EMDR Counselling in Southport
![Photo of Bethan Manford, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce61bd14-a0fa-4feb-83a1-45de62c6e824/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a bespoke approach, adapting to the needs of individuals drawing on approaches including psychodynamic, movement psychotherapy, mindfulness, narrative and compassionate focused therapy and EMDR.
I work with individuals, couples or families presenting with a variety of concerns related to emotional wellbeing, mental health and relationships. I have a special interest in working with parents during pregnancy, postnatally and supporting those whose children are under five.
I offer a bespoke approach, adapting to the needs of individuals drawing on approaches including psychodynamic, movement psychotherapy, mindfulness, narrative and compassionate focused therapy and EMDR.
I work with individuals, couples or families presenting with a variety of concerns related to emotional wellbeing, mental health and relationships. I have a special interest in working with parents during pregnancy, postnatally and supporting those whose children are under five.
![Photo of Vanessa Mount, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27b9b4a5-f334-4a3c-879d-41c1b4a8b864/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr Samuel Hughes, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9de729a1-a3a3-4d9b-9b5c-604a858701ac/2/320x400.png)
If you choose to work with me I will mainly draw from CBT, ACT, EMDR, CFT and Narrative therapies.
Only Friday day time slots remaining. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Are you experiencing relationship challenges? You don't have to face these challenges alone. As a clinical psychologist, I am here to help you navigate through these difficult times and support you in living the life you want to live. I offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to therapy. My goal is to create a safe and confidential space where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts.
If you choose to work with me I will mainly draw from CBT, ACT, EMDR, CFT and Narrative therapies.
Only Friday day time slots remaining. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Are you experiencing relationship challenges? You don't have to face these challenges alone. As a clinical psychologist, I am here to help you navigate through these difficult times and support you in living the life you want to live. I offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to therapy. My goal is to create a safe and confidential space where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts.
![Photo of Dr Kathryn Heaton, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47e86d3b-1144-4295-872b-a48de2fcae57/2/320x400.png)
Dr Kathryn Heaton
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Southport PR8
Waitlist for new clients
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.
![Photo of Joanne Morley, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1a52a32-6375-47c0-9913-724ae51c948c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 15 years experience of supporting individuals who struggle with managing mental health and wellbeing. I am able to provisionally diagnose and treat individuals using a range of approaches, all with a strong evidence base to support their use in relieving distress however, I aim to treat the person as an individual, adopting an integrative approach to suit their needs.
I have over 15 years experience of supporting individuals who struggle with managing mental health and wellbeing. I am able to provisionally diagnose and treat individuals using a range of approaches, all with a strong evidence base to support their use in relieving distress however, I aim to treat the person as an individual, adopting an integrative approach to suit their needs.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Gill Sweeting, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e96e41b0-d4eb-45cc-9238-719b7893345a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes the difficulties you have in the present are influenced by how things have been for you in the past. How you have coped with the tough experiences, the beliefs you have developed about yourself and the world, your habitual responses. You want to improve things for yourself but you can't see a way through. Maybe you have tried other ways of getting better, maybe with some success, but the underlying problems just turn up in different ways. You are here because you know that you are not out of options. Psychotherapy has helped many people like you. And with me, you are in a safe pair of hands. EMDR is an option for you too.
Sometimes the difficulties you have in the present are influenced by how things have been for you in the past. How you have coped with the tough experiences, the beliefs you have developed about yourself and the world, your habitual responses. You want to improve things for yourself but you can't see a way through. Maybe you have tried other ways of getting better, maybe with some success, but the underlying problems just turn up in different ways. You are here because you know that you are not out of options. Psychotherapy has helped many people like you. And with me, you are in a safe pair of hands. EMDR is an option for you too.
![Photo of Peter Churchill, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/344d2f7c-bfbc-40b1-ae49-87ff794d60ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Debra Karen Malkin - Calming Minds Therapy, Supervision & Training, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af357527-78a2-409d-a437-8029a321bd08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Calming Minds Therapy, Supervision & Training
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
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.
![Photo of Rebecca Serella Qcop, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d65d90d5-17b3-4870-9ec1-16f9c34f3a11/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Serella Qcop
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
I am qualified (Doctoral Level) in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and postgradute in EMDR and CBT.
Hello and welcome! I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, CBT and EMDR Therapist. For fifteen years I have helped adults, couples and children understand themselves more clearly and live more authentic, happier lives. I am passionate about helping clients develop their self concept and overcome self doubt. At times in our lives we may feel lost and unsure, we can forget what brings us joy, or the barriers to get there feel too big. Perhaps you have felt this way for a long time or it is following a particular incident in your life. We may feel unable to live the life we want because of fear, anxiety or trauma symptoms.
I am qualified (Doctoral Level) in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and postgradute in EMDR and CBT.
Hello and welcome! I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, CBT and EMDR Therapist. For fifteen years I have helped adults, couples and children understand themselves more clearly and live more authentic, happier lives. I am passionate about helping clients develop their self concept and overcome self doubt. At times in our lives we may feel lost and unsure, we can forget what brings us joy, or the barriers to get there feel too big. Perhaps you have felt this way for a long time or it is following a particular incident in your life. We may feel unable to live the life we want because of fear, anxiety or trauma symptoms.
![Photo of Rachel Dickinson, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c65a6ee0-1d03-4188-9223-9f251f3a1b26/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Karen Veronica Hodgson, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b0863d-cd63-4afe-be8e-0ac13f2c9cf2/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Michael Donald - Virtual CBT Clinic, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29e47bb4-47b4-4007-b4e2-6e951416e72d/1/320x400.png)
Virtual CBT Clinic
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ormskirk L39 (Online Only)
I also offer EMDR therapy, which is a trauma-focused approach.
As a Psychotherapist, I support clients 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 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.
![Photo of Tom Taylor, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/907deb87-4ebd-4b37-b391-0e3202ebdcba/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Megan Bowes, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9952a9e-3cf1-480f-8c52-343ff72ad82d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Bowes
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool L37 (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.
![Photo of George Maxwell, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1efb1c06-4e84-4b41-80b4-1dcd4b46a2a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work flexibly using CBT, EMDR, and Positive Psychology to help you overcome the barriers to living your best life.
I offer evidence-based CBT, EMDR and Positive Psychology Coaching to support clients across the full range of the wellbeing spectrum. As an accredited CBT Therapist, I will help you to overcome your anxiety and depression problems using active, effective treatments that will change your life. I specialise in OCD (and its many subtypes), PTSD and Social Anxiety. As a Coaching Psychologist, I can teach you how to flourish, achieve your life goals, and live a life full of meaning and value. I work with clients internationally via Zoom and offer in-person therapy at my office in Rodney Street in Liverpool.
I work flexibly using CBT, EMDR, and Positive Psychology to help you overcome the barriers to living your best life.
I offer evidence-based CBT, EMDR and Positive Psychology Coaching to support clients across the full range of the wellbeing spectrum. As an accredited CBT Therapist, I will help you to overcome your anxiety and depression problems using active, effective treatments that will change your life. I specialise in OCD (and its many subtypes), PTSD and Social Anxiety. As a Coaching Psychologist, I can teach you how to flourish, achieve your life goals, and live a life full of meaning and value. I work with clients internationally via Zoom and offer in-person therapy at my office in Rodney Street in Liverpool.
![Photo of Gary Ramsden, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc5d39fc-4f79-42e7-bb07-afdf36c3c57b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer therapy for clients struggling with the effects of negative events (often traumatic) from their past. These events can affect our sense of agency and relationship with safety, both with ourselves and others, as well as carry the symptoms of low mood, anxiety, and reduced concentration. I believe that our relationship experiences affect how we interpret negative events, and that effective therapy should include how our attachments provide a deeper understanding into how we manage adversity.
I offer therapy for clients struggling with the effects of negative events (often traumatic) from their past. These events can affect our sense of agency and relationship with safety, both with ourselves and others, as well as carry the symptoms of low mood, anxiety, and reduced concentration. I believe that our relationship experiences affect how we interpret negative events, and that effective therapy should include how our attachments provide a deeper understanding into how we manage adversity.
![Photo of Richard Curtis, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adf596fd-1f07-4a35-acae-0b0e2ab83a8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing difficulties in negotiating challenging life events? Are you struggling with long standing problems that impact your mental health or your relationships with others? Are you trying to make sense of bewildering emotions that sometimes seem out of control or seem difficult to connect with? Are you looking to develop a greater fuller sense of yourself and who you are and how you relate to others?
Are you experiencing difficulties in negotiating challenging life events? Are you struggling with long standing problems that impact your mental health or your relationships with others? Are you trying to make sense of bewildering emotions that sometimes seem out of control or seem difficult to connect with? Are you looking to develop a greater fuller sense of yourself and who you are and how you relate to others?
![Photo of Dr Victoria Selby, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c5cc3ea-dd8d-46d1-8e73-db23995e8eb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. If you have found yourself here it is likely you have set an intention of working psychologically to reduce distress, consider your traumatic experiences or to understand yourself better. I am a HCPC registered, Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 14 years experience of working in the NHS. I have experience of working with a range of psychological problems including trauma, loss and therapeutically with people that may attract a diagnosis of mental health issues including personality disorder. I currently specialise in perinatal mental health and trauma alongside cultural issues.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. If you have found yourself here it is likely you have set an intention of working psychologically to reduce distress, consider your traumatic experiences or to understand yourself better. I am a HCPC registered, Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 14 years experience of working in the NHS. I have experience of working with a range of psychological problems including trauma, loss and therapeutically with people that may attract a diagnosis of mental health issues including personality disorder. I currently specialise in perinatal mental health and trauma alongside cultural issues.
![Photo of Frances Redding, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5b83bfa-cef9-413b-9dbc-d69a777edb22/3/320x400.jpeg)
Frances Redding
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Farington Moss PR4
Waitlist for new clients
Hello I'm Fran. I worked for the NHS for 18 years in mental health/physical health settings and currently I'm a therapist and supervisor offering a compassionate space to help clients and colleagues, on a private basis. I use a combination of Compassion Focused Therapy which uses a non judgemental approach to help clients understand themselves/difficulties and make decisions for change in their best interests, alongside Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation Re-processing of psychological trauma.
Hello I'm Fran. I worked for the NHS for 18 years in mental health/physical health settings and currently I'm a therapist and supervisor offering a compassionate space to help clients and colleagues, on a private basis. I use a combination of Compassion Focused Therapy which uses a non judgemental approach to help clients understand themselves/difficulties and make decisions for change in their best interests, alongside Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation Re-processing of psychological trauma.
![Photo of Ishbel Grace Straker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85d32268-31ae-46db-b84b-a642d5a022b6/3/320x400.jpeg)
As the owner and director of I Straker Consultants, working from my private practice at The Honeycomb Building in Liverpool city centre, I specialise in Anxiety, Depression, Drug, Alcohol, Mental Health, Perimenopausal and Gambling addiction treatment in Liverpool, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. I am a Consultant Prescribing Nurse who studied Psychiatric Nursing at University of Central Lancashire and gained her Masters in Prescribing at the University of West London. Ishbel specialises in ADHD assessments, diagnosis and treatment for adults. The charges for these assessments are £390. .
As the owner and director of I Straker Consultants, working from my private practice at The Honeycomb Building in Liverpool city centre, I specialise in Anxiety, Depression, Drug, Alcohol, Mental Health, Perimenopausal and Gambling addiction treatment in Liverpool, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. I am a Consultant Prescribing Nurse who studied Psychiatric Nursing at University of Central Lancashire and gained her Masters in Prescribing at the University of West London. Ishbel specialises in ADHD assessments, diagnosis and treatment for adults. The charges for these assessments are £390. .
See more therapy options for Southport
Nearby EMDR Counsellors Searches for Southport
- Blackpool
- Chorley
- Formby
- Huyton
- Leyland
- Liverpool
- Lytham Saint Annes
- Ormskirk
- Preston
- Saint Helens
- Wallasey
- Wigan
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.