EMDR Counselling in Lancashire

Photo of Michael Donald - Virtual CBT Clinic, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Virtual CBT Clinic
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skelmersdale WN8  (Online Only)
I also offer EMDR therapy, which is a trauma-focused approach.
As a Psychotherapist, I support clients online with common mental health difficulties, including: Major Depressive Disorder; Perfectionism; Low Self-Esteem; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD); Hoarding Disorder; Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD); Social Anxiety Disorder; Health Anxiety Disorder; Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD); Panic Disorder; Specific Phobia; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); and more. So, if you are feeling low, lacking in motivation, are self-critical, engage in ritualistic behaviours, struggle with social interactions, have a lot of worries, or relive traumatic experiences, I can help you.
I also offer EMDR therapy, which is a trauma-focused approach.
As a Psychotherapist, I support clients online with common mental health difficulties, including: Major Depressive Disorder; Perfectionism; Low Self-Esteem; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD); Hoarding Disorder; Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD); Social Anxiety Disorder; Health Anxiety Disorder; Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD); Panic Disorder; Specific Phobia; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); and more. So, if you are feeling low, lacking in motivation, are self-critical, engage in ritualistic behaviours, struggle with social interactions, have a lot of worries, or relive traumatic experiences, I can help you.
01257 440987 View 01257 440987
Photo of Vanessa Mount, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Vanessa Mount
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whatever the problem, there are various solutions; EMDR, CBT, Talking, Trauma focused and hypnotherpy to aid positive personal growth, enabling you to feel better and find happiness.
Ex military, now multi skilled therapist. The military provided me with valuable insights and experiences. Vast exposure, witnessing various traumas and mental health impacts highlighted the importance of mental health suport and the benefit of it to others. Having supported others for years through issues such as suicide, abuse, sexual vilence, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, selfharm, neglect, relational conflict, PTSD and the impacts of bereavement I wanted to continue similar support throughy therapy.
Whatever the problem, there are various solutions; EMDR, CBT, Talking, Trauma focused and hypnotherpy to aid positive personal growth, enabling you to feel better and find happiness.
Ex military, now multi skilled therapist. The military provided me with valuable insights and experiences. Vast exposure, witnessing various traumas and mental health impacts highlighted the importance of mental health suport and the benefit of it to others. Having supported others for years through issues such as suicide, abuse, sexual vilence, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, selfharm, neglect, relational conflict, PTSD and the impacts of bereavement I wanted to continue similar support throughy therapy.
01704 338319 View 01704 338319
Photo of Stephanie Webb - Anders Psychotherapy LTD , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Anders Psychotherapy LTD
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leyland PR25  (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 Karen Veronica Hodgson, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karen Veronica Hodgson
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
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 Lucy Marie Fenwick, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Marie Fenwick
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Glyn Harris MBABCP (ACCRED), MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Glyn Harris MBABCP (ACCRED)
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Preston PR2  (Online Only)
CBT is a talking therapy and is the NICE recommended therapy for anxiety disorders and depression, EMDR is a NICE recommended therapy for trauma and is the World Health Organisation recommended first line treatment for trauma.
Hi there and welcome. My name is GIyn Harris and I help my clients change the negative thoughts and behaviours that stop them reaching their full potential. I am qualified in two therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR). I am also a Registered Mental Health Nurse. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT is a widely recognised and respected psychological treatment for depression and anxiety disorders . It is also widely used in sport and business to challenge performance limiting beliefs.
CBT is a talking therapy and is the NICE recommended therapy for anxiety disorders and depression, EMDR is a NICE recommended therapy for trauma and is the World Health Organisation recommended first line treatment for trauma.
Hi there and welcome. My name is GIyn Harris and I help my clients change the negative thoughts and behaviours that stop them reaching their full potential. I am qualified in two therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR). I am also a Registered Mental Health Nurse. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT is a widely recognised and respected psychological treatment for depression and anxiety disorders . It is also widely used in sport and business to challenge performance limiting beliefs.
01305 235768 View 01305 235768
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 Rachel Dickinson, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Rachel Dickinson
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
In order to support clients in finding the right support for them, I offer a complimentary initial session lasting approximately 30 minutes, where potential clients can come and meet me to see if they feel comfortable working with me, and where we can discuss therapeutic needs and the appropriateness of counselling or EMDR.
I specialise in supporting clients who have experienced trauma, both single incident traumas and attachment or developmental trauma, alongside other difficulties such as (but not limited to) bereavement, thoughts of ending your life, self-harming thoughts, depression, other mental health and physical diagnoses, anxiety and depression. Therapy is a vital part of emotional wellbeing, both at times of difficulty, and also as part of maintaining positive emotional health.
In order to support clients in finding the right support for them, I offer a complimentary initial session lasting approximately 30 minutes, where potential clients can come and meet me to see if they feel comfortable working with me, and where we can discuss therapeutic needs and the appropriateness of counselling or EMDR.
I specialise in supporting clients who have experienced trauma, both single incident traumas and attachment or developmental trauma, alongside other difficulties such as (but not limited to) bereavement, thoughts of ending your life, self-harming thoughts, depression, other mental health and physical diagnoses, anxiety and depression. Therapy is a vital part of emotional wellbeing, both at times of difficulty, and also as part of maintaining positive emotional health.
01257 446973 View 01257 446973
Photo of Shaun Noteman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Shaun Noteman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Preston PR2  (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 Peter Churchill, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Peter Churchill
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Blackpool FY2  (Online Only)
I have a specialist interest in the treatment of PTSD/trauma and can offer both CBT and EMDR for this.
Hi. I'm Pete and I've been practicing as a therapist in the NHS for over 20 years. I now work as a Senior Lecturer in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and have a private therapy practice too, offering therapy and clinical supervision. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I will aim to build a safe place where we can work together to overcome whatever is causing you distress.
I have a specialist interest in the treatment of PTSD/trauma and can offer both CBT and EMDR for this.
Hi. I'm Pete and I've been practicing as a therapist in the NHS for over 20 years. I now work as a Senior Lecturer in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and have a private therapy practice too, offering therapy and clinical supervision. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I will aim to build a safe place where we can work together to overcome whatever is causing you distress.
01253 835738 View 01253 835738
Photo of Dr Zandra Bamford, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zandra Bamford
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
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 Tracey Louise Ward, MRes, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Tracey Louise Ward
Psychotherapist, MRes, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Lancaster LA1  (Online Only)
My name is Tracey and I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. My work in mental health began in 2003 when I volunteered for a helpline for children. Since then I have either been in education or working in mental health. I specialize in working with adults with mental health problems. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ( EMDR) both CBT and EMDR are evidence based psychological approaches to treat a wide range of emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), adjustment difficulties
My name is Tracey and I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. My work in mental health began in 2003 when I volunteered for a helpline for children. Since then I have either been in education or working in mental health. I specialize in working with adults with mental health problems. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing ( EMDR) both CBT and EMDR are evidence based psychological approaches to treat a wide range of emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), adjustment difficulties
01253 835652 View 01253 835652
Photo of Pam Burke, BACP, Counsellor
Pam Burke
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
I offer Psychotherapy and ounselling which are often interchangeable and also Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for more deep-rooted trauma. By engaging in a therapeutic relationship with me, you are safe in the knowledge that what you say will be respectfully listened to and you will not be judged in any way. I work face-to-face and online, with individuals and couples. I am also a Registered Mental Nurse with over 30 years experience prior to qualifying as a therapist, so I have helped people with all degrees of mental health problems. My areas of interest are substance misuse, addictive behaviour and trauma.
I offer Psychotherapy and ounselling which are often interchangeable and also Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for more deep-rooted trauma. By engaging in a therapeutic relationship with me, you are safe in the knowledge that what you say will be respectfully listened to and you will not be judged in any way. I work face-to-face and online, with individuals and couples. I am also a Registered Mental Nurse with over 30 years experience prior to qualifying as a therapist, so I have helped people with all degrees of mental health problems. My areas of interest are substance misuse, addictive behaviour and trauma.
01772 419563 View 01772 419563
Photo of Thomas Sidebottom, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Thomas Sidebottom
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Lancaster LA1  (Online Only)
I am an experienced and registered Counselling Psychologist in private practice offering a range of psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR. Although I am based in Lancaster I work entirely remotely and offer online appointments to clients from anywhere in the UK.
I am an experienced and registered Counselling Psychologist in private practice offering a range of psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR. Although I am based in Lancaster I work entirely remotely and offer online appointments to clients from anywhere in the UK.
07954 601962 View 07954 601962
Photo of Dr Sarah Baxter - Aurora Psychology Ltd, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Aurora Psychology Ltd
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
At Aurora Psychology we specialise in therapy (CBT, ACT, EMDR, CFT, person-centred) for individuals, adults and teenagers, who are experiencing anything from stress, relationship difficulties, behaviour difficulties, school/college problems, depression, all forms of anxiety, to trauma & difficulties adjusting and living with chronic physical health problems.
At Aurora Psychology Ltd we aim to provide a safe space full of warmth and compassion, where you will not be judged but understood, no matter what it is you’re going through. We understand that life can feel very tricky at times, if not unbearable, however change is possible; life does not have to feel like this. We are a team of highly experienced clinical psychologists and psychotherapists who can tailor therapy to your needs. We appreciate the courage it has taken you to make this first step of searching for someone who may be able to help you.
At Aurora Psychology we specialise in therapy (CBT, ACT, EMDR, CFT, person-centred) for individuals, adults and teenagers, who are experiencing anything from stress, relationship difficulties, behaviour difficulties, school/college problems, depression, all forms of anxiety, to trauma & difficulties adjusting and living with chronic physical health problems.
At Aurora Psychology Ltd we aim to provide a safe space full of warmth and compassion, where you will not be judged but understood, no matter what it is you’re going through. We understand that life can feel very tricky at times, if not unbearable, however change is possible; life does not have to feel like this. We are a team of highly experienced clinical psychologists and psychotherapists who can tailor therapy to your needs. We appreciate the courage it has taken you to make this first step of searching for someone who may be able to help you.
01253 835767 View 01253 835767
Photo of Amanda Waterworth, MBACP, Counsellor
Amanda Waterworth
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burnley BB10
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 Katy Rudd - Katy Rudd - Wellbeing in Mind Therapies, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Katy Rudd - Wellbeing in Mind Therapies
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 Marlena Davies Emdr Cbt, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Marlena Davies Emdr Cbt
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
EMDR Child Therapist.
BABCP Acc. CBT Therapist, EMDR Acc. Practitioner. I offer both face-to-face and online therapy sessions for adults, children and adolescents, tailored to your unique needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or other challenges? If so, I am here to help. My clinic in Preston, Lancashire, provides a welcoming and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Whether you are dealing with social anxiety, trauma, sleep problems, OCD or other difficulties, we will work together to navigate these challenges and create a path toward a happier, more fulfilling life...
EMDR Child Therapist.
BABCP Acc. CBT Therapist, EMDR Acc. Practitioner. I offer both face-to-face and online therapy sessions for adults, children and adolescents, tailored to your unique needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or other challenges? If so, I am here to help. My clinic in Preston, Lancashire, provides a welcoming and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Whether you are dealing with social anxiety, trauma, sleep problems, OCD or other difficulties, we will work together to navigate these challenges and create a path toward a happier, more fulfilling life...
01772 503280 View 01772 503280
Photo of Lisa Baldwin - Baldwin Therapy EMDR, Counsellor, CBT, Supervisor, MBACP, Counsellor
Baldwin Therapy EMDR, Counsellor, CBT, Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Debra Karen Malkin - Calming Minds Therapy, Supervision & Training, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Calming Minds Therapy, Supervision & Training
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Calming-Minds are able to offer highly skilled, therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD or PTSD. These include CBT, CFT, EMDR and TF-CBT. If you are seeking support to re-claim your life, and become the best version of yourself, then please do contact us.
Calming-Minds are able to offer highly skilled, therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD or PTSD. These include CBT, CFT, EMDR and TF-CBT. If you are seeking support to re-claim your life, and become the best version of yourself, then please do contact us.
01253 835659 View 01253 835659
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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.