EMDR Therapists in Stoney Creek, ON

Photo of Wesley A Paris - Umoja Guidance Inc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Umoja Guidance Inc
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Stoney Creek, ON L8J
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am the founder and sole therapist of Umoja Guidance Inc. I offer individual, couple and family therapy sessions. I provide a genuine and down to earth approach when interacting with my clients. The focus of sessions will be to assist with clients achieving their goals using a strength based approach. I believe everyone has strengths that can be identified to help them resolve challenging situations. There are various treatment methods I use based on the need. I am very flexible and understanding of peoples life schedules and am always willing to provide sessions that accommodate my clients busy schedule.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am the founder and sole therapist of Umoja Guidance Inc. I offer individual, couple and family therapy sessions. I provide a genuine and down to earth approach when interacting with my clients. The focus of sessions will be to assist with clients achieving their goals using a strength based approach. I believe everyone has strengths that can be identified to help them resolve challenging situations. There are various treatment methods I use based on the need. I am very flexible and understanding of peoples life schedules and am always willing to provide sessions that accommodate my clients busy schedule.
(905) 875-1616 View (905) 875-1616
Photo of Ada Sabatelli - ASR Counselling and Psychotherapy, EMDR Certified , HonBA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
ASR Counselling and Psychotherapy, EMDR Certified
Registered Social Worker, HonBA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8E
Attachment-based, healing wounded parts of self and EMDR therapy, help to not only establish trust, but also foster permanent healing by addressing emotional pain, its impact on your body and connection to your thoughts.
Silenced, invisible, unloved – A story written about you. It haunts you, and you feel it seeping into your everyday. You want to change, but you're not sure how. There’s a part of you that feels like you’re not living up to your full potential, yet another part that feels hopeless. Together, we will liberate you from this story to create a new chapter: one that helps you live up to your full potential, a life in which you feel deserving of being heard, seen and loved.
Attachment-based, healing wounded parts of self and EMDR therapy, help to not only establish trust, but also foster permanent healing by addressing emotional pain, its impact on your body and connection to your thoughts.
Silenced, invisible, unloved – A story written about you. It haunts you, and you feel it seeping into your everyday. You want to change, but you're not sure how. There’s a part of you that feels like you’re not living up to your full potential, yet another part that feels hopeless. Together, we will liberate you from this story to create a new chapter: one that helps you live up to your full potential, a life in which you feel deserving of being heard, seen and loved.
(289) 216-4492 View (289) 216-4492
Photo of Brittani Ali, BA, BSW, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Brittani Ali
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8E
She has trained in and tends to use EMDR, IFS and narrative therapy in her work.
Now welcoming new clients (offering in person, virtual, evening/ weekends, pay what you can & sliding scale options). We prioritize a compassionate, judgment free space. We offer a person-centered and trauma informed approach to supporting mental and relational health. We believe that we all come to therapy with complex experiences that often connect and impact us, therefore, our approach will always honour your story and how the parts of it weave together. Britt has gained experience supporting individuals & families over the last 10 years working in the social services field. Britt also provides some supervision.
She has trained in and tends to use EMDR, IFS and narrative therapy in her work.
Now welcoming new clients (offering in person, virtual, evening/ weekends, pay what you can & sliding scale options). We prioritize a compassionate, judgment free space. We offer a person-centered and trauma informed approach to supporting mental and relational health. We believe that we all come to therapy with complex experiences that often connect and impact us, therefore, our approach will always honour your story and how the parts of it weave together. Britt has gained experience supporting individuals & families over the last 10 years working in the social services field. Britt also provides some supervision.
(226) 781-0988 View (226) 781-0988
Photo of Emdr Maria del Carmen Sarmiento, RP, MEdCPsy, EMDR C, Registered Psychotherapist
Emdr Maria del Carmen Sarmiento
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEdCPsy, EMDR C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8J  (Online Only)
Life obstacles may be the turning point towards new and rewarding experiences. Getting help through counselling is a safe way to move forward in your healing journey. I work with adults accompanying them on their path to self-exploration and self-awareness that will give them the courage to make new choices and create changes in their lives.
Life obstacles may be the turning point towards new and rewarding experiences. Getting help through counselling is a safe way to move forward in your healing journey. I work with adults accompanying them on their path to self-exploration and self-awareness that will give them the courage to make new choices and create changes in their lives.
(365) 607-0911 View (365) 607-0911
Photo of Sara Schafer, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Schafer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8G
Currently Accepting Clients for Daytime Appointments-Hi there, my name is Sara and I am so happy you're here. As a registered social worker, I provide therapy services to individuals aged 12 and up who are looking for support to manage various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, parent-child relational difficulties, stress and burnout, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed, and I will work with you with compassion and empathy to support you to feel more at ease and in control in your life.
Currently Accepting Clients for Daytime Appointments-Hi there, my name is Sara and I am so happy you're here. As a registered social worker, I provide therapy services to individuals aged 12 and up who are looking for support to manage various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, parent-child relational difficulties, stress and burnout, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed, and I will work with you with compassion and empathy to support you to feel more at ease and in control in your life.
(289) 805-4736 View (289) 805-4736
Photo of T. Candice Babbey, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
T. Candice Babbey
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8G
I offer individual therapy to adults struggling with their mental health including depression, anxiety, addictions, and those struggling to adjust to changes in their life. I believe in helping people to see their own strengths and resilience and then use these qualities to face whatever challenges are standing in the way of people being able to move forward in their lives and reach their goals.
I offer individual therapy to adults struggling with their mental health including depression, anxiety, addictions, and those struggling to adjust to changes in their life. I believe in helping people to see their own strengths and resilience and then use these qualities to face whatever challenges are standing in the way of people being able to move forward in their lives and reach their goals.
(226) 458-4096 View (226) 458-4096
Photo of Kelly-Lee Mansi, MA, RP, PCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Kelly-Lee Mansi
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, PCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8E
Hello, my name is Kelly-Lee, I believe that every person is entitled to live a life that is healthy, wealthy and wise. For over 20 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from a diverse range of socioeconomic, cultural and sexually diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome misaligned belief systems that were blocking their mental health, their sense of harmony and well-being. My psychotherapy and counselling work are primarily Adlerian based and incorporates an eclectic array of cognitive, psychodynamic, experiential, somatic and evidence-based therapies.
Hello, my name is Kelly-Lee, I believe that every person is entitled to live a life that is healthy, wealthy and wise. For over 20 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from a diverse range of socioeconomic, cultural and sexually diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome misaligned belief systems that were blocking their mental health, their sense of harmony and well-being. My psychotherapy and counselling work are primarily Adlerian based and incorporates an eclectic array of cognitive, psychodynamic, experiential, somatic and evidence-based therapies.
(289) 797-1229 View (289) 797-1229
Photo of Nadine Furbacher At Willow Rock Wellness, RP, MACP, BBA, Registered Psychotherapist
Nadine Furbacher At Willow Rock Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8E  (Online Only)
SENSITIVE - OVERTHINKER – OVERDOER – OVERGIVER: Do you find yourself suffering with emotional burdens, burnout, worry or moods SO HEAVY you have trouble clearing your mind? Is it hard to express what you need or just to SAY NO? Does HELPING leave you unable to do what you enjoy because your cup has NOTHING LEFT IN IT FOR YOU? Whether it's emptiness, feeling trapped, not knowing Your True Self or blowing up at the drop of a hat – this suffering finds you zoning out on your phone; with food; deep in relationship drama; binge watching; overworking; over scheduling – whatever numbs the harsh feelings you avoid at all cost.
SENSITIVE - OVERTHINKER – OVERDOER – OVERGIVER: Do you find yourself suffering with emotional burdens, burnout, worry or moods SO HEAVY you have trouble clearing your mind? Is it hard to express what you need or just to SAY NO? Does HELPING leave you unable to do what you enjoy because your cup has NOTHING LEFT IN IT FOR YOU? Whether it's emptiness, feeling trapped, not knowing Your True Self or blowing up at the drop of a hat – this suffering finds you zoning out on your phone; with food; deep in relationship drama; binge watching; overworking; over scheduling – whatever numbs the harsh feelings you avoid at all cost.
(289) 210-4938 View (289) 210-4938
Photo of Vanessa Nixon @ Peaceful Minds, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Vanessa Nixon @ Peaceful Minds
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8E
Most of the people you know would say you seem just fine. But really, you feel like you're just going through the motions on autopilot. You put on a smile when you actually feel sad, numb, hopeless, angry, overwhelmed or all of the above. Feelings of fear, shame and guilt guide your choices. You've lost interest in things you used to enjoy and find yourself preferring to stay home and isolate because it just feels easier. Maybe you've started having anxiety and/or panic attacks. Now you can't sleep well and have started to engage in self destructive thoughts and behaviours. You just don’t feel like yourself.
Most of the people you know would say you seem just fine. But really, you feel like you're just going through the motions on autopilot. You put on a smile when you actually feel sad, numb, hopeless, angry, overwhelmed or all of the above. Feelings of fear, shame and guilt guide your choices. You've lost interest in things you used to enjoy and find yourself preferring to stay home and isolate because it just feels easier. Maybe you've started having anxiety and/or panic attacks. Now you can't sleep well and have started to engage in self destructive thoughts and behaviours. You just don’t feel like yourself.
(905) 933-7408 View (905) 933-7408
Photo of Rebecca Woodall - Hamilton Trauma Therapy Centre , MSW, RP(Q), RP, Registered Social Worker
Hamilton Trauma Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RP(Q), RP
Verified Verified
Stoney Creek, ON L8E
When trauma-informed talk therapy isn't enough, our team is here to help! When you experience a traumatic event (no matter how BIG or small), you can struggle with a variety of symptoms. You might notice nightmares, depression, anxiety, changes in your relationships, feeling on edge, even having intrusive memories of the events.
When trauma-informed talk therapy isn't enough, our team is here to help! When you experience a traumatic event (no matter how BIG or small), you can struggle with a variety of symptoms. You might notice nightmares, depression, anxiety, changes in your relationships, feeling on edge, even having intrusive memories of the events.
(289) 217-8859 View (289) 217-8859
Photo of Andrea Cottee, BA, BScOT, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Andrea Cottee
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BScOT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8G
Accepting new clients: Your life journey can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster. There are times when you need to slow down and explore those unanticipated challenges, transitions, or traumas, impacting your well-being or your capacity to move forward. Stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges can seem overwhelming. Together, we can explore any challenges you face, build connection, and foster a safe, non-judgmental, peaceful, space where we can work together toward greater wellness.
Accepting new clients: Your life journey can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster. There are times when you need to slow down and explore those unanticipated challenges, transitions, or traumas, impacting your well-being or your capacity to move forward. Stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges can seem overwhelming. Together, we can explore any challenges you face, build connection, and foster a safe, non-judgmental, peaceful, space where we can work together toward greater wellness.
(289) 778-4795 View (289) 778-4795
Photo of Rebecca Woodall, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rebecca Woodall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Stoney Creek, ON L8E
Now Accepting New Clients For In Person and Online Therapy, with No Wait List! We understand that when sad, bad or stressful events happen throughout your life (no matter how BIG or how SMALL!), it can change how you see yourself, other people and the world around you. When you go looking for help it can be hard to know where to start, but I'm here to help you start to make the changes you are looking for. Our team is dedicated to offering more than just talk therapy, but are trauma specialists offering evidence based treatment.
Now Accepting New Clients For In Person and Online Therapy, with No Wait List! We understand that when sad, bad or stressful events happen throughout your life (no matter how BIG or how SMALL!), it can change how you see yourself, other people and the world around you. When you go looking for help it can be hard to know where to start, but I'm here to help you start to make the changes you are looking for. Our team is dedicated to offering more than just talk therapy, but are trauma specialists offering evidence based treatment.
(647) 372-1641 View (647) 372-1641
Photo of Charmin Charania - Not Feeling Good Enough Counselling, RP Q, Registered Psychotherapist
Charmin Charania - Not Feeling Good Enough Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8G
Is it hard to find things you like about yourself? Do you notice you beat yourself up? Not feeling good about yourself and who you are can lead to feeling sad and defeated. It can affect your mood and energy levels, making it hard to do things and be with other people. It can also lead to feeling worried about what other people might think or feel about you, being left out or left behind and worrying about the future. This can make life feel even harder. I understand how feeling this way can affect all areas of your life. I help people who are struggling with low self-esteem, low mood, and anxiety to feel better.
Is it hard to find things you like about yourself? Do you notice you beat yourself up? Not feeling good about yourself and who you are can lead to feeling sad and defeated. It can affect your mood and energy levels, making it hard to do things and be with other people. It can also lead to feeling worried about what other people might think or feel about you, being left out or left behind and worrying about the future. This can make life feel even harder. I understand how feeling this way can affect all areas of your life. I help people who are struggling with low self-esteem, low mood, and anxiety to feel better.
(289) 301-9191 View (289) 301-9191
Photo of Chelsea Rothwell - In The Pines Grief And Death Therapy, MSW, RSW, CT, Registered Social Worker
Chelsea Rothwell - In The Pines Grief And Death Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8J
Hello, thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I’m so sorry that you’re looking for a grief therapist, and have a lot of respect for your courage. I’ve spent the last ten years deep in the muddy waters of loss, devoted to the skillful practice of grieving in community. I am a board-certified thanatologist who has studied grief from embodied, academic, cultural, and psychotherapeutic perspectives. I’ve worked with grief across various sectors— in hospitals and hospices, in community deathcare, as an apprentice farmer and Bruce Trail captain amidst an ongoing climate crisis, and on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic.
Hello, thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I’m so sorry that you’re looking for a grief therapist, and have a lot of respect for your courage. I’ve spent the last ten years deep in the muddy waters of loss, devoted to the skillful practice of grieving in community. I am a board-certified thanatologist who has studied grief from embodied, academic, cultural, and psychotherapeutic perspectives. I’ve worked with grief across various sectors— in hospitals and hospices, in community deathcare, as an apprentice farmer and Bruce Trail captain amidst an ongoing climate crisis, and on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic.
(365) 536-0830 View (365) 536-0830

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrea Zahra - Andrea Zahra Therapy and Counselling Services, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Andrea Zahra Therapy and Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8E
I draw from evidence-based practices that include cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, trauma informed practice including dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR).
I consider it a privilege every single time someone welcomes me to share in their therapeutic process. My intention is to bring authenticity, empathy and non-judgemental guidance to the room. I believe that therapy is a very personal experience for each of my clients, so I try to enter the therapeutic relationship as a 'clean slate', free of judgement or any agenda other than what they want or need in their healing. In my practice, I work from an anti-oppressive, client-focused, strength-based framework and believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that you are the expert of your experience.
I draw from evidence-based practices that include cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, trauma informed practice including dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR).
I consider it a privilege every single time someone welcomes me to share in their therapeutic process. My intention is to bring authenticity, empathy and non-judgemental guidance to the room. I believe that therapy is a very personal experience for each of my clients, so I try to enter the therapeutic relationship as a 'clean slate', free of judgement or any agenda other than what they want or need in their healing. In my practice, I work from an anti-oppressive, client-focused, strength-based framework and believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that you are the expert of your experience.
(905) 736-0682 View (905) 736-0682
Photo of Leanna Bissell: Pause Ponder Psychotherapy, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Leanna Bissell: Pause Ponder Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8J
I use approaches such as Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and EMDR.
Are you concerned that you might be having issues in any of the following areas?: Addictions (alcohol, drugs, social media, sex), ADHD (poor time management, disorganized thoughts), Trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), Anxiety (social anxiety, worry and rumination), Depression (low mood, low motivation, fatigue, poor concentration, postpartum), Acquired brain injury, Body dissatisfaction (dieting/restricting, chronic eating, emotional eating) , Borderline Personality Disorder, Impulse Control and Managing urges.
I use approaches such as Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and EMDR.
Are you concerned that you might be having issues in any of the following areas?: Addictions (alcohol, drugs, social media, sex), ADHD (poor time management, disorganized thoughts), Trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), Anxiety (social anxiety, worry and rumination), Depression (low mood, low motivation, fatigue, poor concentration, postpartum), Acquired brain injury, Body dissatisfaction (dieting/restricting, chronic eating, emotional eating) , Borderline Personality Disorder, Impulse Control and Managing urges.
(289) 271-0754 View (289) 271-0754
Photo of Mary Anne Bedington, RMFT, RP
Mary Anne Bedington
RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8E
Among my therapeutic approaches I provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
I have been providing therapy for many years and I consider it an honour to come along side others (individuals, couples and families) as they seek change and transformation. When you are faced with life's unexpected challenges, distress or overwhelming anxieties, seeking help and consulting with a therapist is a significant step.
Among my therapeutic approaches I provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
I have been providing therapy for many years and I consider it an honour to come along side others (individuals, couples and families) as they seek change and transformation. When you are faced with life's unexpected challenges, distress or overwhelming anxieties, seeking help and consulting with a therapist is a significant step.
(855) 977-0194 View (855) 977-0194
Photo of Jessica Cleeve, MSW, RSW, HBA, Registered Social Worker
Jessica Cleeve
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, HBA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8E  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and hold a Trauma Counselling Certificate.
I have over ten years of experience working with dynamic populations who have come to therapy to heal from a wide spectrum of traumatic experiences. I specialize in perinatal therapy with specific experience working with perinatal loss and birth trauma that considers shifts in identity that can accompany pregnancy, birth and perinatal loss. I have also worked closely with survivors of violence and childhood trauma, addiction and mental health survivors, as well as LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. I am passionate about helping trauma survivors honour their experiences as they move toward a place of self-discovery and healing.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and hold a Trauma Counselling Certificate.
I have over ten years of experience working with dynamic populations who have come to therapy to heal from a wide spectrum of traumatic experiences. I specialize in perinatal therapy with specific experience working with perinatal loss and birth trauma that considers shifts in identity that can accompany pregnancy, birth and perinatal loss. I have also worked closely with survivors of violence and childhood trauma, addiction and mental health survivors, as well as LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. I am passionate about helping trauma survivors honour their experiences as they move toward a place of self-discovery and healing.
(289) 207-6266 View (289) 207-6266
Photo of Kelli Nicholson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kelli Nicholson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8E
I'm formally trained in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
Lifeline for the Frontline is a service that offers information, resources and therapy specific to the needs of first responders and their families. Before becoming a therapist I was a police officer in the Niagara Region for 10 years and a child protection worker for 5 years. I know first hand how crucial it is for frontline professions to recognize and address how operational responsibilities impact their mental health and overall well being. I offer both individual and group therapy to first responders and adult family member's as well as re-integration therapy.
I'm formally trained in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
Lifeline for the Frontline is a service that offers information, resources and therapy specific to the needs of first responders and their families. Before becoming a therapist I was a police officer in the Niagara Region for 10 years and a child protection worker for 5 years. I know first hand how crucial it is for frontline professions to recognize and address how operational responsibilities impact their mental health and overall well being. I offer both individual and group therapy to first responders and adult family member's as well as re-integration therapy.
(289) 512-2753 View (289) 512-2753
Photo of Stephanie McAlister, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
Stephanie McAlister
Registered Psychotherapist, MC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8E  (Online Only)
The modalities I often use are solution focused, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, and Gottman couples counselling.
I am a registered clinical counsellor and have been working as a counsellor since 2020. I offer clients a supportive place to be heard, validated, and to personally reflect. I believe that there are many life experiences that bring individuals into counselling. I am looking for clients who want to see a change in their lives, want to better understand themselves, and who want to heal from the challenges life has thrown at them. I enjoy meeting my clients where they are at and supporting them along their journey. I work with adults, families, couples, and youth.
The modalities I often use are solution focused, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, and Gottman couples counselling.
I am a registered clinical counsellor and have been working as a counsellor since 2020. I offer clients a supportive place to be heard, validated, and to personally reflect. I believe that there are many life experiences that bring individuals into counselling. I am looking for clients who want to see a change in their lives, want to better understand themselves, and who want to heal from the challenges life has thrown at them. I enjoy meeting my clients where they are at and supporting them along their journey. I work with adults, families, couples, and youth.
(437) 800-1872 View (437) 800-1872

See more therapy options for Stoney Creek

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.