EMDR Therapists in Beamsville, ON
Magnolia Counselling Centre Niagara
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Beamsville, ON L0R
I specialize in ( EMDR) Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a form of psychotherapy in which the person being treated recalls distressing experiences whilst doing bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movement or tapping either side of the body.
Theresa McAdam is Registered Social Worker within Ontario with almost 20 years of experience working with individuals dealing with trauma and mental health. Theresa specializes in the areas of trauma; domestic violence (for men & women); family abuse; anger; depression; anxiety; grief; health challenges; and life transitions. Theresa works with couples and with people experiencing divorce and separation. Theresa also works with first responders and return to work programs. Theresa works alongside her clients to provide education, therapeutic support, and empowerment as they work through their emotional challenges.
I specialize in ( EMDR) Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a form of psychotherapy in which the person being treated recalls distressing experiences whilst doing bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movement or tapping either side of the body.
Theresa McAdam is Registered Social Worker within Ontario with almost 20 years of experience working with individuals dealing with trauma and mental health. Theresa specializes in the areas of trauma; domestic violence (for men & women); family abuse; anger; depression; anxiety; grief; health challenges; and life transitions. Theresa works with couples and with people experiencing divorce and separation. Theresa also works with first responders and return to work programs. Theresa works alongside her clients to provide education, therapeutic support, and empowerment as they work through their emotional challenges.
As a Registered Master of Social Work Clinician with over 15 years of experience, my practice includes an integrated, client-centered and trauma focused approach. I utilize a holistic treatment style customized to each person's needs, to help you on your healing journey. I'm a Certified Yoga Teacher and Reiki Master Teacher and utilize aspects from each modality in my practice. I am a trauma-informed clinician, trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Direct Neurofeedback, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour therapy (DBT), SMART and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
As a Registered Master of Social Work Clinician with over 15 years of experience, my practice includes an integrated, client-centered and trauma focused approach. I utilize a holistic treatment style customized to each person's needs, to help you on your healing journey. I'm a Certified Yoga Teacher and Reiki Master Teacher and utilize aspects from each modality in my practice. I am a trauma-informed clinician, trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Direct Neurofeedback, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour therapy (DBT), SMART and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Christy Schaefer
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beamsville, ON L0R
Using a variety of modalities including but not limited to EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, Attachment theory, Narrative therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, I am here to work alongside you and empower you to discover what you need to do to reach your goals of healing and wellness.
Accepting New Clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed? Sometimes it can all feel like too much, and it's difficult to see the way forward. Perhaps you are experiencing issues in your relationships, having difficulties managing your emotions or daily stressors. Maybe there are deeper issues - grief, trauma, questioning your purpose or identity- that keep you up at night and prevent you from fully enjoying life. Perhaps you're unsure what's bothering you, but you know that something isn't quite right, and you would like to feel more like yourself again.
Using a variety of modalities including but not limited to EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, Attachment theory, Narrative therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, I am here to work alongside you and empower you to discover what you need to do to reach your goals of healing and wellness.
Accepting New Clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed? Sometimes it can all feel like too much, and it's difficult to see the way forward. Perhaps you are experiencing issues in your relationships, having difficulties managing your emotions or daily stressors. Maybe there are deeper issues - grief, trauma, questioning your purpose or identity- that keep you up at night and prevent you from fully enjoying life. Perhaps you're unsure what's bothering you, but you know that something isn't quite right, and you would like to feel more like yourself again.
Wilson Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BTh, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beamsville, ON L0R (Online Only)
You may feel stuck and ready for change, there’s a reason you are searching this website. I am confident that the time to explore change is now. Whether you have been stuck in a negative cycle, or you have some emotional fine-tuning to do, we can journey through this together. I would be privileged and humbled to be able to hold space and hope for what you’re going through. Let’s chat.
You may feel stuck and ready for change, there’s a reason you are searching this website. I am confident that the time to explore change is now. Whether you have been stuck in a negative cycle, or you have some emotional fine-tuning to do, we can journey through this together. I would be privileged and humbled to be able to hold space and hope for what you’re going through. Let’s chat.
Changing Steps Child and Family Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Beamsville, ON L0R
If you are struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, or ADHD please contact us. Virtually, we can help you identify meaningful goals and an action plan to meet your goals.
If you are struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, or ADHD please contact us. Virtually, we can help you identify meaningful goals and an action plan to meet your goals.
Nadine Furbacher At Willow Rock Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beamsville, ON L0R (Online Only)
SENSITIVE - OVERTHINKER – OVERDOER – OVERGIVER: Do you find yourself suffering with emotional burdens, burnout, worry or moods SO HEAVY you have trouble clearing your mind? Is it hard to express what you need or just to SAY NO? Does HELPING leave you unable to do what you enjoy because your cup has NOTHING LEFT IN IT FOR YOU? Whether it's emptiness, feeling trapped, not knowing Your True Self or blowing up at the drop of a hat – this suffering finds you zoning out on your phone; with food; deep in relationship drama; binge watching; overworking; over scheduling – whatever numbs the harsh feelings you avoid at all cost.
SENSITIVE - OVERTHINKER – OVERDOER – OVERGIVER: Do you find yourself suffering with emotional burdens, burnout, worry or moods SO HEAVY you have trouble clearing your mind? Is it hard to express what you need or just to SAY NO? Does HELPING leave you unable to do what you enjoy because your cup has NOTHING LEFT IN IT FOR YOU? Whether it's emptiness, feeling trapped, not knowing Your True Self or blowing up at the drop of a hat – this suffering finds you zoning out on your phone; with food; deep in relationship drama; binge watching; overworking; over scheduling – whatever numbs the harsh feelings you avoid at all cost.
More Therapists Nearby
Cortney Pasternak Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterdown, ON L0R
I hold a Master's degree from the University of Toronto and have more advanced training in couples and family therapy, pre-marital therapy, mindfulness therapies, EFT, EFFT, IFS, EMDR, Sexual Health, ACT, and more.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, stress, burnout, marriage & relationship conflicts, intimacy, dating, divorce, narcissism, life & career transitions, (co)parenting, and PTSD. I realize there is rarely one issue, and it takes courage to ask for help. I offer a warm, sincere and supportive environment to share, reflect, and experience positive growth from the issues you bring to counselling. I work with individuals, couples and families - helping them better cope, become happier, and more resilient. I have over 20 years of experience helping people share their struggles - to feel heard and understood.
I hold a Master's degree from the University of Toronto and have more advanced training in couples and family therapy, pre-marital therapy, mindfulness therapies, EFT, EFFT, IFS, EMDR, Sexual Health, ACT, and more.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, stress, burnout, marriage & relationship conflicts, intimacy, dating, divorce, narcissism, life & career transitions, (co)parenting, and PTSD. I realize there is rarely one issue, and it takes courage to ask for help. I offer a warm, sincere and supportive environment to share, reflect, and experience positive growth from the issues you bring to counselling. I work with individuals, couples and families - helping them better cope, become happier, and more resilient. I have over 20 years of experience helping people share their struggles - to feel heard and understood.
Josephine Ruiz Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, ATR-BC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R (Online Only)
I primarily utilize IFS, EMDR, ACT, and, if you are open to it, art therapy.
Are intense reactions making it harder to develop and maintain relationships? Are you feeling stuck and unable to find your place in life? I have been there; you do not have to do it alone. I draw insights from my lived experiences as an immigrant and survivor/thriver of life and integrate inner knowing, compassion, and neuroscience to create spaces for relief, healing, and transformation. My passion is journeying with women/gender-diverse adults and immigrants who have experienced relational trauma, leading to addictions, perfectionism, compulsions & feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety or anger.
I primarily utilize IFS, EMDR, ACT, and, if you are open to it, art therapy.
Are intense reactions making it harder to develop and maintain relationships? Are you feeling stuck and unable to find your place in life? I have been there; you do not have to do it alone. I draw insights from my lived experiences as an immigrant and survivor/thriver of life and integrate inner knowing, compassion, and neuroscience to create spaces for relief, healing, and transformation. My passion is journeying with women/gender-diverse adults and immigrants who have experienced relational trauma, leading to addictions, perfectionism, compulsions & feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety or anger.
The Couch Counselling and Support Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R
The Couch have clinicians with their own specialities such as EMDR, CBT, SFT, Play therapy and trauma informed.
Registered Psychotherapist who specialises in Sanitary Therapy for both young and old, CBT, and SFT. Lori has been working with the First Nations community for the past seven years and has been supervising clinical workers for the last four years. The Couch Counselling also offers many psychotherapist to help suit the needs and availability of all clients. Please call to find the perfect fit or look online at thecouchcounselling.com and see the many professionals. Here to help you make the changes in your life so you can live a healthier and productive life.
The Couch have clinicians with their own specialities such as EMDR, CBT, SFT, Play therapy and trauma informed.
Registered Psychotherapist who specialises in Sanitary Therapy for both young and old, CBT, and SFT. Lori has been working with the First Nations community for the past seven years and has been supervising clinical workers for the last four years. The Couch Counselling also offers many psychotherapist to help suit the needs and availability of all clients. Please call to find the perfect fit or look online at thecouchcounselling.com and see the many professionals. Here to help you make the changes in your life so you can live a healthier and productive life.
Brandy Weaver
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), addictions, Indigenous cultural safety, psychopharmacology, trauma, EMDR and Flash.
It is ok not to be okay. Life is hard. In the words of B. Withers, “sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow; but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow. Lean on me, when you’re not strong… I’ll help you carry on.” Let me support you on your journey towards wellness. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have a master's degree in counselling psychology, and over sixteen years of experience working in mental health.
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), addictions, Indigenous cultural safety, psychopharmacology, trauma, EMDR and Flash.
It is ok not to be okay. Life is hard. In the words of B. Withers, “sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow; but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow. Lean on me, when you’re not strong… I’ll help you carry on.” Let me support you on your journey towards wellness. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have a master's degree in counselling psychology, and over sixteen years of experience working in mental health.
Encanta Counselling and Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
We support teens, adults, couples and polycules, and have specialized training in EMDR, Art Therapy, DBT, Sex Therapy, IFS and CPT.
Looking for support with sex? Struggling in your relationship? Wanting relief from trauma and BPD? At Encanta, we offer sex positive and queer affirming therapy that is trauma informed. We make therapy approachable and offer specialized support. Start with a free consult with one of our therapists and ask any questions you have. We're here to create a path forward and get you the support you deserve. Ready to feel better about your sex life, relationships or yourself? Let's help get you there!
We support teens, adults, couples and polycules, and have specialized training in EMDR, Art Therapy, DBT, Sex Therapy, IFS and CPT.
Looking for support with sex? Struggling in your relationship? Wanting relief from trauma and BPD? At Encanta, we offer sex positive and queer affirming therapy that is trauma informed. We make therapy approachable and offer specialized support. Start with a free consult with one of our therapists and ask any questions you have. We're here to create a path forward and get you the support you deserve. Ready to feel better about your sex life, relationships or yourself? Let's help get you there!
I'm a trauma therapist and with wide range of modalities including EMDR & CBT.
I believe seeking supports through counselling is an act of bravery and courage and as such I consider it an honour for anyone to confide in me their struggles, hopes and aspirations. My intention is to simply be human with individuals and help guide them along their journey. Therapy is not a fix it all solution, it takes time, practice and most importantly a genuine human connection.
I'm a trauma therapist and with wide range of modalities including EMDR & CBT.
I believe seeking supports through counselling is an act of bravery and courage and as such I consider it an honour for anyone to confide in me their struggles, hopes and aspirations. My intention is to simply be human with individuals and help guide them along their journey. Therapy is not a fix it all solution, it takes time, practice and most importantly a genuine human connection.
Justine Fram Emdr Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and an EMDR Therapist.
Trauma, anxiety and depression are on the rise, and it's no wonder with everything that's happened in the last few years. If you are tired of doing everything yourself, having to be strong, to grit your teeth and just get through the day, speaking to a counsellor may help. I am a trauma-informed therapist, and I'm here to offer you room to breathe deeply, to unclench your shoulders and to find a little peace in your day to day life. You have made it through life so far, and now may be the right time to learn and explore new ways of caring for yourself, communicating with your loved ones, and building better supports for the future.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and an EMDR Therapist.
Trauma, anxiety and depression are on the rise, and it's no wonder with everything that's happened in the last few years. If you are tired of doing everything yourself, having to be strong, to grit your teeth and just get through the day, speaking to a counsellor may help. I am a trauma-informed therapist, and I'm here to offer you room to breathe deeply, to unclench your shoulders and to find a little peace in your day to day life. You have made it through life so far, and now may be the right time to learn and explore new ways of caring for yourself, communicating with your loved ones, and building better supports for the future.
I primary offer IFS and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to help connect with our inner parts and experiences to create harmony and healing.
Hi! I'm Stacey and I offer a soft landing in a bright space full of plants and sunshine. I offer coping strategies for anxiety, depression, fatigue, life transitions, trauma and stress to improve your wellness. I offer connection and collaboration exploring your emotions, thoughts, behaviours, challenges, boundaries and communication strategies. You deserve peace, growth and healing. Are you ready to tap into your innate authenticity, increase self compassion, boost your self esteem and create inspiring meaningful changes?
I primary offer IFS and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to help connect with our inner parts and experiences to create harmony and healing.
Hi! I'm Stacey and I offer a soft landing in a bright space full of plants and sunshine. I offer coping strategies for anxiety, depression, fatigue, life transitions, trauma and stress to improve your wellness. I offer connection and collaboration exploring your emotions, thoughts, behaviours, challenges, boundaries and communication strategies. You deserve peace, growth and healing. Are you ready to tap into your innate authenticity, increase self compassion, boost your self esteem and create inspiring meaningful changes?
Kelly Fife - Individual, Couple & Family Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, RMFT-SQ
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Binbrook, ON L0R
I have intensive training and speciality in the following areas - couple/family/sex therapy and Gottman Method, EMDR and trauma, mindfulness and self-compassion, solution-focused therapy, clinical supervision and family mediation.
As a therapist and supervisor, I build connections that are genuine, accepting and encouraging, holding space that gently fosters sharing, reflection and growth. I work from a systemic approach that is strengths-based and collaborative, bringing appreciation to the impact of external factors on experiences, while building awareness and offering challenges around personal potential, capabilities and influence. Along our journey together, I hope to share how living and working mindfully, intentionally and compassionately can evolve our beliefs about ourselves and others, transforming our relationships and our experiences of the world.
I have intensive training and speciality in the following areas - couple/family/sex therapy and Gottman Method, EMDR and trauma, mindfulness and self-compassion, solution-focused therapy, clinical supervision and family mediation.
As a therapist and supervisor, I build connections that are genuine, accepting and encouraging, holding space that gently fosters sharing, reflection and growth. I work from a systemic approach that is strengths-based and collaborative, bringing appreciation to the impact of external factors on experiences, while building awareness and offering challenges around personal potential, capabilities and influence. Along our journey together, I hope to share how living and working mindfully, intentionally and compassionately can evolve our beliefs about ourselves and others, transforming our relationships and our experiences of the world.
EFT, EMDR, cognitive-behavioural, narrative therapy, strength-based, mindfulness approaches are a variety of techniques used in the therapy process.
At Thrive, our goal is to help you live your life to its fullest in all capacities. We have 3 Registered Psychotherapists on our wellness team who each provide a variety of focus areas in their practices and with a combined 53+ years of practice, can be sure to meet your needs. We offer in person and virtual therapy options to allow easy access to therapy. Each of our therapists offer a complimentary consultation to ensure a good fit between therapist and client which can be arranged by calling the clinic or reaching out on the website to any individual therapist.
EFT, EMDR, cognitive-behavioural, narrative therapy, strength-based, mindfulness approaches are a variety of techniques used in the therapy process.
At Thrive, our goal is to help you live your life to its fullest in all capacities. We have 3 Registered Psychotherapists on our wellness team who each provide a variety of focus areas in their practices and with a combined 53+ years of practice, can be sure to meet your needs. We offer in person and virtual therapy options to allow easy access to therapy. Each of our therapists offer a complimentary consultation to ensure a good fit between therapist and client which can be arranged by calling the clinic or reaching out on the website to any individual therapist.
I use the Gottman method with couples and I use therapies such as EMDR, DBT and CBT to assist other clients in feeling empowered.
It's not just you. You're not alone! The last few years have been extra hard. Having a safe place to decompress, receive validation and learn new skills can make things easier. We all have the ability to heal ourselves, but any kind of therapy is hard work. I work with families experiencing relational issues and couples who need to learn or relearn how to work together. The end goal is different for each client, but we will work together to get you to a spot where you feel at ease. For those suffering with trauma or anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy is offered as well.
I use the Gottman method with couples and I use therapies such as EMDR, DBT and CBT to assist other clients in feeling empowered.
It's not just you. You're not alone! The last few years have been extra hard. Having a safe place to decompress, receive validation and learn new skills can make things easier. We all have the ability to heal ourselves, but any kind of therapy is hard work. I work with families experiencing relational issues and couples who need to learn or relearn how to work together. The end goal is different for each client, but we will work together to get you to a spot where you feel at ease. For those suffering with trauma or anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy is offered as well.
Divya Dorairaj - Individual Couples And Emdr Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Binbrook, ON L0R
I use an integrative approach that is supported by evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotion/Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and mindfulness-based practices.
What would it be like if you felt at home with yourself? What would it be like if all the different parts of you had a space to feel seen, to be heard, and to come together? We can work together to get to know you — all of you. We will move toward the changes you would like to see for yourself by co-creating a space where you can feel safe enough to voice your truths and gain awareness of how past survival strategies impact your current day-to-day. In my work with couples and individuals, we address issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and trauma.
I use an integrative approach that is supported by evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotion/Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and mindfulness-based practices.
What would it be like if you felt at home with yourself? What would it be like if all the different parts of you had a space to feel seen, to be heard, and to come together? We can work together to get to know you — all of you. We will move toward the changes you would like to see for yourself by co-creating a space where you can feel safe enough to voice your truths and gain awareness of how past survival strategies impact your current day-to-day. In my work with couples and individuals, we address issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and trauma.
Illuminate Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R (Online Only)
Some of the modalities that I use in my practice include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Clinical Hypnosis, and Ego State Therapy.
Trauma disrupts our lives in profound ways. It can impact our sense of self, our relationships with others, our thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and the way we see the world. Sometimes the obstacles that we encounter cause us to feel stuck and make it difficult to attain the kind of life that we want. However, I believe that we all have an innate capacity to heal, grow, and make positive changes in our lives. Counselling can help facilitate this healing and personal growth. I specialize in treating trauma, including complex trauma and dissociative disorders.
Some of the modalities that I use in my practice include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Clinical Hypnosis, and Ego State Therapy.
Trauma disrupts our lives in profound ways. It can impact our sense of self, our relationships with others, our thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and the way we see the world. Sometimes the obstacles that we encounter cause us to feel stuck and make it difficult to attain the kind of life that we want. However, I believe that we all have an innate capacity to heal, grow, and make positive changes in our lives. Counselling can help facilitate this healing and personal growth. I specialize in treating trauma, including complex trauma and dissociative disorders.
I am an experienced and dedicated registered social worker who is compassionate. I work with a diverse population who are dealing with a variety of challenges. I am a stronger believer you being an expert in you life, my role is to support and inspire you find that inner strength in you. I work with each individual in their unique framework to help face the challenges. My practice is grounded on equity, inclusion, anti-racism and cultural sensitivity. I use person-centered, individualized, family centered, strength based approach. My practice involves clinical modalities of CBT, SFBT, ACT, and EMDR
I am an experienced and dedicated registered social worker who is compassionate. I work with a diverse population who are dealing with a variety of challenges. I am a stronger believer you being an expert in you life, my role is to support and inspire you find that inner strength in you. I work with each individual in their unique framework to help face the challenges. My practice is grounded on equity, inclusion, anti-racism and cultural sensitivity. I use person-centered, individualized, family centered, strength based approach. My practice involves clinical modalities of CBT, SFBT, ACT, and EMDR
See more therapy options for Beamsville
Nearby EMDR Counsellors Searches for Beamsville
- Binbrook
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- Grimsby
- Hamilton
- Niagara Falls
- Niagara on the Lake
- Port Colborne
- Saint Catharines
- Stoney Creek
- Thorold
- Waterdown
- Welland
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.