EMDR Counselling in Westgate-on-Sea

Photo of Jill Hanney, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Jill Hanney
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Westgate-on-Sea CT8
Life can often present us with some difficult and painful challenges. How we respond to these challenges, will vary according to our life experiences, especially our early childhood experiences. Having the time and space to untangle and make sense of our past and it’s impact on our present, will help us move out of unhelpful thinking styles, help us move from being stuck in negative relationships and also help find ways to make the changes necessary in our lives. However, on occasion when the source of a persons difficulty is linked with traumatic experiences, then a more specialised trauma focused approach is required.
Life can often present us with some difficult and painful challenges. How we respond to these challenges, will vary according to our life experiences, especially our early childhood experiences. Having the time and space to untangle and make sense of our past and it’s impact on our present, will help us move out of unhelpful thinking styles, help us move from being stuck in negative relationships and also help find ways to make the changes necessary in our lives. However, on occasion when the source of a persons difficulty is linked with traumatic experiences, then a more specialised trauma focused approach is required.
07540 610855 View 07540 610855

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jane Mary Hetherington, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Jane Mary Hetherington
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Ramsgate CT11
I consider the individual needs of the client and we will agree collaboratively on the focus for the therapy, using a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
I am an integrative psychotherapist and I enjoy working with a wide range of clients on a number of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance misuse/addictions, relationships, LGBTQIA. I additionally have considerable experience in working with more severe mental health issues and complex presentations, such as personality disorder and psychosis. I prefer to have an initial discussion on the phone prior to the first meeting. In order to establish what the client wants from therapy and are their needs and goals realistic.
I consider the individual needs of the client and we will agree collaboratively on the focus for the therapy, using a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
I am an integrative psychotherapist and I enjoy working with a wide range of clients on a number of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance misuse/addictions, relationships, LGBTQIA. I additionally have considerable experience in working with more severe mental health issues and complex presentations, such as personality disorder and psychosis. I prefer to have an initial discussion on the phone prior to the first meeting. In order to establish what the client wants from therapy and are their needs and goals realistic.
07403 938902 View 07403 938902
Photo of Sarah Heap, Counsellor in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Sarah Heap
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Herne Bay CT6
Some issues are better treated using EMDR, which has been shown to be the most effective and successful treatment for traumatic memories, difficult life events and their effects such as anxiety.
Sometimes people may experience emotional distress and pain arising from life changes, relationship break-up, redundancy, bereavement. They may feel depressed, anxious or confused. Perhaps there's trauma, stress or difficult illness. Problems may be from the past too. Sometimes the cause can be unclear, where low mood or anxiety have become overwhelming. If you’re struggling on your own to make sense of things or to find a way forward, reach out to someone outside of your immediate circle of family and friends. Here you can experience being listened to without judgment, feel understood and work to resolve your difficulties.
Some issues are better treated using EMDR, which has been shown to be the most effective and successful treatment for traumatic memories, difficult life events and their effects such as anxiety.
Sometimes people may experience emotional distress and pain arising from life changes, relationship break-up, redundancy, bereavement. They may feel depressed, anxious or confused. Perhaps there's trauma, stress or difficult illness. Problems may be from the past too. Sometimes the cause can be unclear, where low mood or anxiety have become overwhelming. If you’re struggling on your own to make sense of things or to find a way forward, reach out to someone outside of your immediate circle of family and friends. Here you can experience being listened to without judgment, feel understood and work to resolve your difficulties.
01227 532639 View 01227 532639
Photo of Anna-Marie Taylor, Counsellor in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Anna-Marie Taylor
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sandwich CT13
I'm a qualified CBT Therapist (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and Integrative Counsellor and I help adults and adolescents to get out of stuck, negative emotional states such as Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Hurt and Shame. I'm trained to work with a broad range of psychological health challenges including; Anxiety, Panic attacks, Depression, Insomnia, Agoraphobia, overwhelming feelings, Phobias, OCD, Autism, low self-worth and confidence, to name but a few. My approach is both adaptive and solution orientated and works best for people who want to change how they are feeling, thinking and behaving using a range of CBT models and EMDR.
I'm a qualified CBT Therapist (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and Integrative Counsellor and I help adults and adolescents to get out of stuck, negative emotional states such as Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Hurt and Shame. I'm trained to work with a broad range of psychological health challenges including; Anxiety, Panic attacks, Depression, Insomnia, Agoraphobia, overwhelming feelings, Phobias, OCD, Autism, low self-worth and confidence, to name but a few. My approach is both adaptive and solution orientated and works best for people who want to change how they are feeling, thinking and behaving using a range of CBT models and EMDR.
01202 125112 View 01202 125112
Photo of Sarah Seymour Counsellor & EMDR Practitioner , Counsellor in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Sarah Seymour Counsellor & EMDR Practitioner
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Herne Bay CT6  (Online Only)
The therapies I offer are Counselling and EMDR.
I am a qualified BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner, warm, approachable and work in a collaborative and pragmatic way, with the aim to provide you with the space and opportunity to restore and develop new ways of coping.  I have been working with people for over 10 years within the NHS and privately, who have been experiencing difficulties in their lives, emotionally distressed or struggling in some way.  This may be with anxiety and depression, low self esteem following a relationship break up, or have gotten into the habit of thinking about themselves or the world negatively.
The therapies I offer are Counselling and EMDR.
I am a qualified BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner, warm, approachable and work in a collaborative and pragmatic way, with the aim to provide you with the space and opportunity to restore and develop new ways of coping.  I have been working with people for over 10 years within the NHS and privately, who have been experiencing difficulties in their lives, emotionally distressed or struggling in some way.  This may be with anxiety and depression, low self esteem following a relationship break up, or have gotten into the habit of thinking about themselves or the world negatively.
01227 532619 View 01227 532619
Photo of Michelle Painter, Psychologist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Michelle Painter
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Margate CT9
I am also an accredited EMDR therapist.
I am a compassionate and approachable Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience of working in mental health, both in the NHS and in private practice. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking expert psychological assessment and therapy for a wide range of mental health difficulties (e.g.anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, low self-esteem, relationship problems, bullying, OCD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, self-harm, regulation of emotions, trauma or stemming from being autistic or having difficulties with attention, organisation and/or hyperactivity (ADHD). I also provide adult ADHD assessments.
I am also an accredited EMDR therapist.
I am a compassionate and approachable Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience of working in mental health, both in the NHS and in private practice. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking expert psychological assessment and therapy for a wide range of mental health difficulties (e.g.anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, low self-esteem, relationship problems, bullying, OCD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, self-harm, regulation of emotions, trauma or stemming from being autistic or having difficulties with attention, organisation and/or hyperactivity (ADHD). I also provide adult ADHD assessments.
01843 265423 View 01843 265423
Photo of Aurelia De Rocha, Counsellor in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Aurelia De Rocha
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Herne Bay CT6
I use an Integrative approach, which includes Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help you function in a better and more enjoyable way.
If you've got problems, I can help.. As a therapist I am happiest when I am genuinely able to make a difference to someone and help them feel better. I have had a great deal of experience of working with many different people, each one of them with their own unique story, and their own way of seeing the world, each one of them also with the problems that sometimes arise for all of us as human beings trying to live the best we can. Maybe you feel anxious and don't know why? Perhaps you've had things happen that are still affecting you?
I use an Integrative approach, which includes Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help you function in a better and more enjoyable way.
If you've got problems, I can help.. As a therapist I am happiest when I am genuinely able to make a difference to someone and help them feel better. I have had a great deal of experience of working with many different people, each one of them with their own unique story, and their own way of seeing the world, each one of them also with the problems that sometimes arise for all of us as human beings trying to live the best we can. Maybe you feel anxious and don't know why? Perhaps you've had things happen that are still affecting you?
07723 486520 View 07723 486520
Photo of Jayne Lambert, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Jayne Lambert
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Herne Bay CT6
With 20 years experience as a Counsellor & 10 years as an Art Psychotherapist within various NHS, Education and Community-based services, I've since specialised in EMDR therapy and am now an Accredited Practitioner with the EMDR Association UK & Ireland. Although EMDR is widely recognised as a trauma-focused therapy, it can effectively treat a broad range of issues, often in a relatively short-term time-frame. EMDR helps process intense emotions, self-limiting beliefs & behavioural patterns in the present which seem stuck on repeat, as they often track back to distressing or overwhelming relational-issues or life events in the past.
With 20 years experience as a Counsellor & 10 years as an Art Psychotherapist within various NHS, Education and Community-based services, I've since specialised in EMDR therapy and am now an Accredited Practitioner with the EMDR Association UK & Ireland. Although EMDR is widely recognised as a trauma-focused therapy, it can effectively treat a broad range of issues, often in a relatively short-term time-frame. EMDR helps process intense emotions, self-limiting beliefs & behavioural patterns in the present which seem stuck on repeat, as they often track back to distressing or overwhelming relational-issues or life events in the past.
07480 486561 View 07480 486561
Photo of Ann Marie Terry, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Ann Marie Terry
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Sandwich CT13
Whether you are considering a course of therapy to address specific mental health challenges, or you've experienced sudden change or loss in your life and finding it hard to cope alone, I can offer you help as you take your next step. Whatever questions need to be explored and whatever current stressors are present, I can provide you with the tools to cope more easily. My approach to my clients is one of respect and compassion. Regarding therapeutic relationship, my orientation is humanistic; I believe the relationship in itself is an essential component as it creates fertile ground from which self-discovery and transformation can take place.​
Whether you are considering a course of therapy to address specific mental health challenges, or you've experienced sudden change or loss in your life and finding it hard to cope alone, I can offer you help as you take your next step. Whatever questions need to be explored and whatever current stressors are present, I can provide you with the tools to cope more easily. My approach to my clients is one of respect and compassion. Regarding therapeutic relationship, my orientation is humanistic; I believe the relationship in itself is an essential component as it creates fertile ground from which self-discovery and transformation can take place.​
01304 809940 View 01304 809940
Photo of Alison Henderson, Counsellor in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Alison Henderson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sandwich CT13
Counselling and psychotherapy can seem mysterious to many clients, at first. My aim is to clarify the process and make it as accessible and collaborative as possible. My approach is integrative; every client is different, has different needs and therefore we work together accordingly. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment where it will be possible for you to explore your concerns with relationships, work; anxiety; depression; bereavement or other emotional difficulties with the aim of rebalancing and empowering you.
Counselling and psychotherapy can seem mysterious to many clients, at first. My aim is to clarify the process and make it as accessible and collaborative as possible. My approach is integrative; every client is different, has different needs and therefore we work together accordingly. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment where it will be possible for you to explore your concerns with relationships, work; anxiety; depression; bereavement or other emotional difficulties with the aim of rebalancing and empowering you.
01304 807828 View 01304 807828
Photo of Sian Rachel Moffat, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Sian Rachel Moffat
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Margate CT9
My name is Sian and I am a BABCP accredited integrative psychotherapist with 15 years experience working in mental health. I specialise in treating a range of issues, including Anxiety, OCD, Low Self-Esteem, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobia, Depression, Body Dysmorphia Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder and Health Anxiety. I understand that each individual's journey is unique and will tailor treatment to suit you. It is important for me to create a safe, compassionate and supportive environment for you to explore your concerns, develop effective coping strategies and find healing and growth.
My name is Sian and I am a BABCP accredited integrative psychotherapist with 15 years experience working in mental health. I specialise in treating a range of issues, including Anxiety, OCD, Low Self-Esteem, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobia, Depression, Body Dysmorphia Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder and Health Anxiety. I understand that each individual's journey is unique and will tailor treatment to suit you. It is important for me to create a safe, compassionate and supportive environment for you to explore your concerns, develop effective coping strategies and find healing and growth.
01843 265580 View 01843 265580
Photo of Dr Lana Renny, Psychologist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Dr Lana Renny
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Margate CT9  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have over 15 years of experience in the NHS working therapeutically with adults, young people and families. In my current NHS role as a Lead Psychologist, I offer therapy to staff (including experiences of burnout and trauma) in addition to providing consultation, training and supervision. If you are struggling with your mood, feeling stuck, or perhaps low self esteem and relationship problems, I am here to support you.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have over 15 years of experience in the NHS working therapeutically with adults, young people and families. In my current NHS role as a Lead Psychologist, I offer therapy to staff (including experiences of burnout and trauma) in addition to providing consultation, training and supervision. If you are struggling with your mood, feeling stuck, or perhaps low self esteem and relationship problems, I am here to support you.
020 3322 2419 View 020 3322 2419
Photo of Clare Eldred, Psychologist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Clare Eldred
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Margate CT9
Waitlist for new clients
I am a chartered Health Psychologist providing individual therapy to adults in Kent and online. I have many years experience working as a psychologist in the voluntary sector, civil service, NHS and independent practice. I work with a range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.
I am a chartered Health Psychologist providing individual therapy to adults in Kent and online. I have many years experience working as a psychologist in the voluntary sector, civil service, NHS and independent practice. I work with a range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.
01227 931710 View 01227 931710
Photo of Lyndsay Stamp, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Lyndsay Stamp
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canterbury CT3
Not accepting new clients
I am a fully qualified BACP Accredited Counsellor, BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and EMDR trained. I have over 14 years’ experience working as a psychotherapist in NHS settings (Primary & Secondary Care) and from treating of a wide range of anxiety and depression related problems. I lecture in CBT and supervise CBT trainees at Canterbury Christ Church University.
I am a fully qualified BACP Accredited Counsellor, BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and EMDR trained. I have over 14 years’ experience working as a psychotherapist in NHS settings (Primary & Secondary Care) and from treating of a wide range of anxiety and depression related problems. I lecture in CBT and supervise CBT trainees at Canterbury Christ Church University.
01227 203768 View 01227 203768

Online Therapists

Photo of Simone Bienne, Counsellor in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Simone Bienne
Counsellor, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
London W4
During transformational therapy, you get results through compassionate listening, positive psychology, Neuro-science interventions, NLP, Hypnosis, Psychosexual/Relationship Therapy, Breathwork, EMDR, and many practical self-help tools.
Are you struggling to stop the kind of thinking and feeling that stops you from moving forward and having what you want in life, love and sex? Do you want to create happy, healthy relationships rooted in confidence and security? Do you want an exciting sex life you enjoy? For 20 years I’ve been in private practice and an expert on UK/US TV helping thousands of people just like you have whole-life success and happiness. You too can let go of the past, overcome limiting beliefs, reset thinking patterns, transform trauma, feel positive emotions, increase sexual enjoyment, and create a new version of yourself, one that you LOVE.
During transformational therapy, you get results through compassionate listening, positive psychology, Neuro-science interventions, NLP, Hypnosis, Psychosexual/Relationship Therapy, Breathwork, EMDR, and many practical self-help tools.
Are you struggling to stop the kind of thinking and feeling that stops you from moving forward and having what you want in life, love and sex? Do you want to create happy, healthy relationships rooted in confidence and security? Do you want an exciting sex life you enjoy? For 20 years I’ve been in private practice and an expert on UK/US TV helping thousands of people just like you have whole-life success and happiness. You too can let go of the past, overcome limiting beliefs, reset thinking patterns, transform trauma, feel positive emotions, increase sexual enjoyment, and create a new version of yourself, one that you LOVE.
020 4538 9870 View 020 4538 9870
Photo of Jenny Yue, Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Jenny Yue
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London E8  (Online Only)
Taking the decision to have therapy can be difficult so you've already taken a huge first step. I am a fully accredited CBT therapist, EMDR therapist and behavioural couples therapist. I also have additional training in compassion focused therapy and long term health conditions with over 10 year experience in mental health in the NHS. I specialise in working with complex/childhood trauma, anxiety and low self-esteem.
Taking the decision to have therapy can be difficult so you've already taken a huge first step. I am a fully accredited CBT therapist, EMDR therapist and behavioural couples therapist. I also have additional training in compassion focused therapy and long term health conditions with over 10 year experience in mental health in the NHS. I specialise in working with complex/childhood trauma, anxiety and low self-esteem.
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Photo of Lauren Stock, Psychologist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Lauren Stock
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barnet EN5
Waitlist for new clients
These include CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Schema Therapy, EMDR, MBT (Mentalization Based Therapy) and the psychodynamic approach.
I have specialised in treating adults with single or complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Body Image issues, Obsessions / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Mood Swings, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Depression, Low Self Esteem and Anxiety. I feel that the therapeutic relationship is the biggest factor in helping you to resolve your difficulties. I will offer you a warm, non-judgemental, collaborative space where you can speak freely at your own pace. My approach is to help to meet your unique needs, wherever you are in your life, so that we can find a way forward and help make a difference in your life.
These include CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Schema Therapy, EMDR, MBT (Mentalization Based Therapy) and the psychodynamic approach.
I have specialised in treating adults with single or complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Body Image issues, Obsessions / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Mood Swings, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Depression, Low Self Esteem and Anxiety. I feel that the therapeutic relationship is the biggest factor in helping you to resolve your difficulties. I will offer you a warm, non-judgemental, collaborative space where you can speak freely at your own pace. My approach is to help to meet your unique needs, wherever you are in your life, so that we can find a way forward and help make a difference in your life.
020 3376 7892 View 020 3376 7892
Photo of Dr Maria Smaga, Psychologist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Dr Maria Smaga
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London EC2M
As an established Counseling Psychologist in London registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) I have over 16 years of clinical practice and rigorous NHS training in various psychological therapeutic approaches and modalities. The therapy approach I take is integrative drawing from Person Centred, CBT, and Psychodynamic theories and I have a special interest in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mindfulness based practices.
As an established Counseling Psychologist in London registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) I have over 16 years of clinical practice and rigorous NHS training in various psychological therapeutic approaches and modalities. The therapy approach I take is integrative drawing from Person Centred, CBT, and Psychodynamic theories and I have a special interest in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mindfulness based practices.
020 3835 3389 View 020 3835 3389
Photo of Rebekah Dervley, Psychologist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Rebekah Dervley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Tonbridge TN9
I have specialist training in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Relational CBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mentalization Based Therapy, and Online Sexual Behaviours.
I am Dr Rebekah Dervley, a HCPC registered Psychologist. I am Clinical Lead for Sunstone Psychology - www.sunstonepsychology.co.uk - a psychological therapies service offering UK-wide psychological therapy and clinical supervision. I can offer you a safe and confidential listening space, and work with you to understand your difficulties and help you find a way forward. I specialise in working with trauma, PTSD, and people who exhibit a range of coping behaviours, such as self-harm, addiction, and other behavioural issues. I offer specialist diagnostic assessments for ADHD in children and adults.
I have specialist training in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Relational CBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mentalization Based Therapy, and Online Sexual Behaviours.
I am Dr Rebekah Dervley, a HCPC registered Psychologist. I am Clinical Lead for Sunstone Psychology - www.sunstonepsychology.co.uk - a psychological therapies service offering UK-wide psychological therapy and clinical supervision. I can offer you a safe and confidential listening space, and work with you to understand your difficulties and help you find a way forward. I specialise in working with trauma, PTSD, and people who exhibit a range of coping behaviours, such as self-harm, addiction, and other behavioural issues. I offer specialist diagnostic assessments for ADHD in children and adults.
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Photo of Dobrochna Zajas Psychotherapy Ltd , Psychotherapist in Westgate-on-Sea, England
Dobrochna Zajas Psychotherapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E8
Welcome and Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Dobrochna Zajas and I am a qualified Cognitive and Behavioural Therapist (register with BABCP), EMDR Therapist and Registered Drug and Alcohol Practitioner (register with FDAP) based at HQ Therapy Rooms in Haggerston, Hackney E8 4DE. My passion is to help people discover their own potential and gain the ability to heal themselves, recognize their own strengths, find the ability to cope from within and regain their strength after difficult and/or traumatic situations.
Welcome and Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Dobrochna Zajas and I am a qualified Cognitive and Behavioural Therapist (register with BABCP), EMDR Therapist and Registered Drug and Alcohol Practitioner (register with FDAP) based at HQ Therapy Rooms in Haggerston, Hackney E8 4DE. My passion is to help people discover their own potential and gain the ability to heal themselves, recognize their own strengths, find the ability to cope from within and regain their strength after difficult and/or traumatic situations.
020 3962 0904 View 020 3962 0904

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.