EMDR Therapists in Maple Ridge, BC

Photo of Diviam Gounden, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Diviam Gounden
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
I use a personalized multi-dimensional approach, together with EMDR and/or OEI to treat trauma and PTSD.
Enlighten Counselling & Psychotherapy was formed to provide counselling services to anyone needing assistance in various aspects of life. These include transitional life experiences, mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, etc., and/or help addressing issues of stress, self-esteem, peer pressure, social isolation etc. The focus is you, the client. Your needs are important. I work collaboratively with you to find ways to overcome your concerns and reach your goals.
I use a personalized multi-dimensional approach, together with EMDR and/or OEI to treat trauma and PTSD.
Enlighten Counselling & Psychotherapy was formed to provide counselling services to anyone needing assistance in various aspects of life. These include transitional life experiences, mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, etc., and/or help addressing issues of stress, self-esteem, peer pressure, social isolation etc. The focus is you, the client. Your needs are important. I work collaboratively with you to find ways to overcome your concerns and reach your goals.
(604) 409-8486 View (604) 409-8486
Photo of Jasmine Alexander, MA, RPC, RCC, CCC, CCPCPR, Counsellor
Jasmine Alexander
Counsellor, MA, RPC, RCC, CCC, CCPCPR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
My advanced certification and training in CBT and EMDR are specialized treatment modalities that are HIGHLY EFFECTIVE in bringing forth change and relief.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
My advanced certification and training in CBT and EMDR are specialized treatment modalities that are HIGHLY EFFECTIVE in bringing forth change and relief.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
(604) 477-7447 View (604) 477-7447
Photo of Tracy Wilkins, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Tracy Wilkins
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
I am dedicated to guiding youth, adults, couples, and families towards harmony and a better quality of life. Drawing from 23 years of expertise, I have supported numerous individuals and couples through challenging life transitions including divorce, addiction, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and anxiety. My specialized focus extends to providing compassionate assistance to families and individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Incorporating proven methods such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT into my therapy approach I create an individualized approach.
I am dedicated to guiding youth, adults, couples, and families towards harmony and a better quality of life. Drawing from 23 years of expertise, I have supported numerous individuals and couples through challenging life transitions including divorce, addiction, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and anxiety. My specialized focus extends to providing compassionate assistance to families and individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Incorporating proven methods such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT into my therapy approach I create an individualized approach.
(604) 670-7125 View (604) 670-7125
Photo of Kirsten Anne Boulier - Healing Quest Counselling, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Quest Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
My primary method of treatment is attachment-based EMDR.
If you’re feeling tired, stuck, and alone - struggling with issues from the past and worries about the future, know that healing IS possible. Being held back by anxiety, depression, or relationship issues causes unnecessary suffering. Together we can uncover and resolve sources of unhelpful patterns so you can adjust and move forward. Imagine - no longer feeling stuck, no longer believing something is deeply wrong with you. Imagine living fully.
My primary method of treatment is attachment-based EMDR.
If you’re feeling tired, stuck, and alone - struggling with issues from the past and worries about the future, know that healing IS possible. Being held back by anxiety, depression, or relationship issues causes unnecessary suffering. Together we can uncover and resolve sources of unhelpful patterns so you can adjust and move forward. Imagine - no longer feeling stuck, no longer believing something is deeply wrong with you. Imagine living fully.
(548) 486-5006 View (548) 486-5006
Photo of H Elise Reeh, PhD, Psychologist
H Elise Reeh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
Methods I use are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Strength/Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Emotion Focused Therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a Registered Psychologist (since 1995) with training and experience in clinical (& forensic) psychology. I provide caring & compassionate therapy using the most effective therapies that are matched to your needs. Psychotherapy involves developing a therapeutic relationship in which you feel at ease, set goals, and choose methods to achieve these goals. People tend to overcome or manage issues after they develop understanding of what is amiss, develop motivation (if needed), learn healthy expression of emotion, and learn to examine and confront thoughts and emotions while practicing new behaviours.
Methods I use are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Strength/Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Emotion Focused Therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a Registered Psychologist (since 1995) with training and experience in clinical (& forensic) psychology. I provide caring & compassionate therapy using the most effective therapies that are matched to your needs. Psychotherapy involves developing a therapeutic relationship in which you feel at ease, set goals, and choose methods to achieve these goals. People tend to overcome or manage issues after they develop understanding of what is amiss, develop motivation (if needed), learn healthy expression of emotion, and learn to examine and confront thoughts and emotions while practicing new behaviours.
(604) 556-4700 View (604) 556-4700
Photo of Darcee Cooper, BSW, MSW, RSW, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darcee Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
Waitlist for new clients
I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
I’ve been a practicing registered social worker since 2002 and hold both RSW and RCC counselling designations. I provide individual counselling to adults and seniors who are struggling with a wide range of concerns including symptoms from trauma, anxiety, low-motivation, fluctuating moods, workplace burnout and coping with chronic pain or chronic medical condition side effects. I primarily utilize trauma-focused therapies which tend to provide longer lasting relief of symptoms rather than relying on talk therapy. My clients tend to eventually move towards feeling emotionally consistent, more calm and start enjoying life again.
I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
I’ve been a practicing registered social worker since 2002 and hold both RSW and RCC counselling designations. I provide individual counselling to adults and seniors who are struggling with a wide range of concerns including symptoms from trauma, anxiety, low-motivation, fluctuating moods, workplace burnout and coping with chronic pain or chronic medical condition side effects. I primarily utilize trauma-focused therapies which tend to provide longer lasting relief of symptoms rather than relying on talk therapy. My clients tend to eventually move towards feeling emotionally consistent, more calm and start enjoying life again.
(587) 875-0071 View (587) 875-0071
Photo of Mobina Hasan, MBM, MSW, RCSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Mobina Hasan
Registered Social Worker, MBM, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
That’s why I use counselling techniques that work like CBT and EMDR.
Hi, I’m Mobina Hasan, the trauma counsellor who helps you get unstuck, feel like yourself again and get your future back. I’m a Registered Clinical Social Worker, Clinical Counsellor and Traumatologist and I’ve been helping clients reach their goals since 2010. When you come into my office for the first time, that’s what we talk about first: your goals. Whether you’re stressed, depressed, anxious or suffering the effects of trauma, that’s not why you’ll walk into my office. You’ll step into my therapy office because you’re ready for change.
That’s why I use counselling techniques that work like CBT and EMDR.
Hi, I’m Mobina Hasan, the trauma counsellor who helps you get unstuck, feel like yourself again and get your future back. I’m a Registered Clinical Social Worker, Clinical Counsellor and Traumatologist and I’ve been helping clients reach their goals since 2010. When you come into my office for the first time, that’s what we talk about first: your goals. Whether you’re stressed, depressed, anxious or suffering the effects of trauma, that’s not why you’ll walk into my office. You’ll step into my therapy office because you’re ready for change.
(778) 718-8656 View (778) 718-8656
Photo of Suki O Huallachain, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Suki O Huallachain
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
I utilize EMDR, Brainspotting ACT, CBT, and EFT.
Are you navigating a life transition & feeling uncertain about the next steps? You may have a vision for where you want to go but find yourself weighed down by complex emotions like anxiety, shame, guilt, or self-doubt. This could be the perfect place to start our journey together. I specialize in supporting individuals through life's pivotal moments, helping you make sense of the emotional complexities that come with change. Whether you're facing the aftermath of a breakup, work burnout, school -work transition,addiction recovery. planning a family, navigating cultural challenges,or exploring your identity, I’m here to empower you.
I utilize EMDR, Brainspotting ACT, CBT, and EFT.
Are you navigating a life transition & feeling uncertain about the next steps? You may have a vision for where you want to go but find yourself weighed down by complex emotions like anxiety, shame, guilt, or self-doubt. This could be the perfect place to start our journey together. I specialize in supporting individuals through life's pivotal moments, helping you make sense of the emotional complexities that come with change. Whether you're facing the aftermath of a breakup, work burnout, school -work transition,addiction recovery. planning a family, navigating cultural challenges,or exploring your identity, I’m here to empower you.
(343) 313-1451 View (343) 313-1451
Photo of Kayla Claire Schuurmans, RCC, MA, Counsellor
Kayla Claire Schuurmans
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2W  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR).
Situations can come up that are overwhelming and debilitating; this does not mean you are weak or lesser than for struggling with your mental health. My approach is to work on a style of therapy most applicable to you. For these reasons and more I don't rely on one tool or model of therapy. My method is to trickle in different areas of psychology simultaneously. If something isn't working for you we implement another strategy. The goal is to get to the heart of what is distressing you and what is preventing you from living a life more in line with your goals and values.
I am trained in Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR).
Situations can come up that are overwhelming and debilitating; this does not mean you are weak or lesser than for struggling with your mental health. My approach is to work on a style of therapy most applicable to you. For these reasons and more I don't rely on one tool or model of therapy. My method is to trickle in different areas of psychology simultaneously. If something isn't working for you we implement another strategy. The goal is to get to the heart of what is distressing you and what is preventing you from living a life more in line with your goals and values.
(825) 251-9080 View (825) 251-9080
Photo of Dr. Maya Misic - Trauma and Stress Counselling, PhD, RCC, MPCC
Trauma and Stress Counselling
PhD, RCC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
I often use proven EMDR, IFS, CBT and DBT approaches in individual counselling modality.
Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma or you need couples or family counselling, I can support you. You don't have to be alone in this journey.  We can look into the cause of your problems and process the issues that are standing in the way of you reaching your full potential. Let me help you learn useful coping strategies to better manage your stress, anxiety and trauma.
I often use proven EMDR, IFS, CBT and DBT approaches in individual counselling modality.
Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma or you need couples or family counselling, I can support you. You don't have to be alone in this journey.  We can look into the cause of your problems and process the issues that are standing in the way of you reaching your full potential. Let me help you learn useful coping strategies to better manage your stress, anxiety and trauma.
(778) 718-8792 View (778) 718-8792
Photo of Ryan Newman, RCC, Counsellor
Ryan Newman
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
My counselling orientation is informed by the trainings I have completed, particularly Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am in the business of helping people become themselves. In other words, I think that every person has a unique and beautiful core self that holds the blueprint for a deeply fulfilling and meaningful life. However, life can be painful and sometimes we need to move away from who we are in order to survive. It is my passion and joy to meet people in these places, work towards understanding our defenses, and together move towards whatever lies beneath. I’m honoured that you would consider inviting me to join you in this journey. I consider it a sacred privilege to discover what it means to live fully and freely.
My counselling orientation is informed by the trainings I have completed, particularly Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am in the business of helping people become themselves. In other words, I think that every person has a unique and beautiful core self that holds the blueprint for a deeply fulfilling and meaningful life. However, life can be painful and sometimes we need to move away from who we are in order to survive. It is my passion and joy to meet people in these places, work towards understanding our defenses, and together move towards whatever lies beneath. I’m honoured that you would consider inviting me to join you in this journey. I consider it a sacred privilege to discover what it means to live fully and freely.
View
Photo of Jill Craven, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jill Craven
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
Using EMDR and CBT is most effective.
Stress levels, anxiety and depression, anger, grief/loss, feelings of distress and relationships are impacted daily. Counselling can help you to feel physically and emotionally better, you can find relief. By exploring a new understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and processing your experiences, healing happens. I provide a safe and judgment free environment to encourage clients to explore and process their past and current experiences. I integrate therapy styles, so clients can find healing and strength based on their own preferences. I offer EMDR, CBT, and Mindful based therapies.
Using EMDR and CBT is most effective.
Stress levels, anxiety and depression, anger, grief/loss, feelings of distress and relationships are impacted daily. Counselling can help you to feel physically and emotionally better, you can find relief. By exploring a new understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and processing your experiences, healing happens. I provide a safe and judgment free environment to encourage clients to explore and process their past and current experiences. I integrate therapy styles, so clients can find healing and strength based on their own preferences. I offer EMDR, CBT, and Mindful based therapies.
(587) 507-5009 View (587) 507-5009
Photo of Sofia Daulat, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Sofia Daulat
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
Life experiences can leave us feeling stressed, anxious, inadequate and even hopeless. At times we feel lost, as we struggle to navigate the pain and discomfort we are feeling and may be unsure of how to take steps forward. Counselling can be a place where we make space for the painful experiences of the past, our hopes for the future, and embracing all of who we are and hope to be. No matter what difficulty you are facing, there is hope in restoring what feels lost or broken and support for you as you process, heal, grow and find meaning.
Life experiences can leave us feeling stressed, anxious, inadequate and even hopeless. At times we feel lost, as we struggle to navigate the pain and discomfort we are feeling and may be unsure of how to take steps forward. Counselling can be a place where we make space for the painful experiences of the past, our hopes for the future, and embracing all of who we are and hope to be. No matter what difficulty you are facing, there is hope in restoring what feels lost or broken and support for you as you process, heal, grow and find meaning.
(587) 905-8163 View (587) 905-8163
Photo of Samara Kennedy, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Samara Kennedy
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2W  (Online Only)
You deserve to feel good about yourself. Even if that feels completely impossible right now. Even if a mean little gremlin of an inner critic has been telling you otherwise, maybe for your whole life. So many things get in the way when it comes to how we feel about ourselves and our lives - stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, dysfunctional relationships, toxic work environments, isolation, etc. It can feel like a million boulders piling up on top of you until you can't even see which way is up. I've been there and counselling was one of the things that helped me find the light again. The journey is easier with support.
You deserve to feel good about yourself. Even if that feels completely impossible right now. Even if a mean little gremlin of an inner critic has been telling you otherwise, maybe for your whole life. So many things get in the way when it comes to how we feel about ourselves and our lives - stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, dysfunctional relationships, toxic work environments, isolation, etc. It can feel like a million boulders piling up on top of you until you can't even see which way is up. I've been there and counselling was one of the things that helped me find the light again. The journey is easier with support.
(604) 226-6961 View (604) 226-6961
Photo of Dawn Taylor, MCP, RCC, RCC-ACS, Counsellor
Dawn Taylor
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
Coming to counselling takes courage to look deep into ourselves. You are looking to make changes, and perhaps some of those changes are within yourself, and some are with your situation. Let's start with a conversation. It is likely that not many people know or understand why or how your coping mechanisms arose, and often these strategies get in our way. Before we realize it, we're back doing the same thing we've always done and swore we would stop doing a thousand times ago.
Coming to counselling takes courage to look deep into ourselves. You are looking to make changes, and perhaps some of those changes are within yourself, and some are with your situation. Let's start with a conversation. It is likely that not many people know or understand why or how your coping mechanisms arose, and often these strategies get in our way. Before we realize it, we're back doing the same thing we've always done and swore we would stop doing a thousand times ago.
(587) 812-8578 View (587) 812-8578
Photo of Andria Weiser, MAC, CCC, Counsellor
Andria Weiser
Counsellor, MAC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
Andria Weiser is a clinical counsellor providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. Andria is committed to providing competent, caring, and confidential treatment to her clients. Andria uses an integrative and flexible approach in working with her clients. She believes that the relationship and fit between the client and therapist is a significant factor in the success of therapy. She also believes that treatment should be based on the goals of her clients. As such, she draws from several different treatment modalities and theoretical approaches in order to best meet the individual needs of her clients.
Andria Weiser is a clinical counsellor providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. Andria is committed to providing competent, caring, and confidential treatment to her clients. Andria uses an integrative and flexible approach in working with her clients. She believes that the relationship and fit between the client and therapist is a significant factor in the success of therapy. She also believes that treatment should be based on the goals of her clients. As such, she draws from several different treatment modalities and theoretical approaches in order to best meet the individual needs of her clients.
(778) 588-5472 View (778) 588-5472
Photo of Alexandra Bercea, RPC, Counsellor
Alexandra Bercea
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W  (Online Only)
As my client you are the focus of my work, and from the moment you sit down with me I want you to feel supported, safe, and welcome. I work with adults experiencing a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship, couples, sexual addiction, divorce, self-esteem, life transition, personal growth, or simply feeling stuck, out of control, meaningless. My approach to individual therapy combines CBT/ Existential Analysis with concepts including mindfulness, personality, attachment, meaning-making/purpose
As my client you are the focus of my work, and from the moment you sit down with me I want you to feel supported, safe, and welcome. I work with adults experiencing a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship, couples, sexual addiction, divorce, self-esteem, life transition, personal growth, or simply feeling stuck, out of control, meaningless. My approach to individual therapy combines CBT/ Existential Analysis with concepts including mindfulness, personality, attachment, meaning-making/purpose
(647) 696-5798 View (647) 696-5798
Photo of Dr. Farah Haq, PsyD, CCP, RCC, Counsellor
Dr. Farah Haq
Counsellor, PsyD, CCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2X  (Online Only)
I feel it is a privilege to be a therapist. I love my work. I take a creative and collaborative approach in my practice; researching innovative techniques and information to help you make the changes you desire. Both my hours and my methods are flexible and are tailored to the needs of each individual.
I feel it is a privilege to be a therapist. I love my work. I take a creative and collaborative approach in my practice; researching innovative techniques and information to help you make the changes you desire. Both my hours and my methods are flexible and are tailored to the needs of each individual.
(613) 604-0833 View (613) 604-0833
Photo of Lorna Demedeiros - LD Counselling & Consulting, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
LD Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
I specialize in helping children aged 0-12, along with their families. When kiddos experience trauma, their brains do their best to keep them safe, but this often results in behaviours and circumstances that are very challenging. I take a systems-level approach, speaking with family members, school teams, doctors, and whoever else I am given consent to collaborate with, so that all of us can be on the same page about interventions and strategies. If a child sees all of the adults in their world working together to care for them, they thrive. It takes a village to help a family. I hope you'll consider me for your village!
I specialize in helping children aged 0-12, along with their families. When kiddos experience trauma, their brains do their best to keep them safe, but this often results in behaviours and circumstances that are very challenging. I take a systems-level approach, speaking with family members, school teams, doctors, and whoever else I am given consent to collaborate with, so that all of us can be on the same page about interventions and strategies. If a child sees all of the adults in their world working together to care for them, they thrive. It takes a village to help a family. I hope you'll consider me for your village!
(587) 400-3700 View (587) 400-3700
Photo of Christina Radziejewski - Innova Therapy Inc., MA, MEd, MSc, RCC, Counsellor
Innova Therapy Inc.
Counsellor, MA, MEd, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
Immediate weekend and evening availability for new clients in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Cobble Hill and Maple Ridge. We are compassionate, experienced and effective multi-cultural, neuro-diversity affirming Relationship and Trauma counsellors who have served our community for many years. If you are in conflict with the significant people in your life or have experienced a traumatic event in the past that you are still struggling with today, look no further. We will work with you to access your inner resources to heal and to empower you to build healthy, peaceful and loving relationships, and to make meaningful connections with others.
Immediate weekend and evening availability for new clients in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Cobble Hill and Maple Ridge. We are compassionate, experienced and effective multi-cultural, neuro-diversity affirming Relationship and Trauma counsellors who have served our community for many years. If you are in conflict with the significant people in your life or have experienced a traumatic event in the past that you are still struggling with today, look no further. We will work with you to access your inner resources to heal and to empower you to build healthy, peaceful and loving relationships, and to make meaningful connections with others.
(778) 400-1594 View (778) 400-1594
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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.