EMDR Therapists in Nepean, ON

Photo of Khrystyna Yevstakhevych, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Nepean, ON
Khrystyna Yevstakhevych
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2H
In my practice, I integrate parts work (IFS, Ego States), EMDR, somatic strategies, compassion-focused techniques, and CBT.
Therapy for Trauma, Emotion Regulation, Life Transitions & Perfectionism. You’re here because life feels challenging, and you are looking to work collaboratively with someone who can help you process life's challenges. Whether you're grappling with the aftermath of past trauma, finding it difficult to regulate your emotions, or navigating difficult life transitions, such as becoming a parent or immigrating to a new country, I want you to know that you're not alone. I'm here to accompany you on your journey, and to share the feelings of hurt, fear and uncertainty you’ve been experiencing.
In my practice, I integrate parts work (IFS, Ego States), EMDR, somatic strategies, compassion-focused techniques, and CBT.
Therapy for Trauma, Emotion Regulation, Life Transitions & Perfectionism. You’re here because life feels challenging, and you are looking to work collaboratively with someone who can help you process life's challenges. Whether you're grappling with the aftermath of past trauma, finding it difficult to regulate your emotions, or navigating difficult life transitions, such as becoming a parent or immigrating to a new country, I want you to know that you're not alone. I'm here to accompany you on your journey, and to share the feelings of hurt, fear and uncertainty you’ve been experiencing.
(343) 453-5970 View (343) 453-5970
Photo of Victoria Elaine Howarth, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Victoria Elaine Howarth
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
I have extensive training and experience with using CBT for anxiety and mood problems and EMDR for trauma ( including PTSD and CPTSD).
How is fear impacting your life? From problems that make you feel paralyzed, to uncomfortable feelings that are difficult to identify, trying to figure it out on your own can be confusing and scary. These feelings can hinder your enjoyment of daily life and future plans. By learning to understand how ADHD, anxiety, or trauma is affecting you, you can begin to see your life in a new way. I offer a nonjudgmental therapeutic lens where you can feel safe to explore your patterns and past. I created Dune Psychotherapy to be a collaborative practice, where we work together to move towards an authentic version of yourself.
I have extensive training and experience with using CBT for anxiety and mood problems and EMDR for trauma ( including PTSD and CPTSD).
How is fear impacting your life? From problems that make you feel paralyzed, to uncomfortable feelings that are difficult to identify, trying to figure it out on your own can be confusing and scary. These feelings can hinder your enjoyment of daily life and future plans. By learning to understand how ADHD, anxiety, or trauma is affecting you, you can begin to see your life in a new way. I offer a nonjudgmental therapeutic lens where you can feel safe to explore your patterns and past. I created Dune Psychotherapy to be a collaborative practice, where we work together to move towards an authentic version of yourself.
(343) 305-1081 View (343) 305-1081
Photo of Riffat Yusaf, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Riffat Yusaf
Registered Psychotherapist, OAMHP, CHT, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2H
My work is client centered using a variety of modalities such as CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR and Hypnotherapy, individually or in combination according to client’s unique needs.
I am passionate about my work in the field of Psychotherapy, and I take pride in providing compassionate, empathetic, non-judgemental and trusting therapeutic relationship throughout the process. I strive to empower individuals to overcome their personal emotional barriers to improve overall mental health and move on successfully.
My work is client centered using a variety of modalities such as CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR and Hypnotherapy, individually or in combination according to client’s unique needs.
I am passionate about my work in the field of Psychotherapy, and I take pride in providing compassionate, empathetic, non-judgemental and trusting therapeutic relationship throughout the process. I strive to empower individuals to overcome their personal emotional barriers to improve overall mental health and move on successfully.
(343) 805-0146 View (343) 805-0146
Photo of Mandie Robertson, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Mandie Robertson
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
I am also fully trained in the use of EMDR therapy for clients looking to work through trauma.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with both individuals and couples who are struggling with personal and relational difficulties. I focus on treating a number of mental health concerns including, but not limited to: depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, relationship struggles, parenting, and perinatal issues. I am also passionate about supporting individuals and couples experiencing difficulties and challenges related to family creation and parenthood such as infertility, miscarriage/stillbirth, infant loss, postpartum depression and anxiety, and family adjustment issues.
I am also fully trained in the use of EMDR therapy for clients looking to work through trauma.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with both individuals and couples who are struggling with personal and relational difficulties. I focus on treating a number of mental health concerns including, but not limited to: depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, relationship struggles, parenting, and perinatal issues. I am also passionate about supporting individuals and couples experiencing difficulties and challenges related to family creation and parenthood such as infertility, miscarriage/stillbirth, infant loss, postpartum depression and anxiety, and family adjustment issues.
(613) 801-8556 View (613) 801-8556
Photo of Psychotherapy Clinic of Lana Michaels (Mikhailova), Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Psychotherapy Clinic of Lana Michaels (Mikhailova)
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2J
I offer a variety of therapy approaches, including CBT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Mindfulness, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Couple Therapy, EFT and others.
Life can be overwhelming at times... You may be suffering from trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, depression, or struggling with relationship difficulties...Why not use professional help and see how science and therapy benefit you? We could together analyze what your current difficulties are and determine contributed factors for these issues. The primary goals for therapy are positive changes, new options, eliminating or reducing symptoms and/or using better coping strategies. The sessions are structured, yet relaxed.
I offer a variety of therapy approaches, including CBT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Mindfulness, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Couple Therapy, EFT and others.
Life can be overwhelming at times... You may be suffering from trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, depression, or struggling with relationship difficulties...Why not use professional help and see how science and therapy benefit you? We could together analyze what your current difficulties are and determine contributed factors for these issues. The primary goals for therapy are positive changes, new options, eliminating or reducing symptoms and/or using better coping strategies. The sessions are structured, yet relaxed.
(343) 430-0386 View (343) 430-0386
Photo of Joy Tabakman, Registered Social Worker in Nepean, ON
Joy Tabakman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2B
If you struggle with anxiety, abuse, trauma, PTSD or depression, EMDR is a recognized effective tool for processing and healing.
"I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING new CLIENTS" My direct number is 613-294-6592. My vocation and passion is to assist couples, individuals and families to use the challenges they experience as an opportunity for growth. The goal in therapy is to explore the root causes of adversity and success so there is mindfulness regarding clear goal setting; this will contribute to balance and harmony in your life. Over the past 29 years my personal life and work with clients have taught me that we are all challenged by trust and emotional intimacy issues. I am passionate about empowering others to design vibrant relationships and lives.
If you struggle with anxiety, abuse, trauma, PTSD or depression, EMDR is a recognized effective tool for processing and healing.
"I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING new CLIENTS" My direct number is 613-294-6592. My vocation and passion is to assist couples, individuals and families to use the challenges they experience as an opportunity for growth. The goal in therapy is to explore the root causes of adversity and success so there is mindfulness regarding clear goal setting; this will contribute to balance and harmony in your life. Over the past 29 years my personal life and work with clients have taught me that we are all challenged by trust and emotional intimacy issues. I am passionate about empowering others to design vibrant relationships and lives.
(343) 312-9805 View (343) 312-9805
Photo of Ana Delage, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Ana Delage
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2J
Waitlist for new clients
I use Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Internal Family Systems (Level 2 trained).
I am a Registered Psychotherapist offering psychotherapy and counselling services in private practice for individuals (18 and older) in the Ottawa region. I support individuals in the following areas of trauma, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, low mood and depression, assertiveness training, relationship difficulties, challenging life transitions, and acculturation and immigration concerns. I also provide supervision to therapists who are registered, or working towards registration, with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.
I use Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Internal Family Systems (Level 2 trained).
I am a Registered Psychotherapist offering psychotherapy and counselling services in private practice for individuals (18 and older) in the Ottawa region. I support individuals in the following areas of trauma, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, low mood and depression, assertiveness training, relationship difficulties, challenging life transitions, and acculturation and immigration concerns. I also provide supervision to therapists who are registered, or working towards registration, with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.
(613) 704-4359 View (613) 704-4359
Photo of Taem Kadimi, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Taem Kadimi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a person-centred approach with evidence-based therapeutic interventions including EMDR, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based Techniques.
You just made the first step in your journey! Therapy is a process that allows you to understand yourself and heal from within becoming the best version of you. I provide a warm space for clients that want to work on issues including eating disorders, trauma, OCD, anxiety, burnout/stress, and chronic illnesses. Seeing the change in my clients from the first day they sit in my office chair to the last is why I do what I do!
I utilize a person-centred approach with evidence-based therapeutic interventions including EMDR, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based Techniques.
You just made the first step in your journey! Therapy is a process that allows you to understand yourself and heal from within becoming the best version of you. I provide a warm space for clients that want to work on issues including eating disorders, trauma, OCD, anxiety, burnout/stress, and chronic illnesses. Seeing the change in my clients from the first day they sit in my office chair to the last is why I do what I do!
(343) 338-6091 View (343) 338-6091
Photo of Juniper Counselling Centre in Nepean, ON
Juniper Counselling Centre
MA, MEd, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2B
We have therapists that are trained and supervised in EMDR counselling for trauma.
Accepting New Counselling Clients. We provide counselling services to youth, adults, and parents. Counselling concerns we support persons struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, trauma, self-harm, parenting concerns and those facing life stress and difficult life transitions. We provide counselling in Kanata or online/phone. Our counselling services are covered by most insurance companies.
We have therapists that are trained and supervised in EMDR counselling for trauma.
Accepting New Counselling Clients. We provide counselling services to youth, adults, and parents. Counselling concerns we support persons struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, trauma, self-harm, parenting concerns and those facing life stress and difficult life transitions. We provide counselling in Kanata or online/phone. Our counselling services are covered by most insurance companies.
(343) 309-5042 View (343) 309-5042
Photo of Attached Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Attached Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2B
I believe in having genuine, reflective conversations with clients, while pulling from a variety of integrative approaches, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, Attachment Theory, and Psychodynamic Theory.
Sometimes we arrive to a place where we need to reach out for support. That being said, choosing the right therapist can certainly be tough! I find that therapist fit is the most important part of the process, and it is my hope that you find a connection that feels genuine and motivating. This is your journey, and we are here to walk alongside you as best we can. If you are looking for a safe space to explore your unique needs, Attached Psychotherapy can help. I offer psychotherapy services to adult individuals and couples struggling with connection, communication, fulfillment, and emotional well-being.
I believe in having genuine, reflective conversations with clients, while pulling from a variety of integrative approaches, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, Attachment Theory, and Psychodynamic Theory.
Sometimes we arrive to a place where we need to reach out for support. That being said, choosing the right therapist can certainly be tough! I find that therapist fit is the most important part of the process, and it is my hope that you find a connection that feels genuine and motivating. This is your journey, and we are here to walk alongside you as best we can. If you are looking for a safe space to explore your unique needs, Attached Psychotherapy can help. I offer psychotherapy services to adult individuals and couples struggling with connection, communication, fulfillment, and emotional well-being.
(343) 307-8187 View (343) 307-8187
Photo of Morgan Purdy, Registered Social Worker in Nepean, ON
Morgan Purdy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2R  (Online Only)
I have expertise in yoga therapy & EMDR and am also passionate about using parts therapy.
Accepting new clients. Welcome to my practice. With over 9 years of experience, I've provided mental health care in various settings, including primary health care, residential treatment, private practice, and non-profit community agencies. I integrate evidence-based & holistic approaches in my practice. I specialize in chronic stress, anxiety & trauma. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, stuck or shutdown and are looking for strategies and support with moving through these challenges, I invite you to reach out!
I have expertise in yoga therapy & EMDR and am also passionate about using parts therapy.
Accepting new clients. Welcome to my practice. With over 9 years of experience, I've provided mental health care in various settings, including primary health care, residential treatment, private practice, and non-profit community agencies. I integrate evidence-based & holistic approaches in my practice. I specialize in chronic stress, anxiety & trauma. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, stuck or shutdown and are looking for strategies and support with moving through these challenges, I invite you to reach out!
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Photo of Kendra Grant, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Kendra Grant
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained and also specialize in working with healthcare professionals such as physicians and nurses.
Accepting New Clients! Have you undergone a significant change or loss recently? You may be feeling sad, angry, relieved, shocked, or unsure about if what you’re feeling is normal within your experience. Grief is mentally and physically exhausting and I recognize the strength and courage it takes to reach out to someone for help. You deserve a space to be heard and have someone understand the pain and struggle you’re experiencing. I’m here to walk with you in those emotions and help you navigate them.
I am EMDR trained and also specialize in working with healthcare professionals such as physicians and nurses.
Accepting New Clients! Have you undergone a significant change or loss recently? You may be feeling sad, angry, relieved, shocked, or unsure about if what you’re feeling is normal within your experience. Grief is mentally and physically exhausting and I recognize the strength and courage it takes to reach out to someone for help. You deserve a space to be heard and have someone understand the pain and struggle you’re experiencing. I’m here to walk with you in those emotions and help you navigate them.
(343) 307-0908 View (343) 307-0908
Photo of Krista Helman, Registered Social Worker in Nepean, ON
Krista Helman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2J
I'm primarily an EMDR therapist, and my Psychotherapy toolbox includes elements of parts work, Narrative Therapy, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Thoughts, feelings, and body sensations are sources of information, behaviour is always a form of communication, and memories are at the core of mental health and symptoms. As a Registered Social Worker in Ontario and British Columbia, I help clients navigate trauma, relationships, grief, and loss. I offer Psychotherapy online in British Columbia, and in-person or online in my private practice in Ottawa, Ontario.
I'm primarily an EMDR therapist, and my Psychotherapy toolbox includes elements of parts work, Narrative Therapy, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Thoughts, feelings, and body sensations are sources of information, behaviour is always a form of communication, and memories are at the core of mental health and symptoms. As a Registered Social Worker in Ontario and British Columbia, I help clients navigate trauma, relationships, grief, and loss. I offer Psychotherapy online in British Columbia, and in-person or online in my private practice in Ottawa, Ontario.
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Photo of Kseniya Bulat, Registered Social Worker in Nepean, ON
Kseniya Bulat
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2B  (Online Only)
Drawing from CBT, DBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, trauma-informed care, Gottman, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy, we'll craft a personalized treatment plan.
Accepting new clients - Is your relationship struggling? Are you looking for support with trauma, anxiety, low-mood, relationship troubles, communication, anger, ADHD, or stress? I understand and I hope to walk alongside you (or your relationship) on this adventure towards healing and growth. Together, we'll create a safe space where your vulnerabilities are embraced, growth is nurtured, and you can take something out of each session.
Drawing from CBT, DBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, trauma-informed care, Gottman, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy, we'll craft a personalized treatment plan.
Accepting new clients - Is your relationship struggling? Are you looking for support with trauma, anxiety, low-mood, relationship troubles, communication, anger, ADHD, or stress? I understand and I hope to walk alongside you (or your relationship) on this adventure towards healing and growth. Together, we'll create a safe space where your vulnerabilities are embraced, growth is nurtured, and you can take something out of each session.
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Photo of Maria Kristina Lamb, Registered Social Worker in Nepean, ON
Maria Kristina Lamb
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I wholeheartedly respect and admire the choice you’ve made - by being here right now - to prioritize your mental health. Whether you’re proactively seeking support to maintain your overall well-being or because you’re ready to explore painful experiences, your mental health journey is worthy of attention and support and I’m happy you’re here. When we work together you'll be invited and empowered to bring all aspects of who you are and what you’re working through into our therapeutic relationship - you won’t need to hide anything.
Hello and welcome! I wholeheartedly respect and admire the choice you’ve made - by being here right now - to prioritize your mental health. Whether you’re proactively seeking support to maintain your overall well-being or because you’re ready to explore painful experiences, your mental health journey is worthy of attention and support and I’m happy you’re here. When we work together you'll be invited and empowered to bring all aspects of who you are and what you’re working through into our therapeutic relationship - you won’t need to hide anything.
(343) 700-1670 View (343) 700-1670
Photo of Free Mind Psychology, Psychologist in Nepean, ON
Free Mind Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2J
Do you wake up with nightmares or in a sweat? Are you struggling with your identity? At Free Mind Psychology, we will help you learn the tools you need to be able to live more comfortably and feel like yourself. Each of our clinicians offers a warm and genuine approach to therapy. We welcome children, youth, adults, families and couples. We strive to help people to get back to LIVING their lives rather than simply EXIST.
Do you wake up with nightmares or in a sweat? Are you struggling with your identity? At Free Mind Psychology, we will help you learn the tools you need to be able to live more comfortably and feel like yourself. Each of our clinicians offers a warm and genuine approach to therapy. We welcome children, youth, adults, families and couples. We strive to help people to get back to LIVING their lives rather than simply EXIST.
(343) 342-1315 View (343) 342-1315
Photo of Corrina Arsenault, Registered Social Worker in Nepean, ON
Corrina Arsenault
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2E
Hello and welcome! Thank you for visiting my profile page! Over the years, I have been entrusted to support and guide many people in their respective journeys towards recovery, healing, and wellness. For this, I am deeply grateful. It is both rewarding and inspiring to bear witness to the triumphs of others over that which has been holding them back.
Hello and welcome! Thank you for visiting my profile page! Over the years, I have been entrusted to support and guide many people in their respective journeys towards recovery, healing, and wellness. For this, I am deeply grateful. It is both rewarding and inspiring to bear witness to the triumphs of others over that which has been holding them back.
(343) 304-6195 View (343) 304-6195
Photo of Robertson Therapy & Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Robertson Therapy & Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
Our team of therapists provide a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space to explore your struggles and move towards your goals. Our team brings a variety of experience and knowledge to their work to fit your personal goals. We work with individuals and couples and provide both in-person and virtual sessions. Visit our website at www.robertsontherapy.ca to book your first session.
Our team of therapists provide a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space to explore your struggles and move towards your goals. Our team brings a variety of experience and knowledge to their work to fit your personal goals. We work with individuals and couples and provide both in-person and virtual sessions. Visit our website at www.robertsontherapy.ca to book your first session.
(343) 304-6578 View (343) 304-6578
Photo of Matthias Barter, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Matthias Barter
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with your mental health, anxiety, anger or stress? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like you’re barely getting by? Whether you’re feeling the pressure from something big in your life or a hundred small things, the result is often the same: losing hope, a lack of energy, and the feeling that you will never overcome this feeling of being stuck… But I’m here to tell you that you can! I draw from numerous psychotherapy approaches in my work, but my goal will always be to find the approach that works best for you.
Are you struggling with your mental health, anxiety, anger or stress? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like you’re barely getting by? Whether you’re feeling the pressure from something big in your life or a hundred small things, the result is often the same: losing hope, a lack of energy, and the feeling that you will never overcome this feeling of being stuck… But I’m here to tell you that you can! I draw from numerous psychotherapy approaches in my work, but my goal will always be to find the approach that works best for you.
(343) 338-3159 View (343) 338-3159
Photo of Rory Batchilder, Registered Psychotherapist in Nepean, ON
Rory Batchilder
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Private practice 20 yrs. Instructed at Counsellor Training Institute (CTI) for two years. Postgraduate Diploma in Couples Therapy in addition to Master's Degree. Your story will emerge . . . your goals and passions. Depression, anxiety, conflict, anger, addictions, self-esteem, spiritual searching, communication, relationship and intimacy issues. Familiar with complementary healing; mindfulness, inner-child, ego-states, positive psychology, visualization & meditation. Certified by: College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario ( 002563) & CCPA ( 8192). Fully Insured.
Private practice 20 yrs. Instructed at Counsellor Training Institute (CTI) for two years. Postgraduate Diploma in Couples Therapy in addition to Master's Degree. Your story will emerge . . . your goals and passions. Depression, anxiety, conflict, anger, addictions, self-esteem, spiritual searching, communication, relationship and intimacy issues. Familiar with complementary healing; mindfulness, inner-child, ego-states, positive psychology, visualization & meditation. Certified by: College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario ( 002563) & CCPA ( 8192). Fully Insured.
(613) 777-0637 View (613) 777-0637

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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.