EMDR Therapists in Ontario

Photo of Martha Worboy, RP, BAH, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Martha Worboy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BAH, MACP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Waitlist for new clients
Using an integrative approach that includes CBT, EMDR, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and DBT, I work with adults and adolescents who are struggling with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, grief, and life transition.
Is something holding you back? Are you going through a life transition or feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts and distressing emotions? I offer a safe and judgment-free environment, and take a collaborative and evidence-based approach in working with clients to help them move forward. I work with clients to help them reconnect with strengths, identify unhelpful patterns and learn coping skills to manage distress. I believe each client can be supported towards life improvement.
Using an integrative approach that includes CBT, EMDR, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and DBT, I work with adults and adolescents who are struggling with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, grief, and life transition.
Is something holding you back? Are you going through a life transition or feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts and distressing emotions? I offer a safe and judgment-free environment, and take a collaborative and evidence-based approach in working with clients to help them move forward. I work with clients to help them reconnect with strengths, identify unhelpful patterns and learn coping skills to manage distress. I believe each client can be supported towards life improvement.
(437) 747-8017 View (437) 747-8017
Photo of Emily Spagnolo, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Emily Spagnolo
Registered Social Worker, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Chatham, ON N7M
Together, we might utilize techniques such as EMDR, CBT, or DBT, all grounded in support.
Life can be challenging, but it shouldn’t be made harder by suffering. Each person experiences their own unique sources of pain. In our therapeutic relationship, I aim to help you identify the root causes of your suffering and guide you toward healing. Together, we’ll set goals, choose methods, and establish a pace that feels right for you. My focus is on supporting and empowering you to tackle your challenges and take charge of your life as you move toward a future shaped by your own aspirations, free from past pain and obstacles.
Together, we might utilize techniques such as EMDR, CBT, or DBT, all grounded in support.
Life can be challenging, but it shouldn’t be made harder by suffering. Each person experiences their own unique sources of pain. In our therapeutic relationship, I aim to help you identify the root causes of your suffering and guide you toward healing. Together, we’ll set goals, choose methods, and establish a pace that feels right for you. My focus is on supporting and empowering you to tackle your challenges and take charge of your life as you move toward a future shaped by your own aspirations, free from past pain and obstacles.
(519) 355-0282 View (519) 355-0282
Photo of Felicia Fischhoff, RP, MDiv, BSW, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Felicia Fischhoff
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv, BSW, BA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Be prepared to be gently challenged, and work on moving you closer to your therapeutic goals through talk therapy and/or experientially through EMDR.
Establishing an environment where clients feel safe to share their story is of paramount importance. My approach to therapy is from a trauma-informed lens, a person-centered approach, and by utilizing evidence based modalities. I have experience journeying with clients from diverse backgrounds and with those who have experienced trauma, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and with patients and their families in an in-patient setting. I am an integrationist, because I believe that therapy is not a one size fits all approach.
Be prepared to be gently challenged, and work on moving you closer to your therapeutic goals through talk therapy and/or experientially through EMDR.
Establishing an environment where clients feel safe to share their story is of paramount importance. My approach to therapy is from a trauma-informed lens, a person-centered approach, and by utilizing evidence based modalities. I have experience journeying with clients from diverse backgrounds and with those who have experienced trauma, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and with patients and their families in an in-patient setting. I am an integrationist, because I believe that therapy is not a one size fits all approach.
(289) 797-3129 View (289) 797-3129
Photo of Jodi-Lyn Knoop -Cbt Dbt Emdr, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jodi-Lyn Knoop -Cbt Dbt Emdr
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Sharon, ON L0G
Geared toward your specific concerns, I am trained in CBT, DBT, ACT and EMDR to help you to heal and develop resilience for the obstacles ahead.
With compassion and a genuine approach to helping you achieve the life you want, I am committed to helping you find your path forward. We are living through difficult times and our mental health is key to achieving wellness.
Geared toward your specific concerns, I am trained in CBT, DBT, ACT and EMDR to help you to heal and develop resilience for the obstacles ahead.
With compassion and a genuine approach to helping you achieve the life you want, I am committed to helping you find your path forward. We are living through difficult times and our mental health is key to achieving wellness.
(289) 312-0279 View (289) 312-0279
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
I use a variety of modalities depending on the age of your child/ adolescent, including EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
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 - Counselling Program, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
I use a variety of modalities depending on the age of your child/ adolescent, including EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
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 - Counselling Program, 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 Kristen Beattie, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kristen Beattie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
I have been trained in various evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, ACT, CBT, CPT, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Welcome to my page! My name is Kristen. I am a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting individuals who are looking to embark on a healing journey and reclaim their life. I have a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor, as well as a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Trent University. I am registered with both the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). In addition to my education, I have 7 years of experience supporting adults and youth in inpatient and community mental health settings.
I have been trained in various evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, ACT, CBT, CPT, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Welcome to my page! My name is Kristen. I am a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting individuals who are looking to embark on a healing journey and reclaim their life. I have a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor, as well as a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Trent University. I am registered with both the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). In addition to my education, I have 7 years of experience supporting adults and youth in inpatient and community mental health settings.
(343) 291-8866 View (343) 291-8866
Photo of Iva Berlekovic-Cizek, MEd, RP, GT, , Registered Psychotherapist
Iva Berlekovic-Cizek
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, GT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I am trained in Autosomatic Training, Compassionate Inquiry, Comprehensive Resources Model, EMDR, Focusing, Internal Family Systems, Rewind Technique.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed as we are finding ways to adapt to this new reality of social isolation, brought on by the COVID 19 pandemic? Do you want to find ways to be more focused and more connected with yourself and in synergy with others? Explore your strengths, even in your broken places, and craft and start living a truly energizing and meaningful life? You may be surprised to uncover resources in places you forgot or never knew existed.
I am trained in Autosomatic Training, Compassionate Inquiry, Comprehensive Resources Model, EMDR, Focusing, Internal Family Systems, Rewind Technique.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed as we are finding ways to adapt to this new reality of social isolation, brought on by the COVID 19 pandemic? Do you want to find ways to be more focused and more connected with yourself and in synergy with others? Explore your strengths, even in your broken places, and craft and start living a truly energizing and meaningful life? You may be surprised to uncover resources in places you forgot or never knew existed.
(855) 781-8910 View (855) 781-8910
Photo of William Boire, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
William Boire
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
In doing so, I draw from EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy and Internal Family Systems modalities.
I’m interested in supporting people as they move from where they are to where they want to be; working together to transition away from stuckness and suffering towards meaningfulness, connection and alignment with values.
In doing so, I draw from EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy and Internal Family Systems modalities.
I’m interested in supporting people as they move from where they are to where they want to be; working together to transition away from stuckness and suffering towards meaningfulness, connection and alignment with values.
(226) 918-6183 View (226) 918-6183
Photo of Sol Fried, MA, RP, RCC, RCT, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Sol Fried
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RCC, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Petawawa, ON K8H
Sol uses a variety of therapeutic methods, including Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioural, EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Narrative Therapies, to tailor the approach to each client’s unique needs.
Welcoming all first responders, military professionals, couples, and their families, Sol has been providing EMDR therapy for over 15 years. As a dedicated therapist, Sol strives to create a safe and welcoming environment for clients. His goal is to help individuals explore their traumas and leave with a renewed sense of empowerment and hope.
Sol uses a variety of therapeutic methods, including Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioural, EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Narrative Therapies, to tailor the approach to each client’s unique needs.
Welcoming all first responders, military professionals, couples, and their families, Sol has been providing EMDR therapy for over 15 years. As a dedicated therapist, Sol strives to create a safe and welcoming environment for clients. His goal is to help individuals explore their traumas and leave with a renewed sense of empowerment and hope.
(888) 627-6379 View (888) 627-6379
Photo of Jessica A. Hughes, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica A. Hughes
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K4A  (Online Only)
I am a psychodynamic and certified trauma therapist. I use a non-pathologizing approach to understand emotional distress. Instead of seeing it as an illness, I help people see their inherent strengths and understand the meaning behind their struggles. Many of the struggles people want help with are coping strategies that worked at an earlier time in their lives, but are no longer helpful. I work with people to explore how these behaviours came to be, how they served them, and how to cultivate new ways of being that align with their goals and values. I use a psychodynamic approach as well as IFS, EMDR, DBR, and somatic work.
I am a psychodynamic and certified trauma therapist. I use a non-pathologizing approach to understand emotional distress. Instead of seeing it as an illness, I help people see their inherent strengths and understand the meaning behind their struggles. Many of the struggles people want help with are coping strategies that worked at an earlier time in their lives, but are no longer helpful. I work with people to explore how these behaviours came to be, how they served them, and how to cultivate new ways of being that align with their goals and values. I use a psychodynamic approach as well as IFS, EMDR, DBR, and somatic work.
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Photo of Annie Liston Walters - Toronto Art Therapy Space, RP, RCAT, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Toronto Art Therapy Space
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCAT, MEd
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P
We offer Art therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Narrative Therapy, IFS, Climate Therapy, Relational and Person-focused approaches and more.
At Toronto Art Therapy Space, we offer art therapy and psychotherapy services. We support individuals of all ages.
We offer Art therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Narrative Therapy, IFS, Climate Therapy, Relational and Person-focused approaches and more.
At Toronto Art Therapy Space, we offer art therapy and psychotherapy services. We support individuals of all ages.
(647) 370-1276 View (647) 370-1276
Photo of Stacey Roles - Roles & Associates Psychotherapy Services Inc., RN, MScN, PhD
Roles & Associates Psychotherapy Services Inc.
RN, MScN, PhD
Verified Verified
Sudbury, ON P3E
We offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, ​ EMDR, DBT, Prolonged Exposure therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Brainspotting and Compassion Focused Therapy.
Roles & Associates Psychotherapy Services Inc. is comprised of registered multidisciplinary clinicians who are all certified cognitive behavioural therapists and who integrate many other forms of therapy to best suit the needs of the clients we treat. It is our mission to provide our clients and learners with research-based interventions and treatments to help alleviate the effects of trauma, mental illness, and everyday life stressors. We work collaboratively within our specialties and the recovery model to empower clients to optimize their mental health.
We offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, ​ EMDR, DBT, Prolonged Exposure therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Brainspotting and Compassion Focused Therapy.
Roles & Associates Psychotherapy Services Inc. is comprised of registered multidisciplinary clinicians who are all certified cognitive behavioural therapists and who integrate many other forms of therapy to best suit the needs of the clients we treat. It is our mission to provide our clients and learners with research-based interventions and treatments to help alleviate the effects of trauma, mental illness, and everyday life stressors. We work collaboratively within our specialties and the recovery model to empower clients to optimize their mental health.
(249) 490-8470 View (249) 490-8470
Photo of Maribel Ayala -Emdr Certified Therapist Clinical Hypnotherapist, MACP, CCC, CHYP, Registered Psychotherapist
Maribel Ayala -Emdr Certified Therapist Clinical Hypnotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, CHYP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
Experience Matters! Imagine a life filled with purpose where relationships are more fulfilling, your life is manageable, and anxiety, trauma and PTSD do not control you. I am a dedicated experienced professional specializing in anxiety, trauma, sexual concerns, and relationship management. I offer EMDR, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, Deep Brain Reorienting, CBT, and validated talk therapies. I am committed to helping you as an individual, or as a couple, in a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help you live a happier life by guiding you to find your own inner strengths to address life’s challenges.
Experience Matters! Imagine a life filled with purpose where relationships are more fulfilling, your life is manageable, and anxiety, trauma and PTSD do not control you. I am a dedicated experienced professional specializing in anxiety, trauma, sexual concerns, and relationship management. I offer EMDR, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, Deep Brain Reorienting, CBT, and validated talk therapies. I am committed to helping you as an individual, or as a couple, in a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help you live a happier life by guiding you to find your own inner strengths to address life’s challenges.
(226) 271-2137 View (226) 271-2137
Photo of Andre Betim, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Andre Betim
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Using trauma training and orientation ( EMDR, IFS, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Somatic interventions, etc.
How we relate to ourselves, how we relate to each other, and how we perceive our sense of belonging in the communities where we live, work or coexist; all significantly influence our mental health.
Using trauma training and orientation ( EMDR, IFS, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Somatic interventions, etc.
How we relate to ourselves, how we relate to each other, and how we perceive our sense of belonging in the communities where we live, work or coexist; all significantly influence our mental health.
(343) 321-1327 View (343) 321-1327
Photo of Tracey Hand-Breckenridge, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tracey Hand-Breckenridge
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W  (Online Only)
I will support you in your quest for wellness through a variety of personalised approaches---in therapy, one size does not fit all! EMDR and Internal Family Systems are powerful antidotes to trauma, anxiety, depression and childhood issues and compliments many other treatments, such as CBT.
Does it feel like there is 'something' missing in your life? Is an important relationship troubled? Has depression or anxiety become a huge weight for you? These things, PTSD/trauma due to COVID-19 or other reasons, chronic or palliative illness can all have an enormous impact on your life and those around you--and there are approaches that will help you manage. Whether your needs are emotional, psychological or social in nature, or are seeking care that is spiritually integrated or faith based, I will help you address them in the way that is best for you. Peace, purpose, wellness are found in the balance of mind, body and soul.
I will support you in your quest for wellness through a variety of personalised approaches---in therapy, one size does not fit all! EMDR and Internal Family Systems are powerful antidotes to trauma, anxiety, depression and childhood issues and compliments many other treatments, such as CBT.
Does it feel like there is 'something' missing in your life? Is an important relationship troubled? Has depression or anxiety become a huge weight for you? These things, PTSD/trauma due to COVID-19 or other reasons, chronic or palliative illness can all have an enormous impact on your life and those around you--and there are approaches that will help you manage. Whether your needs are emotional, psychological or social in nature, or are seeking care that is spiritually integrated or faith based, I will help you address them in the way that is best for you. Peace, purpose, wellness are found in the balance of mind, body and soul.
(519) 940-4357 View (519) 940-4357
Photo of Julia Papadopoulos, MA, RP, MTA, Registered Psychotherapist
Julia Papadopoulos
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Uxbridge, ON L9P
I also take a trauma informed approach and am trained in EMDR therapy to help address and process underlying trauma or adverse experiences that can maintain or worsen presenting symptoms.
Life can present challenging experiences that can leave us feeling stuck or broken and keep us from living the life we want. I empower clients to overcome this and to return to the wholeness that is their true nature. I work with teens and young adults who experience high levels of stress or anxiety, depression, relentless self-blame or shame, perfectionism, burn-out, low self-esteem, relationship issues, difficulty in regulating and/or expressing their emotions, and/or who have experienced trauma. I will hold compassionate space for you to be heard and to move towards the change you wish to see.
I also take a trauma informed approach and am trained in EMDR therapy to help address and process underlying trauma or adverse experiences that can maintain or worsen presenting symptoms.
Life can present challenging experiences that can leave us feeling stuck or broken and keep us from living the life we want. I empower clients to overcome this and to return to the wholeness that is their true nature. I work with teens and young adults who experience high levels of stress or anxiety, depression, relentless self-blame or shame, perfectionism, burn-out, low self-esteem, relationship issues, difficulty in regulating and/or expressing their emotions, and/or who have experienced trauma. I will hold compassionate space for you to be heard and to move towards the change you wish to see.
View
Photo of Louise Blackburn, MSW, RSW, , Registered Social Worker
Louise Blackburn
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, ON K1C
Life can present challenges that sometimes seem overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with a recent difficulty, an ongoing issue, or a past trauma, it can be helpful to explore ways you can work toward a resolution, personal growth, and achieve a greater sense of well being. I am a registered clinical social worker / psychotherapist providing mental health and trauma / PTSD therapy services. I am EMDR certified and also draw from a wide range of therapeutic approaches based on the client's needs.
Life can present challenges that sometimes seem overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with a recent difficulty, an ongoing issue, or a past trauma, it can be helpful to explore ways you can work toward a resolution, personal growth, and achieve a greater sense of well being. I am a registered clinical social worker / psychotherapist providing mental health and trauma / PTSD therapy services. I am EMDR certified and also draw from a wide range of therapeutic approaches based on the client's needs.
(613) 707-7352 View (613) 707-7352
Photo of Cristina Del Principe - Restorative Trauma Practice , MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Restorative Trauma Practice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
I am certified in EMDR and have been trained in multiple somatic therapy approaches.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. Recovering from traumatic and adverse life experiences is not a linear process. I support individuals throughout all the stages, challenges, and transitional periods one encounters during healing.
(437) 983-3154 View (437) 983-3154
Photo of Stephanie Huls, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Huls
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
I have continued my education by learning about other modalities with a primary focus on EMDR, and ensuring that my education includes listening to and learning directly from marginalized communities.
I believe that we all have the capacity for happiness and that certain valid things in life get in the way of us achieving it. That might be past hurts, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, the state of the world, and/or systems of oppression. For some people it could be a sense that things are "good enough" just as they are, or even a fear of hoping for better. These experiences can prevent us from forming the healthy relationships we want, engaging in fulfilling careers or activities, or even identifying what we truly want out of life. Therapy can be a collaborative place to help sort some of these concerns out.
I have continued my education by learning about other modalities with a primary focus on EMDR, and ensuring that my education includes listening to and learning directly from marginalized communities.
I believe that we all have the capacity for happiness and that certain valid things in life get in the way of us achieving it. That might be past hurts, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, the state of the world, and/or systems of oppression. For some people it could be a sense that things are "good enough" just as they are, or even a fear of hoping for better. These experiences can prevent us from forming the healthy relationships we want, engaging in fulfilling careers or activities, or even identifying what we truly want out of life. Therapy can be a collaborative place to help sort some of these concerns out.
(226) 910-0796 View (226) 910-0796
Photo of Chris Lindsay, MEd, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Chris Lindsay
Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I provide individual and family therapy, using methods like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, along with old standards such as CBT and Experiential therapy.
When you experience the weight of depression, or the fear of anxiety and trauma, managing your day-to-day tasks can be really hard. No doubt you have tried to make things better. Lack of progress feels both frustrating and discouraging. You might be stuck, but you still feel some hope that -- with a bit of help -- you can feel some enjoyment and satisfaction in your life.
I provide individual and family therapy, using methods like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, along with old standards such as CBT and Experiential therapy.
When you experience the weight of depression, or the fear of anxiety and trauma, managing your day-to-day tasks can be really hard. No doubt you have tried to make things better. Lack of progress feels both frustrating and discouraging. You might be stuck, but you still feel some hope that -- with a bit of help -- you can feel some enjoyment and satisfaction in your life.
(226) 457-0697 View (226) 457-0697
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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.