EMDR Therapists in Paradise, NL
I offer therapeutic services primarily in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) skills.
It can be difficult to live the life you want when your emotions feel overwhelming, and there are effective therapeutic services that can help. I am a registered social worker who has been practicing in the field of mental health and addictions since 2017. I offer services for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma responses, and more. I strive to be intentional, transparent and effective in the services I offer. I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate insight and resiliency in the face of trauma, life changes, mental illness, substance misuse, and systemic barriers.
I offer therapeutic services primarily in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) skills.
It can be difficult to live the life you want when your emotions feel overwhelming, and there are effective therapeutic services that can help. I am a registered social worker who has been practicing in the field of mental health and addictions since 2017. I offer services for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma responses, and more. I strive to be intentional, transparent and effective in the services I offer. I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate insight and resiliency in the face of trauma, life changes, mental illness, substance misuse, and systemic barriers.
Laura Parsons
Counsellor, BSc, MEd, DCP(c), CCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paradise, NL A1L
I'm a Certified Counsellor CCC and Naturopath ND with training in CBT, DBT, Strengths Based, Play Therapy, Perinatal, Postpartum, Infertility, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT, EMDR, and Couples Therapy.
Starting therapy can be overwhelming- I get it! It’s important to me that my practice is a safe and inviting space, trauma informed, and free of judgment. Come in and sit with a complementary refreshment and relax before session. We support children, teens, adults and couples. Whatever your struggle is, you don’t have to be alone. With flexible online booking and virtual therapy, Repose Wellness Collective St. John’s makes it easy to access a team of specialized Counsellors, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), and Registered Psychologists offering ADHD, Autism, Learning and Behaviour Assessment.
I'm a Certified Counsellor CCC and Naturopath ND with training in CBT, DBT, Strengths Based, Play Therapy, Perinatal, Postpartum, Infertility, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT, EMDR, and Couples Therapy.
Starting therapy can be overwhelming- I get it! It’s important to me that my practice is a safe and inviting space, trauma informed, and free of judgment. Come in and sit with a complementary refreshment and relax before session. We support children, teens, adults and couples. Whatever your struggle is, you don’t have to be alone. With flexible online booking and virtual therapy, Repose Wellness Collective St. John’s makes it easy to access a team of specialized Counsellors, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), and Registered Psychologists offering ADHD, Autism, Learning and Behaviour Assessment.
We all experience challenges in life and reaching out for support can be very overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you or your child so that you feel welcome and supported. We will work together to set individualized therapeutic goals that best meet your needs. I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and Naturopath (ND) with training in CBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, Play Therapy, EMDR for trauma and distressing experiences, ERP for OCD, HRT for Trichotillomania & Skin Picking, and Perinatal Mental Health. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, parents/caregivers, and families.
We all experience challenges in life and reaching out for support can be very overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you or your child so that you feel welcome and supported. We will work together to set individualized therapeutic goals that best meet your needs. I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and Naturopath (ND) with training in CBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, Play Therapy, EMDR for trauma and distressing experiences, ERP for OCD, HRT for Trichotillomania & Skin Picking, and Perinatal Mental Health. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, parents/caregivers, and families.
Our SLPs, OTs, and counsellors work with all ages and offer EMDR, Couples, Play Therapy, Equine Assisted Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Groups, etc!.
A specialized and multidisciplinary team of Registered Psychologists, Counsellors, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), and Occupational Therapists (OT). We are dedicated to lifelong learning and bring innovative services to our community. We focus on providing individualized services to you and your family in a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, and accepting environment. We value genuine and authentic therapeutic relationships and prioritize your comfort and experience. We provide best practice standard of care in Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) toddler to adult, ADHD, IDD, and SLD.
Our SLPs, OTs, and counsellors work with all ages and offer EMDR, Couples, Play Therapy, Equine Assisted Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Groups, etc!.
A specialized and multidisciplinary team of Registered Psychologists, Counsellors, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), and Occupational Therapists (OT). We are dedicated to lifelong learning and bring innovative services to our community. We focus on providing individualized services to you and your family in a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, and accepting environment. We value genuine and authentic therapeutic relationships and prioritize your comfort and experience. We provide best practice standard of care in Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) toddler to adult, ADHD, IDD, and SLD.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Paradise, NL A1L (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
Jenni M MacPherson
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Paradise, NL A1L
Not accepting new clients
Update for April 2023: Please connect with me via email due to increased spam associated with the phone application. I love the work that I am able to undertake as a clinical social worker. It is my priority to facilitate the goals of my clients in a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, acknowledging that each person has their own story, requiring personal attention tailored to their needs. I provide both individual and group counselling in the areas of mental health, addictions, concurrent disorders and trauma.
Update for April 2023: Please connect with me via email due to increased spam associated with the phone application. I love the work that I am able to undertake as a clinical social worker. It is my priority to facilitate the goals of my clients in a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, acknowledging that each person has their own story, requiring personal attention tailored to their needs. I provide both individual and group counselling in the areas of mental health, addictions, concurrent disorders and trauma.
More Therapists Nearby
Curtis Pittman - Queer-Affirmative Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC, ND
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1A
I take a person-centred approach and am passionate about using Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques and EMDR, while also pulling from ACT and CBT.
Life can present many struggles that lead us to feel overwhelmed. A warm and supportive safe space provides the foundation for self-exploration and building new skill sets that help us through these moments. Whether your concerns are related to anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and/or grief, I aim to provide compassionate care that validates your experience and supports your goals. - - - Now offering private team-based Adult ADHD Assessments with a Registered Psychologist in Newfoundland and Labrador. - - -
I take a person-centred approach and am passionate about using Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques and EMDR, while also pulling from ACT and CBT.
Life can present many struggles that lead us to feel overwhelmed. A warm and supportive safe space provides the foundation for self-exploration and building new skill sets that help us through these moments. Whether your concerns are related to anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and/or grief, I aim to provide compassionate care that validates your experience and supports your goals. - - - Now offering private team-based Adult ADHD Assessments with a Registered Psychologist in Newfoundland and Labrador. - - -
Brenna McClintock
Counsellor, MC, MA, RP(Qua), CCC, ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1E (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is respectful and compassionate. I work alongside my clients to support them in gaining new insights and to heal the ways their bodies have held onto past experiences so that they can show up in their lives in ways that are authentic and unique to them. I support people in processing many kinds of concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, panic, PTSD, childhood trauma, birth trauma and other experiences. I integrate trauma therapies like Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, inner child, parts work and other person-centred approaches to support you in healing and working toward your goals.
My approach to therapy is respectful and compassionate. I work alongside my clients to support them in gaining new insights and to heal the ways their bodies have held onto past experiences so that they can show up in their lives in ways that are authentic and unique to them. I support people in processing many kinds of concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, panic, PTSD, childhood trauma, birth trauma and other experiences. I integrate trauma therapies like Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, inner child, parts work and other person-centred approaches to support you in healing and working toward your goals.
Are you ready to make decisions that can be life changing? My name is Michelle and I bring a collaborative spirit to our counselling relationship applying an integrated treatment focus that is based on your needs. The treatment modalities I use are grounded in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Mindfulness practices. These approaches respect you, the client, and our therapeutic relationship while we work together toward your desired goals.
Are you ready to make decisions that can be life changing? My name is Michelle and I bring a collaborative spirit to our counselling relationship applying an integrated treatment focus that is based on your needs. The treatment modalities I use are grounded in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Mindfulness practices. These approaches respect you, the client, and our therapeutic relationship while we work together toward your desired goals.
As a Social Worker for the last 14 years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families through various roles in the child welfare system. For the last 5 years I have provided counselling to individual youth and adults within the child welfare system and privately. I believe in the power of a supportive therapeutic relationship coupled with a strength based and individual focus in counselling. I aim to support my clients in growth, goal achievement, and healing. I am an EMDR clinician and have training in DBT, CBT, sex therapy, Internal Family Systems Trauma Focused CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
As a Social Worker for the last 14 years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families through various roles in the child welfare system. For the last 5 years I have provided counselling to individual youth and adults within the child welfare system and privately. I believe in the power of a supportive therapeutic relationship coupled with a strength based and individual focus in counselling. I aim to support my clients in growth, goal achievement, and healing. I am an EMDR clinician and have training in DBT, CBT, sex therapy, Internal Family Systems Trauma Focused CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Heather Cook (Healing Journey NL)
Counsellor, M Ed, CCC, CCTP-II, Acc Hyp, ND
Verified Verified
Conception Bay South, NL A1X
She is an EMDRIA certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist and a certified Hypnotherapist.
Welcoming new clients for in-person, virtual and phone sessions. Heather is a sensitive and intuitive counsellor, who offers a trauma-informed integrative therapeutic approach to help her clients thrive. No matter what you need help with, be it, managing stress/anxiety, dealing with a challenging life event or transition, a troublesome relationship or moving through trauma, Heather can help you work through these issues to lead a more fulfilling life. Book a free consultation to find out if Heather is a good fit for you.
She is an EMDRIA certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist and a certified Hypnotherapist.
Welcoming new clients for in-person, virtual and phone sessions. Heather is a sensitive and intuitive counsellor, who offers a trauma-informed integrative therapeutic approach to help her clients thrive. No matter what you need help with, be it, managing stress/anxiety, dealing with a challenging life event or transition, a troublesome relationship or moving through trauma, Heather can help you work through these issues to lead a more fulfilling life. Book a free consultation to find out if Heather is a good fit for you.
I also support folks in navigating and processing single incident and complex trauma using EMDR.
I know that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming and i'm so glad that you're here. In my work with children, teens, young adults and adults, I prioritize creating a warm and accepting therapeutic environment and value building an authentic connection with my clients. I believe wholeheartedly each persons inherent strengths and resiliency and support folks to acknowledge patterns that are holding them back in life. In our work together we will focus on developing new resources, processing unhealed trauma or distress and developing a deeper understanding of self, allowing you to live a more full life.
I also support folks in navigating and processing single incident and complex trauma using EMDR.
I know that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming and i'm so glad that you're here. In my work with children, teens, young adults and adults, I prioritize creating a warm and accepting therapeutic environment and value building an authentic connection with my clients. I believe wholeheartedly each persons inherent strengths and resiliency and support folks to acknowledge patterns that are holding them back in life. In our work together we will focus on developing new resources, processing unhealed trauma or distress and developing a deeper understanding of self, allowing you to live a more full life.
Lisa Denty
Counsellor, MACP, BN,RN, CCC, CCTP-II, CCHN(c)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1B
I also use counselling techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, EFT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
My goal as a counsellor is to provide you with a safe and supportive space so you can begin exploring the challenges you face. If you are looking for a counsellor who listens with compassion, has lived experience, and proven skills that can help guide you through your tough feelings and thoughts, you have come to the right place. I specialize in supporting persons impacted by trauma ( PTSD, sexual, childhood, bullying, abuse, workplace, intimate partner violence) disordered eating, body image, obesity, addiction, ADHD, compassion fatigue/burnout, relationships, parenting, postpartum depression, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I also use counselling techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, EFT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
My goal as a counsellor is to provide you with a safe and supportive space so you can begin exploring the challenges you face. If you are looking for a counsellor who listens with compassion, has lived experience, and proven skills that can help guide you through your tough feelings and thoughts, you have come to the right place. I specialize in supporting persons impacted by trauma ( PTSD, sexual, childhood, bullying, abuse, workplace, intimate partner violence) disordered eating, body image, obesity, addiction, ADHD, compassion fatigue/burnout, relationships, parenting, postpartum depression, anxiety, depression, and grief.
Debbie Roberts has worked in the field of addiction for almost 15 years and holds a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counselling through Briercrest Seminary. Debbie is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), a trained EMDR therapist, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and a Certified Partners Trauma Therapist (CPTT). Debbie is passionate about helping you reach your goals by addressing your individual needs so you become more successful. Working with individuals, couples and families to overcome trauma, addiction, attachment and intimacy issues. Heal your past so you can focus on the present and invest in your future.
Debbie Roberts has worked in the field of addiction for almost 15 years and holds a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counselling through Briercrest Seminary. Debbie is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), a trained EMDR therapist, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and a Certified Partners Trauma Therapist (CPTT). Debbie is passionate about helping you reach your goals by addressing your individual needs so you become more successful. Working with individuals, couples and families to overcome trauma, addiction, attachment and intimacy issues. Heal your past so you can focus on the present and invest in your future.
Careworks Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Conception Bay South, NL A1W
We are trauma focused and treat PTSD; we use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and more to help you heal.
Do you struggle with overwhelming emotions, trouble focusing, or just can't turn off your mind to sleep? Is each day a challenge to start? Do you sometimes feel like nobody understands what you are facing? Feel alone or abandoned? Would you like to start the day feeling like you have the skills to move forward in a purposeful and fulfilling way? At Careworks we have a team that have been practicing in the mental health field for many years, some have more than 15 years of experience. We are a team of individuals who focus on and love helping others! Contact us today for a free consultation, and begin your healing journey.
We are trauma focused and treat PTSD; we use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and more to help you heal.
Do you struggle with overwhelming emotions, trouble focusing, or just can't turn off your mind to sleep? Is each day a challenge to start? Do you sometimes feel like nobody understands what you are facing? Feel alone or abandoned? Would you like to start the day feeling like you have the skills to move forward in a purposeful and fulfilling way? At Careworks we have a team that have been practicing in the mental health field for many years, some have more than 15 years of experience. We are a team of individuals who focus on and love helping others! Contact us today for a free consultation, and begin your healing journey.
As a Certified Counsellor (CCC) and Naturopath (ND) with specialized training in EMDR, Perinatal Mental Health, Play Therapy, and IFS-informed approaches, I'm here to support you.
Welcome to a safe space for healing and growth. As we navigate through life, the experiences we encounter shape and mold our individual identities. As a counselor, I am dedicated to helping you unlock your potential for growth and transformation. By working together, we can explore your unique path towards healing and wholeness, and I will support you in discovering your inner strength and resilience.
As a Certified Counsellor (CCC) and Naturopath (ND) with specialized training in EMDR, Perinatal Mental Health, Play Therapy, and IFS-informed approaches, I'm here to support you.
Welcome to a safe space for healing and growth. As we navigate through life, the experiences we encounter shape and mold our individual identities. As a counselor, I am dedicated to helping you unlock your potential for growth and transformation. By working together, we can explore your unique path towards healing and wholeness, and I will support you in discovering your inner strength and resilience.
I practice from an anti-oppressive lens and draw on a number of therapeutic approaches including CBT, EFT, ACT, CPT, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR and Dissociative Theory.
I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist with a deep respect for the healing process. I believe that when you have the courage to allow yourself to embrace hope and believe that healing and recovery is possible, you are taking the first monumental step on your path towards living an authentically empowered life. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space where empathy and collaboration are the cornerstones of supporting you in building on your unique strengths and safely navigating you through your growth journey.
I practice from an anti-oppressive lens and draw on a number of therapeutic approaches including CBT, EFT, ACT, CPT, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR and Dissociative Theory.
I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist with a deep respect for the healing process. I believe that when you have the courage to allow yourself to embrace hope and believe that healing and recovery is possible, you are taking the first monumental step on your path towards living an authentically empowered life. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space where empathy and collaboration are the cornerstones of supporting you in building on your unique strengths and safely navigating you through your growth journey.
My approach uses EMDR, Internal Family Systems and integrates trauma-informed techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral and Psychodynamic therapies.
I am passionate about working with adult clients who seek to heal from C-PTSD and trauma-related issues. My ideal client values a compassionate and supportive environment where their story and development are at the forefront of the therapeutic process. I integrate IFS, EMDR, and trauma-informed techniques with a focus on attachment, stress, and developmental trauma. Clients who resonate with mindfulness and neurobiological approaches to calm the nervous system will find my practice especially beneficial. Together, we aim for meaningful insights and effective change in a safe, flexible, and progressive space.
My approach uses EMDR, Internal Family Systems and integrates trauma-informed techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral and Psychodynamic therapies.
I am passionate about working with adult clients who seek to heal from C-PTSD and trauma-related issues. My ideal client values a compassionate and supportive environment where their story and development are at the forefront of the therapeutic process. I integrate IFS, EMDR, and trauma-informed techniques with a focus on attachment, stress, and developmental trauma. Clients who resonate with mindfulness and neurobiological approaches to calm the nervous system will find my practice especially beneficial. Together, we aim for meaningful insights and effective change in a safe, flexible, and progressive space.
Sabrina Batt
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MC, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
Portugal Cove-St Philips, NL A1M
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence-based approaches which I have been trained in including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
If you need support, a safe place, and have the desire to challenge the parts of your life that are not working for you, I would love to hear from you. I help people understand and change what is stopping them from living the life they want. This can include mental health issues, challenging life transitions, trauma, and unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. I specialize in Post-Concussion Syndrome and chronic pain, I help clients gain understanding and confidence so they can navigate the physical, emotional, relational, sleep, and cognitive impacts of PCS and pain.
I use evidence-based approaches which I have been trained in including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
If you need support, a safe place, and have the desire to challenge the parts of your life that are not working for you, I would love to hear from you. I help people understand and change what is stopping them from living the life they want. This can include mental health issues, challenging life transitions, trauma, and unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. I specialize in Post-Concussion Syndrome and chronic pain, I help clients gain understanding and confidence so they can navigate the physical, emotional, relational, sleep, and cognitive impacts of PCS and pain.
Maggie Dawson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CCC, MA, ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1B
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in a number of different therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, EFT, and trauma-informed care.
At times, we all need support to navigate the challenges and difficulties we face in our lives. My counselling approach is rooted in the belief that understanding our experiences, our story, and ourselves can be a transformative journey towards greater self-acceptance and hope for the future. I recognize that our challenges are often a reflection of what we have been through in the past, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. As we gain perspective and compassion for ourselves, we are empowered to develop healthier coping strategies, heal from past wounds, and embark on a path towards personal growth and fulfillment.
I have training in a number of different therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, EFT, and trauma-informed care.
At times, we all need support to navigate the challenges and difficulties we face in our lives. My counselling approach is rooted in the belief that understanding our experiences, our story, and ourselves can be a transformative journey towards greater self-acceptance and hope for the future. I recognize that our challenges are often a reflection of what we have been through in the past, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. As we gain perspective and compassion for ourselves, we are empowered to develop healthier coping strategies, heal from past wounds, and embark on a path towards personal growth and fulfillment.
See more therapy options for Paradise
Nearby EMDR Counsellors Searches for Paradise
See More EMDR CounsellorsNearby Searches for Paradise
See More CounsellorsEMDR 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.