EMDR Therapists in Niagara Falls, ON
Lo Greco & Associates Counseling and Holistic Svcs
Counsellor, SSW, BSW, SMSW, RSW, NLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
Certifications in CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, NLP, TimeLine Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and EMDR enable tailored interventions for holistic mental health care.
Embark on a journey to well-being with Lo Greco & Associates Counseling and Hypnotherapy. Our approach transcends traditional counseling, delving into the unique intricacies of your emotional and psychological challenges. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship hurdles, grief, self-esteem battles, or navigating major life transitions, we're here to guide and support you. Uncover a personalized path toward resilience, empowerment, and lasting positive change. Your optimal counseling experience begins with understanding, empathy, an a commitment to your well-being. Step into a transformative partnership
Certifications in CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, NLP, TimeLine Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and EMDR enable tailored interventions for holistic mental health care.
Embark on a journey to well-being with Lo Greco & Associates Counseling and Hypnotherapy. Our approach transcends traditional counseling, delving into the unique intricacies of your emotional and psychological challenges. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship hurdles, grief, self-esteem battles, or navigating major life transitions, we're here to guide and support you. Uncover a personalized path toward resilience, empowerment, and lasting positive change. Your optimal counseling experience begins with understanding, empathy, an a commitment to your well-being. Step into a transformative partnership
Ian Robertson Social Work Professional Corp.
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
Our approach is guided by several evidence-based psychotherapies grounded mostly in trauma-specific advanced therapies, including EMDR, Brain-Spotting, Polyvagal, Safe Sound Protocol, Structural Dissociation, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment, Schema, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy.
I have worked as a clinician for over 30 years. I am an Advanced Clinical Supervisor for therapists and several community agencies. I am a clinical traumatologist with advanced trauma training and expanded clinical experience in providing therapy for many unique issues for families, couples, and individuals. As an instructor at Laurier University in the Professional Development Department in the School of Social Work, I also train professional therapists in advanced trauma, mental health and addiction therapeutic clinical models and approaches. Our agency provides empathetic yet effective therapeutic approaches to self-growth.
Our approach is guided by several evidence-based psychotherapies grounded mostly in trauma-specific advanced therapies, including EMDR, Brain-Spotting, Polyvagal, Safe Sound Protocol, Structural Dissociation, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment, Schema, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy.
I have worked as a clinician for over 30 years. I am an Advanced Clinical Supervisor for therapists and several community agencies. I am a clinical traumatologist with advanced trauma training and expanded clinical experience in providing therapy for many unique issues for families, couples, and individuals. As an instructor at Laurier University in the Professional Development Department in the School of Social Work, I also train professional therapists in advanced trauma, mental health and addiction therapeutic clinical models and approaches. Our agency provides empathetic yet effective therapeutic approaches to self-growth.
Bridging the Synapse Psychotherapy (M.Morningstar)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, MAds
Verified Verified
Niagara Falls, ON L2H
I am trained in EMDR by an EMDRIA approved course sequence. I practice employing modalities of internal family systems framework (IFS informed), often employing modalities from dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). I approach my work with clients with a neuropsychological and attachment lens, which has proven to be a crucial part of the healing process.
I am trained in EMDR by an EMDRIA approved course sequence. I practice employing modalities of internal family systems framework (IFS informed), often employing modalities from dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). I approach my work with clients with a neuropsychological and attachment lens, which has proven to be a crucial part of the healing process.
Semra Lamky:Trauma, EMDR, Anxiety, Depression,ADHD
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MACP, BS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2H (Online Only)
I engage in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, solution-focused, person-centred, and trauma-focused.
Hello, I am Semra. Congratulations on taking the first step toward your healing journey, and I’m excited to support you as you explore and grow. Are you feeling down, anxious, or simply overwhelmed by life? Do you struggle with trauma, feelings of depression, and anxiety? You may be dealing with relationship difficulties or emotional challenges like anger or feeling lost and unsure of what’s next. We’ll work as a team to explore your challenges and navigate your growth path. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges while remaining focused and engaged, working towards achieving your life goals and being your authentic self.
I engage in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, solution-focused, person-centred, and trauma-focused.
Hello, I am Semra. Congratulations on taking the first step toward your healing journey, and I’m excited to support you as you explore and grow. Are you feeling down, anxious, or simply overwhelmed by life? Do you struggle with trauma, feelings of depression, and anxiety? You may be dealing with relationship difficulties or emotional challenges like anger or feeling lost and unsure of what’s next. We’ll work as a team to explore your challenges and navigate your growth path. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges while remaining focused and engaged, working towards achieving your life goals and being your authentic self.
Jenna Fiello
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2H (Online Only)
I believe people have the inherent capacity to lead fulfilling lives. I want to help you reconnect with the parts of you that you had to abandon in order to survive. I value the art of developing a strong therapeutic relationship, fostering authenticity, and helping people recognize and unravel the unique hardships of their own stories while acknowledging their strengths. As an EMDR trained therapist, I’d like to join you in your healing journey to help you better understand yourself and work through any emotional difficulties that leave you feeling stuck to restore balance and connection.
I believe people have the inherent capacity to lead fulfilling lives. I want to help you reconnect with the parts of you that you had to abandon in order to survive. I value the art of developing a strong therapeutic relationship, fostering authenticity, and helping people recognize and unravel the unique hardships of their own stories while acknowledging their strengths. As an EMDR trained therapist, I’d like to join you in your healing journey to help you better understand yourself and work through any emotional difficulties that leave you feeling stuck to restore balance and connection.
Nina Wallace Trauma Recovery & Narcissistic Abuse
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
I am formally trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and DBT (dialectical behaviour therapy).
Have you experienced a traumatic event in your life? For some people, trauma was experienced in childhood, or through sexual assault, being involved in an accident, being in an emotionally or physically abusive relationship, not having your basic needs met, or experiencing it through your work as a frontline worker. Untreated trauma can fester in one's body and present as anxiety/panic, depression, anger, irritability, sleep/eating issues, inability to concentrate, low self-esteem or intimacy issues.
I am formally trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and DBT (dialectical behaviour therapy).
Have you experienced a traumatic event in your life? For some people, trauma was experienced in childhood, or through sexual assault, being involved in an accident, being in an emotionally or physically abusive relationship, not having your basic needs met, or experiencing it through your work as a frontline worker. Untreated trauma can fester in one's body and present as anxiety/panic, depression, anger, irritability, sleep/eating issues, inability to concentrate, low self-esteem or intimacy issues.
Harpreet Saini Emdr
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
Hello and welcome! I’m Harpreet Kaur Saini, a dedicated psychotherapist based in Mississauga, committed to providing compassionate and effective support to individuals, teens, families, and couples. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and achieve personal growth. With specialized training in EMDR therapy, I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help you understand and address the root causes of your distress, empowering you to create lasting change and find greater emotional balance.
Hello and welcome! I’m Harpreet Kaur Saini, a dedicated psychotherapist based in Mississauga, committed to providing compassionate and effective support to individuals, teens, families, and couples. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and achieve personal growth. With specialized training in EMDR therapy, I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help you understand and address the root causes of your distress, empowering you to create lasting change and find greater emotional balance.
Emily Pollak
Registered Social Worker, BSSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
My clinical experience includes advanced training in perinatal mental health, EMDR, Flash, attachment, IFS-informed, and trauma.
This journey may not be what you expected. Fertility, pregnancy loss, perinatal mental health, birth trauma and trauma can impact your sense of self.I am here to support you during this chapter of your life. You are not alone. We will process and reflect on your story in therapy to promote healing. We will develop strategies that are authentic to your needs and feel realistic. It would be my honour to be part of your circle of support. I bring 18 years of experience in the field and my motherhood journey.
My clinical experience includes advanced training in perinatal mental health, EMDR, Flash, attachment, IFS-informed, and trauma.
This journey may not be what you expected. Fertility, pregnancy loss, perinatal mental health, birth trauma and trauma can impact your sense of self.I am here to support you during this chapter of your life. You are not alone. We will process and reflect on your story in therapy to promote healing. We will develop strategies that are authentic to your needs and feel realistic. It would be my honour to be part of your circle of support. I bring 18 years of experience in the field and my motherhood journey.
Playful Solutions
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CPT-R, EMDR
Verified Verified
Niagara Falls, ON L2H
Playful Solutions also offers attachment focused therapy and EMDR.
Liz Christie is registered and dedicated to offering EMDR and Play Therapy to her community. Liz is also an EMDRIA approved Consultant in Training. Liz provides a safe and warm therapeutic environment to guide parents and their children through issues such as anxiety/OCD, depression, relational attachment concerns/RAD, trauma related to grief, divorce, physical or sexual abuse, emotional/social behaviour struggles, and self-esteem. Children and teens who struggle to cope with confusing feelings can show signs of emotion dysregulation through their behaviour and Liz can help.
Playful Solutions also offers attachment focused therapy and EMDR.
Liz Christie is registered and dedicated to offering EMDR and Play Therapy to her community. Liz is also an EMDRIA approved Consultant in Training. Liz provides a safe and warm therapeutic environment to guide parents and their children through issues such as anxiety/OCD, depression, relational attachment concerns/RAD, trauma related to grief, divorce, physical or sexual abuse, emotional/social behaviour struggles, and self-esteem. Children and teens who struggle to cope with confusing feelings can show signs of emotion dysregulation through their behaviour and Liz can help.
Larisa Fry @Tula Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, RCC-ACS, EMDRcit
Verified Verified
Niagara Falls, ON L2E (Online Only)
With specialized training in Trauma and EMDR.
Finding someone to trust as you are managing through turbulent times is stressful, and can be overwhelming. I thank you for considering me as part of this journey. Specializing in strength-based approaches to assist individuals, families, and couples to find balance in daily living. I work hard to build solid relationships through understanding and trust while offering an opportunity to challenge growth in my clients though healing of the past and paving new paths to the future.
With specialized training in Trauma and EMDR.
Finding someone to trust as you are managing through turbulent times is stressful, and can be overwhelming. I thank you for considering me as part of this journey. Specializing in strength-based approaches to assist individuals, families, and couples to find balance in daily living. I work hard to build solid relationships through understanding and trust while offering an opportunity to challenge growth in my clients though healing of the past and paving new paths to the future.
The Play Clinic provides a safe and secure place for children, youth, adults, and families to heal as they work through emotional, behavioural, and relational issues. Jodie is Certified Play Therapist Supervisor, IFSI Approved Clinical Consultant, Certified EMDR therapist, Certified Trauma Professional II, and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. Jodie spent the last 10 years focused on specializing in children's behavioural and mental health, seeking out consultation from leading therapeutic experts to be able to support clients of all ages healing and well being.
The Play Clinic provides a safe and secure place for children, youth, adults, and families to heal as they work through emotional, behavioural, and relational issues. Jodie is Certified Play Therapist Supervisor, IFSI Approved Clinical Consultant, Certified EMDR therapist, Certified Trauma Professional II, and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. Jodie spent the last 10 years focused on specializing in children's behavioural and mental health, seeking out consultation from leading therapeutic experts to be able to support clients of all ages healing and well being.
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Greer Kidnie - Flourish Counselling & Creativity
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
Greer brings over 6 years of focused EMDR expertise to her clients.
Accepting new clients for EMDR & "IFS informed" Intensive Therapy. If you don’t want to spend months in therapy to resolve an issue or the demands of your life make it difficult to commit to weekly sessions, look no further. Intensives are the Disney Fast Pass of Therapy! This type of therapy is an innovative approach designed to maximize progress and achieve profound results within a condensed timeframe. 5 hours of intensive therapy is equal to 3 months of bi-weekly sessions. Greer is an EMDR Certified Therapist through the EMDR International Association. She has been practicing this evidence-based therapy for over 6 years.
Greer brings over 6 years of focused EMDR expertise to her clients.
Accepting new clients for EMDR & "IFS informed" Intensive Therapy. If you don’t want to spend months in therapy to resolve an issue or the demands of your life make it difficult to commit to weekly sessions, look no further. Intensives are the Disney Fast Pass of Therapy! This type of therapy is an innovative approach designed to maximize progress and achieve profound results within a condensed timeframe. 5 hours of intensive therapy is equal to 3 months of bi-weekly sessions. Greer is an EMDR Certified Therapist through the EMDR International Association. She has been practicing this evidence-based therapy for over 6 years.
My specialty includes trauma processing with Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and/or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
NOW Accepting New Clients! With 20 years of experience in the field of Social Work, I provide clients like you with a calm and confidential space where you will feel safe to be vulnerable and share your current life challenges and deepest pain. Clients that I work with are typically struggling with a history of trauma, symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, and/or addictions. Rebuilding your self-worth and self-esteem can be part of our work together. I also work well with clients who have goals to implement sustained behaviour change in their life and need a supportive person in the process.
My specialty includes trauma processing with Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and/or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
NOW Accepting New Clients! With 20 years of experience in the field of Social Work, I provide clients like you with a calm and confidential space where you will feel safe to be vulnerable and share your current life challenges and deepest pain. Clients that I work with are typically struggling with a history of trauma, symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, and/or addictions. Rebuilding your self-worth and self-esteem can be part of our work together. I also work well with clients who have goals to implement sustained behaviour change in their life and need a supportive person in the process.
Owyn Persia
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
I recently have completed EMDR training and am thrilled to offer this modality to those I work with.
As a psychotherapist, I support clients experiencing emotional difficulty by making the connection between past experiences and current circumstances, allowing space for positive change. I work from a trauma-informed, strength-based lens to foster a safe, non-judgmental environment for healing.
I recently have completed EMDR training and am thrilled to offer this modality to those I work with.
As a psychotherapist, I support clients experiencing emotional difficulty by making the connection between past experiences and current circumstances, allowing space for positive change. I work from a trauma-informed, strength-based lens to foster a safe, non-judgmental environment for healing.
I support clients’ unique needs through the following therapeutic modalities: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Anti-Oppressive/ Anti-Racism and more.
What’s on your mind? How can I help? I am a Registered Social Worker that applies my skills and knowledge from my education and training, as well as my lived experiences as a Korean- Canadian, international adoptee and someone who has learned from personal experiences of mental health, and trauma. I am dedicated to supporting, educating, advocating and empowering clients through their struggles. I specialize in supporting clients through their distress, self-esteem, anxiety and depression, but also through times of transitions, accomplishments and personal growth.
I support clients’ unique needs through the following therapeutic modalities: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Anti-Oppressive/ Anti-Racism and more.
What’s on your mind? How can I help? I am a Registered Social Worker that applies my skills and knowledge from my education and training, as well as my lived experiences as a Korean- Canadian, international adoptee and someone who has learned from personal experiences of mental health, and trauma. I am dedicated to supporting, educating, advocating and empowering clients through their struggles. I specialize in supporting clients through their distress, self-esteem, anxiety and depression, but also through times of transitions, accomplishments and personal growth.
Iris Hartwig
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
Some of the evidence-based modalities I use in treatment include EMDR, CPT, CBT, ACT, DBT and IFS.
Life can take us beyond our capacity to cope, and during those times, I know that reaching out to seek help can feel like another exhausting task. As a grief and trauma focused therapist, I understand this struggle and want to meet you exactly where you are at. My goal as a therapist is to work in collaboration with you to address your current difficulties, understand and heal the deep-rooted issues which make change so difficult, and develop and strengthen your unique capacities and resources.
Some of the evidence-based modalities I use in treatment include EMDR, CPT, CBT, ACT, DBT and IFS.
Life can take us beyond our capacity to cope, and during those times, I know that reaching out to seek help can feel like another exhausting task. As a grief and trauma focused therapist, I understand this struggle and want to meet you exactly where you are at. My goal as a therapist is to work in collaboration with you to address your current difficulties, understand and heal the deep-rooted issues which make change so difficult, and develop and strengthen your unique capacities and resources.
Sara Haines
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
My work is individualized to your distinct needs and informed by modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness-Based Somatic Therapies.
No matter where we are in life, we are vulnerable to experiencing overwhelming and unexpected challenges. Many of us, have moved through life without learning how to manage these difficult emotions in an adaptive and helpful way. As a result, we are prevented from connecting to our true emotional world and reject some of the core parts of ourselves. Left unacknowledged, these parts of ourselves can influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and keep us stuck repeating old, unfulfilling patterns.
My work is individualized to your distinct needs and informed by modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness-Based Somatic Therapies.
No matter where we are in life, we are vulnerable to experiencing overwhelming and unexpected challenges. Many of us, have moved through life without learning how to manage these difficult emotions in an adaptive and helpful way. As a result, we are prevented from connecting to our true emotional world and reject some of the core parts of ourselves. Left unacknowledged, these parts of ourselves can influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and keep us stuck repeating old, unfulfilling patterns.
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.
Magnolia Counselling Centre Niagara
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Niagara Falls, ON L2E
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.
Jade Muir
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, ON L2E (Online Only)
I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Re-processing ( EMDR).
Do you often put the needs of others before your own needs? Do you often dwell on negative things that have happened to you? Maybe you’ve been feeling sad recently, or you have been more irritable. Perhaps you have been feeling weighed down by anxiety? Welcome! I am passionate about supporting you along your journey in creating positive change. My mission is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth.
I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Re-processing ( EMDR).
Do you often put the needs of others before your own needs? Do you often dwell on negative things that have happened to you? Maybe you’ve been feeling sad recently, or you have been more irritable. Perhaps you have been feeling weighed down by anxiety? Welcome! I am passionate about supporting you along your journey in creating positive change. My mission is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth.
See more therapy options for Niagara Falls
Nearby EMDR Counsellors Searches for Niagara Falls
- Beamsville
- Binbrook
- Fort Erie
- Grimsby
- Hamilton
- 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.