EMDR Counselling in Blackburn

Photo of Lisa Baldwin - Baldwin Therapy EMDR, Counsellor, CBT, Supervisor, MBACP, Counsellor
Baldwin Therapy EMDR, Counsellor, CBT, Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1
Baldwin Therapy offer EMDR, Counselling, CBT, Professional Supervision and training which can be delivered as face to face or online. Our therapists have over 22 years' experience of working with a wide range of mental health difficulty including anxiety and depression. The therapists work alongside the NHS, Private sector, the local authority and Education. A FREE 15 minute telephone consultation to discuss your needs and to look at what therapy would be best is available on request. Baldwin Therapy have both Male and Female therapists.
Baldwin Therapy offer EMDR, Counselling, CBT, Professional Supervision and training which can be delivered as face to face or online. Our therapists have over 22 years' experience of working with a wide range of mental health difficulty including anxiety and depression. The therapists work alongside the NHS, Private sector, the local authority and Education. A FREE 15 minute telephone consultation to discuss your needs and to look at what therapy would be best is available on request. Baldwin Therapy have both Male and Female therapists.
01254 964104 View 01254 964104
Photo of Suzanne McGee - Suzanne McGee Awe Therapy Services , MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Suzanne McGee Awe Therapy Services
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1
I also offer EMDR a highly researched and NICE recommended treatment for used extensively in the NHS.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and a fully accredited Cbt therapist, providing evidence based therapies including EMDR. I have worked within the NHS and social care for over 20 years. I work across the life span with a range of difficulties and severity - including trauma, PTSD, attachment, low self esteem, anxiety and depression. I am trauma informed and have lived experience of mental health issues. I bring my many years of professional practice, qualifications to Masters level and life experience to the therapy.
I also offer EMDR a highly researched and NICE recommended treatment for used extensively in the NHS.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and a fully accredited Cbt therapist, providing evidence based therapies including EMDR. I have worked within the NHS and social care for over 20 years. I work across the life span with a range of difficulties and severity - including trauma, PTSD, attachment, low self esteem, anxiety and depression. I am trauma informed and have lived experience of mental health issues. I bring my many years of professional practice, qualifications to Masters level and life experience to the therapy.
01257 441333 View 01257 441333
Photo of Shaun Noteman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Shaun Noteman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1  (Online Only)
As a professional mental health therapist i utilise a range of interventions including counselling, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR. to support and provide therapy. My work and life experience means i am able to relate well and work with sufferers of anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders and developmental disorders such as ADHD, ADD, Spectrum disorders. Additionally, i provide therapy for OCD, phobias and other behavioural issues.
As a professional mental health therapist i utilise a range of interventions including counselling, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR. to support and provide therapy. My work and life experience means i am able to relate well and work with sufferers of anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders and developmental disorders such as ADHD, ADD, Spectrum disorders. Additionally, i provide therapy for OCD, phobias and other behavioural issues.
01772 958120 View 01772 958120
Photo of Qaiser Shazad Afzal - FH Therapies- EMDR therapies
FH Therapies- EMDR therapies
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blackburn BB2
As a mental health professional, I am passionate about providing effective and compassionate care to individuals struggling with trauma and related disorders. Throughout my career, I have witnessed the impact that trauma can have on an individual's well-being, functioning and personality. I have vast experience in mental health and have worked with individuals who have complex trauma along and mental health difficulties. As a qualified mental health clinical lead nurse working in forensic settings I have gained a good understanding on how trauma along with other mental health difficulties can effect an individual in many ways.
As a mental health professional, I am passionate about providing effective and compassionate care to individuals struggling with trauma and related disorders. Throughout my career, I have witnessed the impact that trauma can have on an individual's well-being, functioning and personality. I have vast experience in mental health and have worked with individuals who have complex trauma along and mental health difficulties. As a qualified mental health clinical lead nurse working in forensic settings I have gained a good understanding on how trauma along with other mental health difficulties can effect an individual in many ways.
01254 964032 View 01254 964032
Photo of Tasneem Dahegamia - U Got This, Mental health & Wellbeing clinic, Psychotherapist
U Got This, Mental health & Wellbeing clinic
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1
Want to GET BETTER & NOT JUST manage your mental health? Dealing with unresolved Anxiety & Depression can be debilitating, leaving you feeling like you wIill never get better. Your relationships, performance and confidence may suffer, you may dread the future and tired of wearing a mask & being positive. You may have been to see your GP or tried many therapies and still feel unwell. If this is you perhaps it’s time for further more therapy. The clinic offers unique techniques that are proving to be highly successful in the treatment for Mental health with growing 5 STAR Reviews. Referrals accepted from other therapists to.
Want to GET BETTER & NOT JUST manage your mental health? Dealing with unresolved Anxiety & Depression can be debilitating, leaving you feeling like you wIill never get better. Your relationships, performance and confidence may suffer, you may dread the future and tired of wearing a mask & being positive. You may have been to see your GP or tried many therapies and still feel unwell. If this is you perhaps it’s time for further more therapy. The clinic offers unique techniques that are proving to be highly successful in the treatment for Mental health with growing 5 STAR Reviews. Referrals accepted from other therapists to.
01772 367537 View 01772 367537
Photo of Kyle Thurlow, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Kyle Thurlow
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1
I have an extensive range of experience of working with a vast variety of client issues. I offer clients an integrative approach to treatment which best meets each individual’s needs. I originally trained as a person centred therapist. However, I also draw from a wide range of evidence based psychological therapies. I have completed additional trauma focused therapy training which has enabled me to work effectively with traumatised individuals. My main areas of expertise is helping people with dissociative disorders/DID, OSDD, PTSD, sexual abuse, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and grief/bereavement.
I have an extensive range of experience of working with a vast variety of client issues. I offer clients an integrative approach to treatment which best meets each individual’s needs. I originally trained as a person centred therapist. However, I also draw from a wide range of evidence based psychological therapies. I have completed additional trauma focused therapy training which has enabled me to work effectively with traumatised individuals. My main areas of expertise is helping people with dissociative disorders/DID, OSDD, PTSD, sexual abuse, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and grief/bereavement.
01254 961534 View 01254 961534
Photo of Kay Johnston - Karma Minds Training & Personal Development Ltd, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Karma Minds Training & Personal Development Ltd
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB6
I work as an integrated therapist. I believe that if given the right conditions, that everyone has the desire and capacity for personal growth and change. I work giving you unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence, allowing you the time and space to explore your feelings and work through your problems I work with you to your own agenda and at your own pace. I believe that you are your own expert and have the capacity to find your own solutions and a way forward. Helping you come to terms with any feelings and to change and develop for the future in your own way and time. My specialist field is anxiety management.
I work as an integrated therapist. I believe that if given the right conditions, that everyone has the desire and capacity for personal growth and change. I work giving you unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence, allowing you the time and space to explore your feelings and work through your problems I work with you to your own agenda and at your own pace. I believe that you are your own expert and have the capacity to find your own solutions and a way forward. Helping you come to terms with any feelings and to change and develop for the future in your own way and time. My specialist field is anxiety management.
01254 786850 View 01254 786850

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Waterworth, MBACP, Counsellor
Amanda Waterworth
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burnley BB11
As a dual qualified nurse/PCT/ EMDR counsellor and Accredited Supervisor.
Hello, my name is Amanda. By reading my profile you have take the first step towards becoming more self aware and achieving a greater sense of inner peace. I have over 25 years' experience as a dual nurse, an RGN and a RMN and I also have a degree in health studies. I gained my Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling in 2020. My counselling room provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your own thoughts and feelings. I understand that at times life can be difficult and our sessions can help you overcome problems. I am a Accredited Supervisor. I am also a EMDR Practitioner.
As a dual qualified nurse/PCT/ EMDR counsellor and Accredited Supervisor.
Hello, my name is Amanda. By reading my profile you have take the first step towards becoming more self aware and achieving a greater sense of inner peace. I have over 25 years' experience as a dual nurse, an RGN and a RMN and I also have a degree in health studies. I gained my Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling in 2020. My counselling room provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your own thoughts and feelings. I understand that at times life can be difficult and our sessions can help you overcome problems. I am a Accredited Supervisor. I am also a EMDR Practitioner.
01282 526708 View 01282 526708
Photo of Darren Smith, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Darren Smith
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnley BB10  (Online Only)
I only use evidence-based practices, these include CBT, CPT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based interventions.
I am an experienced and highly qualified Mental Health Nurse, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), and practitioner in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). With over 15 years of experience in mental health, I have led Community Mental Health Teams and provided both in-person and telemedicine therapy, including services in remote international locations. Currently, I specialize in delivering remote therapy for members of the veterinary profession, military veterans, and emergency services personnel.
I only use evidence-based practices, these include CBT, CPT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based interventions.
I am an experienced and highly qualified Mental Health Nurse, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), and practitioner in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). With over 15 years of experience in mental health, I have led Community Mental Health Teams and provided both in-person and telemedicine therapy, including services in remote international locations. Currently, I specialize in delivering remote therapy for members of the veterinary profession, military veterans, and emergency services personnel.
01282 501969 View 01282 501969
Photo of Brent Kelly - The Counselling Co-Op, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
The Counselling Co-Op
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Burnley BB12
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialise in Trauma Therapy and use EMDR therapy to help clients suffering from PTSD.
The top 10 reasons clients seek therapy with me are relational & family issues, anger management & lack of emotional control, confidence & work/life balance, depression, stress, anxiety & shame, emotional numbness, sex, sexuality & masculinity issues, lack of confidence & self-esteem, addiction & substance abuse, trauma, abuse & loss and body image.
I also specialise in Trauma Therapy and use EMDR therapy to help clients suffering from PTSD.
The top 10 reasons clients seek therapy with me are relational & family issues, anger management & lack of emotional control, confidence & work/life balance, depression, stress, anxiety & shame, emotional numbness, sex, sexuality & masculinity issues, lack of confidence & self-esteem, addiction & substance abuse, trauma, abuse & loss and body image.
01474 554914 View 01474 554914
Photo of Stephanie Webb - Anders Psychotherapy LTD , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Anders Psychotherapy LTD
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Preston PR5  (Online Only)
With 10 years experience working in the NHS in mental health I became a CBT & EMDR Therapist because I am passionate about working with people who have experienced trauma and difficulties in their lives. I have always found it a privilege to take the time with my clients to collaboratively work together to answer how they can move forward from their current situation, and how they can deal with whatever hand life has dealt them. The most rewarding part of my work is helping people move towards recovery to enable them to feel happier and more fulfilled in their lives.
With 10 years experience working in the NHS in mental health I became a CBT & EMDR Therapist because I am passionate about working with people who have experienced trauma and difficulties in their lives. I have always found it a privilege to take the time with my clients to collaboratively work together to answer how they can move forward from their current situation, and how they can deal with whatever hand life has dealt them. The most rewarding part of my work is helping people move towards recovery to enable them to feel happier and more fulfilled in their lives.
01254 961511 View 01254 961511
Photo of Dr Kathryn Heaton, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Kathryn Heaton
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Clitheroe BB7
Hello & warm welcome. My name is Kathryn, & I provide specialist, non-judgemental therapeutic support to help you to gain understanding & improve your emotional wellbeing, enabling you to move your life forward in a way that will help you to experience a greater sense of calm, fulfilment, & satisfaction in life. It may be that you are seeking this support for yourself or for your child because of difficulties such as anxiety, panic, stress, overwhelm, low mood, depression, poor sleep, anger, grief and loss, trauma, adapting to life following illness/diagnoses, behavioural issues, relationship issues or difficulties at work/school.
Hello & warm welcome. My name is Kathryn, & I provide specialist, non-judgemental therapeutic support to help you to gain understanding & improve your emotional wellbeing, enabling you to move your life forward in a way that will help you to experience a greater sense of calm, fulfilment, & satisfaction in life. It may be that you are seeking this support for yourself or for your child because of difficulties such as anxiety, panic, stress, overwhelm, low mood, depression, poor sleep, anger, grief and loss, trauma, adapting to life following illness/diagnoses, behavioural issues, relationship issues or difficulties at work/school.
01772 503275 View 01772 503275
Photo of Jeanette Fegan, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jeanette Fegan
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Clitheroe BB7
Are you being driven by self-defeating thoughts but don’t know how to change? To the outside world you have it all; everything seems well. Internally you are stuck in a cycle of self-criticism, self-doubt, and overthinking. You feel that you are walking on eggshells; you don't want to upset anyone. You struggle to make meaningful connections with people and the things that are important to you. These things are beginning to have real world consequences on your relationships, work, and social life, and you fear that it will always be this way. But you don't have to stay stuck in this cycle.
Are you being driven by self-defeating thoughts but don’t know how to change? To the outside world you have it all; everything seems well. Internally you are stuck in a cycle of self-criticism, self-doubt, and overthinking. You feel that you are walking on eggshells; you don't want to upset anyone. You struggle to make meaningful connections with people and the things that are important to you. These things are beginning to have real world consequences on your relationships, work, and social life, and you fear that it will always be this way. But you don't have to stay stuck in this cycle.
01282 953075 View 01282 953075

Online Therapists

Photo of Sean Mellor, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Sean Mellor
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Spennymoor DL16  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through EMDR, we will address past traumas, and difficult memories that are affecting you today and help you process and heal from them effectively.
As a dedicated CBT and EMDR therapist, I am committed to helping my clients. Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I work collaboratively with clients to empower them to create positive change in their lives. I help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health difficulties. By teaching clients effective coping strategies and skills, I empower them to manage their emotions and behaviours in a healthier way.
Through EMDR, we will address past traumas, and difficult memories that are affecting you today and help you process and heal from them effectively.
As a dedicated CBT and EMDR therapist, I am committed to helping my clients. Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I work collaboratively with clients to empower them to create positive change in their lives. I help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health difficulties. By teaching clients effective coping strategies and skills, I empower them to manage their emotions and behaviours in a healthier way.
01388 217366 View 01388 217366
Photo of Dr Kelly Jayne, PhD, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Dr Kelly Jayne
Psychotherapist, PhD, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS12
I am a doctor in Art Psychotherapy and specialize in working with people who have experienced complex trauma. I also have training in Mindfulness, NLP, I'm psychoanalytically informed, and am currently embarking on accredited EMDR training. I am person-centred, and have a compassion approach. I am also qualified to provide Clinical Supervision and Consultancy. I provide sessions online, or in person on request.
I am a doctor in Art Psychotherapy and specialize in working with people who have experienced complex trauma. I also have training in Mindfulness, NLP, I'm psychoanalytically informed, and am currently embarking on accredited EMDR training. I am person-centred, and have a compassion approach. I am also qualified to provide Clinical Supervision and Consultancy. I provide sessions online, or in person on request.
01287 555568 View 01287 555568
Photo of Jessica Dulieu - Jal Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services ltd, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jal Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Grimsby DN33
Hi, I'm Jess and I own Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services Ltd in hope of offering a bespoke therapy service that meets the needs of the client and is flexible in adapting to your needs. I work by myself and offer online and limited in-person sessions. I deliver evidence based Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and EMDR. CBT looks at how we think and how we behave and how this impacts on how we feel. We make these links together and look to challenge and change how we think and what we do to positively change how we feel. I also deliver EMDR for PTSD, traumatic and complicated grief, anxiety, addictions and depression.
Hi, I'm Jess and I own Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services Ltd in hope of offering a bespoke therapy service that meets the needs of the client and is flexible in adapting to your needs. I work by myself and offer online and limited in-person sessions. I deliver evidence based Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and EMDR. CBT looks at how we think and how we behave and how this impacts on how we feel. We make these links together and look to challenge and change how we think and what we do to positively change how we feel. I also deliver EMDR for PTSD, traumatic and complicated grief, anxiety, addictions and depression.
01472 404603 View 01472 404603
Photo of Stephanie Kelly - Safe Space Psychology - Dr Stephanie Kelly, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Safe Space Psychology - Dr Stephanie Kelly
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I am a DBT, SCM and EMDR therapist with foundation systemic practitioner status and DDP L2.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with clients struggling with relational difficulties, trauma and other emotional and other psychological difficulties such as complex grief, low mood and anxiety. Working with male, female and non-binary clients, my aim is to personalise all therapeutic approaches to each individual client's specific needs. Over the years, I have worked in a wide variety of settings including acute and secure hospitals, community mental health services as well as in custodial settings with experience supporting adults, adolescents and families.
I am a DBT, SCM and EMDR therapist with foundation systemic practitioner status and DDP L2.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with clients struggling with relational difficulties, trauma and other emotional and other psychological difficulties such as complex grief, low mood and anxiety. Working with male, female and non-binary clients, my aim is to personalise all therapeutic approaches to each individual client's specific needs. Over the years, I have worked in a wide variety of settings including acute and secure hospitals, community mental health services as well as in custodial settings with experience supporting adults, adolescents and families.
0191 743 0381 View 0191 743 0381
Photo of Tracy Ann Richardson, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Tracy Ann Richardson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Market Weighton YO43
My name is Dr Tracy Ann Richardson and I run Wolds Psychology Ltd. I have worked as a Clinical Psychologist providing psychological therapy for over ten years. I have particular expertise in working with psychological trauma and am an accredited EMDR practitioner. Sometimes we don’t know what is causing us to feel distressed and I can help explore with you what is going on for you and work with you to find a way through this. I also have extensive experience in working with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, anger, relational difficulties, emotional regulation or interpersonal difficulties.
My name is Dr Tracy Ann Richardson and I run Wolds Psychology Ltd. I have worked as a Clinical Psychologist providing psychological therapy for over ten years. I have particular expertise in working with psychological trauma and am an accredited EMDR practitioner. Sometimes we don’t know what is causing us to feel distressed and I can help explore with you what is going on for you and work with you to find a way through this. I also have extensive experience in working with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, anger, relational difficulties, emotional regulation or interpersonal difficulties.
01759 487786 View 01759 487786
Photo of Gemma McKenzie - Hidden Gem Psychology Service, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Hidden Gem Psychology Service
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln LN6  (Online Only)
I have also trained in a range of other therapies, such as EMDR, NET, DBT, CFT and ACT.
I am passionate about trauma-informed care and utilise a whole-person approach. Trauma can often underpin common mental health difficulties, and I can work with you to process the source of your difficulties and/or focus on your current symptoms. You may wish to focus on your current experiences of depression, anxiety, etc., or wish to address the underlying difficulties that have led to these. I also have a keen interest in complex trauma, dissociation, childhood emotional neglect, medically unexplained symptoms, functional neurological disorder, chronic pain, chronic fatigue and other physical difficulties.
I have also trained in a range of other therapies, such as EMDR, NET, DBT, CFT and ACT.
I am passionate about trauma-informed care and utilise a whole-person approach. Trauma can often underpin common mental health difficulties, and I can work with you to process the source of your difficulties and/or focus on your current symptoms. You may wish to focus on your current experiences of depression, anxiety, etc., or wish to address the underlying difficulties that have led to these. I also have a keen interest in complex trauma, dissociation, childhood emotional neglect, medically unexplained symptoms, functional neurological disorder, chronic pain, chronic fatigue and other physical difficulties.
01427 808045 View 01427 808045
Photo of Elle Stevens - Mental-health4u , MA
Mental-health4u
MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester M29  (Online Only)
I offer Eclectic therapy focusing on presenting difficulties and drawing on strengths, CBT based anxiety sessions, EMDR, EFT, Systemic Family Practice, and ADHD and Autism Post Diagnostic support.
Hi, I’m Elle, I’m the lead therapist at Mental-Health4u. I’m a mental health and neurodivergent therapist with over 10 years of experience. I pride myself on being a warm and caring practitioner who is never afraid to go the extra mile. I can provide support with different mental health concerns including: anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, low mood, difficulties with emotional regulation and self harm. The only thing I would require is a motivation from you to work on your mental health.
I offer Eclectic therapy focusing on presenting difficulties and drawing on strengths, CBT based anxiety sessions, EMDR, EFT, Systemic Family Practice, and ADHD and Autism Post Diagnostic support.
Hi, I’m Elle, I’m the lead therapist at Mental-Health4u. I’m a mental health and neurodivergent therapist with over 10 years of experience. I pride myself on being a warm and caring practitioner who is never afraid to go the extra mile. I can provide support with different mental health concerns including: anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, low mood, difficulties with emotional regulation and self harm. The only thing I would require is a motivation from you to work on your mental health.
01942 559703 View 01942 559703

See more therapy options for Blackburn

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.