EMDR Therapists in Ladysmith, BC
![Photo of Carla J. Freundlich, MA, RCC, SEP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439962d4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
EMDR trauma therapy is my passion because I see it work.
I would love to meet you and offer you real change and skills to move forward into wholeness and freedom. I believe the best healing involves all parts of us; mind, body, emotions and spirit. In our fast-paced society, opportunities to be deeply heard, respected and affirmed are scarce. I help clients from a position of respect and non-judgemental curiosity, while clarifying core beliefs, values and goals for change. The tools I have to offer are evidence-based and scientifically proven. The lens I use as I sit with clients is that every human being is a person of worth and value and deserves unconditional positive regard.
EMDR trauma therapy is my passion because I see it work.
I would love to meet you and offer you real change and skills to move forward into wholeness and freedom. I believe the best healing involves all parts of us; mind, body, emotions and spirit. In our fast-paced society, opportunities to be deeply heard, respected and affirmed are scarce. I help clients from a position of respect and non-judgemental curiosity, while clarifying core beliefs, values and goals for change. The tools I have to offer are evidence-based and scientifically proven. The lens I use as I sit with clients is that every human being is a person of worth and value and deserves unconditional positive regard.
![Photo of Christine G Hall, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ddc6f92-d3c9-43c9-b3a8-cc7fcdc19344/2/320x400.png)
SPECIALIZED AREAS OF PRACTICE: Trauma (including developmental, relational, and intergenerational), EMDR, OEI, Substance Abuse & Problematic Coping Behaviours, Couples Therapy (Gottman & EFT trained), Strengthening Family Systems, Shame Resiliency/Processing Internalized Shame, Existential needs (finding meaning) Self-Compassion Facilitator.
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. I embrace a holistic and collaborative approach to working with others, respecting that successful therapy honours the values and beliefs of each client. I believe that one's trauma history, distress, and pain are often the foundations that strength, meaningfulness, and wisdom are built upon. I offer personalized short or long-term therapy individuals, couples, adolescents, or families. Resiliency need not be something one is born with, it can be cultivated. ~Christine
SPECIALIZED AREAS OF PRACTICE: Trauma (including developmental, relational, and intergenerational), EMDR, OEI, Substance Abuse & Problematic Coping Behaviours, Couples Therapy (Gottman & EFT trained), Strengthening Family Systems, Shame Resiliency/Processing Internalized Shame, Existential needs (finding meaning) Self-Compassion Facilitator.
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. I embrace a holistic and collaborative approach to working with others, respecting that successful therapy honours the values and beliefs of each client. I believe that one's trauma history, distress, and pain are often the foundations that strength, meaningfulness, and wisdom are built upon. I offer personalized short or long-term therapy individuals, couples, adolescents, or families. Resiliency need not be something one is born with, it can be cultivated. ~Christine
![Photo of Megan Vandersluys, MEd, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45977095-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place. I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood.
I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place. I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood.
![Photo of Elizabeth Morelle, MACP, RCC, BCACC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/108ff276-b8d6-40fa-998e-401672ea3176/1/320x400.jpeg)
With mindfulness, meditation, EMDR, CBT, IFS (informed) and a focus on solutions I help you transform deeply held limiting beliefs.
Do stuck patterns hold you up in life? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or trauma? Do you contend with unrealistic fears or worry? Maybe you suffered childhood trauma, emotional neglect, or other more recent trauma? Using EMDR and IFS with a somatic approach, I can help you to make positive change, transform and heal, and move forward into a more fulfilling and satisfying, embodied experience of life. If you find yourself repeating the same old unhealthy beliefs, If you'd like more peace and contentment in your life, please give me a call. I offer a free phone consult of up to 15 mins.
With mindfulness, meditation, EMDR, CBT, IFS (informed) and a focus on solutions I help you transform deeply held limiting beliefs.
Do stuck patterns hold you up in life? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or trauma? Do you contend with unrealistic fears or worry? Maybe you suffered childhood trauma, emotional neglect, or other more recent trauma? Using EMDR and IFS with a somatic approach, I can help you to make positive change, transform and heal, and move forward into a more fulfilling and satisfying, embodied experience of life. If you find yourself repeating the same old unhealthy beliefs, If you'd like more peace and contentment in your life, please give me a call. I offer a free phone consult of up to 15 mins.
![Photo of Christina James, MACP, MEd, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb7cace-5c05-4a88-854b-39e3a8cc896d/1/320x400.png)
Christina James
Counsellor, MACP, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladysmith, BC V9G
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy, as well as (EMDR) Play Therapy.
I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy, as well as (EMDR) Play Therapy.
I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
![Photo of Krista Butler, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55668c8d-efcc-4969-85d7-aef97c23d648/1/320x400.jpeg)
Using EMDR, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems informed practice, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are making significant life decisions.
Hi, my name is Krista, I am glad you're here. I primarily work with those who struggle with anxiety, grief and loss, and chronic pain management. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe enough to explore issues that are important to them. I bring a unique perspective as a certified yoga teacher and vipassana meditator. I believe in the importance of restoring a connection with all aspects of the self to facilitate the healing process. I work with clients one-on-one to help them find a connection between body, mind, and heart, and to rediscover the inherent wisdom that resides within the body.
Using EMDR, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems informed practice, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are making significant life decisions.
Hi, my name is Krista, I am glad you're here. I primarily work with those who struggle with anxiety, grief and loss, and chronic pain management. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe enough to explore issues that are important to them. I bring a unique perspective as a certified yoga teacher and vipassana meditator. I believe in the importance of restoring a connection with all aspects of the self to facilitate the healing process. I work with clients one-on-one to help them find a connection between body, mind, and heart, and to rediscover the inherent wisdom that resides within the body.
![Photo of Carrie Liske, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af17abf2-3cdf-442e-b92d-6c3967581419/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR.
Congratulations! You've taken the first step toward seeking support for yourself or your family. This takes courage, so I commend you for being here. I believe that we all possess the potential within us to heal and grow into the healthiest, most confident, successful version of ourselves. Life presents challenges and sometimes we all need someone to guide us along the way. Connection, compassion, creativity, collaboration and a touch of humour reside at the heart of my counselling style. My integrative approach is customized to your situation and draws from a variety of theoretical approaches.
I am trained in EMDR.
Congratulations! You've taken the first step toward seeking support for yourself or your family. This takes courage, so I commend you for being here. I believe that we all possess the potential within us to heal and grow into the healthiest, most confident, successful version of ourselves. Life presents challenges and sometimes we all need someone to guide us along the way. Connection, compassion, creativity, collaboration and a touch of humour reside at the heart of my counselling style. My integrative approach is customized to your situation and draws from a variety of theoretical approaches.
![Photo of Pamela Theriault, MA,ABS, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f98707d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My philosophy of practice is to work closely with you so that you accomplish your goals in therapy. Working with you, I provide a combination of narrative, cognitive behavioral therapy, and coaching in order to help you achieve the health and well being that you want to gain. I have experience with trauma victims with P.T.S.D. using E.M.D.R. as a method of healing. There are also times where I can work with you using Brief Solution Focused Therapy because there are situations that do not require long term therapy.
My philosophy of practice is to work closely with you so that you accomplish your goals in therapy. Working with you, I provide a combination of narrative, cognitive behavioral therapy, and coaching in order to help you achieve the health and well being that you want to gain. I have experience with trauma victims with P.T.S.D. using E.M.D.R. as a method of healing. There are also times where I can work with you using Brief Solution Focused Therapy because there are situations that do not require long term therapy.
![Photo of Franya Jedwab, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462e395e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a warmhearted and respectful professional with over 18 years of counselling experience. I offer individual, child, teen, parent & family counselling with a safe, therapeutic, and non-judgmental lens. I use a variety of counselling approaches, such as CBT, Trauma-informed and Psychodynamic Therapy to suit your circumstances, experiences, and preferences to create a respectful and empowering approach to the work together. I hold a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am a Registered Counsellor Provider with the BC Crime Victim Assistance Program, First Nations Health Authority and Humanacare EAP.
I am a warmhearted and respectful professional with over 18 years of counselling experience. I offer individual, child, teen, parent & family counselling with a safe, therapeutic, and non-judgmental lens. I use a variety of counselling approaches, such as CBT, Trauma-informed and Psychodynamic Therapy to suit your circumstances, experiences, and preferences to create a respectful and empowering approach to the work together. I hold a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am a Registered Counsellor Provider with the BC Crime Victim Assistance Program, First Nations Health Authority and Humanacare EAP.
![Photo of Ron Alan Depner - The Therapy Place Counselling Group LTD, MC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4abd8835-f1b6-45d8-a7b9-ab3108f5af0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Therapy Place Counselling Group LTD
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladysmith, BC V9G
We're a group of experienced, trained, and professional counsellors who serve the mid-island area and beyond. We also provide online services for those who prefer it or for those who live outside of the geographic area. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship turmoil? We can help!
We're a group of experienced, trained, and professional counsellors who serve the mid-island area and beyond. We also provide online services for those who prefer it or for those who live outside of the geographic area. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship turmoil? We can help!
![Photo of Gina Janzen - Gina Janzen Psychology Services, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476c0fd8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working as a registered psychologist since 2008. It's important to me to create a safe, caring respectful environment where anyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome. The relationship between us is one of the most important factors in determining how helpful counselling with me will be. Clients often come to me with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, difficulties with life transitions, and grief or loss. We will work together to develop a plan to deal effectively with the issues that bring you to see me. (Can also contact by Fax: 250.984.0859)
I have been working as a registered psychologist since 2008. It's important to me to create a safe, caring respectful environment where anyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome. The relationship between us is one of the most important factors in determining how helpful counselling with me will be. Clients often come to me with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, difficulties with life transitions, and grief or loss. We will work together to develop a plan to deal effectively with the issues that bring you to see me. (Can also contact by Fax: 250.984.0859)
![Photo of Mila E Skeeles, MACP, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70f97d71-8e11-4b79-89bb-700e973309d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Like many people, I grew up in an environment where we didn't talk about our struggles and emotions. From an early age, I learned to keep the difficult things inside and deal with my emotions on my own. In 1999, I became a crisis phone counsellor and realized that I wasn't the only one who had had this kind of experience. I realized that a lot of people felt the way I did and kept their emotions inside. For the first time, I learned how healing it could be to share struggles with supportive people.
Like many people, I grew up in an environment where we didn't talk about our struggles and emotions. From an early age, I learned to keep the difficult things inside and deal with my emotions on my own. In 1999, I became a crisis phone counsellor and realized that I wasn't the only one who had had this kind of experience. I realized that a lot of people felt the way I did and kept their emotions inside. For the first time, I learned how healing it could be to share struggles with supportive people.
![Photo of Erin McPherson, RCC, MA, BA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e995a20d-c8a0-4dda-aea3-d26a99992c3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a counsellor I show up just as I am and offer a genuine, heartfelt, relaxed environment with very little clinical feel. I intend to do this so that you will feel as comfortable walking into my office as you would walking into a friend’s living room. The relationship we will create together will be one of value, tailored to your individual needs and reasons for seeking therapy. I typically work with individuals ages 13 and over with various mental health concerns from struggling with day to day life from home, work, school, to relationships, high level athletes, to addiction and recovery. This is about you and your needs.
As a counsellor I show up just as I am and offer a genuine, heartfelt, relaxed environment with very little clinical feel. I intend to do this so that you will feel as comfortable walking into my office as you would walking into a friend’s living room. The relationship we will create together will be one of value, tailored to your individual needs and reasons for seeking therapy. I typically work with individuals ages 13 and over with various mental health concerns from struggling with day to day life from home, work, school, to relationships, high level athletes, to addiction and recovery. This is about you and your needs.
![Photo of Lisa Bylsma, MEd, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1a3e667-b57b-457d-8cad-6e3b7d7f120c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. Available for in-person sessions in Nanaimo or virtual sessions anywhere in BC. - After over 12 years working as a counsellor within government and non-profit organizations, I have decided to open my own practice. In my years of working with people, I have come to strongly believe that people and their problems make sense. I can help you understand your struggles, your emotions, and yourself. I aim to understand you holistically, including your complex life. I strive to listen deeply, to be genuine, and to really see you.
Accepting new clients. Available for in-person sessions in Nanaimo or virtual sessions anywhere in BC. - After over 12 years working as a counsellor within government and non-profit organizations, I have decided to open my own practice. In my years of working with people, I have come to strongly believe that people and their problems make sense. I can help you understand your struggles, your emotions, and yourself. I aim to understand you holistically, including your complex life. I strive to listen deeply, to be genuine, and to really see you.
![Photo of Catherine Franz - Sitka Counselling, BSc, MPH, RTC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08e2ade1-bc51-40f7-a4f0-f2185c34d487/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counselling can help individuals, couples and families in times of challenge by offering a judgement free space to be heard, explore solutions, expand perspectives and create the space for healing to occur. Clients seek counselling when they are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, relationship challenges, issues with trust and communication, infidelity and or conflict management. We believe effective therapy is relationship-driven, and invite you to start on a journey where together we face the challenges or struggles you experience.
Counselling can help individuals, couples and families in times of challenge by offering a judgement free space to be heard, explore solutions, expand perspectives and create the space for healing to occur. Clients seek counselling when they are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, relationship challenges, issues with trust and communication, infidelity and or conflict management. We believe effective therapy is relationship-driven, and invite you to start on a journey where together we face the challenges or struggles you experience.
![Photo of Jade Seabrook - Vancouver Island Therapy, MA, RCC, CSAT, RSW, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31e30f86-c379-41bd-bcda-91c3e9faaee7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vancouver Island Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladysmith, BC V9G (Online Only)
Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria.
Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria.
![Photo of Paola Lake, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a08d0fc-b585-4e4d-971a-1a82f9de7dd5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paola Lake
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladysmith, BC V9G (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Therapy approaches I offer include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), hypnosis, solution-focussed, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
I enjoy helping individuals create positive change in their lives and dissolve barriers that interfere with personal success. Therapy provides opportunities to learn how to dissolve troublesome emotions that inter with quality of life and the ability to enjoy the present moment. As a therapist, I enjoy helping people overcome a variety of emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, addictions, trauma, grief, pain management, low self-esteem and interpersonal problems. I help people access their inner strength to help cope with life's challenges and I provide coaching for goal achievement.
Therapy approaches I offer include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), hypnosis, solution-focussed, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
I enjoy helping individuals create positive change in their lives and dissolve barriers that interfere with personal success. Therapy provides opportunities to learn how to dissolve troublesome emotions that inter with quality of life and the ability to enjoy the present moment. As a therapist, I enjoy helping people overcome a variety of emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, addictions, trauma, grief, pain management, low self-esteem and interpersonal problems. I help people access their inner strength to help cope with life's challenges and I provide coaching for goal achievement.
![Photo of Trishia Unrau, MA, MS, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b6ce075-e303-4368-8648-c0795d70bf1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trishia Unrau
Counsellor, MA, MS, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladysmith, BC V9G
Not accepting new clients
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective treatment for PTSD, trauma, anxiety (including phobias, panic attacks and performance anxiety) as well as depression.
Not currently accepting new clients. I specialize in EMDR and Art Therapy/Expressive Arts Therapy with adults. I am also trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. Expressive Arts Therapy uses all the art forms including visual art, movement, music, theatre and writing. It is a gentle approach where internal resources are highlighted. It is a way to express, contain and problem solve difficult events and emotions. No art experience necessary.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective treatment for PTSD, trauma, anxiety (including phobias, panic attacks and performance anxiety) as well as depression.
Not currently accepting new clients. I specialize in EMDR and Art Therapy/Expressive Arts Therapy with adults. I am also trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. Expressive Arts Therapy uses all the art forms including visual art, movement, music, theatre and writing. It is a gentle approach where internal resources are highlighted. It is a way to express, contain and problem solve difficult events and emotions. No art experience necessary.
![Photo of Veronica Harris, MACP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c175ade-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Harris
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladysmith, BC V9G
Not accepting new clients
In my practice I value the opportunity to work with individuals who are experiencing grief and loss, depression and anxiety, parenting and family challenges, and the impacts of trauma. As a clinical counsellor and a mother I offer support to women throughout motherhood, addressing concerns for postpartum depression and anxiety, transitioning to motherhood, intimate partner challenges, burnout, pregnancy and postpartum loss, and processing birth trauma. I work in collaboration with the client to explore the issues and to support their emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
In my practice I value the opportunity to work with individuals who are experiencing grief and loss, depression and anxiety, parenting and family challenges, and the impacts of trauma. As a clinical counsellor and a mother I offer support to women throughout motherhood, addressing concerns for postpartum depression and anxiety, transitioning to motherhood, intimate partner challenges, burnout, pregnancy and postpartum loss, and processing birth trauma. I work in collaboration with the client to explore the issues and to support their emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Rick Stordeur, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b67955e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR as a way of promoting change.
At the deepest level, you want to be seen, understood and accepted. And then you want partnership and support as you work on changing your life. Are you sad too much? Struggling? Fearful? Do you give yourself a hard time? Perhaps right now is the time -- the time to take yourself on as a project. I work with traumatic grief and loss — with some of the most painful experiences people endure.
I am trained in EMDR as a way of promoting change.
At the deepest level, you want to be seen, understood and accepted. And then you want partnership and support as you work on changing your life. Are you sad too much? Struggling? Fearful? Do you give yourself a hard time? Perhaps right now is the time -- the time to take yourself on as a project. I work with traumatic grief and loss — with some of the most painful experiences people endure.
See more therapy options for Ladysmith
Nearby EMDR Counsellors Searches for Ladysmith
- Delta
- Duncan
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- Nanaimo
- Nanoose Bay
- Parksville
- Richmond
- Saanichton
- Salt Spring Island
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- Vancouver
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.