual relationship? Our intimate, partner relationships are often among the most important in our lives. When we feel emotionally and physically connected to our partners, we feel at peace and happy. But for a variety of reasons, our intimate relationships can become challenged, leading to feeling emotionally disconnected and adrift from our significant other(s), causing difficulties with communication and relationship satisfaction.
Arthi Bala Specialized Couples And Sex Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4V (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.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4T (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.
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/
International Healers Association
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CHT, PLRT, HART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Outside are just manifestations, all creations are within - Rens . I have done PhD in Clinical Psychology & have always been a believer of something far beyond Science i.e. Spirituality, which is why I feel deeply that, the ones who find me and eventually come to me, were destined. My work is a mix of Science as well as Psycho-spiritual Therapy. Working towards Awareness, finding Purpose, Acceptance, Observing, eventually leading to Healing, has been the path I walk on. Remember : You are not just a part of Creation,the Creator of every part is you.2 FREE Email Consultations, no calls, Direct Paid Therapy :-) Blessings & Healing !
Outside are just manifestations, all creations are within - Rens . I have done PhD in Clinical Psychology & have always been a believer of something far beyond Science i.e. Spirituality, which is why I feel deeply that, the ones who find me and eventually come to me, were destined. My work is a mix of Science as well as Psycho-spiritual Therapy. Working towards Awareness, finding Purpose, Acceptance, Observing, eventually leading to Healing, has been the path I walk on. Remember : You are not just a part of Creation,the Creator of every part is you.2 FREE Email Consultations, no calls, Direct Paid Therapy :-) Blessings & Healing !
More Therapists Nearby
Shauna Lynn Switzer
Registered Psychotherapist, MCP, MA, CHyp, RP#6934
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
I also use Emotionally Focused Couple, Family & Step Family therapy and combine EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), sensorimotor psychotherapy techniques and interventions based on the principles of Theraplay® to help families and individual's THRIVE.
At times, many of us contend with emotions and suffering that are overwhelmingly painful, disheartening and difficult to bear, often as a result of unique stressors and events. I work with adults, adolescents, families and step-families using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy, and DBT/CBT within neuroscience and attachment frameworks. I encouraged clients to access inner strengths and free their capacity for growth. Whether you or a family member experience depression, anxiety, marital distress or difficulties with peers, you deserve support in a confidential, accepting, safe and caring environment.
I also use Emotionally Focused Couple, Family & Step Family therapy and combine EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), sensorimotor psychotherapy techniques and interventions based on the principles of Theraplay® to help families and individual's THRIVE.
At times, many of us contend with emotions and suffering that are overwhelmingly painful, disheartening and difficult to bear, often as a result of unique stressors and events. I work with adults, adolescents, families and step-families using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy, and DBT/CBT within neuroscience and attachment frameworks. I encouraged clients to access inner strengths and free their capacity for growth. Whether you or a family member experience depression, anxiety, marital distress or difficulties with peers, you deserve support in a confidential, accepting, safe and caring environment.
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.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H (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.
Online Therapists
Pam Santon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, RSW, RMFT
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8S
Waitlist for new clients
com); Sex Therapy (Bestco); Addictions Treatment; EMDR Clinician; Approved Supervisor (AAMFT); Assistant Professor, McMaster University, Dept.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in private practice since 1983. Couples and families are a primary focus of mine including those struggling with issues of life transitions, mental health, sexuality, sexual compulsive disorders, substance and process addictions, as well as emotional and physical affairs. I am trained in systemic models of interventions that allow for a dual focus on the needs of the individual as well as those of the relationship. I am an Approved Supervisor with AAMFT which affords me the privilege of supervising psychotherapists and clinicians in the community interested in systemic models.
com); Sex Therapy (Bestco); Addictions Treatment; EMDR Clinician; Approved Supervisor (AAMFT); Assistant Professor, McMaster University, Dept.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in private practice since 1983. Couples and families are a primary focus of mine including those struggling with issues of life transitions, mental health, sexuality, sexual compulsive disorders, substance and process addictions, as well as emotional and physical affairs. I am trained in systemic models of interventions that allow for a dual focus on the needs of the individual as well as those of the relationship. I am an Approved Supervisor with AAMFT which affords me the privilege of supervising psychotherapists and clinicians in the community interested in systemic models.
I work collaboratively with clients to create a uniquely tailored therapeutic experience that goes beyond traditional talk therapy by integrating several evidence-based "bottom-up" treatments (IFS - Internal Family System, EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, & SE - Somatic Experiencing) with anti-oppressive & culturally sensitive frameworks.
Hi, I'm Liz - a clinical psychologist who values building a safe, connected, and empowering therapeutic relationship. I focus on understanding you holistically, choosing depth & experiential change over band-aid solutions & surface conversations. I strive to help you derive meaning from your repeated behavior patterns & complex emotional reactions, as well as deepen self- awareness and strengthen self-worth so you can make personally valued changes when you feel ready for it. I am drawn to working with insecure attachment styles, sex/intimacy issues, highly sensitive folks, queer community, & adult survivors of childhood trauma.
I work collaboratively with clients to create a uniquely tailored therapeutic experience that goes beyond traditional talk therapy by integrating several evidence-based "bottom-up" treatments (IFS - Internal Family System, EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, & SE - Somatic Experiencing) with anti-oppressive & culturally sensitive frameworks.
Hi, I'm Liz - a clinical psychologist who values building a safe, connected, and empowering therapeutic relationship. I focus on understanding you holistically, choosing depth & experiential change over band-aid solutions & surface conversations. I strive to help you derive meaning from your repeated behavior patterns & complex emotional reactions, as well as deepen self- awareness and strengthen self-worth so you can make personally valued changes when you feel ready for it. I am drawn to working with insecure attachment styles, sex/intimacy issues, highly sensitive folks, queer community, & adult survivors of childhood trauma.
My approach is client-centred and I draw upon Family Systems theory, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, EFFT, EMDR, and Mindfulness in work with clients.
Emotional pain hurts: not knowing when or even if it will end! The distress we go through in a lifetime from so many sources can feel unbearable at times. I work with people at all Ages & Stages to lift out of Depression, learn to regulate strong emotions such as Anxiety, Anger, Shame, & Grief; Relationship problems; Parenting struggles; processing Trauma; caring for Elderly; issues with aging and health; Work/school Stress; improving Youth mental health. I aim to create a safe & supportive therapeutic relationship with warmth, compassion, & humour. Mindfully strengthen your inner resources to live life with more ease and connection
My approach is client-centred and I draw upon Family Systems theory, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, EFFT, EMDR, and Mindfulness in work with clients.
Emotional pain hurts: not knowing when or even if it will end! The distress we go through in a lifetime from so many sources can feel unbearable at times. I work with people at all Ages & Stages to lift out of Depression, learn to regulate strong emotions such as Anxiety, Anger, Shame, & Grief; Relationship problems; Parenting struggles; processing Trauma; caring for Elderly; issues with aging and health; Work/school Stress; improving Youth mental health. I aim to create a safe & supportive therapeutic relationship with warmth, compassion, & humour. Mindfully strengthen your inner resources to live life with more ease and connection
Anton ( Ant ) Corvus
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DIP Git, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
I help anxious, depressed, traumatized, overwhelmed, highly sensitive, neurodivergent queer folks develop grounding and calm in their whole body-mind self. We explore creative ways of being, with a focus on the here and now. I walk besides you as we discover your self-support and build resilience to difficulties. I support you in freeing yourself of your freezing, fight or flight responses and help you to build better relationships with better boundaries, creating more flexibility and spontaneous moments of joy in your life. EMDR sessions are now available to process and heal traumatic events without needing to share details.
I help anxious, depressed, traumatized, overwhelmed, highly sensitive, neurodivergent queer folks develop grounding and calm in their whole body-mind self. We explore creative ways of being, with a focus on the here and now. I walk besides you as we discover your self-support and build resilience to difficulties. I support you in freeing yourself of your freezing, fight or flight responses and help you to build better relationships with better boundaries, creating more flexibility and spontaneous moments of joy in your life. EMDR sessions are now available to process and heal traumatic events without needing to share details.
Jennifer Jackson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6B (Online Only)
My comprehensive approach includes techniques from EMDR, Imago, Gottman, Mindfuness and Solution-Focus Brief therapy.
Do you want to create a life where YOU matter too? Are you struggling with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Despite your best efforts to stay positive you still feel stuck. Breaking free from the cycles of people-pleasing, self-sabotage, anxiety, shame, low self-esteem and procrastination continues to manifest in difficulties with interpersonal relationships leaving you feeling unfulfilled or drawn to the wrong partners. Creating a better life does not have to be this hard.
My comprehensive approach includes techniques from EMDR, Imago, Gottman, Mindfuness and Solution-Focus Brief therapy.
Do you want to create a life where YOU matter too? Are you struggling with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Despite your best efforts to stay positive you still feel stuck. Breaking free from the cycles of people-pleasing, self-sabotage, anxiety, shame, low self-esteem and procrastination continues to manifest in difficulties with interpersonal relationships leaving you feeling unfulfilled or drawn to the wrong partners. Creating a better life does not have to be this hard.
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).
Myles Chisholm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
6 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).
Bloom Child & Family Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
Our evidence-based treatments are tailored to meet the needs of children, teens and families and include CBPT, EMDR, play therapy, expressive arts therapies (music, art, dance/movement, writing), animal-assisted therapy, sport social work, narrative therapy, attachment-based family therapies among others.
Bloom Child & Family Therapy supports children and their families using creative approaches and evidenced-based practices. At Bloom we strive to provide accessible, quality mental health care for children, adolescents and their families. Bloom therapists are ultra-creative! Play, expressive arts and animal-assisted therapies allow Bloom to make their services accessible to all children and their families. Whether you are coming for family therapy or your child is attending therapy, we believe that family and/or primary caregivers are key to children’s healing and growing. We are looking to build strong and healthy families.
Our evidence-based treatments are tailored to meet the needs of children, teens and families and include CBPT, EMDR, play therapy, expressive arts therapies (music, art, dance/movement, writing), animal-assisted therapy, sport social work, narrative therapy, attachment-based family therapies among others.
Bloom Child & Family Therapy supports children and their families using creative approaches and evidenced-based practices. At Bloom we strive to provide accessible, quality mental health care for children, adolescents and their families. Bloom therapists are ultra-creative! Play, expressive arts and animal-assisted therapies allow Bloom to make their services accessible to all children and their families. Whether you are coming for family therapy or your child is attending therapy, we believe that family and/or primary caregivers are key to children’s healing and growing. We are looking to build strong and healthy families.
Lo Greco & Associates Counseling and Holistic Svcs
Counsellor, DIPSSW, BSW, NLP, Hypnoth
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
Certifications in CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, NLP, TimeLine Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and EMDR enable tailored interventions for holistic mental health care.
Embark on a journey to well-being with Lo Greco & Associates Counseling and Hypnotherapy. Our approach transcends traditional counseling, delving into the unique intricacies of your emotional and psychological challenges. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship hurdles, grief, self-esteem battles, or navigating major life transitions, we're here to guide and support you. Uncover a personalized path toward resilience, empowerment, and lasting positive change. Your optimal counseling experience begins with understanding, empathy, an a commitment to your well-being. Step into a transformative partnership
Certifications in CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, NLP, TimeLine Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and EMDR enable tailored interventions for holistic mental health care.
Embark on a journey to well-being with Lo Greco & Associates Counseling and Hypnotherapy. Our approach transcends traditional counseling, delving into the unique intricacies of your emotional and psychological challenges. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship hurdles, grief, self-esteem battles, or navigating major life transitions, we're here to guide and support you. Uncover a personalized path toward resilience, empowerment, and lasting positive change. Your optimal counseling experience begins with understanding, empathy, an a commitment to your well-being. Step into a transformative partnership
See more therapy options for Mississauga
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.