EMDR Therapists in Newmarket, ON
As a psychotherapist and EMDR trained clinician, I specialize in managing stress, depression, emotional disturbances, and unresolved past experiences.
We've all experienced moments of irritability, gloominess, discomfort, and feeling out of sorts without fully understanding why. Worse yet, we often endure these feelings alone, impacting our social connections and personal lives. Much of this stress and emotional struggle often stems from difficult experiences and the challenge of balancing responsibilities with the desire for peace and enjoyment. These feelings may even be influenced by unconscious childhood experiences. If you've read this far, it might be a sign that you're ready to seek support and explore solutions.
As a psychotherapist and EMDR trained clinician, I specialize in managing stress, depression, emotional disturbances, and unresolved past experiences.
We've all experienced moments of irritability, gloominess, discomfort, and feeling out of sorts without fully understanding why. Worse yet, we often endure these feelings alone, impacting our social connections and personal lives. Much of this stress and emotional struggle often stems from difficult experiences and the challenge of balancing responsibilities with the desire for peace and enjoyment. These feelings may even be influenced by unconscious childhood experiences. If you've read this far, it might be a sign that you're ready to seek support and explore solutions.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
Bianca Zambri Emdr
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Please ask me about EMDR & see if we're a good fit with a free 15 min consult.
For 20 years I’ve created a safe space for clients to explore, navigate/process the stuck and painful parts of their story while we embrace reflection and the "aha" moments. This foundation offers improved emotional safety in relationship with yourself/others and confidence having achieved your therapy goals with added healing, purpose, meaningful connection and fulfillment. Are you looking to get to the root of it all and want to show up for yourself in the face of anxiety, depression, loss/grief, challenging relationships, change or past pain/trauma? Noticing symptoms or patterns? I believe I can help.
Please ask me about EMDR & see if we're a good fit with a free 15 min consult.
For 20 years I’ve created a safe space for clients to explore, navigate/process the stuck and painful parts of their story while we embrace reflection and the "aha" moments. This foundation offers improved emotional safety in relationship with yourself/others and confidence having achieved your therapy goals with added healing, purpose, meaningful connection and fulfillment. Are you looking to get to the root of it all and want to show up for yourself in the face of anxiety, depression, loss/grief, challenging relationships, change or past pain/trauma? Noticing symptoms or patterns? I believe I can help.
Newmarket Psychotherapy Team, Inc.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Our approach to therapy is evidence based and eclectic, drawing on therapies such as (but not limited to) Cognitive Behavioural, Narrative, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Emotion Focused, EMDR, Psychodynamic, DBT.
Are you in a place in your life where you require emotional support? Perhaps you know someone who does? We have all struggled, or are struggling, and it is important to remember that as human beings, it is common to experience a variety of hardships at different times in life. Newmarket Psychotherapy Team is a growing team of collaborative therapists with a nurturing space for you to visit, where a therapist of your choice can provide you with the kind of support that you require and deserve. Our Collective welcomes everyone, at anytime. It is never too late to reach out for support.
Our approach to therapy is evidence based and eclectic, drawing on therapies such as (but not limited to) Cognitive Behavioural, Narrative, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Emotion Focused, EMDR, Psychodynamic, DBT.
Are you in a place in your life where you require emotional support? Perhaps you know someone who does? We have all struggled, or are struggling, and it is important to remember that as human beings, it is common to experience a variety of hardships at different times in life. Newmarket Psychotherapy Team is a growing team of collaborative therapists with a nurturing space for you to visit, where a therapist of your choice can provide you with the kind of support that you require and deserve. Our Collective welcomes everyone, at anytime. It is never too late to reach out for support.
Our talented group of Registered Social Workers (RSW), Registered Psychotherapists (RP) and Occupational Therapists (OT) incorporate a range of therapeutic approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy, as well as elements of Mindfulness and Somatic (body-based) strategies to support you. We also provide EMDR Consultation for clinicians looking to improve their practice; and RP Supervision.
Our talented group of Registered Social Workers (RSW), Registered Psychotherapists (RP) and Occupational Therapists (OT) incorporate a range of therapeutic approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy, as well as elements of Mindfulness and Somatic (body-based) strategies to support you. We also provide EMDR Consultation for clinicians looking to improve their practice; and RP Supervision.
Olena Pkhaladze
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MSc, BCNLP, BCH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma and crisis intervention, employing a holistic approach that incorporates Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), hypnotherapy, psychodynamic techniques, as well as utilizing hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to provide comprehensive care and healing.
Accepting New Clients! I have a strong passion for helping individuals like you on your path to emotional well-being and healthier, more adaptive behaviours. My practice is a safe haven for those dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, social phobia, and stress management. I'm dedicated to partnering with you, offering guidance, and supporting your journey towards improved emotional health and effective coping strategies. I fluently speak English, Ukrainian and Russian languages.
I specialize in trauma and crisis intervention, employing a holistic approach that incorporates Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), hypnotherapy, psychodynamic techniques, as well as utilizing hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to provide comprehensive care and healing.
Accepting New Clients! I have a strong passion for helping individuals like you on your path to emotional well-being and healthier, more adaptive behaviours. My practice is a safe haven for those dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, social phobia, and stress management. I'm dedicated to partnering with you, offering guidance, and supporting your journey towards improved emotional health and effective coping strategies. I fluently speak English, Ukrainian and Russian languages.
Kristin Greco
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDRIA certified therapist in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
At times, life can feel complex and challenging for all of us. However, finding a therapist who is a good fit for your individual needs can feel very reassuring. The therapeutic relationship between you and your therapist is an important aspect in determining the efficacy of your therapeutic experience. I have a Masters in Social Work, and I am a Registered Social Worker with more than 15 years of psychotherapy and case management experience. Although I am primarily attachment-based in my approach, I integrate other treatment modalities to accommodate a client's individual needs for therapy.
I am an EMDRIA certified therapist in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
At times, life can feel complex and challenging for all of us. However, finding a therapist who is a good fit for your individual needs can feel very reassuring. The therapeutic relationship between you and your therapist is an important aspect in determining the efficacy of your therapeutic experience. I have a Masters in Social Work, and I am a Registered Social Worker with more than 15 years of psychotherapy and case management experience. Although I am primarily attachment-based in my approach, I integrate other treatment modalities to accommodate a client's individual needs for therapy.
Now offering virtual and telephone therapy. As a Registered Psychotherapist (2015) and Registered Canadian Art Therapist (2001), I use evidence based and trauma informed practices to support children, youth and adults with a variety of issues. These issues include PTSD, trauma, mental health challenges and chronic health issues. As a retired educator in the field of Art and Special Education, I also support parents and individuals who are Neurodiverse ( learning disabilities, ASD and ADHD etc). I focus on strength based approaches and offer a number of treatment modalities including Art Therapy, EMDR, CBT, CPT, IFS and DBT.
Now offering virtual and telephone therapy. As a Registered Psychotherapist (2015) and Registered Canadian Art Therapist (2001), I use evidence based and trauma informed practices to support children, youth and adults with a variety of issues. These issues include PTSD, trauma, mental health challenges and chronic health issues. As a retired educator in the field of Art and Special Education, I also support parents and individuals who are Neurodiverse ( learning disabilities, ASD and ADHD etc). I focus on strength based approaches and offer a number of treatment modalities including Art Therapy, EMDR, CBT, CPT, IFS and DBT.
Dale Cornish Collective Wellbeing Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
I draw from diverse therapies developed to treat the impacts of trauma- including EMDR and IFS.
Challenging and traumatic life experiences can leave people feeling stuck, isolated, and disconnected from themselves and the world around them. Anxiety, negative self-talk, flashbacks, dissociation, withdrawal from life, and sleep issues are just some of the ways in which experiences from our past can impact our present. I have spent over 10 years working with people who have been impacted by domestic abuse and intimate partner violence, sexual assault, childhood trauma, and the sudden and traumatic loss of a loved one.
I draw from diverse therapies developed to treat the impacts of trauma- including EMDR and IFS.
Challenging and traumatic life experiences can leave people feeling stuck, isolated, and disconnected from themselves and the world around them. Anxiety, negative self-talk, flashbacks, dissociation, withdrawal from life, and sleep issues are just some of the ways in which experiences from our past can impact our present. I have spent over 10 years working with people who have been impacted by domestic abuse and intimate partner violence, sexual assault, childhood trauma, and the sudden and traumatic loss of a loved one.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
Maureen Bornbaum
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
These include Somatic Experiencing therapy, parts work, compassion focused therapy, and EMDR, to help clients in the areas that they feel stuck.
I specialize in supporting folks who are 18+ and navigating challenging parts of the human experience, including trauma and stress, grief and life transitions, and/or substance use. As a queer therapist, I also work with 2SLGBTQIa+ individuals to navigate challenges related to living in a cis and heteronormative dominant world. I help the folks I work with discover new ways to connect with themselves, others, and the world around them in order to build a life that has more space for connection, curiosity, and presence.
These include Somatic Experiencing therapy, parts work, compassion focused therapy, and EMDR, to help clients in the areas that they feel stuck.
I specialize in supporting folks who are 18+ and navigating challenging parts of the human experience, including trauma and stress, grief and life transitions, and/or substance use. As a queer therapist, I also work with 2SLGBTQIa+ individuals to navigate challenges related to living in a cis and heteronormative dominant world. I help the folks I work with discover new ways to connect with themselves, others, and the world around them in order to build a life that has more space for connection, curiosity, and presence.
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Registered Psychotherapist, MTS, CHT, RP
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Waitlist for new clients
I use mind-body therapies such as Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, Inner Child Work, EMDR, Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), and Somatic therapy to free you from negative beliefs and past traumas.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over twenty years’ experience in the mental health field treating anxiety, depression, childhood abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I have extensive experience working with people who have experienced trauma, poor attachment, and those recovering from abusive relationships. Having been trained by leading experts in the fields of trauma, neuroscience and mind-body healing, I can help you find relief from distressing symptoms, make positive behavioural changes, and get you back connected to your True Self.
I use mind-body therapies such as Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, Inner Child Work, EMDR, Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), and Somatic therapy to free you from negative beliefs and past traumas.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over twenty years’ experience in the mental health field treating anxiety, depression, childhood abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I have extensive experience working with people who have experienced trauma, poor attachment, and those recovering from abusive relationships. Having been trained by leading experts in the fields of trauma, neuroscience and mind-body healing, I can help you find relief from distressing symptoms, make positive behavioural changes, and get you back connected to your True Self.
Our integrated approach includes evidence based and mind-body methods such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, and Clinical Neurofeedback.
Our most fundamental need is to be seen, heard and accepted as we are. It is no surprise that the strongest determining factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. Positive change happens when we become more like ourselves rather than trying to be something others want us to be. Our team of experienced psychotherapists are here to support individuals, couples and families with their journeys towards greater wholeness and authenticity. We work with the mind, emotions and nervous system to break unhealthy thinking patterns, unburden emotional pain and trauma, build healthy self-esteem, and find deeper meaning in life.
Our integrated approach includes evidence based and mind-body methods such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, and Clinical Neurofeedback.
Our most fundamental need is to be seen, heard and accepted as we are. It is no surprise that the strongest determining factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. Positive change happens when we become more like ourselves rather than trying to be something others want us to be. Our team of experienced psychotherapists are here to support individuals, couples and families with their journeys towards greater wholeness and authenticity. We work with the mind, emotions and nervous system to break unhealthy thinking patterns, unburden emotional pain and trauma, build healthy self-esteem, and find deeper meaning in life.
I practice from a blended therapeutic approach, which includes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I am a Registered Social Worker and EMDR Clinician. With over 20 years in practice, I work with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, low mood, loneliness, life transitions and other areas that limit wellness, connection and ease. My practice is grounded in a person-centred, anti-oppressive, strengths-based perspective to support you in reflection, insight, healing and movement towards being the person you want to be and living the life you want. I currently see adults, youth (ages 12+) and families in-person at my office in Newmarket, ON, as well as virtually throughout Ontario.
I practice from a blended therapeutic approach, which includes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I am a Registered Social Worker and EMDR Clinician. With over 20 years in practice, I work with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, low mood, loneliness, life transitions and other areas that limit wellness, connection and ease. My practice is grounded in a person-centred, anti-oppressive, strengths-based perspective to support you in reflection, insight, healing and movement towards being the person you want to be and living the life you want. I currently see adults, youth (ages 12+) and families in-person at my office in Newmarket, ON, as well as virtually throughout Ontario.
I draw on various approaches in my practice such as Client Centred, Solution Focused, CBT, ACT, GRM, and EMDR.
Your story, your pain are unique to you. This is the first step to understanding your struggles, feeling empowered, and to make positive changes to improve your life. My name is Joan Smith. I have a Masters in Social Work, and I am a Registered Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience supporting individuals struggling with trauma, grief, and mental health challenges. In my practice, I address a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias, sleep disturbance, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, and loss.
I draw on various approaches in my practice such as Client Centred, Solution Focused, CBT, ACT, GRM, and EMDR.
Your story, your pain are unique to you. This is the first step to understanding your struggles, feeling empowered, and to make positive changes to improve your life. My name is Joan Smith. I have a Masters in Social Work, and I am a Registered Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience supporting individuals struggling with trauma, grief, and mental health challenges. In my practice, I address a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias, sleep disturbance, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, and loss.
Barbara Griffin Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RN, RP
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Critical Incident Stress Management, trauma counselling, MANERS psychological first aid, and provide crisis interventions to organizations that have experienced a critical/traumatic event.
I use a collaborative and strengths based approach to working with clients to promote a strong therapeutic relationship within a supportive, safe, and respectful working environment. I also have 19.5 years experience in emergency and trauma nursing, and understand the unique demands and stress faced by clients/patients, First Responders, and medical professionals.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Critical Incident Stress Management, trauma counselling, MANERS psychological first aid, and provide crisis interventions to organizations that have experienced a critical/traumatic event.
I use a collaborative and strengths based approach to working with clients to promote a strong therapeutic relationship within a supportive, safe, and respectful working environment. I also have 19.5 years experience in emergency and trauma nursing, and understand the unique demands and stress faced by clients/patients, First Responders, and medical professionals.
Clare M Fuller
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCT, MHSc, MPS, BEd
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y
I incorporate the different methodologies in counselling therapy as they work for the client, including EMDR, Mindfulness using Ego State, IFS, CBT and other approaches.
If you are dealing with a recent trauma or trauma in the past that you believe may be holding you back and are easily triggered by things you feel should not be so hard to deal with, if you are sad or constantly anxious and worried, or if you are feeling that life is pulling you down and you are not sure how to get back on track, maybe trauma, old beliefs and habitual patterns are keeping you from finding enjoyment in your life. These things are challenging to deal with on your own sometimes but by building awareness and working through them with support and building inner resources you can live life with more peace and enjoyment.
I incorporate the different methodologies in counselling therapy as they work for the client, including EMDR, Mindfulness using Ego State, IFS, CBT and other approaches.
If you are dealing with a recent trauma or trauma in the past that you believe may be holding you back and are easily triggered by things you feel should not be so hard to deal with, if you are sad or constantly anxious and worried, or if you are feeling that life is pulling you down and you are not sure how to get back on track, maybe trauma, old beliefs and habitual patterns are keeping you from finding enjoyment in your life. These things are challenging to deal with on your own sometimes but by building awareness and working through them with support and building inner resources you can live life with more peace and enjoyment.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters Degree in Psychology who has been practicing and studying Mindfulness for the past 25 years. I also have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Meditation. Every therapeutic tool I use in our work together is something I use in my daily life so I can be at my best as a Father, Husband, Son, Brother, Friend, and Community Member. My approach to our work together is that of a collaboration between adults seeking to understand the best path for your Health and Happiness.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters Degree in Psychology who has been practicing and studying Mindfulness for the past 25 years. I also have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Meditation. Every therapeutic tool I use in our work together is something I use in my daily life so I can be at my best as a Father, Husband, Son, Brother, Friend, and Community Member. My approach to our work together is that of a collaboration between adults seeking to understand the best path for your Health and Happiness.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
Based on your needs, I will integrate various therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EFT, EMDR, and Solution-focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety or traumatic experiences? Or do you feel stuck or are going through a really tough time? Hi, I’m Tina, and I would be honoured to journey with you and/or your loved one(s) to help provide healing - pointing out your strengths, discovering your passions, and supporting you with therapeutic modalities that are well researched and tailored to fit your needs and meet your goals. I have specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Flash, loss/grief, trauma, addictions and premarital counselling.
Based on your needs, I will integrate various therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EFT, EMDR, and Solution-focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety or traumatic experiences? Or do you feel stuck or are going through a really tough time? Hi, I’m Tina, and I would be honoured to journey with you and/or your loved one(s) to help provide healing - pointing out your strengths, discovering your passions, and supporting you with therapeutic modalities that are well researched and tailored to fit your needs and meet your goals. I have specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Flash, loss/grief, trauma, addictions and premarital counselling.
See more therapy options for Newmarket
Nearby EMDR Counsellors Searches for Newmarket
- Aurora
- Bradford
- Keswick
- King City
- Maple
- Markham
- Richmond Hill
- Sharon
- Stouffville
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- Vaughan
- Whitchurch-Stouffville
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.