EMDR Counselling in Langport

Photo of Angelina De Roberto, Psychotherapist in Langport, England
Angelina De Roberto
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Langport TA10
I can offer sessions of CBT, EMDR or couples therapy.
If you are struggling with negative thoughts and feelings and want to change these to more positive thinking then don't wait contact me now. I have 40 years experience of working with the NHS and treated thousands of patients successfully with CBT or EMDR
I can offer sessions of CBT, EMDR or couples therapy.
If you are struggling with negative thoughts and feelings and want to change these to more positive thinking then don't wait contact me now. I have 40 years experience of working with the NHS and treated thousands of patients successfully with CBT or EMDR
01935 350094 View 01935 350094
Photo of Dillian Maas, Psychotherapist in Langport, England
Dillian Maas
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Langport TA10
If you are feeling that you need help in your life for whatever reason, perhaps in your relationship, family dynamic, a work situation, with depression, anxiety or your mental health; for significant loss or past or present trauma; if life is just too challenging to cope with; if the way ahead feels uncertain; if you are without hope and feeling isolated or overwhelmed; or if you simply want to explore a problem or experience to help your general wellbeing and happiness, we can work together.
If you are feeling that you need help in your life for whatever reason, perhaps in your relationship, family dynamic, a work situation, with depression, anxiety or your mental health; for significant loss or past or present trauma; if life is just too challenging to cope with; if the way ahead feels uncertain; if you are without hope and feeling isolated or overwhelmed; or if you simply want to explore a problem or experience to help your general wellbeing and happiness, we can work together.
01460 202987 View 01460 202987

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Lynda Foulder- Hughes in Langport, England
Dr Lynda Foulder- Hughes
PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kingsbury Episcopi TA12
DipCOT(Occupational Therapy), BMsc MSc -Metaphysical Sciences, Diplomas in: CBT, Counselling, Psychotherapy & EMDR; Practitioner certificate in EMDR, Advanced Flash EMDR Technique, DBT.
Hello there! My name is Dr Lynda Foulder-Hughes I am a private Psychotherapist. My initial training was as a State Registered Occupational Therapist (now retired). I have over 30 years of successful practice experience with all ages of adults, young people and children in hospitals, clinics, social care, voluntary organisations, education settings and television. I am trained in a range of approaches including: CBT, EMDR, Flash EMDR Technique, EFT, Counselling, DBT, ACT, SFT, CFT, MI, Mindfulness and Meditation. My approach to treatment is holistic, evidence-based and integrated, depending upon your needs.
DipCOT(Occupational Therapy), BMsc MSc -Metaphysical Sciences, Diplomas in: CBT, Counselling, Psychotherapy & EMDR; Practitioner certificate in EMDR, Advanced Flash EMDR Technique, DBT.
Hello there! My name is Dr Lynda Foulder-Hughes I am a private Psychotherapist. My initial training was as a State Registered Occupational Therapist (now retired). I have over 30 years of successful practice experience with all ages of adults, young people and children in hospitals, clinics, social care, voluntary organisations, education settings and television. I am trained in a range of approaches including: CBT, EMDR, Flash EMDR Technique, EFT, Counselling, DBT, ACT, SFT, CFT, MI, Mindfulness and Meditation. My approach to treatment is holistic, evidence-based and integrated, depending upon your needs.
07380 327510 View 07380 327510
Photo of Dr Maria Gascon-Ramos, Psychologist in Langport, England
Dr Maria Gascon-Ramos
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Taunton TA3
I am trained in a range of attachment-based therapeutic approaches (ISTDP, EMDR, CFT and DDP) and will tailor the intervention to your needs, always putting our relationship at the center of our work.
As a Clinical & Educational Psychologist, I work with children and adults with a range of difficulties who want to improve their lives. Clients I see struggle with attachment trauma, anxiety depression, physical symptoms and self-criticism. They often feel, anxious, drained, live with pain, gastro problems, phobias and/or PTSD/ADHD symptoms. Relationships are challenging, and trusting others to access help is a struggle. Through our work, we develop greater awareness of how they relate to others in intimate relationships, and the impact this has on their body and mind, which helps them relate to themselves differently too.
I am trained in a range of attachment-based therapeutic approaches (ISTDP, EMDR, CFT and DDP) and will tailor the intervention to your needs, always putting our relationship at the center of our work.
As a Clinical & Educational Psychologist, I work with children and adults with a range of difficulties who want to improve their lives. Clients I see struggle with attachment trauma, anxiety depression, physical symptoms and self-criticism. They often feel, anxious, drained, live with pain, gastro problems, phobias and/or PTSD/ADHD symptoms. Relationships are challenging, and trusting others to access help is a struggle. Through our work, we develop greater awareness of how they relate to others in intimate relationships, and the impact this has on their body and mind, which helps them relate to themselves differently too.
01823 589443 View 01823 589443
Photo of Dr Caroline Shinner, Psychologist in Langport, England
Dr Caroline Shinner
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgwater TA6
I specialise in offering interventions to address problematic relational patterns, and the impact of past trauma (including PTSD), using Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR.
Hello, I’m Caroline. I’m an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist, and I offer assessments and therapy interventions to adults aged 18+. I aim to provide a compassionate and non-judgemental space in which to hear your story, and work alongside you to identify specific goals for therapy. Therapy interventions will be evidence-based and tailored to your needs. I have over 13 years' experience of working in NHS Adult Mental Health services, and services for adults with acquired brain injury and neurological conditions (including spinal injuries and Multiple Sclerosis).
I specialise in offering interventions to address problematic relational patterns, and the impact of past trauma (including PTSD), using Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR.
Hello, I’m Caroline. I’m an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist, and I offer assessments and therapy interventions to adults aged 18+. I aim to provide a compassionate and non-judgemental space in which to hear your story, and work alongside you to identify specific goals for therapy. Therapy interventions will be evidence-based and tailored to your needs. I have over 13 years' experience of working in NHS Adult Mental Health services, and services for adults with acquired brain injury and neurological conditions (including spinal injuries and Multiple Sclerosis).
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Photo of Tony Humphreys, Psychotherapist in Langport, England
Tony Humphreys
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Glastonbury BA6
It can be difficult to know where to start when feeling depressed or anxious. ​ I appreciate that many people become a little anxious at the prospect of an intense atmosphere in a counselling room. Thats not how I work though. My first aim is to help you relax. To see that yes, it is a 'safe and confidential environment for you to talk about anything that you want'. But there's no need for it to be a heavy and intense atmosphere either. I believe we can be practical, pragmatic and make some real changes without sacrificing empathy or compassion. I have over 20 years experience.
It can be difficult to know where to start when feeling depressed or anxious. ​ I appreciate that many people become a little anxious at the prospect of an intense atmosphere in a counselling room. Thats not how I work though. My first aim is to help you relax. To see that yes, it is a 'safe and confidential environment for you to talk about anything that you want'. But there's no need for it to be a heavy and intense atmosphere either. I believe we can be practical, pragmatic and make some real changes without sacrificing empathy or compassion. I have over 20 years experience.
01749 601178 View 01749 601178
Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor in Langport, England
Elaine Hutchinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Glastonbury BA6
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
01749 605317 View 01749 605317
Photo of Dr Bishnu Upadhaya, Psychologist in Langport, England
Dr Bishnu Upadhaya
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Not Verified Not Verified
Newport TA3  (Online Only)
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
020 3835 4892 View 020 3835 4892
Photo of Susan Bailey, Psychotherapist in Langport, England
Susan Bailey
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Camel Hill BA22
I have been a psychotherapist and counsellor for over 20 years, working in private practice & for many companies. I have extensive experience & training in helping individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, effects of trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, low confidence, relationship issues & more. I am committed to providing a safe, confidential and non judgemental environment for us to explore what is troubling you and to help you to make changes & develop self awareness; in turn this will enable you to begin to live more fully in the present and build resilience and confidence to face the future with strength and hope.
I have been a psychotherapist and counsellor for over 20 years, working in private practice & for many companies. I have extensive experience & training in helping individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, effects of trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, low confidence, relationship issues & more. I am committed to providing a safe, confidential and non judgemental environment for us to explore what is troubling you and to help you to make changes & develop self awareness; in turn this will enable you to begin to live more fully in the present and build resilience and confidence to face the future with strength and hope.
01708 973315 View 01708 973315
Photo of Amie Hancock, Counsellor in Langport, England
Amie Hancock
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Yeovil BA22
Not accepting new clients
I am a qualified counsellor working with Children, teenagers and adults. I have worked in the social care field for the past 15 years, working with Children & Young People in various settings including Primary and Secondary schools and residential children's homes. I offer therapeutic counselling, which is person centred which puts you at the centre of our work together, this tends to take place in my private practice which is based in Queen Camel.
I am a qualified counsellor working with Children, teenagers and adults. I have worked in the social care field for the past 15 years, working with Children & Young People in various settings including Primary and Secondary schools and residential children's homes. I offer therapeutic counselling, which is person centred which puts you at the centre of our work together, this tends to take place in my private practice which is based in Queen Camel.
07723 455719 View 07723 455719

Online Therapists

Photo of Catherine Collin, Psychologist in Langport, England
Catherine Collin
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Lostwithiel PL22
I’m a clinical psychologist and accredited cognitive behavioural psychotherapist and supervisor, I work using an integrative approach including CBT, compassion focussed therapy, ACT, EMDR, IFS and existential psychotherapy.
I’m a clinical psychologist and accredited cognitive behavioural psychotherapist and supervisor, I work using an integrative approach including CBT, compassion focussed therapy, ACT, EMDR, IFS and existential psychotherapy.
01208 228672 View 01208 228672
Photo of Headland Psychology, Psychologist in Langport, England
Headland Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Blandford Forum DT11
I am a Dr of Clinical Psychology and EMDR therapist with over twenty years qualified experience working in the NHS. I can offer tailored assessment and formulation to understand your difficulty and consider what type of support will help you. I am particularly passionate about offering therapeutic support to adults and adolescents experiencing distress from trauma and stress. If you have PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) or you are feeling stuck re-experiencing your difficult experiences, struggling with sleep or struggling with anxiety/low mood/ irritability following trauma then I can offer help with these difficulties.
I am a Dr of Clinical Psychology and EMDR therapist with over twenty years qualified experience working in the NHS. I can offer tailored assessment and formulation to understand your difficulty and consider what type of support will help you. I am particularly passionate about offering therapeutic support to adults and adolescents experiencing distress from trauma and stress. If you have PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) or you are feeling stuck re-experiencing your difficult experiences, struggling with sleep or struggling with anxiety/low mood/ irritability following trauma then I can offer help with these difficulties.
07723 473172 View 07723 473172
Photo of Annie Ford, Counsellor in Langport, England
Annie Ford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
As an Integrative Counsellor, I draw upon a range of approaches, including Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) EMDR and Mindfulness.
It takes courage to contact a Counsellor for the first time, are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, needing to make sense or gain clarity of your personal issues. As an experienced Professional Counsellor, I provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. A place to explore the changes "you want". Building resilience and strategies to cope with relationships or home or work issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, or stressful health challenges. Short & long-term therapy 9am -7pm + Sat mornings. A calm comfortable garden studio for face to face, online or outdoor work.
As an Integrative Counsellor, I draw upon a range of approaches, including Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) EMDR and Mindfulness.
It takes courage to contact a Counsellor for the first time, are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, needing to make sense or gain clarity of your personal issues. As an experienced Professional Counsellor, I provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. A place to explore the changes "you want". Building resilience and strategies to cope with relationships or home or work issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, or stressful health challenges. Short & long-term therapy 9am -7pm + Sat mornings. A calm comfortable garden studio for face to face, online or outdoor work.
07584 336873 View 07584 336873
Photo of Natalie kynoch counselling, Counsellor in Langport, England
Natalie kynoch counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bidford-on-Avon B50
I have completed advanced trauma training ( EMDR) for both for adults and young people.
Hello my name is Natalie. I offer therapy for children, adolescent's and adults. I am a fully qualified counsellor and a registered member of the BACP. I have been in practice for over ten years. I offer Cognitive behavioural therapy(CBT), Counselling , Eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR) and Creative Counselling. I work both online and face to face. The approach used will depend on what works best with your issue and your own personal preference. If you are unsure, what may be the most helpful do not worry, this is explored fully at your intial sessions.
I have completed advanced trauma training ( EMDR) for both for adults and young people.
Hello my name is Natalie. I offer therapy for children, adolescent's and adults. I am a fully qualified counsellor and a registered member of the BACP. I have been in practice for over ten years. I offer Cognitive behavioural therapy(CBT), Counselling , Eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR) and Creative Counselling. I work both online and face to face. The approach used will depend on what works best with your issue and your own personal preference. If you are unsure, what may be the most helpful do not worry, this is explored fully at your intial sessions.
01223 919487 View 01223 919487
Photo of Sinead Mitchell, Counsellor in Langport, England
Sinead Mitchell
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Fareham PO16
I’m Sinead Mitchell and I’ve been working as a counsellor for the past two decades. Counselling young people, couples and individuals, I work with a wide range of people through the community. Issues such as anxiety, depression, relationships, sexuality, gender issues and menopause are common areas that I support clients through. Working with various therapy styles, including EMDR, Gestalt, Humanistic and Holistic, I aim to match the counselling needs to each individual or couple that I see. My specialism is the field of infertility, pregnancy, birth, early parenting through to perimenopause and menopause.
I’m Sinead Mitchell and I’ve been working as a counsellor for the past two decades. Counselling young people, couples and individuals, I work with a wide range of people through the community. Issues such as anxiety, depression, relationships, sexuality, gender issues and menopause are common areas that I support clients through. Working with various therapy styles, including EMDR, Gestalt, Humanistic and Holistic, I aim to match the counselling needs to each individual or couple that I see. My specialism is the field of infertility, pregnancy, birth, early parenting through to perimenopause and menopause.
01489 346863 View 01489 346863
Photo of EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy , Psychotherapist in Langport, England
EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS5
Sc Psychology; Dipl in Advanced Studies (part of PhD) Addiction behaviour; EMDR Level II.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
Sc Psychology; Dipl in Advanced Studies (part of PhD) Addiction behaviour; EMDR Level II.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
0117 374 7699 View 0117 374 7699
Photo of Health Psychology Wales Ltd., Psychologist in Langport, England
Health Psychology Wales Ltd.
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Newport NP18
I am qualified chartered health psychologist, trained in various therapies, including: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.
I can support you to explore your mental health issues, providing you with a safe and non-judgmental environment, either face-to-face or online, to talk about what matters to you. I can provide you with effective strategies and tools to help you to manage or overcome your challenges, enabling you to achieve your desired goals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-confidence, low self-esteem, ADHD, weight issues, etc. I am here to help and support you in your journey to recovery. I am HCPC registered and have professional indemnity insurance.
I am qualified chartered health psychologist, trained in various therapies, including: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.
I can support you to explore your mental health issues, providing you with a safe and non-judgmental environment, either face-to-face or online, to talk about what matters to you. I can provide you with effective strategies and tools to help you to manage or overcome your challenges, enabling you to achieve your desired goals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-confidence, low self-esteem, ADHD, weight issues, etc. I am here to help and support you in your journey to recovery. I am HCPC registered and have professional indemnity insurance.
01633 603581 View 01633 603581
Photo of Vanessa Margaret Evans, Counsellor in Langport, England
Vanessa Margaret Evans
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Swansea SA1
Hello, and a warm welcome! I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor and EMDR therapist. I am a registered member with BACP, NCS and EMDR UK & Ireland. I have attended additional training in the Rewind Technique, DBT Essential Skills, PNMH, Trauma, CBT-T and Clinical Supervision. I have over 20 years experienced of counselling clients in different settings, presenting with a range of difficulties. For the past 9 years I have worked as Counsellor for the NHS, primary mental health and staff wellbeing across South Wales. I have a special interest in treating clients who have experienced Trauma & Work related issues/stress.
Hello, and a warm welcome! I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor and EMDR therapist. I am a registered member with BACP, NCS and EMDR UK & Ireland. I have attended additional training in the Rewind Technique, DBT Essential Skills, PNMH, Trauma, CBT-T and Clinical Supervision. I have over 20 years experienced of counselling clients in different settings, presenting with a range of difficulties. For the past 9 years I have worked as Counsellor for the NHS, primary mental health and staff wellbeing across South Wales. I have a special interest in treating clients who have experienced Trauma & Work related issues/stress.
01792 949464 View 01792 949464
Photo of Heather Phillips, Psychotherapist in Langport, England
Heather Phillips
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Kidlington OX5
Are you looking for a safe space with an experienced trauma-informed therapist? I offer CBT & EMDR to mothers and parents to tackle low self-esteem, anxiety, & trauma/ PTSD. Perhaps you are having strong reactions to things, or maybe you are struggling with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or nightmares. You might be having trouble sleeping or issues with food or body image. Maybe you feel disconnected, irritable, guilty, and not the parent/ partner/ person that you want to be. When things feel tough, working with someone who you feel 'gets it' and knowing the space is safe and free from judgement is really important.
Are you looking for a safe space with an experienced trauma-informed therapist? I offer CBT & EMDR to mothers and parents to tackle low self-esteem, anxiety, & trauma/ PTSD. Perhaps you are having strong reactions to things, or maybe you are struggling with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or nightmares. You might be having trouble sleeping or issues with food or body image. Maybe you feel disconnected, irritable, guilty, and not the parent/ partner/ person that you want to be. When things feel tough, working with someone who you feel 'gets it' and knowing the space is safe and free from judgement is really important.
01865 638457 View 01865 638457
Photo of Phil Owen in Langport, England
Phil Owen
Verified Verified
Swansea SA2
As a Blue Health Coach I specialise in Blue Health, a term that spans a range of research into the benefits of being in, near, on and under water… Whether that is: Natural water: lakes rivers streams the ocean – experiencing a range of sporting or leisure pursuits. I use Blue Health Science and the natural beach or coastal environment to work with my clients. For clients that would like to try, I also provide a more active Surf Therapy, where we use the activity as a way to experience flow state and mindfulness, improving physical and mental wellbeing. I am also qualified in EMDR, EFT and Recovery and Wellbeing Coaching.
As a Blue Health Coach I specialise in Blue Health, a term that spans a range of research into the benefits of being in, near, on and under water… Whether that is: Natural water: lakes rivers streams the ocean – experiencing a range of sporting or leisure pursuits. I use Blue Health Science and the natural beach or coastal environment to work with my clients. For clients that would like to try, I also provide a more active Surf Therapy, where we use the activity as a way to experience flow state and mindfulness, improving physical and mental wellbeing. I am also qualified in EMDR, EFT and Recovery and Wellbeing Coaching.
01792 949409 View 01792 949409

See more therapy options for Langport

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.