EMDR Counselling in Bolton

Photo of Rachel Leah Wesley - The Wellness Consultancy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
The Wellness Consultancy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
Waitlist for new clients
I offer integrative, compassionate focused, CBT and EMDR therapies.
Often clients contact me when other therapy has not helped them in the way they had hoped. This is often due to the complexity of difficulties being layered perhaps in a history of trauma. Distress in the body and mind can be triggered by what appears to be something superficial. This can open up the past or come at a time when our emotional resilience is low so this event has a greater impact than it may have done. We can find ourselves not being able to function in our normal way. Many clients often identify as 'good copers' and those who 'just get on with it'. Perhaps we can't now - this is frightening and can derail us.
I offer integrative, compassionate focused, CBT and EMDR therapies.
Often clients contact me when other therapy has not helped them in the way they had hoped. This is often due to the complexity of difficulties being layered perhaps in a history of trauma. Distress in the body and mind can be triggered by what appears to be something superficial. This can open up the past or come at a time when our emotional resilience is low so this event has a greater impact than it may have done. We can find ourselves not being able to function in our normal way. Many clients often identify as 'good copers' and those who 'just get on with it'. Perhaps we can't now - this is frightening and can derail us.
01204 238760 View 01204 238760
Photo of Megan Bowes, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Megan Bowes
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL6  (Online Only)
I specialise in EMDR for PTSD/ trauma and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help individuals with chronic conditions such as chronic pain and long covid.
I am a Senior Health Psychologist specialising in Trauma, phobias and Chronic conditions. Together, we can work through any difficulties holding you back from living the life you'd like to lead. If you are struggling, either mentally or physically, please get in touch for a free consultation. I have worked across multiple NHS services including trauma, long-covid, rheumatology and chronic pain.
I specialise in EMDR for PTSD/ trauma and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help individuals with chronic conditions such as chronic pain and long covid.
I am a Senior Health Psychologist specialising in Trauma, phobias and Chronic conditions. Together, we can work through any difficulties holding you back from living the life you'd like to lead. If you are struggling, either mentally or physically, please get in touch for a free consultation. I have worked across multiple NHS services including trauma, long-covid, rheumatology and chronic pain.
01253 835573 View 01253 835573
Photo of Esther Morch, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Esther Morch
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
I am an EMDR and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist based in Bury town centre.
Are you struggling with the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression or pain? Or maybe you're finding that low self-esteem or lack of confidence is holding you back in your work or personal life, and things are starting to feel a little bit 'stuck'. I'd like to see if I can help.
I am an EMDR and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist based in Bury town centre.
Are you struggling with the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression or pain? Or maybe you're finding that low self-esteem or lack of confidence is holding you back in your work or personal life, and things are starting to feel a little bit 'stuck'. I'd like to see if I can help.
0161 696 8471 View 0161 696 8471
Photo of Katy Rudd - Katy Rudd - Wellbeing in Mind Therapies, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Katy Rudd - Wellbeing in Mind Therapies
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bolton BL6
With 15 yrs experience in the NHS and over 10 yrs as a Psychological Therapist, I am fully qualified in CBT, EMDR and IPT therapies.
Welcome to Wellbeing in Mind Psychological Therapies. Are you looking to manage problematic symptoms of low mood and anxiety? Have you experienced traumatic events that are impacting your functioning? Do you have relationship difficulties that have been brought about by significant changes in your life? If any of this sounds familiar, the combination of therapies I offer could make a real difference to your wellbeing.
With 15 yrs experience in the NHS and over 10 yrs as a Psychological Therapist, I am fully qualified in CBT, EMDR and IPT therapies.
Welcome to Wellbeing in Mind Psychological Therapies. Are you looking to manage problematic symptoms of low mood and anxiety? Have you experienced traumatic events that are impacting your functioning? Do you have relationship difficulties that have been brought about by significant changes in your life? If any of this sounds familiar, the combination of therapies I offer could make a real difference to your wellbeing.
01257 449363 View 01257 449363
Photo of Chi Ko Psychosexual Relationship Therapist, MSc, COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Chi Ko Psychosexual Relationship Therapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
Specialising in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy, Chi is also a Yoga Teacher, working somatically alongside EMDR technique to work with a range of conditions that relate to trauma, addiction, phobia, fear, betrayal, loss and cPTSD.
Chi is a Sex and Relationship Psychotherapist, accredited by BACP and COSRT. He also works with people with sexual addictive behaviour and compulsivity. He has an excellent working knowledge on a range of psychiatric and mental health conditions.
Specialising in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy, Chi is also a Yoga Teacher, working somatically alongside EMDR technique to work with a range of conditions that relate to trauma, addiction, phobia, fear, betrayal, loss and cPTSD.
Chi is a Sex and Relationship Psychotherapist, accredited by BACP and COSRT. He also works with people with sexual addictive behaviour and compulsivity. He has an excellent working knowledge on a range of psychiatric and mental health conditions.
0161 696 8319 View 0161 696 8319
Photo of Dr Zandra Bamford, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zandra Bamford
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
Zandra offers CBT, EMDR, CAT informed, CFT, Internal Family Systems, Safe & Sound Protocol and Somatic approaches to provide an individualised therapy.
Hello, welcome to Therapy NorthWest. We support the wellbeing of adults & young people in clinics in Chorley & surrounding areas. We believe that life can be challenging with a number of different pressures & demands. We do not believe that these things make us ‘abnormal’ or ‘ill’, rather that there are times when we require support to work through difficulties, what has happened and how we have responded. Zandra has many years experience working with individuals, couples, families and systems to help foster greater well-being.
Zandra offers CBT, EMDR, CAT informed, CFT, Internal Family Systems, Safe & Sound Protocol and Somatic approaches to provide an individualised therapy.
Hello, welcome to Therapy NorthWest. We support the wellbeing of adults & young people in clinics in Chorley & surrounding areas. We believe that life can be challenging with a number of different pressures & demands. We do not believe that these things make us ‘abnormal’ or ‘ill’, rather that there are times when we require support to work through difficulties, what has happened and how we have responded. Zandra has many years experience working with individuals, couples, families and systems to help foster greater well-being.
01257 446979 View 01257 446979
Photo of Joanne Crook, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Joanne Crook
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL1  (Online Only)
I use EMDR to address trauma, whether that be due to childhood abuse or trauma in adult life.
No avail.For over 26 years, in the NHS, I worked in a psychological therapies department as a Senior Psychological Counsellor, and as a Clinical Supervisor. Therapy with me will offer time in a reflective space away from family, friends and work, with a skilled therapist. As well as healing, therapy offers a place in which to understand yourself and your place in the world and the opportunity to find a new, more comfortable way of being. I have been a Senior Accredited member of the BACP for 20 years. I now work as an integrative psychological therapist, an EMDR Practitioner and a Clinical Supervisor, based in Worsley, Manchester.
I use EMDR to address trauma, whether that be due to childhood abuse or trauma in adult life.
No avail.For over 26 years, in the NHS, I worked in a psychological therapies department as a Senior Psychological Counsellor, and as a Clinical Supervisor. Therapy with me will offer time in a reflective space away from family, friends and work, with a skilled therapist. As well as healing, therapy offers a place in which to understand yourself and your place in the world and the opportunity to find a new, more comfortable way of being. I have been a Senior Accredited member of the BACP for 20 years. I now work as an integrative psychological therapist, an EMDR Practitioner and a Clinical Supervisor, based in Worsley, Manchester.
01890 545510 View 01890 545510
Photo of Molly Brenda Rudd, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Molly Brenda Rudd
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1  (Online Only)
I specialise in treating trauma by utilising my skills learned in both CBT and EMDR, to help individuals regain control of their life and free themselves from the past.
With five years of experience as a psychological therapist, I specialise in CBT and EMDR therapy. I have treated individuals from diverse backgrounds, specialising in depression and anxiety disorders like PTSD and OCD. My passion lies in offering personalised and integrative care to empower you to become your own therapist. During our initial sessions, we will delve into your history and present challenges, working together to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to help you overcome your issues and move towards your goals.
I specialise in treating trauma by utilising my skills learned in both CBT and EMDR, to help individuals regain control of their life and free themselves from the past.
With five years of experience as a psychological therapist, I specialise in CBT and EMDR therapy. I have treated individuals from diverse backgrounds, specialising in depression and anxiety disorders like PTSD and OCD. My passion lies in offering personalised and integrative care to empower you to become your own therapist. During our initial sessions, we will delve into your history and present challenges, working together to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to help you overcome your issues and move towards your goals.
01942 914846 View 01942 914846
Photo of Dr Amelia Boshoff, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Amelia Boshoff
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bolton BL5
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Registered Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience of working therapeutically with adults, young people and children in the NHS and private settings. I am very passionate about helping people to make sense of difficult emotions, thoughts and life experiences. Life can be full of pain and suffering, and we all sometimes need a little extra help to get through challenging times. Together we will find ways to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life; improve your relationship with yourself; and build on your existing strengths. Please get in touch to find out more.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Registered Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience of working therapeutically with adults, young people and children in the NHS and private settings. I am very passionate about helping people to make sense of difficult emotions, thoughts and life experiences. Life can be full of pain and suffering, and we all sometimes need a little extra help to get through challenging times. Together we will find ways to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life; improve your relationship with yourself; and build on your existing strengths. Please get in touch to find out more.
01942 559754 View 01942 559754
Photo of Tasneem Dahegamia - U Got This, Mental health & Wellbeing clinic, Psychotherapist
U Got This, Mental health & Wellbeing clinic
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
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 Catriona (Katie) Laird - Wellbeing North West Limited, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Wellbeing North West Limited
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL1
It’s hard to believe that your feelings are worth something when you’re depressed, anxious, stuck or feeling trapped with self-critical thoughts and belief you have no control. But I’m here to tell you that it just isn’t the case, I’m here and I’m asking you to let me listen. With over 16years of experience in Mental Health I aim to help you navigate your way through your problems and find personal resolve. Regardless of the journey, therapy is tailored to be supportive, to suit your needs, to help you reach your desired outcome and by the end of our time together your journey will be something you can have pride in.
It’s hard to believe that your feelings are worth something when you’re depressed, anxious, stuck or feeling trapped with self-critical thoughts and belief you have no control. But I’m here to tell you that it just isn’t the case, I’m here and I’m asking you to let me listen. With over 16years of experience in Mental Health I aim to help you navigate your way through your problems and find personal resolve. Regardless of the journey, therapy is tailored to be supportive, to suit your needs, to help you reach your desired outcome and by the end of our time together your journey will be something you can have pride in.
01925 984042 View 01925 984042

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nina Hayes, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Nina Hayes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Manchester M27  (Online Only)
These include: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Forcused Therapy (CFT).
My name is Nina Hayes and I am a qualified and accredited CBT and EMDR therapist. I have over 12 years of experience in the field of Mental Health. I specialise in helping clients to understand and work through issues such as stress, depression, trauma, anxiety and low self esteem. I aim to help you to navigate through your problems and offer solution focused support, in a safe and supportive environment. Alongside offering therapy, I also offer supervision to other therapists.
These include: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Forcused Therapy (CFT).
My name is Nina Hayes and I am a qualified and accredited CBT and EMDR therapist. I have over 12 years of experience in the field of Mental Health. I specialise in helping clients to understand and work through issues such as stress, depression, trauma, anxiety and low self esteem. I aim to help you to navigate through your problems and offer solution focused support, in a safe and supportive environment. Alongside offering therapy, I also offer supervision to other therapists.
0161 524 5801 View 0161 524 5801
Photo of Dr Mary Delaney, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Mary Delaney
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M26
I've been working as a Clinical Psychologist for 14 years. I work with people experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood and burnout, . I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR. I am also a qualified Clinical Neuropsychologist and so I also work with people living with long term physical health and neurological conditions.
I've been working as a Clinical Psychologist for 14 years. I work with people experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood and burnout, . I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR. I am also a qualified Clinical Neuropsychologist and so I also work with people living with long term physical health and neurological conditions.
01204 929707 View 01204 929707
Photo of Tatiana Hannam, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Tatiana Hannam
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bury BL0
I am an experienced , qualified BABCP Accredited Psychotherapist/ EMDR Accredited Therapist and a Counsellor who can offer an integrated approach in my work as appropriate to the client and the issues that they present with.
I offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR and Counselling to individuals and couples presenting with a range of mental health issues, some of which are listed below.
I am an experienced , qualified BABCP Accredited Psychotherapist/ EMDR Accredited Therapist and a Counsellor who can offer an integrated approach in my work as appropriate to the client and the issues that they present with.
I offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR and Counselling to individuals and couples presenting with a range of mental health issues, some of which are listed below.
01706 572694 View 01706 572694
Photo of Lucy Marie Fenwick, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Marie Fenwick
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rossendale BB4
Welcome, I'm Lucy, An Integrative Person Centered & EMDR trained Therapist with special experience in Attachment. Online/Telephone/Skype sessions available. I work with adults, children & young people. I will provide a therapeutic space for you or your child to explore what is troubling you. I have special experience in Self-Harm, Self esteem issues & ADHD/Autism. I promise to be accepting & non-judgemental & to provide a confidential space for you to explore your world. I offer a free consultation via telephone & I work in both Rossendale & Manchester City Centre. My fees are £60, EMDR varies-limited concessions are available.
Welcome, I'm Lucy, An Integrative Person Centered & EMDR trained Therapist with special experience in Attachment. Online/Telephone/Skype sessions available. I work with adults, children & young people. I will provide a therapeutic space for you or your child to explore what is troubling you. I have special experience in Self-Harm, Self esteem issues & ADHD/Autism. I promise to be accepting & non-judgemental & to provide a confidential space for you to explore your world. I offer a free consultation via telephone & I work in both Rossendale & Manchester City Centre. My fees are £60, EMDR varies-limited concessions are available.
07723 428961 View 07723 428961
Photo of Tom Taylor, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Tom Taylor
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Salford M5  (Online Only)
I am an integrative trained counsellor, psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EMDR clinician based in central Manchester, both UK registered and an accredited member of the BACP. I have a passionate belief in the human capacity for change, and I am therefore committed to using my skills, training, knowledge and experience to support those who seek my services in assisting them to do so. I believe that each individual is unique, and therefore my integrative training enables me to be responsive to your individual needs and develop a bespoke treatment approach tailored with you and specifically for you.
I am an integrative trained counsellor, psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EMDR clinician based in central Manchester, both UK registered and an accredited member of the BACP. I have a passionate belief in the human capacity for change, and I am therefore committed to using my skills, training, knowledge and experience to support those who seek my services in assisting them to do so. I believe that each individual is unique, and therefore my integrative training enables me to be responsive to your individual needs and develop a bespoke treatment approach tailored with you and specifically for you.
0161 509 5819 View 0161 509 5819
Photo of Karen Veronica Hodgson, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karen Veronica Hodgson
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN6
These may include for example, EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Emotional Freedom Technique, Mindfulness and Walking Therapy.
I'm Karen, a UKCP Reg & EMDR Psychotherapist working online. Practicing for over 24 years with people struggling with self worth, loneliness & isolation; who struggle to connect well with others or develop intimate relationships, who people-please or have difficulties prioritising their needs; who have experienced infidelity/betrayals of trust; who have communication difficulties or struggle to set boundaries; who find balancing individual & couple expectations difficult; who are stuck in their grief, anger, anxiety or depression or who present with complex trauma & attachment wounds rooted in their childhood.
These may include for example, EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Emotional Freedom Technique, Mindfulness and Walking Therapy.
I'm Karen, a UKCP Reg & EMDR Psychotherapist working online. Practicing for over 24 years with people struggling with self worth, loneliness & isolation; who struggle to connect well with others or develop intimate relationships, who people-please or have difficulties prioritising their needs; who have experienced infidelity/betrayals of trust; who have communication difficulties or struggle to set boundaries; who find balancing individual & couple expectations difficult; who are stuck in their grief, anger, anxiety or depression or who present with complex trauma & attachment wounds rooted in their childhood.
01257 448237 View 01257 448237
Photo of Richard Hobbs, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Richard Hobbs
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salford M5  (Online Only)
The models I work with include; CBT, Compassion Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, I’m Richard. I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and I work with a range of people who have had challenging moments in their lives. My specialties include supporting people who live with chronic health conditions or life changing injuries. I have worked in the NHS for over 10 years, working with patients in a wide range of circumstances including those undergoing treatment for conditions such as cancer and diabetes, as well as those in palliative care and in surgical settings. I have seen a range of issues including anxiety, low mood and depression, loss, grief and trauma.
The models I work with include; CBT, Compassion Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, I’m Richard. I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and I work with a range of people who have had challenging moments in their lives. My specialties include supporting people who live with chronic health conditions or life changing injuries. I have worked in the NHS for over 10 years, working with patients in a wide range of circumstances including those undergoing treatment for conditions such as cancer and diabetes, as well as those in palliative care and in surgical settings. I have seen a range of issues including anxiety, low mood and depression, loss, grief and trauma.
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Photo of Donna O Connor, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Donna O Connor
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Salford M7  (Online Only)
I have been trained in a range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and my work is informed by Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT).
Hello, my name is Donna. I'm a registered Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience of working in NHS mental health services with adults who experience common mental health problems such as depression, anxiety & post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I have a particular interest in helping people to heal from trauma and support them to move beyond survival mode so they can reach their true potential and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
I have been trained in a range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and my work is informed by Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT).
Hello, my name is Donna. I'm a registered Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience of working in NHS mental health services with adults who experience common mental health problems such as depression, anxiety & post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I have a particular interest in helping people to heal from trauma and support them to move beyond survival mode so they can reach their true potential and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
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Photo of Hayley Saunders, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Hayley Saunders
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Whitefield M45
I am a warm and passionate Clinical Psychologist with experience of practicing and training in a range of evidence based approaches, including: Psycho-dynamic therapy (exploring past and present interpersonal relationship patterns and impact on current difficulties), CBT, Compassionate Focused Therapy, Mentalisation Based Therapy and EMDR. As an integrative practitioner, I am able offer a flexible and responsive approach to your individual needs. I believe in the importance of providing a therapeutic space, that enables clients to explore their inner world safely and confidentially, acknowledging that it can be hard to seek help.
I am a warm and passionate Clinical Psychologist with experience of practicing and training in a range of evidence based approaches, including: Psycho-dynamic therapy (exploring past and present interpersonal relationship patterns and impact on current difficulties), CBT, Compassionate Focused Therapy, Mentalisation Based Therapy and EMDR. As an integrative practitioner, I am able offer a flexible and responsive approach to your individual needs. I believe in the importance of providing a therapeutic space, that enables clients to explore their inner world safely and confidentially, acknowledging that it can be hard to seek help.
01890 230064 View 01890 230064

See more therapy options for Bolton

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.