EMDR Therapists in Scarborough, ON

Photo of Nadia Henriksen, RP, MA, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Nadia Henriksen
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1R  (Online Only)
Taking the first step toward self-care and healing can be intimidating! I understand, empathize, and welcome you to share your story within a safe, accepting, and non-judgemental space. Each person is an expert in the story of their own lives – no one knows you better than you know yourself. My role is to help facilitate change, promote positive growth, and foster healing. Using integrative approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and the tools of mindfulness, I help adults and adolescents move past stuck feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Taking the first step toward self-care and healing can be intimidating! I understand, empathize, and welcome you to share your story within a safe, accepting, and non-judgemental space. Each person is an expert in the story of their own lives – no one knows you better than you know yourself. My role is to help facilitate change, promote positive growth, and foster healing. Using integrative approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and the tools of mindfulness, I help adults and adolescents move past stuck feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(289) 206-9083 View (289) 206-9083
Photo of Zahra Kolahdouz, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Zahra Kolahdouz
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1J  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I have experience in several evidence-based therapies including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Neurofeedback.
I am Registered Psychotherapist who is passionate about helping people achieve their full potential. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make changes in their life and is committed to healing from mental health concerns such as depression, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, I have experience in several evidence-based therapies including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Neurofeedback.
I am Registered Psychotherapist who is passionate about helping people achieve their full potential. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make changes in their life and is committed to healing from mental health concerns such as depression, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
(289) 401-5081 View (289) 401-5081
New Direction Therapeutics
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1N  (Online Only)
We are trained in several modalities such as Solution Focused, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Narrative to name a few.
The folx we work with have experienced a complex variety of trauma(s) throughout their lives. They struggle with relationships (personally and/or professionally), substance use/overuse and/or mental health well-being. Their hope is to break free from their trauma and live their best life.
We are trained in several modalities such as Solution Focused, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Narrative to name a few.
The folx we work with have experienced a complex variety of trauma(s) throughout their lives. They struggle with relationships (personally and/or professionally), substance use/overuse and/or mental health well-being. Their hope is to break free from their trauma and live their best life.
(289) 210-4669 View (289) 210-4669
Photo of Kaitlin MacLean, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kaitlin MacLean
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1R  (Online Only)
Using various modalities, such as EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness, I meet clients where they are at in their therapeutic goals.
Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event that has impacted your ability to focus or cope with the everyday? Trauma continues to live in our systems long after the event has happened, sometimes remaining hidden until something triggers it to come to the surface. Trauma can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including physical pain, lead to anxiety, depression, attachment or relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, addictions, and can impact our perceptions leading to unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. My clients report a reduction in their symptoms, describe feeling calmer, lighter, and more present.
Using various modalities, such as EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness, I meet clients where they are at in their therapeutic goals.
Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event that has impacted your ability to focus or cope with the everyday? Trauma continues to live in our systems long after the event has happened, sometimes remaining hidden until something triggers it to come to the surface. Trauma can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including physical pain, lead to anxiety, depression, attachment or relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, addictions, and can impact our perceptions leading to unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. My clients report a reduction in their symptoms, describe feeling calmer, lighter, and more present.
(289) 815-6194 View (289) 815-6194
Photo of Jenany Jeyarajan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jenany Jeyarajan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1S
As an EMDR- and IFS trained therapist, I will work with you to identify the root causes of your current struggles and help you understand and process these unresolved events.
Have you been struggling with long standing depression? Do you feel like the depression comes in bouts? Have you been feeling anxious for as long as you can remember, especially when you were going through significant changes in your life or specifically when you are in social situations? I would love to work with you and be your support while you safely explore your thoughts, core beliefs, feelings and behaviours in a nonjudgmental and supportive way. We will practice DBT skills that can be effective in helping you navigate interpersonal stressors in your life.
As an EMDR- and IFS trained therapist, I will work with you to identify the root causes of your current struggles and help you understand and process these unresolved events.
Have you been struggling with long standing depression? Do you feel like the depression comes in bouts? Have you been feeling anxious for as long as you can remember, especially when you were going through significant changes in your life or specifically when you are in social situations? I would love to work with you and be your support while you safely explore your thoughts, core beliefs, feelings and behaviours in a nonjudgmental and supportive way. We will practice DBT skills that can be effective in helping you navigate interpersonal stressors in your life.
(289) 274-2407 View (289) 274-2407
Photo of Tara Koblitz - Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy), MSW, RSW, CPT-S, Registered Social Worker
Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1E
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
(647) 560-3917 View (647) 560-3917
Photo of Nadia Henriksen - Open Door Therapist, RP, MA, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Open Door Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1R  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Maybe you feel anxious, stressed and tired of feeling this way but not sure how to move forward. We all carry pain and go through difficult experiences, however, your journey doesn’t have to be lonely and isolating. We are here, ready to be your guide, understand your story, and support you towards healing. We use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, EMDR, IFS, DBT, EFT, and somatic interventions to help you reduce your symptoms, feel more empowered, calm, and confident in your life. We love working with adults, adolescents, children, and couples and offer online and telephone therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Maybe you feel anxious, stressed and tired of feeling this way but not sure how to move forward. We all carry pain and go through difficult experiences, however, your journey doesn’t have to be lonely and isolating. We are here, ready to be your guide, understand your story, and support you towards healing. We use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, EMDR, IFS, DBT, EFT, and somatic interventions to help you reduce your symptoms, feel more empowered, calm, and confident in your life. We love working with adults, adolescents, children, and couples and offer online and telephone therapy.
(289) 278-7258 View (289) 278-7258
Photo of Eunice Chau, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Eunice Chau
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1V  (Online Only)
I am a trained EMDR trauma therapist and I am fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese and English.
Do you feel pressured to be perfect and live up to others high expectations? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless? Do you consistently experience intrusive thoughts and engage in repetitive behaviours that affect your daily life? Are you trying to make sense of your feelings after a difficult transition, traumatic event, or painful loss, and seeking healthier ways of coping? I am here to support you.
I am a trained EMDR trauma therapist and I am fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese and English.
Do you feel pressured to be perfect and live up to others high expectations? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless? Do you consistently experience intrusive thoughts and engage in repetitive behaviours that affect your daily life? Are you trying to make sense of your feelings after a difficult transition, traumatic event, or painful loss, and seeking healthier ways of coping? I am here to support you.
(289) 723-1949 View (289) 723-1949
Photo of Marcus Chow, MDiv, RP, CCFT, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Marcus Chow
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CCFT, RMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B  (Online Only)
My counselling approach is informed by different models (such as Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR).
My passion is to walk along side with people during their journey towards healing and growth. I value each client as a unique individual, who deserves to be treated with compassion and respect. I believe that developing emotional maturity and gaining self-understanding are essential steps towards personal growth.Over the course of our lives, we all inevitably experienced some emotional wounds, which hinder us from personal growth. Counselling serves as a process to help us uncover those wounds and heal, and in the process, gain self-understanding and self-awareness, and be empowered to make changes towards holistic growth.
My counselling approach is informed by different models (such as Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR).
My passion is to walk along side with people during their journey towards healing and growth. I value each client as a unique individual, who deserves to be treated with compassion and respect. I believe that developing emotional maturity and gaining self-understanding are essential steps towards personal growth.Over the course of our lives, we all inevitably experienced some emotional wounds, which hinder us from personal growth. Counselling serves as a process to help us uncover those wounds and heal, and in the process, gain self-understanding and self-awareness, and be empowered to make changes towards holistic growth.
(855) 956-1329 View (855) 956-1329
Photo of Laurie deOliveira, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Laurie deOliveira
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1C
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy and am an EMDR-trained therapist.
Counselling can be a helpful tool when you are feeling overwhelmed due to stress, mental health concerns, history of trauma, strain in a relationship, or a situational stress. Stress can complicate and add layers to your nervous system, leaving you in a “fight or flight” state causing feelings of anxiety, low mood, and irritability. I would like to help you learn more about yourself, strategies to manage and lessen stress, and find a sense of calm again.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy and am an EMDR-trained therapist.
Counselling can be a helpful tool when you are feeling overwhelmed due to stress, mental health concerns, history of trauma, strain in a relationship, or a situational stress. Stress can complicate and add layers to your nervous system, leaving you in a “fight or flight” state causing feelings of anxiety, low mood, and irritability. I would like to help you learn more about yourself, strategies to manage and lessen stress, and find a sense of calm again.
(289) 302-5871 View (289) 302-5871
Photo of Grace Elizabeth Chanicka - Harmony Mindfulness Therapy Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Harmony Mindfulness Therapy Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1C  (Online Only)
I chose this profession because I genuinely care about people and have a passion for helping individuals navigate life's difficulties. I offer a safe space for those who are bereaved and need to have their grief and loss witnessed, so they could begin the healing journey. I am trained in EMDR therapy, to aid clients in processing challenging emotions and memories, so that they do not have the same intensity. I also use CBT and DBT approaches, as well as mindfulness practices to helping them understand their emotions and invite them to practice coping strategies that meet their needs.
I chose this profession because I genuinely care about people and have a passion for helping individuals navigate life's difficulties. I offer a safe space for those who are bereaved and need to have their grief and loss witnessed, so they could begin the healing journey. I am trained in EMDR therapy, to aid clients in processing challenging emotions and memories, so that they do not have the same intensity. I also use CBT and DBT approaches, as well as mindfulness practices to helping them understand their emotions and invite them to practice coping strategies that meet their needs.
(416) 423-8628 View (416) 423-8628
Photo of Tyfanny Ross, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tyfanny Ross
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1C  (Online Only)
Our sessions are structured to address the root problem. With the lens from EMDR therapy and an AOP (anti-oppressive practice), we enter the memory network to reprocess the experiences that are hurting your current state of mind. I will provide a compassionate and non-judgmental environment. It's important to note that my scope of practice revolves around trauma, anxiety, depression, family stability, ADHD and ADD. I have obtained a Masters in Social Work and have experience supporting children, youth, adults and family units for 13 years.
Our sessions are structured to address the root problem. With the lens from EMDR therapy and an AOP (anti-oppressive practice), we enter the memory network to reprocess the experiences that are hurting your current state of mind. I will provide a compassionate and non-judgmental environment. It's important to note that my scope of practice revolves around trauma, anxiety, depression, family stability, ADHD and ADD. I have obtained a Masters in Social Work and have experience supporting children, youth, adults and family units for 13 years.
(289) 274-2417 View (289) 274-2417
Photo of Ruby Rowan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ruby Rowan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M4C  (Online Only)
I mostly rely on theories of intersectionality, feminism, attachment, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, embodiment, CBT, DBT, and I am trauma informed.
My approach to therapy is practical, creative, humorous, and interactive. Engaging in therapy is a vulnerable and courageous step, and I aim to foster a comfortable, collaborative process. When the tools and skills that were previously helpful are no longer working, I support clients to cultivate new coping skills, and identify potential areas for change and/or acceptance. I am a seasoned therapist who is able to draw from a variety of modalities depending on what comes up for the client.
I mostly rely on theories of intersectionality, feminism, attachment, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, embodiment, CBT, DBT, and I am trauma informed.
My approach to therapy is practical, creative, humorous, and interactive. Engaging in therapy is a vulnerable and courageous step, and I aim to foster a comfortable, collaborative process. When the tools and skills that were previously helpful are no longer working, I support clients to cultivate new coping skills, and identify potential areas for change and/or acceptance. I am a seasoned therapist who is able to draw from a variety of modalities depending on what comes up for the client.
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Photo of Rita Kohli, MA,  MEd, EdD-c, Registered Psychotherapist
Rita Kohli
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd, EdD-c
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1G
Certified in Clinical Traumatology, EMDR, Therapeutic Coaching, I integrate somatic EMDR, cognitive therapy, feminist therapy, emotional freedom technique, EFT, polyvagal, eastern mindfulness and other integrative therapies to facilitate trauma recovery for clients.
Clients in my practice are racially diverse, from the 2SLGTQ, immigrant and refugee communities who have experienced trauma that is adversely impacting their personal and professional relationships, Clients presenting issues are ancestral and intergenerational violence, current sexual/violence, partner relational/narcistic violence, trafficking, trauma related to war and conflict, workplace violence, discrimination and harassment. CPTSD, PTSD, attachment trauma, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, lack of self esteem, coming out, transitioning are some reasons for diverse clients to seek individual, couple and family therapy.
Certified in Clinical Traumatology, EMDR, Therapeutic Coaching, I integrate somatic EMDR, cognitive therapy, feminist therapy, emotional freedom technique, EFT, polyvagal, eastern mindfulness and other integrative therapies to facilitate trauma recovery for clients.
Clients in my practice are racially diverse, from the 2SLGTQ, immigrant and refugee communities who have experienced trauma that is adversely impacting their personal and professional relationships, Clients presenting issues are ancestral and intergenerational violence, current sexual/violence, partner relational/narcistic violence, trafficking, trauma related to war and conflict, workplace violence, discrimination and harassment. CPTSD, PTSD, attachment trauma, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, lack of self esteem, coming out, transitioning are some reasons for diverse clients to seek individual, couple and family therapy.
(647) 202-2882 View (647) 202-2882
Photo of Jonathan Au, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jonathan Au
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1L  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is eclectic: I use CBT, ACT, IPT, mindfulness, DBT skills, and EMDR.
Hello! I’m a Social Worker offering clinical expertise and therapy to those navigating the bumps and barriers of life. As a cis-gendered bi-racial 2SLGBTQ+ identified person, I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer especially from a cultural and racial lens. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression, and seeking support in navigating these challenges or just looking to do some soul searching, let’s connect! Let’s find out how we can move towards living life more meaningfully even when life gets in the way.
My approach to therapy is eclectic: I use CBT, ACT, IPT, mindfulness, DBT skills, and EMDR.
Hello! I’m a Social Worker offering clinical expertise and therapy to those navigating the bumps and barriers of life. As a cis-gendered bi-racial 2SLGBTQ+ identified person, I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer especially from a cultural and racial lens. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression, and seeking support in navigating these challenges or just looking to do some soul searching, let’s connect! Let’s find out how we can move towards living life more meaningfully even when life gets in the way.
(289) 210-4780 View (289) 210-4780
Photo of Jessie Bhatia, MPsych, RP, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessie Bhatia
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsych, RP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1B
I use an eclectic approach and take from different evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions that I am trained in to establish an approach based on my clients needs, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Person centred therapy , Psychodynamic therapy, and EMDR Therapy and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
We all face challenges in life and can lose a sense of ourselves. I strive to uncover a person’s authentic self, in allowing them to understand their purpose and bring empowerment and healing. During our meetings, it is important for me to create an alliance with you from a non-judgemental space that fosters trust. I value all parts of a person that are conflicted, afraid, ashamed, and parts that appear relentless.
I use an eclectic approach and take from different evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions that I am trained in to establish an approach based on my clients needs, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Person centred therapy , Psychodynamic therapy, and EMDR Therapy and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
We all face challenges in life and can lose a sense of ourselves. I strive to uncover a person’s authentic self, in allowing them to understand their purpose and bring empowerment and healing. During our meetings, it is important for me to create an alliance with you from a non-judgemental space that fosters trust. I value all parts of a person that are conflicted, afraid, ashamed, and parts that appear relentless.
(647) 372-1682 View (647) 372-1682
Photo of Laura Crawford, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Laura Crawford
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1L  (Online Only)
In my work with clients I draw from a number of evidence-based modalities, including EFT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Narrative, and CBT.
Engaging in therapy, whether for the first time or with a new therapist, can be intensively vulnerable. When working with me, I approach each session with genuine curiosity and openness to help create a felt sense of safety for clients to explore their feelings and concerns. As a Registered Social Worker who specializes in working with young people, adults, and families, I have experience working with clients and families in various contexts, including as a child and family therapist, school social worker, and individual therapist.
In my work with clients I draw from a number of evidence-based modalities, including EFT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Narrative, and CBT.
Engaging in therapy, whether for the first time or with a new therapist, can be intensively vulnerable. When working with me, I approach each session with genuine curiosity and openness to help create a felt sense of safety for clients to explore their feelings and concerns. As a Registered Social Worker who specializes in working with young people, adults, and families, I have experience working with clients and families in various contexts, including as a child and family therapist, school social worker, and individual therapist.
(437) 524-0589 View (437) 524-0589
Photo of Karen Haines - iHope Counselling & Consulting, RP, MScN, Registered Psychotherapist
iHope Counselling & Consulting
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MScN
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1E
EMDR Therapy, CBT and DBT all focused on emotion regulation and feeling better after complex trauma are specialties here.
Life can be difficult and sometimes, overwhelming. My highest priority is assisting you to cope and grow, and I am committed to maintaining a safe and healthy relationship in which to do this important and life changing work.
EMDR Therapy, CBT and DBT all focused on emotion regulation and feeling better after complex trauma are specialties here.
Life can be difficult and sometimes, overwhelming. My highest priority is assisting you to cope and grow, and I am committed to maintaining a safe and healthy relationship in which to do this important and life changing work.
(705) 410-4535 View (705) 410-4535
Photo of Elaine Lam, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Elaine Lam
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1V
When you are looking at this profile, you are probably concerned about yourself to the point that you want to seek help. You may be experiencing intense emotions/strong feelings, like fear, anger, sadness, loneliness or helplessness, and it has been impacting on your life, such as your relationship, work, sleep... You are likely to have questions on how psychotherapy can help and which therapist will fit. Let’s slow down and take a deep breath... I would first like to applaud your decision to seek help because it takes courage. This is a significant sign of your readiness to acknowledge your issues and to make changes.
When you are looking at this profile, you are probably concerned about yourself to the point that you want to seek help. You may be experiencing intense emotions/strong feelings, like fear, anger, sadness, loneliness or helplessness, and it has been impacting on your life, such as your relationship, work, sleep... You are likely to have questions on how psychotherapy can help and which therapist will fit. Let’s slow down and take a deep breath... I would first like to applaud your decision to seek help because it takes courage. This is a significant sign of your readiness to acknowledge your issues and to make changes.
(647) 490-6520 View (647) 490-6520
Photo of Ramona Saeedi - Bloom Clinical Care | Ramona Saeedi (RP), RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Bloom Clinical Care | Ramona Saeedi (RP)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1H
Throughout life there are many factors that influence and shape the unique person we become. As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness and self acceptance and I seek to assist you in the process of self-exploration and self-growth. I work from a multicultural, nonjudgmental, compassionate, and anti-oppressive lens in order to understand your needs from the context of your environment, personal relationships and upbringing. I value the importance of trust and empathy in a therapeutic relationship as I strive to create a safe space to share and discuss concerns.
Throughout life there are many factors that influence and shape the unique person we become. As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness and self acceptance and I seek to assist you in the process of self-exploration and self-growth. I work from a multicultural, nonjudgmental, compassionate, and anti-oppressive lens in order to understand your needs from the context of your environment, personal relationships and upbringing. I value the importance of trust and empathy in a therapeutic relationship as I strive to create a safe space to share and discuss concerns.
(289) 402-3906 View (289) 402-3906
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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.