EMDR Counselling in Staffordshire

Photo of Jonathan Livingstone, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Jonathan Livingstone
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
For individuals, therapies include REP to identify and resolve the biographical origins of problems; EMDR for PTSD; energy kinesiology; and hypnotherapy.
I have 25 years’ experience as a solution-focused therapist, psychologist and coach: helping couples to communicate effectively and let go of resentments; and helping individuals to overcome trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse, OCD, ADHD and other problems. I will help you to clarify your goals; identify what it is within you that is blocking achievement of your goals; find out where this comes from in your biography; and help you to process the experience to permanently resolve your problem. This person-centred therapy enables you fully to overcome your problem, not simply to understand or manage it, enabling swift transformation.
For individuals, therapies include REP to identify and resolve the biographical origins of problems; EMDR for PTSD; energy kinesiology; and hypnotherapy.
I have 25 years’ experience as a solution-focused therapist, psychologist and coach: helping couples to communicate effectively and let go of resentments; and helping individuals to overcome trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse, OCD, ADHD and other problems. I will help you to clarify your goals; identify what it is within you that is blocking achievement of your goals; find out where this comes from in your biography; and help you to process the experience to permanently resolve your problem. This person-centred therapy enables you fully to overcome your problem, not simply to understand or manage it, enabling swift transformation.
01562 543351 View 01562 543351
Photo of Dr Becky Cooper, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Dr Becky Cooper
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
These approaches include attachment & psychodynamic approaches, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
You might have been experiencing some dark days with your mental health, especially recently, but I believe things can get better for you. Accessing help is an important first step to bringing about change. I believe every person who seeks help is courageous and deserves support to get their emotional and psychological needs met.
These approaches include attachment & psychodynamic approaches, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
You might have been experiencing some dark days with your mental health, especially recently, but I believe things can get better for you. Accessing help is an important first step to bringing about change. I believe every person who seeks help is courageous and deserves support to get their emotional and psychological needs met.
0121 817 7119 View 0121 817 7119
Photo of Jo Sharratt, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Jo Sharratt
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a qualified and accredited CBT therapist and also a fully qualified EMDR therapist with a background of mental health nursing.
We all experience fear, panic & sadness in our lives, and this can sometimes feel overwhelming. My focus is to help individuals understand the thoughts and behavioural processes that can maintain these emotions. I support & encourage healing by identifying inner strengths and develop strategies to manage and reduce these feelings in a healthy, helpful and productive way, in a neutral, safe & non-judgemental environment
I am a qualified and accredited CBT therapist and also a fully qualified EMDR therapist with a background of mental health nursing.
We all experience fear, panic & sadness in our lives, and this can sometimes feel overwhelming. My focus is to help individuals understand the thoughts and behavioural processes that can maintain these emotions. I support & encourage healing by identifying inner strengths and develop strategies to manage and reduce these feelings in a healthy, helpful and productive way, in a neutral, safe & non-judgemental environment
01283 387282 View 01283 387282
Photo of Georgia Williams, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Georgia Williams
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Tamworth B79  (Online Only)
I provide both CBT and EMDR and I have also worked within a DBT service teaching life skills and mindfulness.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? As an accredited psychological therapist with over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, I am dedicated to providing a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental space for individuals seeking to overcome life's challenges. With my guidance I will help you to learn new skills to manage your mental health and wellbeing and support you to become your own therapist.
I provide both CBT and EMDR and I have also worked within a DBT service teaching life skills and mindfulness.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? As an accredited psychological therapist with over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, I am dedicated to providing a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental space for individuals seeking to overcome life's challenges. With my guidance I will help you to learn new skills to manage your mental health and wellbeing and support you to become your own therapist.
01827 948498 View 01827 948498
Photo of Joanne Wright, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Joanne Wright
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
I utilise CBT, EMDR, NLP coaching, mindfulness and relaxation into sessions.
Hello. Do you feel stuck, confused or overwhelmed? Are you being held back by anxiety, depression or a lack of self worth? Do you know what you want to achieve, but need someone to motivate, guide and reassure you? Perhaps you are worried about the well-being of family members, colleagues or friends? As well as working with anxiety, depression, trauma or stress, I also specialise in working with individuals and families affected by Autism. I can diagnose autism and help schools to provide the best support to students. As well as providing individual therapy, I can devise and deliver training relating to mental health and resilience.
I utilise CBT, EMDR, NLP coaching, mindfulness and relaxation into sessions.
Hello. Do you feel stuck, confused or overwhelmed? Are you being held back by anxiety, depression or a lack of self worth? Do you know what you want to achieve, but need someone to motivate, guide and reassure you? Perhaps you are worried about the well-being of family members, colleagues or friends? As well as working with anxiety, depression, trauma or stress, I also specialise in working with individuals and families affected by Autism. I can diagnose autism and help schools to provide the best support to students. As well as providing individual therapy, I can devise and deliver training relating to mental health and resilience.
01785 335997 View 01785 335997
Photo of Angela Wilson, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Angela Wilson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I am a fully qualified Cognitive Analytic Therapist and EMDR therapist based in Staffordshire.
If you keep finding yourself in a familiar situation in relationships, at work or with yourself and can't seem to find a way forward however hard you try; or maybe you recognise that you are trying to cope with things in potentially damaging ways; or are intruded upon by events or memories from the past, then reaching out for support to develop new perspectives on your situation may be the new path to follow. Let's see if I can help?
I am a fully qualified Cognitive Analytic Therapist and EMDR therapist based in Staffordshire.
If you keep finding yourself in a familiar situation in relationships, at work or with yourself and can't seem to find a way forward however hard you try; or maybe you recognise that you are trying to cope with things in potentially damaging ways; or are intruded upon by events or memories from the past, then reaching out for support to develop new perspectives on your situation may be the new path to follow. Let's see if I can help?
01243 974547 View 01243 974547
Photo of Dr Suzanne Roberts, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Dr Suzanne Roberts
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
The evidence-based therapies I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Attachment-based Psychotherapy.
My name is Suzanne and I worked as a Registered Nurse in the NHS for over 20 years and trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist in 2014, working in a range of settings including the NHS, with an array of psychological difficulties. I provide both short and long-term therapy and my approach integrates a range of effective therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the needs of the client. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I work with NHS clients affected by physical health issues.
The evidence-based therapies I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Attachment-based Psychotherapy.
My name is Suzanne and I worked as a Registered Nurse in the NHS for over 20 years and trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist in 2014, working in a range of settings including the NHS, with an array of psychological difficulties. I provide both short and long-term therapy and my approach integrates a range of effective therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the needs of the client. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I work with NHS clients affected by physical health issues.
01902 951901 View 01902 951901
Photo of Dr Tom Goodall, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Dr Tom Goodall
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Tamworth B79  (Online Only)
CBT, CFT, ACT & EMDR.
Hello, I'm Dr Tom Goodall, a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist with significant experience of working within a range of NHS mental health services, as well as working with high performance and sporting environments. Having supported numerous individuals to improve their mental health throughout my practice, I am particularly focused on helping to develop a shared understanding why you might be struggling with low mood, anxiety, bereavement or relationships - and help you develop sustainable, effective strategies ways to reduce these difficulties and achieve your goals.
CBT, CFT, ACT & EMDR.
Hello, I'm Dr Tom Goodall, a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist with significant experience of working within a range of NHS mental health services, as well as working with high performance and sporting environments. Having supported numerous individuals to improve their mental health throughout my practice, I am particularly focused on helping to develop a shared understanding why you might be struggling with low mood, anxiety, bereavement or relationships - and help you develop sustainable, effective strategies ways to reduce these difficulties and achieve your goals.
01827 948531 View 01827 948531
Photo of Dr Amanda Walker, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Dr Amanda Walker
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am Amanda and I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist and EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner who is experienced in working with adults and young adults. Over 14 years I have worked within a number of NHS and private settings. I have vast experience of working with a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and interpersonal/ emotional difficulties. I specialise in Trauma (PTSD) and working with adults with emotional/interpersonal problems linked to childhood. Within my work I utilise several therapeutic approaches which reflects the breath of my training; these include CBT,
Hello, I am Amanda and I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist and EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner who is experienced in working with adults and young adults. Over 14 years I have worked within a number of NHS and private settings. I have vast experience of working with a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and interpersonal/ emotional difficulties. I specialise in Trauma (PTSD) and working with adults with emotional/interpersonal problems linked to childhood. Within my work I utilise several therapeutic approaches which reflects the breath of my training; these include CBT,
01283 387965 View 01283 387965
Photo of Hannah Bryan, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Hannah Bryan
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Do you have difficulties with anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, troubling thoughts from past experiences, hypervigilance and hyperarousal. Often without really noticing we can lose the passion and interest we once had for our life. I can help you unhook from trauma and get your life back. As a Clinical Psychologist, I am trained in several therapeutic models. I offer a bespoke, individually focused treatment package based on scientific evidence to help you realise your potential and be your best. I am an EMDR Consultant and Facilitator.
Do you have difficulties with anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, troubling thoughts from past experiences, hypervigilance and hyperarousal. Often without really noticing we can lose the passion and interest we once had for our life. I can help you unhook from trauma and get your life back. As a Clinical Psychologist, I am trained in several therapeutic models. I offer a bespoke, individually focused treatment package based on scientific evidence to help you realise your potential and be your best. I am an EMDR Consultant and Facilitator.
01543 229514 View 01543 229514
Photo of Dr Natalie Elizabeth Byrne, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Dr Natalie Elizabeth Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I am a trained EMDR Therapist and I have a special interest in Trauma Informed Care Practices.
I am passionate about working with adults and have over 20 years experience working with people in distress. I have experience of working with people with a range of emotional and mental health problems, including complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem and psychosis. My aim is to help people take steps along their journey of recovery to a healthier and happier future where people can truly begin living the life they want to live. I work in an integrative way enabling me to work with people to develop a therapy plan which is most likely to help them make positive steps towards their therapy goals.
I am a trained EMDR Therapist and I have a special interest in Trauma Informed Care Practices.
I am passionate about working with adults and have over 20 years experience working with people in distress. I have experience of working with people with a range of emotional and mental health problems, including complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem and psychosis. My aim is to help people take steps along their journey of recovery to a healthier and happier future where people can truly begin living the life they want to live. I work in an integrative way enabling me to work with people to develop a therapy plan which is most likely to help them make positive steps towards their therapy goals.
01785 904515 View 01785 904515
Photo of Siobhan & Associates (S&A) Psychotherapy , Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Siobhan & Associates (S&A) Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tamworth B79  (Online Only)
We offer evidence-based therapy specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hey, friend! Feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? I totally understand – we all have those moments. But here's the good news: you don't have to carry it all alone. At Siobhan & Associates Psychotherapy, I'm here to cheer you on and remind you that seeking support is a brave step towards a happier, healthier you. We offer various therapeutic approaches like CBT, EMDR, and more, so we can find what works best for you. Let's team up and tackle those challenges together! You've got my support every step of the way.
We offer evidence-based therapy specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hey, friend! Feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? I totally understand – we all have those moments. But here's the good news: you don't have to carry it all alone. At Siobhan & Associates Psychotherapy, I'm here to cheer you on and remind you that seeking support is a brave step towards a happier, healthier you. We offer various therapeutic approaches like CBT, EMDR, and more, so we can find what works best for you. Let's team up and tackle those challenges together! You've got my support every step of the way.
01827 214474 View 01827 214474
Photo of Jill Phillips, Counsellor in Staffordshire, England
Jill Phillips
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
EMDR is available to process distressing emotions or traumatic memories.
When someone asks how you are – do you say “fine”, when inside you are struggling with anxiety, angry thoughts, low mood or tensions because of conflict between you and others? Maybe you are feeling lost and confused due to difficulties in your relationship? Is there an experience from your past that you would like to resolve? Or are you trying to adjust to changes in your life whether that is an illness or a bereavement? I can help.
EMDR is available to process distressing emotions or traumatic memories.
When someone asks how you are – do you say “fine”, when inside you are struggling with anxiety, angry thoughts, low mood or tensions because of conflict between you and others? Maybe you are feeling lost and confused due to difficulties in your relationship? Is there an experience from your past that you would like to resolve? Or are you trying to adjust to changes in your life whether that is an illness or a bereavement? I can help.
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Photo of Emily Grant, Counsellor in Staffordshire, England
Emily Grant
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am an integrative trauma based counsellor with a preference for a person-centred approach. This means that I draw on different techniques and approaches to counselling depending on your individual needs. I also offer EMDR trauma therapy and CBT. In addition, I work with couples experiencing difficulties in many aspects of their relationships, such as infidelity, communication break down and sexual issues. I am passionate about and have extensive experience within the LGBTQ+ community and working with ethical non monogamy. I also work as a supervisor for other counsellors.
I am an integrative trauma based counsellor with a preference for a person-centred approach. This means that I draw on different techniques and approaches to counselling depending on your individual needs. I also offer EMDR trauma therapy and CBT. In addition, I work with couples experiencing difficulties in many aspects of their relationships, such as infidelity, communication break down and sexual issues. I am passionate about and have extensive experience within the LGBTQ+ community and working with ethical non monogamy. I also work as a supervisor for other counsellors.
01782 986071 View 01782 986071
Photo of The Therapy Quarters, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
The Therapy Quarters
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Karen has managed a private practice offering counselling, EMDR Therapy, and Clinical Supervision to clients and practitioners internationally. Karen’s work over more than 25 years has been within charitable, public and private sectors alongside working with trainee practitioners from Universities throughout Staffordshire and Cheshire. Karen has experience working with Police and Emergency Blue Light services, Specialist Domestic Abuse services, NHS and care staff, as well as lecturing for a number of years and providing training to external agencies and organisations.
Karen has managed a private practice offering counselling, EMDR Therapy, and Clinical Supervision to clients and practitioners internationally. Karen’s work over more than 25 years has been within charitable, public and private sectors alongside working with trainee practitioners from Universities throughout Staffordshire and Cheshire. Karen has experience working with Police and Emergency Blue Light services, Specialist Domestic Abuse services, NHS and care staff, as well as lecturing for a number of years and providing training to external agencies and organisations.
01782 493360 View 01782 493360
Photo of Ruth Fishwick, Psychologist in Staffordshire, England
Ruth Fishwick
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Over the last 13 years within the NHS I have developed my therapeutic interests and offer an integrative approach, where I draw on models of Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and more recently Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR) Therapy whilst thinking about the impact of the system that surrounds the person.
For me, Psychology is about making a difference to people's lives, no matter how big the current difficult that they are experiencing; and to support them in reaching their goals. I enjoy working with people with physical health difficulties who may be struggling to adjust to a new diagnosis, or change in symptom. I also enjoy supporting people to recognise what they are already doing well and how this can help them. I enjoy working with children and adults.
Over the last 13 years within the NHS I have developed my therapeutic interests and offer an integrative approach, where I draw on models of Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and more recently Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR) Therapy whilst thinking about the impact of the system that surrounds the person.
For me, Psychology is about making a difference to people's lives, no matter how big the current difficult that they are experiencing; and to support them in reaching their goals. I enjoy working with people with physical health difficulties who may be struggling to adjust to a new diagnosis, or change in symptom. I also enjoy supporting people to recognise what they are already doing well and how this can help them. I enjoy working with children and adults.
01785 338281 View 01785 338281
Photo of Gavin Crisp, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Gavin Crisp
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I'm trained in leading evidence-based psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBT) & EMDR, I also specialise in coaching and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
Hi, I’m Gav and I’m an accredited Psychological Therapist based in Birmingham. I have 15 years of experience supporting & empowering people to improve their mental health and transform their lives. Ultimately my passion and drive is to support people to rediscover happiness, connection and fulfilment and I can support you to achieve this by a tailored approach to meet your individual needs. I work on the premise of self-development and growth, utilising a combination of evidence-based therapies and tools to help you move forward, feel confident and succeed in every area of your life.
I'm trained in leading evidence-based psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBT) & EMDR, I also specialise in coaching and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
Hi, I’m Gav and I’m an accredited Psychological Therapist based in Birmingham. I have 15 years of experience supporting & empowering people to improve their mental health and transform their lives. Ultimately my passion and drive is to support people to rediscover happiness, connection and fulfilment and I can support you to achieve this by a tailored approach to meet your individual needs. I work on the premise of self-development and growth, utilising a combination of evidence-based therapies and tools to help you move forward, feel confident and succeed in every area of your life.
0121 227 9899 View 0121 227 9899
Photo of Raj Bassi, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Raj Bassi
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
I offer evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with components of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) in treating common mental health problems such as low mood, anxiety and trauma specialising in treating children, adolescents and adults.
I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and have completed a degree in Psychology and primarily practice cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have over ten years experience of working within a range of NHS mental health services in London and the West Midlands in treating depression, anxiety disorders and trauma in adults and children by way of delivering effective treatment and providing evidence-based procedures.
I offer evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with components of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) in treating common mental health problems such as low mood, anxiety and trauma specialising in treating children, adolescents and adults.
I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and have completed a degree in Psychology and primarily practice cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have over ten years experience of working within a range of NHS mental health services in London and the West Midlands in treating depression, anxiety disorders and trauma in adults and children by way of delivering effective treatment and providing evidence-based procedures.
0121 809 6158 View 0121 809 6158
Photo of Paul Hammersley, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
Paul Hammersley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
I recently celebrated 25 years as a CBT therapist. I am now also qualified in EMDR In. addition my therapy practice I have taught CBT for many years. I was programme director for post graduate CBT training at Manchester and Lancaster Universities, I have lectured at most UK universities and also abroad in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Sweden, Spain, Holland and Brazil. I have been widely published on the relationship between negative life events and psychological distress including as a first author in The British journal of Psychiatry
I recently celebrated 25 years as a CBT therapist. I am now also qualified in EMDR In. addition my therapy practice I have taught CBT for many years. I was programme director for post graduate CBT training at Manchester and Lancaster Universities, I have lectured at most UK universities and also abroad in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Sweden, Spain, Holland and Brazil. I have been widely published on the relationship between negative life events and psychological distress including as a first author in The British journal of Psychiatry
0161 509 6208 View 0161 509 6208
Photo of The Psychotherapy Clinic, Psychotherapist in Staffordshire, England
The Psychotherapy Clinic
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cannock WS11
Hello, a warm welcome from myself Emma McDonald and our team here at The Psychotherapy Clinic. Are you someone struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD or Trauma? If so our friendly team made up of specialist CBT, EMDR therapists and Counsellors are here to support you to open the door to a brighter future! We support adults from many different backgrounds. We have had the pleasure of supporting thousands of people to date to reach their recovery and we are here now to support you, providing you with the highest quality of care, the care you deserve.
Hello, a warm welcome from myself Emma McDonald and our team here at The Psychotherapy Clinic. Are you someone struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD or Trauma? If so our friendly team made up of specialist CBT, EMDR therapists and Counsellors are here to support you to open the door to a brighter future! We support adults from many different backgrounds. We have had the pleasure of supporting thousands of people to date to reach their recovery and we are here now to support you, providing you with the highest quality of care, the care you deserve.
01902 943205 View 01902 943205

See more therapy options for Staffordshire

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.