EMDR Counselling in Saint Helens

Photo of Kellie Mawdsley, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Kellie Mawdsley
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Saint Helens WA10
I have gone on to train in EMDR which is an amazing therapy for trauma.
I have been practicing for many years. I have experience of working with adults, children and families; counselling a variety of issues. I adapt and adjust my sessions to ensure you the client get what you want and need from each counselling session. I will work with you to explore and understand your fears and distress, encouraging you to move forward at your pace.
I have gone on to train in EMDR which is an amazing therapy for trauma.
I have been practicing for many years. I have experience of working with adults, children and families; counselling a variety of issues. I adapt and adjust my sessions to ensure you the client get what you want and need from each counselling session. I will work with you to explore and understand your fears and distress, encouraging you to move forward at your pace.
01744 582195 View 01744 582195
Photo of Jessica Hayes, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jessica Hayes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Helens WA10
I am here to help you in a way that is collaborative and gives you control. I am a CBT and EMDR Therapist with special interests in OCD and perinatal mental health, helping people all over the country who have had unsuccessful therapy before. I also work with self-esteem and many other difficulties. Think about what you are finding tough right now, because we will make this our priority; we can explore any thoughts and emotions contributing to your difficulties and focus on reaching the goals you have. We will work with openness and honesty, gaining insight and making lasting positive changes to your emotional wellbeing together.
I am here to help you in a way that is collaborative and gives you control. I am a CBT and EMDR Therapist with special interests in OCD and perinatal mental health, helping people all over the country who have had unsuccessful therapy before. I also work with self-esteem and many other difficulties. Think about what you are finding tough right now, because we will make this our priority; we can explore any thoughts and emotions contributing to your difficulties and focus on reaching the goals you have. We will work with openness and honesty, gaining insight and making lasting positive changes to your emotional wellbeing together.
01925 906930 View 01925 906930
Photo of Carmen Marin, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Carmen Marin
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Saint Helens WA10
My practice: I can offer Person Centered Therapy, Integrative Therapies, Systemic Therapy, EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Hello! My name is Carmen and I am working as a private practitioner. I worked before in schools, drug and alcohol rehab and occupational health (EAP and assessments). I'll work with you in a way that will enable you to discover yourself, maybe the difficulty which probably causes you distress, increase your motivation and hopefully change your life in better. We can talk about what it is happening now but also we can address aspects from your past which are just on 'pause' at the minute but they 'creep' out whenever they want. Usually my sessions are based on your needs, purpose and action.
My practice: I can offer Person Centered Therapy, Integrative Therapies, Systemic Therapy, EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Hello! My name is Carmen and I am working as a private practitioner. I worked before in schools, drug and alcohol rehab and occupational health (EAP and assessments). I'll work with you in a way that will enable you to discover yourself, maybe the difficulty which probably causes you distress, increase your motivation and hopefully change your life in better. We can talk about what it is happening now but also we can address aspects from your past which are just on 'pause' at the minute but they 'creep' out whenever they want. Usually my sessions are based on your needs, purpose and action.
01744 413385 View 01744 413385
Photo of Dr Heather Boland, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Heather Boland
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saint Helens WA10
We all dream of the way we want our life to be. Then life happens and sometimes it can feel like we are stuck in a pattern of living that we do not want to be in. Or we live through painful experiences that days, months, or years later continue to influence how we feel, think and act. Or maybe our family life and relationships feel out of balance, we may feel out of control, overwhelmed or disconnected from our loved ones. I am here to listen to your story, your difficulties and your dreams of how you wish your life, relationships, work, and family to be. Therapy can help you feel unstuck, so you can enjoy being who you are.
We all dream of the way we want our life to be. Then life happens and sometimes it can feel like we are stuck in a pattern of living that we do not want to be in. Or we live through painful experiences that days, months, or years later continue to influence how we feel, think and act. Or maybe our family life and relationships feel out of balance, we may feel out of control, overwhelmed or disconnected from our loved ones. I am here to listen to your story, your difficulties and your dreams of how you wish your life, relationships, work, and family to be. Therapy can help you feel unstuck, so you can enjoy being who you are.
01983 219162 View 01983 219162
Photo of Claire McKeown, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Claire McKeown
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Saint Helens WA11  (Online Only)
I am more than happy to reply to an initial text message enquiry or call. I know how daunting finding a therapist can be. You can give me a no obligation text and we can agree a suitable time for your free phone consultation. You can then decide if it feels like the right fit or not. Don’t put any more pressure on yourself, life’s hard enough.
I am more than happy to reply to an initial text message enquiry or call. I know how daunting finding a therapist can be. You can give me a no obligation text and we can agree a suitable time for your free phone consultation. You can then decide if it feels like the right fit or not. Don’t put any more pressure on yourself, life’s hard enough.
01744 413179 View 01744 413179
Photo of Elaine June DEVLIN - EJD Counselling, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
EJD Counselling
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Helens WA10
Are you experiencing the overwhelming feelings of anxiety, stress, depression, guilt, or embarrassment? Do you feel you are being bullied and do not know where to turn? My name is Elaine, and I can help you. I am an experienced integrative counsellor, working with adults – both men and women. I also work with Down Syndrome clients. I offer you a safe, warm non-judgemental space where you can experience the magic of being fully heard, understood, and accepted as you. By sharing your story, together, we can explore and understand your feelings, and learn to overcome the barriers which are limiting your happiness
Are you experiencing the overwhelming feelings of anxiety, stress, depression, guilt, or embarrassment? Do you feel you are being bullied and do not know where to turn? My name is Elaine, and I can help you. I am an experienced integrative counsellor, working with adults – both men and women. I also work with Down Syndrome clients. I offer you a safe, warm non-judgemental space where you can experience the magic of being fully heard, understood, and accepted as you. By sharing your story, together, we can explore and understand your feelings, and learn to overcome the barriers which are limiting your happiness
01925 906958 View 01925 906958
Photo of Anthony Lacey (Msc) - Anthony Lacey Psychotherapy , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Anthony Lacey Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Saint Helens WA10
Are you not feeling like you are getting the most out of life and feel somewhat stuck in some way? Maybe you notice that your over-reacting with certain people or when in certain places or situations? Do you avoid doing certain things due to overwhelming feelings? Are you feeling unhelpful amounts of guilt/shame, feel unsafe in someway or out of control? If so, I can help you work through these by tailoring your sessions to your individual needs so that you learn about your self, start working towards your goal(s) and then start become self-sufficient with regard to what life throws at you.
Are you not feeling like you are getting the most out of life and feel somewhat stuck in some way? Maybe you notice that your over-reacting with certain people or when in certain places or situations? Do you avoid doing certain things due to overwhelming feelings? Are you feeling unhelpful amounts of guilt/shame, feel unsafe in someway or out of control? If so, I can help you work through these by tailoring your sessions to your individual needs so that you learn about your self, start working towards your goal(s) and then start become self-sufficient with regard to what life throws at you.
0151 318 0431 View 0151 318 0431

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Quinn, MBABCP, Counsellor
Robert Quinn
Counsellor, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L14  (Online Only)
My name is Rob and I am a trained therapist in Person Centred-Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation ( EMDR) and Online Therapy. As a counsellor I will support you to explore any past or current difficulties in a safe, supportive and confidential environment. I offer an empathic and non-judgemental space to help you develop, grow and understand what may be troubling you.
My name is Rob and I am a trained therapist in Person Centred-Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation ( EMDR) and Online Therapy. As a counsellor I will support you to explore any past or current difficulties in a safe, supportive and confidential environment. I offer an empathic and non-judgemental space to help you develop, grow and understand what may be troubling you.
0151 453 0052 View 0151 453 0052
Photo of Joanna Lum Wai - Clarity Through Reflection , DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Clarity Through Reflection
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Runcorn WA7
Susan is an Integrative Counsellor and Joanna is a psychodynamic therapist which means they can use several means/modes of therapy that they are trained in, to support you to the maximum in achieving your goals. Supporting growth is their passion in life. Both offer face to face as well as online therapy. Joanna is trained in delivering EMDR therapy and Emotional Freedom Technique. Therapy with Susan or Joanna will increase your resilience and provide you with techniques that will boost confidence in yourself in managing the challenge you face in your journey through life.
Susan is an Integrative Counsellor and Joanna is a psychodynamic therapist which means they can use several means/modes of therapy that they are trained in, to support you to the maximum in achieving your goals. Supporting growth is their passion in life. Both offer face to face as well as online therapy. Joanna is trained in delivering EMDR therapy and Emotional Freedom Technique. Therapy with Susan or Joanna will increase your resilience and provide you with techniques that will boost confidence in yourself in managing the challenge you face in your journey through life.
01928 243199 View 01928 243199
Photo of Moira O'Hara, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Moira O'Hara
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool L33
I am a BACP Accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist and an EMDR practitioner accredited by EMDR Europe.
Having practised as a therapist for nearly twenty fiveyears I have had the privilege to work with many creative, resilient, courageous and resourceful people. However, very few felt that way when they first came for therapy. Life can be challenging and we all struggle at times to cope with problems and stressful situations. Different people obviously find different things difficult but what everyone shares are the natural responses of feeling distressed, confused, anxious and lost. Counselling can help you to express your feelings, work through anxiety and confusion and develop positive responses to the challenges you are facing.
I am a BACP Accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist and an EMDR practitioner accredited by EMDR Europe.
Having practised as a therapist for nearly twenty fiveyears I have had the privilege to work with many creative, resilient, courageous and resourceful people. However, very few felt that way when they first came for therapy. Life can be challenging and we all struggle at times to cope with problems and stressful situations. Different people obviously find different things difficult but what everyone shares are the natural responses of feeling distressed, confused, anxious and lost. Counselling can help you to express your feelings, work through anxiety and confusion and develop positive responses to the challenges you are facing.
0151 317 2608 View 0151 317 2608
Photo of Natasha Hughes, MBACP, Counsellor
Natasha Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L25
I work from a PCT along side CBT and EMDR tailored towards clients requirements and preferences.
I offer professional, counselling experience in which you are able to explore your issues in a safe warm environment. Hourly sessions are offered from 4pm - 8pm Monday - Friday and Saturday mornings. I personally believe many people will benefit from counselling by helping individuals to understand their difficult experiences, along side the feelings and emotions attached to it. This process can be empowering, by enabling the client to work towards changing their lives to become more fulfilled. It takes great courage and strength to accept help with mental and emotional well-being, to work collaboratively.
I work from a PCT along side CBT and EMDR tailored towards clients requirements and preferences.
I offer professional, counselling experience in which you are able to explore your issues in a safe warm environment. Hourly sessions are offered from 4pm - 8pm Monday - Friday and Saturday mornings. I personally believe many people will benefit from counselling by helping individuals to understand their difficult experiences, along side the feelings and emotions attached to it. This process can be empowering, by enabling the client to work towards changing their lives to become more fulfilled. It takes great courage and strength to accept help with mental and emotional well-being, to work collaboratively.
0151 541 4497 View 0151 541 4497
Photo of Marina Moran - Emdr Therapy, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Marina Moran - Emdr Therapy
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Liverpool L10  (Online Only)
What makes me different is the use of Emotional Freedom Techniques and EMDR during our sessions.
As a psychologist, I specialise in helping people who didn't feel good enough as children, and still don't feel good enough now, to change the way they think, feel and act so they can be kinder to the person they are and become the person they want to be. With over 10 years experience as a psychotherapist my work aims to heal trauma, and provice you with copig strategies to release emotional blocks and empowers yourself. I am trained in several therapeutic modalities, including: Gestalt Psychotherapy, Humanistic  Integrative Psychotherapy, EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and Energy Psychology Techniques.
What makes me different is the use of Emotional Freedom Techniques and EMDR during our sessions.
As a psychologist, I specialise in helping people who didn't feel good enough as children, and still don't feel good enough now, to change the way they think, feel and act so they can be kinder to the person they are and become the person they want to be. With over 10 years experience as a psychotherapist my work aims to heal trauma, and provice you with copig strategies to release emotional blocks and empowers yourself. I am trained in several therapeutic modalities, including: Gestalt Psychotherapy, Humanistic  Integrative Psychotherapy, EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and Energy Psychology Techniques.
01841 550538 View 01841 550538
Photo of Sarah Caroline Cathcart, GMBPsS, Counsellor
Sarah Caroline Cathcart
Counsellor, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Liverpool L15
I offer individual EMDR therapy, group therapy and my therapeutic style is centred on empathy and respect.
Committed EMDR therapist, fully qualified with the EMDR Institute, helping individuals with PTSD, complex trauma and emotional disturbance to help treat unresolved trauma. I am also qualified in Child and Adolescent EMDR, training under Susan Darker Smith, a specialist in this field. I have focused my work in psychological trauma, working with staff from the fire and ambulance services and more recently with young care leavers and ex offenders. I also offer somatic therapy and have completed certification in this.
I offer individual EMDR therapy, group therapy and my therapeutic style is centred on empathy and respect.
Committed EMDR therapist, fully qualified with the EMDR Institute, helping individuals with PTSD, complex trauma and emotional disturbance to help treat unresolved trauma. I am also qualified in Child and Adolescent EMDR, training under Susan Darker Smith, a specialist in this field. I have focused my work in psychological trauma, working with staff from the fire and ambulance services and more recently with young care leavers and ex offenders. I also offer somatic therapy and have completed certification in this.
028 3829 8605 View 028 3829 8605
Photo of Dr Omar A. Kowlessar, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Omar A. Kowlessar
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA3
I am proficient in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mentalisation-based Therapy (MBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I have over 20 years experience of working in the area of Adult Mental Health, working with males and females across the entire life span cycle (teenagers to older adults) treating a variety of mental health difficulties, ranging from common mental health problems (depression, anxiety disorders) to severe and enduring mental health difficulties (psychosis, personality disorders). I currently work as a Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist and run a private therapy practice out of my office in Warrington (Cheshire) where I provide a range of services to the public. Please have a look at my clinic pictures.
I am proficient in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mentalisation-based Therapy (MBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I have over 20 years experience of working in the area of Adult Mental Health, working with males and females across the entire life span cycle (teenagers to older adults) treating a variety of mental health difficulties, ranging from common mental health problems (depression, anxiety disorders) to severe and enduring mental health difficulties (psychosis, personality disorders). I currently work as a Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist and run a private therapy practice out of my office in Warrington (Cheshire) where I provide a range of services to the public. Please have a look at my clinic pictures.
01942 316263 View 01942 316263
Photo of Lynsey Corner - The Therapy Corner, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
The Therapy Corner
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L36  (Online Only)
EMDR is a modality I used with multiple presentations and proves to be effective, especially for PTSD.
Hi my name is Lynsey and I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Therapist. I have completed the specialised EMDR training for children which enables me to work with children and young people. I have 20 years of experience working with children and young people and this is my specialty. I am also a Registered Mental Health Nurse working within a CAMHS team.
EMDR is a modality I used with multiple presentations and proves to be effective, especially for PTSD.
Hi my name is Lynsey and I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Therapist. I have completed the specialised EMDR training for children which enables me to work with children and young people. I have 20 years of experience working with children and young people and this is my specialty. I am also a Registered Mental Health Nurse working within a CAMHS team.
0151 453 4604 View 0151 453 4604
Photo of Robert Durtnell - Durtnell Psychological Therapies, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Durtnell Psychological Therapies
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Liverpool L7
I specialise in trauma-informed approaches including CBT, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Mentalization Based Therapy, and EMDR.
I currently work part-time in the NHS and part-time in private practice as a HCPC registered principal clinical psychologist. I often help those with severe low mood, anxiety or past trauma experiences which derail them from their personal, social and vocational goals. I apply a range of psychological therapies which are individually tailored to help you with distressing thoughts, feelings (anger, anxiety or low mood), sensations, and self-limiting behaviours. These methods will enable you to manage your distress, move closer to achieving your personal ambitions, reach our potential, and enhance your relationships with others.
I specialise in trauma-informed approaches including CBT, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Mentalization Based Therapy, and EMDR.
I currently work part-time in the NHS and part-time in private practice as a HCPC registered principal clinical psychologist. I often help those with severe low mood, anxiety or past trauma experiences which derail them from their personal, social and vocational goals. I apply a range of psychological therapies which are individually tailored to help you with distressing thoughts, feelings (anger, anxiety or low mood), sensations, and self-limiting behaviours. These methods will enable you to manage your distress, move closer to achieving your personal ambitions, reach our potential, and enhance your relationships with others.
01923 961750 View 01923 961750
Photo of Ayhan Alman, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Ayhan Alman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L18
My approach is personalised, using techniques like EMDR to help manage emotional struggles and find relief.
Feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure how to move forward? It’s frustrating when you’ve tried all the mental health advice, yet nothing seems to help. Maybe you’ve been feeling more anxious or down lately. Perhaps you’ve lost someone close, leaving you with overwhelming grief. Or you’ve experienced something upsetting that keeps you up at night, no matter how hard you try to move on. If these challenges are affecting you, know you’re not alone. And even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, there is hope.
My approach is personalised, using techniques like EMDR to help manage emotional struggles and find relief.
Feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure how to move forward? It’s frustrating when you’ve tried all the mental health advice, yet nothing seems to help. Maybe you’ve been feeling more anxious or down lately. Perhaps you’ve lost someone close, leaving you with overwhelming grief. Or you’ve experienced something upsetting that keeps you up at night, no matter how hard you try to move on. If these challenges are affecting you, know you’re not alone. And even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, there is hope.
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Photo of Jo Costi, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jo Costi
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Liverpool L18
I use CBT, EMDR and Compassion focused therapy to understand the root of your difficulties.
I am a local CBT service offering CBT to Adults and Young People over age 12. If you are finding that anxiety, low mood, burnout are taking over, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you begin to take back control of your life and create the change that you deserve.' She genuinely cares about your problems and is extremely empathetic, offering insight and guidance that I’ll cherish forever'. 'I was apprehensive but Jo immediately put me at ease and created a safe space for me to be vulnerable and to truly open up.' are just some of the comments from clients I have received.
I use CBT, EMDR and Compassion focused therapy to understand the root of your difficulties.
I am a local CBT service offering CBT to Adults and Young People over age 12. If you are finding that anxiety, low mood, burnout are taking over, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you begin to take back control of your life and create the change that you deserve.' She genuinely cares about your problems and is extremely empathetic, offering insight and guidance that I’ll cherish forever'. 'I was apprehensive but Jo immediately put me at ease and created a safe space for me to be vulnerable and to truly open up.' are just some of the comments from clients I have received.
0151 453 1611 View 0151 453 1611
Photo of Simon Lewis, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Simon Lewis
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool L26  (Online Only)
I tend to use a carefully crafted mix of the following approaches: EMDR, CBT, CFT, CAT, DBT, Systemic Theory, Internal Family Systems and Psychodynamic concepts.
I am passionate about trauma informed practice: making every effort to understand the impact of people’s lived experiences on their daily lives. My approach is based on psychological formulation, to make sense of what a person is experiencing, and then using a range of integrated approaches to help people to make changes. I care about empowering individuals to live the lives they want to live, and take a very human and empathic approach to working with people's distress.
I tend to use a carefully crafted mix of the following approaches: EMDR, CBT, CFT, CAT, DBT, Systemic Theory, Internal Family Systems and Psychodynamic concepts.
I am passionate about trauma informed practice: making every effort to understand the impact of people’s lived experiences on their daily lives. My approach is based on psychological formulation, to make sense of what a person is experiencing, and then using a range of integrated approaches to help people to make changes. I care about empowering individuals to live the lives they want to live, and take a very human and empathic approach to working with people's distress.
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Photo of Patrick (Paddy) Conroy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Patrick (Paddy) Conroy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool L17
If appropriate I can offer EMDR.
Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with BABCP, also trained in EMDR and Dialetical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I treat a range of disorders from Obsessive compulsive disorder helping to alleviate intrusive anxiety provoking thoughts, anxiety and distress resulting from trauma. I work with people who self harm perhaps through deliberate acts or addictive behaviours depending on current level of risk. 25 years experience having trained at the Maudsley Hospital/Institute of Psychiatry 1993 to 1996. Intrusive distressing thoughts a specialty offering 2 intensive sessions which can make a difference. Currently no waiting list.
If appropriate I can offer EMDR.
Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with BABCP, also trained in EMDR and Dialetical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I treat a range of disorders from Obsessive compulsive disorder helping to alleviate intrusive anxiety provoking thoughts, anxiety and distress resulting from trauma. I work with people who self harm perhaps through deliberate acts or addictive behaviours depending on current level of risk. 25 years experience having trained at the Maudsley Hospital/Institute of Psychiatry 1993 to 1996. Intrusive distressing thoughts a specialty offering 2 intensive sessions which can make a difference. Currently no waiting list.
01923 961469 View 01923 961469

See more therapy options for Saint Helens

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.