EMDR Counselling in Newtown, NSW

Photo of Rakib Islam, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Rakib Islam
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
I use an integrative approach, drawing from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), somatic techniques, IFS (Internal Family Systems), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), expressive art, narrative, and feminist therapy.
I am passionate about supporting people on their path to healing and growth. I specialize in grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. As a South Asian person of colour and an immigrant, I am committed to assisting individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Whether it's cultural pressures, discrimination, or adjustment issues, I'm here to help. Additionally, I welcome those seeking support for spiritual and existential concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out; together, we can navigate your path towards living a meaningful and authentic life.
I use an integrative approach, drawing from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), somatic techniques, IFS (Internal Family Systems), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), expressive art, narrative, and feminist therapy.
I am passionate about supporting people on their path to healing and growth. I specialize in grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. As a South Asian person of colour and an immigrant, I am committed to assisting individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Whether it's cultural pressures, discrimination, or adjustment issues, I'm here to help. Additionally, I welcome those seeking support for spiritual and existential concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out; together, we can navigate your path towards living a meaningful and authentic life.
(02) 9100 0026 View (02) 9100 0026
Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I specialise in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR, interweaving Internal Family Systems (parts) Theory, Polyvagal Theory, Group Schema Therapy, DBT, Open Dialogue, and ACT.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
I specialise in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR, interweaving Internal Family Systems (parts) Theory, Polyvagal Theory, Group Schema Therapy, DBT, Open Dialogue, and ACT.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
(02) 9100 0621 View (02) 9100 0621
Photo of Jennifer Perkins - Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy, MSc, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Trauma informed, EMDR Certified and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate the barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships or even offering parenting skills. She is dedicated to helping you have the most healing and positive experience possible and honored to walk this journey with you. She is committed to providing a quality experience including a strong vision towards social justice and social equality especially with LGBTQI folks.
Trauma informed, EMDR Certified and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate the barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships or even offering parenting skills. She is dedicated to helping you have the most healing and positive experience possible and honored to walk this journey with you. She is committed to providing a quality experience including a strong vision towards social justice and social equality especially with LGBTQI folks.
(02) 8074 5705 View (02) 8074 5705
Photo of Kelly Breen, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapy style is integrative, utilising evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I weave these practices along with somatic work into therapy. Additionally, I am appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration & preperation support.
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapy style is integrative, utilising evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I weave these practices along with somatic work into therapy. Additionally, I am appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration & preperation support.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Photo of Naomi Kerr, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I also offer EMDR which supports reducing the intensity of distressing memories often associated with trauma.
Everyone needs support at times. I provide outcomes-focused counselling for individuals and couples wanting change in their lives or relationships. My areas of focus include: mental health support, trauma and PTSD, infertility and family planning, self-esteem, and managing life and work stress. I offer talk therapy (emotion-focused therapy, CBT, etc) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy.
I also offer EMDR which supports reducing the intensity of distressing memories often associated with trauma.
Everyone needs support at times. I provide outcomes-focused counselling for individuals and couples wanting change in their lives or relationships. My areas of focus include: mental health support, trauma and PTSD, infertility and family planning, self-esteem, and managing life and work stress. I offer talk therapy (emotion-focused therapy, CBT, etc) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy.
(02) 9100 0260 View (02) 9100 0260
Photo of Carmen Teodor, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Carmen Teodor
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
My approach includes evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR for complex trauma.
Whether you're facing the challenges of battling depression, managing anxiety, wrestling with low self-esteem, navigating parenting difficulties, relationship issues, coping with stress, dealing with life crises, family issues, complex trauma, PTSD, cross-cultural dilemmas, coping with grief and loss, tackling workplace stress, or providing support for children after separation—I'm here for you. Expect a reset button for your life. In our Telehealth sessions, we connect virtually to explore and understand your experiences. It's a conversation that helps you focus on what matters most – you.
My approach includes evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR for complex trauma.
Whether you're facing the challenges of battling depression, managing anxiety, wrestling with low self-esteem, navigating parenting difficulties, relationship issues, coping with stress, dealing with life crises, family issues, complex trauma, PTSD, cross-cultural dilemmas, coping with grief and loss, tackling workplace stress, or providing support for children after separation—I'm here for you. Expect a reset button for your life. In our Telehealth sessions, we connect virtually to explore and understand your experiences. It's a conversation that helps you focus on what matters most – you.
(02) 8105 6074 View (02) 8105 6074
Photo of George Turnure - George Turnure Clinical Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
George Turnure Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I have a non-judgemental and patient approach and use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with people who are hoping to cope better with strong moods such as sadness, low mood or depression, anger or if feeling constantly worried, nervous or anxious. Working together we will find out how this has developed and why it hasn't gone away. In this way we can gain an understanding of the issue and develop skills and strategies to cope better right now, and to manage and/or prevent these issues from returning in the future.
I have a non-judgemental and patient approach and use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with people who are hoping to cope better with strong moods such as sadness, low mood or depression, anger or if feeling constantly worried, nervous or anxious. Working together we will find out how this has developed and why it hasn't gone away. In this way we can gain an understanding of the issue and develop skills and strategies to cope better right now, and to manage and/or prevent these issues from returning in the future.
(02) 9053 4659 View (02) 9053 4659
Photo of Karin Austin - Heartspace Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Karin Austin - Heartspace Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize evidence-based frameworks such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Compassion-Based Therapy and EMDR, whilst working mindfully with the wisdom of the body to promote well-being.
I have worked as a Psychologist for more than 20 years, with a diverse range of people in various sectors, including community services, corporate organisations, private practice and extensively in the higher education sector. I offer a warm and engaging approach, deeply valuing the therapeutic relationship as core to the work of effective intervention. I seek to understand the broader context of wellbeing, working with you to connect with inner resources and strengths in addressing mental health concerns, life transitions and challenges.
I utilize evidence-based frameworks such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Compassion-Based Therapy and EMDR, whilst working mindfully with the wisdom of the body to promote well-being.
I have worked as a Psychologist for more than 20 years, with a diverse range of people in various sectors, including community services, corporate organisations, private practice and extensively in the higher education sector. I offer a warm and engaging approach, deeply valuing the therapeutic relationship as core to the work of effective intervention. I seek to understand the broader context of wellbeing, working with you to connect with inner resources and strengths in addressing mental health concerns, life transitions and challenges.
(02) 9100 0935 View (02) 9100 0935
Photo of Rhiannon Derrig, MSc, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Rhiannon Derrig
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I am also certified in EMDR therapy for trauma support.
As a clincial psychotherapist and registered psychosexual therapist, I specialise in helping individuals with trauma and PTSD, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and sexual difficulties, including intimacy and trust. I am also passionate about providing support for navigating gendered, sexual, racial, and neuro diversity, and cultural identities, who may experience discrimination or internalised stigma. Centering unconditional positive regard, I work closely with the client to deeply explore how their past experiences, current situations, family background, and social elements of their lives have impacted their wellbeing.
I am also certified in EMDR therapy for trauma support.
As a clincial psychotherapist and registered psychosexual therapist, I specialise in helping individuals with trauma and PTSD, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and sexual difficulties, including intimacy and trust. I am also passionate about providing support for navigating gendered, sexual, racial, and neuro diversity, and cultural identities, who may experience discrimination or internalised stigma. Centering unconditional positive regard, I work closely with the client to deeply explore how their past experiences, current situations, family background, and social elements of their lives have impacted their wellbeing.
(02) 9100 0199 View (02) 9100 0199
Photo of Roberta Iavarone - The Listening Pod, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Roberta Iavarone - The Listening Pod
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
Are you struggling to navigate relationship difficulties with your partner, family member or work colleague? Perhaps you are struggling to navigate the pressures of a new job, life stage such as menopause or adult diagnosis of ADHD? You may feel anxious, stressed or alone and in need of support to help you build skills & confidence so you can work towards the things that you really care about & want? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life & to help them create a life you love to live.
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
Are you struggling to navigate relationship difficulties with your partner, family member or work colleague? Perhaps you are struggling to navigate the pressures of a new job, life stage such as menopause or adult diagnosis of ADHD? You may feel anxious, stressed or alone and in need of support to help you build skills & confidence so you can work towards the things that you really care about & want? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life & to help them create a life you love to live.
(02) 9100 0107 View (02) 9100 0107
Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
EMDR works to reconnect the two brain hemispheres, providing a new way to process memories that were intrusive or holding them back in some way.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
EMDR works to reconnect the two brain hemispheres, providing a new way to process memories that were intrusive or holding them back in some way.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Dylan Nicholls, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dylan Nicholls
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Since 2019, I have worked as a psychologist in private practice, child/adolescent mental health, as well as adult mental health services, including an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled health service. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive using evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ACT, and EMDR.
Since 2019, I have worked as a psychologist in private practice, child/adolescent mental health, as well as adult mental health services, including an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled health service. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive using evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ACT, and EMDR.
(02) 9100 0301 View (02) 9100 0301
Photo of Elizabeth Chikako Crouch, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Elizabeth Chikako Crouch
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
(02) 8294 6092 View (02) 8294 6092
Photo of Broady Robertson, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Broady Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I'm Broady (he/him), an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTIQA+ community. With a personal background as a queer and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, understanding firsthand how stigma and discrimination can adversely affect mental health. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and sexuality and gender affirming care, ensuring a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment where everyone is respected for their individuality and encouraged to be themselves.
Hi, I'm Broady (he/him), an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTIQA+ community. With a personal background as a queer and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, understanding firsthand how stigma and discrimination can adversely affect mental health. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and sexuality and gender affirming care, ensuring a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment where everyone is respected for their individuality and encouraged to be themselves.
(03) 7003 2814 View (03) 7003 2814
Photo of Ilona Gaudin, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ilona Gaudin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
1300 045 646 View 1300 045 646
Raelene Hartman
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
(02) 9100 0905 View (02) 9100 0905
Photo of Michelle Lin, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Lin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in Anti-Oppressive Practice, relationships, self-growth and identity, search for meaning, grief & loss, work-life stuff, victim-survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence (domestic violence and structural oppression), cultural identity, the LGBTIQA+ community, family of origin issues, and relational trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect. I enjoy working with individuals to really unpack their experiences of relationships and sense of self. I also provide clinical supervision for students, new grads, activists and peers working in counselling and helping professions.
I specialise in Anti-Oppressive Practice, relationships, self-growth and identity, search for meaning, grief & loss, work-life stuff, victim-survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence (domestic violence and structural oppression), cultural identity, the LGBTIQA+ community, family of origin issues, and relational trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect. I enjoy working with individuals to really unpack their experiences of relationships and sense of self. I also provide clinical supervision for students, new grads, activists and peers working in counselling and helping professions.
(02) 8074 5461 View (02) 8074 5461
Photo of Michael Grunwald, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered General Psychologist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including anger management, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and obsessive compulsive disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, sex/relationship and men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, culture shock, parenting and adoption.
I am a Registered General Psychologist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including anger management, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and obsessive compulsive disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, sex/relationship and men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, culture shock, parenting and adoption.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512
Photo of Jacqueline Stone, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jacqueline Stone
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety or depression? Maybe you don't feel at your best, not as in control as you'd like. Perhaps you've had angry outbursts, tears or panic attacks. It's not uncommon and can be confusing. As a counsellor and therapist, I'd like to help. We can work together to overcome painful stress and anxiety. If you're facing challenges with relocation, work or family, we can deal with those difficulties too.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety or depression? Maybe you don't feel at your best, not as in control as you'd like. Perhaps you've had angry outbursts, tears or panic attacks. It's not uncommon and can be confusing. As a counsellor and therapist, I'd like to help. We can work together to overcome painful stress and anxiety. If you're facing challenges with relocation, work or family, we can deal with those difficulties too.
(02) 8324 1375 View (02) 8324 1375
Photo of Tal Schlosser - MyLife Psychologists, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
MyLife Psychologists
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists provide help to adults, adolescents and couples navigating a wide variety of mental health concerns and challenges. We understand that life can be challenging, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance to navigate these difficulties. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists provide help to adults, adolescents and couples navigating a wide variety of mental health concerns and challenges. We understand that life can be challenging, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance to navigate these difficulties. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
(02) 9100 0547 View (02) 9100 0547
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EMDR Counsellors

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimising its ability to trigger anxiety.