EMDR Therapists in Sooke, BC

Photo of Paul Izenberg - Paul Izenberg | Inner Knowing Therapy, BSc, MA
Paul Izenberg | Inner Knowing Therapy
BSc, MA
Verified Verified
Sooke, BC V9Z
Additionally, I have a deep focus on supporting those who are working through trauma, using evidence-based techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), as well as Polyvagal informed practice.
Transform your relationship to yourself, others, and the world around you. I believe that each person is fundamentally whole just as they are, yet painful life experiences, inner conflict, and confusion obscure an innate sense of wellbeing and connection. I support people to heal these wounds, transforming them with curiosity, awareness, and kindness, to make a life you truly want to live. It is never too late, each moment is an opportunity to change.
Additionally, I have a deep focus on supporting those who are working through trauma, using evidence-based techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), as well as Polyvagal informed practice.
Transform your relationship to yourself, others, and the world around you. I believe that each person is fundamentally whole just as they are, yet painful life experiences, inner conflict, and confusion obscure an innate sense of wellbeing and connection. I support people to heal these wounds, transforming them with curiosity, awareness, and kindness, to make a life you truly want to live. It is never too late, each moment is an opportunity to change.
View
Photo of Cheryl Verheyden, MA, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Cheryl Verheyden
Counsellor, MA, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V9Z  (Online Only)
My approach to counselling is collaborative and flexible to suit the needs of each individual client, drawing on training and wisdom from Somatic Experiencing, Expressive Arts Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR, and Mindfulness.
We all face various challenges that can impact our ability to connect with others, feel safe within ourselves, and be fully present in our lives. I am passionate about helping people uncover their unique personal strengths, heal their nervous systems, connect with their intuition, increase creativity, and move toward a more fulfilling and peaceful life as their authentic selves. I support individuals navigating various challenges, including stress, anxiety, self-doubt, boundaries, grief and loss, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting, relationship issues, domestic violence, and childhood trauma
My approach to counselling is collaborative and flexible to suit the needs of each individual client, drawing on training and wisdom from Somatic Experiencing, Expressive Arts Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR, and Mindfulness.
We all face various challenges that can impact our ability to connect with others, feel safe within ourselves, and be fully present in our lives. I am passionate about helping people uncover their unique personal strengths, heal their nervous systems, connect with their intuition, increase creativity, and move toward a more fulfilling and peaceful life as their authentic selves. I support individuals navigating various challenges, including stress, anxiety, self-doubt, boundaries, grief and loss, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting, relationship issues, domestic violence, and childhood trauma
(548) 457-1256 View (548) 457-1256
Photo of Julie Jay - Julie Jay - Inner Knowing Therapy, BA, MA, MACP, RCC, CCC
Julie Jay - Inner Knowing Therapy
BA, MA, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Sooke, BC V9Z
I specialize in the treatment of trauma through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS Level 1 Trained).
I believe that each person is fundamentally whole and good just as they are, yet painful life experiences, inner conflict, and confusion obscure our innate sense of wellbeing and connection. I support you to heal these wounds, gently transforming them with compassion, to help you achieve the life you always wanted to live. I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. In particular, I work with clients with trauma to let go of past painful experiences and memories to live more fully in the present. I also enjoy working with the BIPOC community integrating a person's diverse experiences, culture, or spirituality into therapy.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS Level 1 Trained).
I believe that each person is fundamentally whole and good just as they are, yet painful life experiences, inner conflict, and confusion obscure our innate sense of wellbeing and connection. I support you to heal these wounds, gently transforming them with compassion, to help you achieve the life you always wanted to live. I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. In particular, I work with clients with trauma to let go of past painful experiences and memories to live more fully in the present. I also enjoy working with the BIPOC community integrating a person's diverse experiences, culture, or spirituality into therapy.
(343) 342-1342 View (343) 342-1342
Photo of Heather Thrasher, BSW, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Heather Thrasher
Counsellor, BSW, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V0S
I am trained in various evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR and use a humanistic approach in my work.
Relationships are built at the speed of trust and I believe the relationship created between therapist and client is the foundational component in the therapeutic process. I bring 15 years of experience working with families and individuals in various capacities and create a treatment plan specific to your individual needs. I identify as a female from a mixed ancestry- European/French/Indigenous, and honour the ability to work and play on the traditional lands and territory of the ɬaʔamɩn Peoples. I'm grateful to be able to walk alongside you and support you on your journey.
I am trained in various evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR and use a humanistic approach in my work.
Relationships are built at the speed of trust and I believe the relationship created between therapist and client is the foundational component in the therapeutic process. I bring 15 years of experience working with families and individuals in various capacities and create a treatment plan specific to your individual needs. I identify as a female from a mixed ancestry- European/French/Indigenous, and honour the ability to work and play on the traditional lands and territory of the ɬaʔamɩn Peoples. I'm grateful to be able to walk alongside you and support you on your journey.
(778) 488-9402 View (778) 488-9402
Photo of Kelly Houlahan, BA, MACP, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Kelly Houlahan
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V9Z
I offer a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR).
Welcome! I offer a supportive and personalized approach tailored to you and/or your child's needs and goals. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families, helping to navigate challenges such as anxiety, trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. Together, we can build resilience, develop effective coping skills, and foster positive relationships. I also provide guidance on stress management and enhancing life skills. My goal is to create a nurturing environment where you can feel understood and equipped to thrive.
I offer a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR).
Welcome! I offer a supportive and personalized approach tailored to you and/or your child's needs and goals. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families, helping to navigate challenges such as anxiety, trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. Together, we can build resilience, develop effective coping skills, and foster positive relationships. I also provide guidance on stress management and enhancing life skills. My goal is to create a nurturing environment where you can feel understood and equipped to thrive.
(343) 453-4246 View (343) 453-4246
Photo of Tara Munro - Sea to Tree Health & Wellness , RCC, CCC, RSW, PhD, RPsych, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sea to Tree Health & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, CCC, RSW, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Sooke, BC V9Z
We are a group of Registered Clinical Counsellors, Registered Social Workers, and other health & wellness providers. This month we are highlighting Annamarie! "As an intern, I am in the process of finishing up the final stages of my master’s degree in counselling through Yorkville University. Although I have a background in teaching languages, I have spent the past few years providing Neurofeedback treatments to those suffering from mood problems, cognitive issues, and PTSD.
We are a group of Registered Clinical Counsellors, Registered Social Workers, and other health & wellness providers. This month we are highlighting Annamarie! "As an intern, I am in the process of finishing up the final stages of my master’s degree in counselling through Yorkville University. Although I have a background in teaching languages, I have spent the past few years providing Neurofeedback treatments to those suffering from mood problems, cognitive issues, and PTSD.
(778) 765-3477 View (778) 765-3477
Photo of Samantha Hellwig, BA, MA, RCC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Samantha Hellwig
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V9Z  (Online Only)
Have you tried therapy before and it felt nice to vent, but didn’t feel like it helped long-term? Do you find that you’re self-aware, or want to be, but still feel anxious or doubt yourself? Would you like someone to help you feel better mentally and emotionally even though it might not always feel possible? Are you interested in figuring out the issue at the root of the problem? Together we can manage the stress, anxiety, and disconnect you feel with yourself to move towards more meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. You don’t have to feel this way anymore.
Have you tried therapy before and it felt nice to vent, but didn’t feel like it helped long-term? Do you find that you’re self-aware, or want to be, but still feel anxious or doubt yourself? Would you like someone to help you feel better mentally and emotionally even though it might not always feel possible? Are you interested in figuring out the issue at the root of the problem? Together we can manage the stress, anxiety, and disconnect you feel with yourself to move towards more meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. You don’t have to feel this way anymore.
(431) 400-9483 View (431) 400-9483
Photo of Nicoleta Mennie, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Nicoleta Mennie
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V9Z
Welcome! I am a registered clinical counsellor providing services in the province of British Columbia. In my practice, I am committed to meeting you exactly where you are on your journey. I understand that each individual's path is unique, and I value the importance of creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself. Together we will identify your goals and build a path that leads you toward a life that resonates with your authentic self. We will recognize what is already working in your life and what is getting in your way of where you wish to be.
Welcome! I am a registered clinical counsellor providing services in the province of British Columbia. In my practice, I am committed to meeting you exactly where you are on your journey. I understand that each individual's path is unique, and I value the importance of creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself. Together we will identify your goals and build a path that leads you toward a life that resonates with your authentic self. We will recognize what is already working in your life and what is getting in your way of where you wish to be.
(579) 300-3709 View (579) 300-3709
Photo of Carin Kietaibl, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Carin Kietaibl
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Sooke, BC V9Z
Hello! I am a registered psychologist with experience working with adults, children and families. I find my work rewarding and my clients inspiring. I work from an integrated perspective to best meet client needs. I have worked in different counselling roles for over ten years, and have experience with a range of concerns, including trauma, stress, coping with life changes, depression and anxiety. I also have experience helping clients work through family relationship struggles and child behaviour concerns, and to improve life balance.
Hello! I am a registered psychologist with experience working with adults, children and families. I find my work rewarding and my clients inspiring. I work from an integrated perspective to best meet client needs. I have worked in different counselling roles for over ten years, and have experience with a range of concerns, including trauma, stress, coping with life changes, depression and anxiety. I also have experience helping clients work through family relationship struggles and child behaviour concerns, and to improve life balance.
(778) 401-0708 View (778) 401-0708
Photo of Rhian Gilbert, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Rhian Gilbert
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V0S
When life's challenges become too overwhelming, our mind & body can feel stuck, out of control, & alone in our experience. You may feel disconnected from yourself or others around you, numb to your emotions, or in a constant state of anxiousness. This pain can start in early childhood & is built on throughout our life, or it can be a single event that destabilizes our internal resources. It’s important to remember these responses are normal adaptations by the mind & body to abnormal situations.
When life's challenges become too overwhelming, our mind & body can feel stuck, out of control, & alone in our experience. You may feel disconnected from yourself or others around you, numb to your emotions, or in a constant state of anxiousness. This pain can start in early childhood & is built on throughout our life, or it can be a single event that destabilizes our internal resources. It’s important to remember these responses are normal adaptations by the mind & body to abnormal situations.
(587) 848-4456 View (587) 848-4456
Photo of Alex Roberts, MA, CCC, RCC, Counsellor
Alex Roberts
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V0S
Feeling stuck? Out of options? Not sure what to do next? When you're feeling anxious and uncertain, or going through big changes in your life, you don't have to figure it out all by yourself. Chances are, you're feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the people you care about - including yourself. Whether you're dealing with relationship difficulties, struggling with self-worth, trying to cope with a new diagnosis, or trying to figure out what the problem even is, you don't have to go through it alone.
Feeling stuck? Out of options? Not sure what to do next? When you're feeling anxious and uncertain, or going through big changes in your life, you don't have to figure it out all by yourself. Chances are, you're feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the people you care about - including yourself. Whether you're dealing with relationship difficulties, struggling with self-worth, trying to cope with a new diagnosis, or trying to figure out what the problem even is, you don't have to go through it alone.
(249) 486-6845 View (249) 486-6845
Photo of Yana Petronis, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Yana Petronis
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sooke, BC V0S
I approach therapy as a creative and collaborative process that involves the whole being of both the therapist and client. In order to lead fulfilling, joyful lives, humans need access to the intelligence available through their physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual selves. Trauma, shame, and fear can disrupt our ability to access and experience these aspects of self fully, and can leave us feeling dissatisfied with our lives. By working directly with clients' felt sense of their bodies, as well as their stories and their feelings, I support clients in deepening their relationship to all aspects of themselves.
I approach therapy as a creative and collaborative process that involves the whole being of both the therapist and client. In order to lead fulfilling, joyful lives, humans need access to the intelligence available through their physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual selves. Trauma, shame, and fear can disrupt our ability to access and experience these aspects of self fully, and can leave us feeling dissatisfied with our lives. By working directly with clients' felt sense of their bodies, as well as their stories and their feelings, I support clients in deepening their relationship to all aspects of themselves.
(778) 770-0839 View (778) 770-0839

Online Therapists

Photo of Christie Behrisch Kumar, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Christie Behrisch Kumar
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7G
Working from a strengths-based perspective, I may utilize motivational interviewing, mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused techniques, and EMDR to help clients make lasting changes.
Hi, I'm Christie. I'm so glad you're here. Whether you are searching for relief from grief or trauma, hoping to learn some coping or executive functioning skills, wanting to improve your relationship, or looking for a safe, non-judgmental place to share or process what's going on for you, I would be happy to work with you as you takes steps towards healing change.
Working from a strengths-based perspective, I may utilize motivational interviewing, mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused techniques, and EMDR to help clients make lasting changes.
Hi, I'm Christie. I'm so glad you're here. Whether you are searching for relief from grief or trauma, hoping to learn some coping or executive functioning skills, wanting to improve your relationship, or looking for a safe, non-judgmental place to share or process what's going on for you, I would be happy to work with you as you takes steps towards healing change.
(778) 608-3722 View (778) 608-3722
Photo of Jennifer McIntosh - Jennifer McIntosh Counselling, MA,  RCC, Counsellor
Jennifer McIntosh Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Comox, BC V9M  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm currently offering online/telehealth/zoom sessions as I have relocated to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, from North Vancouver, BC. I work with individuals and couples, assisting you to navigate challenging circumstances with growth and connection, both to oneself and with others. I have 15 years experience in diverse clinical settings with specialities in assisting you through Life transitions and any presenting issues. I specialize in offering EMDR, CBT and MBSR as well as The Developmental Model re Couples Counselling. Grow your life in meaningful ways with these approaches!
Hello! I'm currently offering online/telehealth/zoom sessions as I have relocated to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, from North Vancouver, BC. I work with individuals and couples, assisting you to navigate challenging circumstances with growth and connection, both to oneself and with others. I have 15 years experience in diverse clinical settings with specialities in assisting you through Life transitions and any presenting issues. I specialize in offering EMDR, CBT and MBSR as well as The Developmental Model re Couples Counselling. Grow your life in meaningful ways with these approaches!
(226) 406-5072 View (226) 406-5072
Photo of Gabriella Anderson - The Trauma Therapy Group, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
The Trauma Therapy Group
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6H
EMDR is often incredibly effective for supporting lasting healing.
Are you overwhelmed by memories that won't fade? Do nightmares frequently disrupt your sleep? Are you anxious or depressed and can't figure out why? Are your relationships strained because of past experiences? Are you struggling to move beyond grief? Trauma overwhelms the mind and body and can block access to presence and authenticity. EMDR Therapy tailored to your needs and a trauma-sensitive approach can clear up nervous system blocks so that you can gain a sense of safety, ease, creativity, connection, and - ultimately - freedom. Reach out today.
EMDR is often incredibly effective for supporting lasting healing.
Are you overwhelmed by memories that won't fade? Do nightmares frequently disrupt your sleep? Are you anxious or depressed and can't figure out why? Are your relationships strained because of past experiences? Are you struggling to move beyond grief? Trauma overwhelms the mind and body and can block access to presence and authenticity. EMDR Therapy tailored to your needs and a trauma-sensitive approach can clear up nervous system blocks so that you can gain a sense of safety, ease, creativity, connection, and - ultimately - freedom. Reach out today.
(604) 200-7422 View (604) 200-7422
Photo of Spencer Dawson, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Spencer Dawson
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3Z
My approach draws from somatic attachment, attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology and eye-movement desensitization reprocessing ( EMDR).
Our past experiences impact us in ways we may not even realize. Our nervous system jumps in to protect us in ways that it has helped us survive in the past. This often prevents us from operating how we wish to. Working to reconnect the body with the mind to our present, adult self can help resolve this disconnection. I believe that we all deserve to experience connection, empathy, attunement and safety and that this is often the missing piece.
My approach draws from somatic attachment, attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology and eye-movement desensitization reprocessing ( EMDR).
Our past experiences impact us in ways we may not even realize. Our nervous system jumps in to protect us in ways that it has helped us survive in the past. This often prevents us from operating how we wish to. Working to reconnect the body with the mind to our present, adult self can help resolve this disconnection. I believe that we all deserve to experience connection, empathy, attunement and safety and that this is often the missing piece.
(778) 760-9063 View (778) 760-9063
Photo of Sonnie Marsh, MA, BEd, Counsellor
Sonnie Marsh
Counsellor, MA, BEd
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8N
You may find that my training and experience with EMDR, Cultural Safety, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness support your healing.
Life's journey can be filled with emotional challenges that feel overwhelming. Have you experienced distressing events that continue to affect your daily life? Are you facing difficulties in your relationships with family, friends, partners, or in the workplace? Does worry or sadness play a big role in your life? You may feel alone or feel you have tried to take care of yourself, and it just isn't working. I am here to support you through the tougher times in your life and celebrate your successes during your healing path.
You may find that my training and experience with EMDR, Cultural Safety, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness support your healing.
Life's journey can be filled with emotional challenges that feel overwhelming. Have you experienced distressing events that continue to affect your daily life? Are you facing difficulties in your relationships with family, friends, partners, or in the workplace? Does worry or sadness play a big role in your life? You may feel alone or feel you have tried to take care of yourself, and it just isn't working. I am here to support you through the tougher times in your life and celebrate your successes during your healing path.
(438) 256-3482 View (438) 256-3482
Photo of Ashley Greensmyth, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Ashley Greensmyth
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5E  (Online Only)
Therapy styles I use include: Adlerian therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, Lifespan Integration and Gottman Method for couples.
Hello, I'm your online therapist! I largely work with millennials— go-getters, people pleasers, and anxious types. You might have noticed that the "roadmap of life" doesn't really apply these days, so you're out there navigating uncharted territory with your own compass and notebook. I can help. My ideal clients are people who want to overcome anxiety, manage stress, learn to set strong boundaries, improve their relationships, and reclaim their self-worth to build confidence. If any of this resonates with you (regardless of generation), you might want to work with me.
Therapy styles I use include: Adlerian therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, Lifespan Integration and Gottman Method for couples.
Hello, I'm your online therapist! I largely work with millennials— go-getters, people pleasers, and anxious types. You might have noticed that the "roadmap of life" doesn't really apply these days, so you're out there navigating uncharted territory with your own compass and notebook. I can help. My ideal clients are people who want to overcome anxiety, manage stress, learn to set strong boundaries, improve their relationships, and reclaim their self-worth to build confidence. If any of this resonates with you (regardless of generation), you might want to work with me.
(604) 305-3147 View (604) 305-3147
Photo of Thea Jardine, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Thea Jardine
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
In the past few years, I have added EMDR, Gottman, and Attachment-focused EMDR to my offerings.
Counselling is a collaborative process of exploring the difficulties (stress, emotions, experiences) that the client brings forward in session. Counsellors promote change by helping the client to focus on the feelings, thoughts, behaviours, and experiences that are maintaining barriers to attaining goals. Counsellors are there to “do with” not “do for.” The client is the one that leads the way, while the counsellor acts as a guide or support. My goal is to help you find your voice and your path to being your favorite version of you!
In the past few years, I have added EMDR, Gottman, and Attachment-focused EMDR to my offerings.
Counselling is a collaborative process of exploring the difficulties (stress, emotions, experiences) that the client brings forward in session. Counsellors promote change by helping the client to focus on the feelings, thoughts, behaviours, and experiences that are maintaining barriers to attaining goals. Counsellors are there to “do with” not “do for.” The client is the one that leads the way, while the counsellor acts as a guide or support. My goal is to help you find your voice and your path to being your favorite version of you!
Photo of Lei Belinda Chen, MA, MEd, RCC, EMDR, Counsellor
Lei Belinda Chen
Counsellor, MA, MEd, RCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
I am a Certified EMDR therapist, also a Certified PC (Progressive Counting) therapist, trained in DBT, CBT-Insomnia, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Grief Counselling.
Addiction, eating disorder, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, phobia, and insomnia etc. are most often symptoms, but not the root of the problem. Very often, through childhood and adulthood, many traumatic experiences (such as bullying and abuse) left us with psychological injuries. And we use various above-listed symptoms to deal with experiences that made us feel sad or scared, even for short-term. The real healing/solution is, therefore, to clean the injuries, and develop new coping skills. This approach also applies to unexpected traumatic life experiences, such as accidents, natural disasters, illness, and grief.
I am a Certified EMDR therapist, also a Certified PC (Progressive Counting) therapist, trained in DBT, CBT-Insomnia, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Grief Counselling.
Addiction, eating disorder, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, phobia, and insomnia etc. are most often symptoms, but not the root of the problem. Very often, through childhood and adulthood, many traumatic experiences (such as bullying and abuse) left us with psychological injuries. And we use various above-listed symptoms to deal with experiences that made us feel sad or scared, even for short-term. The real healing/solution is, therefore, to clean the injuries, and develop new coping skills. This approach also applies to unexpected traumatic life experiences, such as accidents, natural disasters, illness, and grief.
(778) 901-2263 View (778) 901-2263

See more therapy options for Sooke

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.