EMDR Therapists in Perth, ON

Photo of Jane Cunningham, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Jane Cunningham
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H  (Online Only)
The therapies I primarily use include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), DBT for PTSD and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a client, you are an adult interested in virtual, evidence-based, compassionate counselling for anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, traumatic memories, PTSD; as well as issues related to sexuality, gender identity, motivation, sexual assault, partner violence, emotion regulation, relationships and personal and job-related stress. You want counselling beyond 'talk therapy' to address symptoms that affect your mood, bodily sensations, actions as well as thoughts. You want the option of addressing present or past problems, with the goal of bringing what you learn into the future.
The therapies I primarily use include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), DBT for PTSD and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a client, you are an adult interested in virtual, evidence-based, compassionate counselling for anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, traumatic memories, PTSD; as well as issues related to sexuality, gender identity, motivation, sexual assault, partner violence, emotion regulation, relationships and personal and job-related stress. You want counselling beyond 'talk therapy' to address symptoms that affect your mood, bodily sensations, actions as well as thoughts. You want the option of addressing present or past problems, with the goal of bringing what you learn into the future.
(613) 801-3654 View (613) 801-3654
Photo of Dianne Theresa McLean, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Dianne Theresa McLean
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, ON K7H  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of modalities including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am passionate about supporting those with mental health complexities in order for individuals to experience healing and well-being. By combining modalities, I blend evidence-based therapies with a holistic approach.
I utilize a combination of modalities including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am passionate about supporting those with mental health complexities in order for individuals to experience healing and well-being. By combining modalities, I blend evidence-based therapies with a holistic approach.
(343) 313-0242 View (343) 313-0242
Photo of Tory Baker-Reed, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tory Baker-Reed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Specialties: EMDR (eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing); Psychodrama, Psychodramatic Bodywork (emotion release work), and supporting the supporting the 2SLGBTQI+ and poly communities.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
Specialties: EMDR (eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing); Psychodrama, Psychodramatic Bodywork (emotion release work), and supporting the supporting the 2SLGBTQI+ and poly communities.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
(343) 503-0835 View (343) 503-0835
Photo of Terrilee Kelford, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Terrilee Kelford
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, ON K7H
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
(613) 704-6109 View (613) 704-6109
Photo of Michaela Rachael Gage, MA, EMDR, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Michaela Rachael Gage
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, EMDR, RP
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Located in Perth area, I specialize in working w/ First Responders/their families but also work with teens/adults outside of this community. I offer virtual and in-person sessions, providing clients w/ an informal, nonjudgmental atmosphere where your goals of self-change are realized and made possible. I work with clients to overcome mental health difficulties and life challenges including anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, PTSD/trauma, and grief. I offer a unique client-centered approach that looks at how our past has influenced our present.
Located in Perth area, I specialize in working w/ First Responders/their families but also work with teens/adults outside of this community. I offer virtual and in-person sessions, providing clients w/ an informal, nonjudgmental atmosphere where your goals of self-change are realized and made possible. I work with clients to overcome mental health difficulties and life challenges including anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, PTSD/trauma, and grief. I offer a unique client-centered approach that looks at how our past has influenced our present.
(613) 909-4590 View (613) 909-4590

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of undefined - Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP), Psychiatrist
Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP)
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Kemptville, ON K0G
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
(613) 482-0133 View (613) 482-0133
The Wren Centre: Therapy for All Ages
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Lanark, ON K0G
Seeing a therapist is a great way to find clarity, strength, and even a new path toward a more peaceful life. At the Wren Centre, we offer therapy for children, families, and adults. We're here to support you, your child, or your entire family, every step of the way. We offer a compassionate, safe space for expressing, exploring and tuning in to the inner voice we all have.
Seeing a therapist is a great way to find clarity, strength, and even a new path toward a more peaceful life. At the Wren Centre, we offer therapy for children, families, and adults. We're here to support you, your child, or your entire family, every step of the way. We offer a compassionate, safe space for expressing, exploring and tuning in to the inner voice we all have.
(343) 307-6677 View (343) 307-6677
Photo of Jenna Dekoster, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jenna Dekoster
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kemptville, ON K0G  (Online Only)
Life can be messy, and sometimes we need someone to help hold our stuff. My favourite part about this is assisting people to step into their power, give words to their feelings, and start creating a life they love. I firmly believe that human connection is the foundation of an abundant life. For this reason, I am passionate about working with people to improve their relationships with themselves and others. What this looks like is defined by my clients, but can include support with deepening understandings of themselves, overcoming people pleasing, increasing self-compassion, and getting out of their thoughts and into their life.
Life can be messy, and sometimes we need someone to help hold our stuff. My favourite part about this is assisting people to step into their power, give words to their feelings, and start creating a life they love. I firmly believe that human connection is the foundation of an abundant life. For this reason, I am passionate about working with people to improve their relationships with themselves and others. What this looks like is defined by my clients, but can include support with deepening understandings of themselves, overcoming people pleasing, increasing self-compassion, and getting out of their thoughts and into their life.
(343) 321-1808 View (343) 321-1808
Photo of Rachel Tresilian, MA, HBA, Registered Psychotherapist
Rachel Tresilian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Jasper, ON K0G
Accepting new clients! Let’s be honest, finding a therapist to work with can be a daunting and overwhelming task. It can be difficult to even know where to start. I understand this firsthand, having experienced both sides of the client-therapist dynamic. I empathize with the desire to find a professional who can truly listen, validate your experiences, and create a comfortable space for personal growth and transformation. In working with you, my goal is to offer support and equip you with the necessary tools and strategies to achieve the progress and positive changes you desire, even when the path seems unclear.
Accepting new clients! Let’s be honest, finding a therapist to work with can be a daunting and overwhelming task. It can be difficult to even know where to start. I understand this firsthand, having experienced both sides of the client-therapist dynamic. I empathize with the desire to find a professional who can truly listen, validate your experiences, and create a comfortable space for personal growth and transformation. In working with you, my goal is to offer support and equip you with the necessary tools and strategies to achieve the progress and positive changes you desire, even when the path seems unclear.
(365) 607-5124 View (365) 607-5124
Photo of undefined - McKay Psychotherapy, RN, BScN, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
McKay Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, BScN, MACP
Verified Verified
Kemptville, ON K0G
I believe that the road to finding happiness and freedom begins with a simple principle, understanding that some things are within our control and some things are not. Whether you are controlled by anxiety, dreading the “what ifs” of the future. Or you are stuck in the past and find it difficult to move on, I believe I can help. I am dedicated to building a therapeutic alliance with my clients and working on an individual basis to help each, and every person realize their strengths to find their own solutions. I work with clients 18 and over to support them in recovering from anxiety, depression, addictions and relationship issues.
I believe that the road to finding happiness and freedom begins with a simple principle, understanding that some things are within our control and some things are not. Whether you are controlled by anxiety, dreading the “what ifs” of the future. Or you are stuck in the past and find it difficult to move on, I believe I can help. I am dedicated to building a therapeutic alliance with my clients and working on an individual basis to help each, and every person realize their strengths to find their own solutions. I work with clients 18 and over to support them in recovering from anxiety, depression, addictions and relationship issues.
(343) 338-5333 View (343) 338-5333
Photo of undefined - Vitality Wellness Centre (Sif Zaman), RP (Q), MBBS, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Vitality Wellness Centre (Sif Zaman)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kemptville, ON K0G
I Am Excited To Announce That After 4 Months, I Am Now Accepting New Clients! Mental health can be especially challenging to understand because it isn't something you can see like an external physical injury. If feelings of being stuck or out-of-control, or the sense that life is spiraling downhill somehow seem familiar, they might just stem from poor mental wellbeing. There is no need for you to suffer alone as many of these symptoms can be effectively treated using psychotherapy. We'll work together using evidence-based psychological approaches to improve your quality of life and help you get back on track.
I Am Excited To Announce That After 4 Months, I Am Now Accepting New Clients! Mental health can be especially challenging to understand because it isn't something you can see like an external physical injury. If feelings of being stuck or out-of-control, or the sense that life is spiraling downhill somehow seem familiar, they might just stem from poor mental wellbeing. There is no need for you to suffer alone as many of these symptoms can be effectively treated using psychotherapy. We'll work together using evidence-based psychological approaches to improve your quality of life and help you get back on track.
(343) 338-5551 View (343) 338-5551
Photo of undefined - Cynthia Brady Counselling & Psychotherapy, BSW, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cynthia Brady Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kemptville, ON K0G
Hello! Thank you for taking the first step to working on your needs or that of your relationship. I provide individual, couples, and family counselling. I work with clients from all walks of life and welcome cultural diversity. I am an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I use an empathetic, non-judgmental approach and value transparency in my work as a therapist. It is my mission to build trust and rapport in counselling relationships.
Hello! Thank you for taking the first step to working on your needs or that of your relationship. I provide individual, couples, and family counselling. I work with clients from all walks of life and welcome cultural diversity. I am an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I use an empathetic, non-judgmental approach and value transparency in my work as a therapist. It is my mission to build trust and rapport in counselling relationships.
(613) 701-6407 View (613) 701-6407

Online Therapists

Photo of Louise Blackburn, MSW, RSW, , Registered Social Worker
Louise Blackburn
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, ON K1C
Life can present challenges that sometimes seem overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with a recent difficulty, an ongoing issue, or a past trauma, it can be helpful to explore ways you can work toward a resolution, personal growth, and achieve a greater sense of well being. I am a registered clinical social worker / psychotherapist providing mental health and trauma / PTSD therapy services. I am EMDR certified and also draw from a wide range of therapeutic approaches based on the client's needs.
Life can present challenges that sometimes seem overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with a recent difficulty, an ongoing issue, or a past trauma, it can be helpful to explore ways you can work toward a resolution, personal growth, and achieve a greater sense of well being. I am a registered clinical social worker / psychotherapist providing mental health and trauma / PTSD therapy services. I am EMDR certified and also draw from a wide range of therapeutic approaches based on the client's needs.
(613) 707-7352 View (613) 707-7352
Photo of Tina Fallis, Registered Psychotherapist
Tina Fallis
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y
I use an integrative approach that is tailored to the mental health needs of each client. I draw from various evidence-based approaches such as psychodynamic therapy, emotionally-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, attachment-oriented treatment approaches, and EMDR.
I use an integrative approach that is tailored to the mental health needs of each client. I draw from various evidence-based approaches such as psychodynamic therapy, emotionally-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, attachment-oriented treatment approaches, and EMDR.
(343) 341-5340 View (343) 341-5340
Photo of Mandie Robertson, MEd, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mandie Robertson
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
5 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 Taem Kadimi, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Taem Kadimi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
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 undefined - Ensemble Counselling (Services Bilingues), MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ensemble Counselling (Services Bilingues)
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
We have advanced training in CBT, DBT, EFT & EMDR.
We are currently ACCEPTING clients. Our team has years of experience and knowledge to help you with stress, anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, adult ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), grief and loss (infertility, illness, bereavement), couple counselling and various relationship issues as well as a multitude of life transitions. We understand the complexities of new parents and those who have adopted children. We understand sports psychology and the issues that arise from being involved in sports. Collectively we work with ages 12 to 99. We offer bilingual services. We are allies of the LGBTQ+ community.
We have advanced training in CBT, DBT, EFT & EMDR.
We are currently ACCEPTING clients. Our team has years of experience and knowledge to help you with stress, anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, adult ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), grief and loss (infertility, illness, bereavement), couple counselling and various relationship issues as well as a multitude of life transitions. We understand the complexities of new parents and those who have adopted children. We understand sports psychology and the issues that arise from being involved in sports. Collectively we work with ages 12 to 99. We offer bilingual services. We are allies of the LGBTQ+ community.
(343) 655-3644 View (343) 655-3644
Photo of Cindi Bates, MEd,  MA, RP, RYT, Registered Psychotherapist
Cindi Bates
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MA, RP, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
You are the expert on you! Working collaboratively with you, I integrate relational, EMDR and contemplative psychotherapeutic strategies, such as mindfulness, acceptance and compassion practices.
Everyone - regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or social standing - deserves competent, kind, and compassionate care. As Covid recedes, the life challenges facing younger, middle-aged and older adults, including transitions, relationships, loneliness, body image, sexuality issues, and concerns around meaning and purpose, to name a few, remain. I have significant life and career experience as a teacher and Guidance Counsellor working with adolescents, and as an administrator and coach working with adults and teams. I am eager to meet you wherever you are along your life journey.
You are the expert on you! Working collaboratively with you, I integrate relational, EMDR and contemplative psychotherapeutic strategies, such as mindfulness, acceptance and compassion practices.
Everyone - regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or social standing - deserves competent, kind, and compassionate care. As Covid recedes, the life challenges facing younger, middle-aged and older adults, including transitions, relationships, loneliness, body image, sexuality issues, and concerns around meaning and purpose, to name a few, remain. I have significant life and career experience as a teacher and Guidance Counsellor working with adolescents, and as an administrator and coach working with adults and teams. I am eager to meet you wherever you are along your life journey.
(343) 307-5438 View (343) 307-5438
Photo of Morgan Purdy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Morgan Purdy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, ON K1C  (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 Jessica A. Hughes, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica A. Hughes
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K4A  (Online Only)
I am a psychodynamic and certified trauma therapist. I use a non-pathologizing approach to understand emotional distress. Instead of seeing it as an illness, I help people see their inherent strengths and understand the meaning behind their struggles. Many of the struggles people want help with are coping strategies that worked at an earlier time in their lives, but are no longer helpful. I work with people to explore how these behaviours came to be, how they served them, and how to cultivate new ways of being that align with their goals and values. I use a psychodynamic approach as well as IFS, EMDR, and somatic work.
I am a psychodynamic and certified trauma therapist. I use a non-pathologizing approach to understand emotional distress. Instead of seeing it as an illness, I help people see their inherent strengths and understand the meaning behind their struggles. Many of the struggles people want help with are coping strategies that worked at an earlier time in their lives, but are no longer helpful. I work with people to explore how these behaviours came to be, how they served them, and how to cultivate new ways of being that align with their goals and values. I use a psychodynamic approach as well as IFS, EMDR, and somatic work.
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See more therapy options for Perth

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.