EMDR Counselling in Ennis
![Photo of Maria Lawton-Murray - Maria Lawton-Murray Counselling Psychotherapy Emdr, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ddde5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Lawton-Murray Counselling Psychotherapy Emdr
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ennis, County Clare V95
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed and unable to focus? Feeling worried, struggling with the world today. Recovery is possible - I use Trauma Informed Care, EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) - I specialise in working with clients struggling with Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Trauma and Unresolved Childhood Issues. When I first meet with a client, we discuss what has brought them to therapy. With this information we discuss how we will work with together. The first session with any new client is to assess if we can work together and if the client feels comfortable with continuing the therapeutic process.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed and unable to focus? Feeling worried, struggling with the world today. Recovery is possible - I use Trauma Informed Care, EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) - I specialise in working with clients struggling with Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Trauma and Unresolved Childhood Issues. When I first meet with a client, we discuss what has brought them to therapy. With this information we discuss how we will work with together. The first session with any new client is to assess if we can work together and if the client feels comfortable with continuing the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Declan John Brady, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4add9685-489a-49c3-99b1-2b1af159a803/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling worried, anxious, depressed or just stuck? At a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Even the strongest among us can feel lost, unsure, ambivalent, or unhappy at times. As a Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I can help you understand and manage whatever life throws at you, and how to do it successfully. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to thrive!
Feeling worried, anxious, depressed or just stuck? At a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Even the strongest among us can feel lost, unsure, ambivalent, or unhappy at times. As a Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I can help you understand and manage whatever life throws at you, and how to do it successfully. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to thrive!
![Photo of Lisa Healy At Evidence-Based Therapy Centre, MSc, APCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b3d98fe-da4a-4b71-9af7-d004fcd6210a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Healy At Evidence-Based Therapy Centre
Psychotherapist, MSc, APCP
Verified Verified
Ennis, County Clare V95
Not accepting new clients
I use a combination of third wave behaviour therapy approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion focused therapy (CFT), & I recently completed training to become an EMDR practitioner.
Are you seeking a kind, supportive, professional therapist to help you overcome life's challenges? It will be my great pleasure to support you. I work collaboratively with adults experiencing a range of difficulties and with a variety of goals to empower them to achieve full, meaningful, and wholehearted lives. All treatment plans are based on a shared understanding of your individual goals and challenges, and are grounded in an exploration of your unique learning history. I strive for my clients to experience a deeper sense of understanding and compassion for themselves and the people they love on completion of our work together.
I use a combination of third wave behaviour therapy approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion focused therapy (CFT), & I recently completed training to become an EMDR practitioner.
Are you seeking a kind, supportive, professional therapist to help you overcome life's challenges? It will be my great pleasure to support you. I work collaboratively with adults experiencing a range of difficulties and with a variety of goals to empower them to achieve full, meaningful, and wholehearted lives. All treatment plans are based on a shared understanding of your individual goals and challenges, and are grounded in an exploration of your unique learning history. I strive for my clients to experience a deeper sense of understanding and compassion for themselves and the people they love on completion of our work together.
Online Therapists
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Mindful Practice Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kinvara, County Galway H91
My name is Fai Monaghan and I am an accredited IACP psychotherapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Perhaps you’re considering therapy and have questions regarding the process or maybe you are searching for a psychotherapist for someone you care about. It may feel like a risk when you open yourself up to ask for help. I want to acknowledge and honour the moment of vulnerability as a strength. Life is challenging and you don’t have to go through it alone.
My name is Fai Monaghan and I am an accredited IACP psychotherapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Perhaps you’re considering therapy and have questions regarding the process or maybe you are searching for a psychotherapist for someone you care about. It may feel like a risk when you open yourself up to ask for help. I want to acknowledge and honour the moment of vulnerability as a strength. Life is challenging and you don’t have to go through it alone.
![Photo of Theresa Merrigan, MSc, IFPP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a06c8190-5b37-4acb-8d04-c323305861e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Merrigan
Psychotherapist, MSc, IFPP
Verified Verified
Dunmore, County Galway H54
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy & EMDR - People from all walks of life seek therapy for different issues. Sometimes there is a specific reason but in some cases the immediate cause of distress is less obvious. People have contacted me when struggling with emotional problems such as: • Feeling stressed or anxious • Coming to terms with losses such as bereavement, separation, divorce or the loss of a job • Lacking confidence, self-esteem or feeling you are not reaching full potential • Difficulties in making or maintaining good relationships • Repeatedly becoming involved in destructive or unsatisfactory relationships • Feeling depressed, sad or empty
Psychotherapy & EMDR - People from all walks of life seek therapy for different issues. Sometimes there is a specific reason but in some cases the immediate cause of distress is less obvious. People have contacted me when struggling with emotional problems such as: • Feeling stressed or anxious • Coming to terms with losses such as bereavement, separation, divorce or the loss of a job • Lacking confidence, self-esteem or feeling you are not reaching full potential • Difficulties in making or maintaining good relationships • Repeatedly becoming involved in destructive or unsatisfactory relationships • Feeling depressed, sad or empty
![Photo of Evie Flynn, DCounsPsych, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18bb1a7d-68f8-444a-acea-077b5160e430/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a qualified and fully accredited Counsellor / Psychotherapist MIACP. I tailor therapy to each clients needs. Key to my approach is identifying objectives and goals for our work together such as experiencing feelings of inner peace and worth, connecting with a sense of inner purpose, experiencing the freedom to live life without feeling burdened or guilty, connecting more in relationships, overcoming feelings of anxiety or depression, overcoming trauma. I use a number of therapeutic frameworks including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Person Centred.
I am a qualified and fully accredited Counsellor / Psychotherapist MIACP. I tailor therapy to each clients needs. Key to my approach is identifying objectives and goals for our work together such as experiencing feelings of inner peace and worth, connecting with a sense of inner purpose, experiencing the freedom to live life without feeling burdened or guilty, connecting more in relationships, overcoming feelings of anxiety or depression, overcoming trauma. I use a number of therapeutic frameworks including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Person Centred.
![Photo of Niamh Byrne, MIACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dc69a42-68e8-4658-9bc5-de1055bc3295/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trauma informed psychotherapist who specialises in EMDR.
I offer a safe environment to allow clients to connect mind and body to promote healing in their life. I support clients through helping them to understand their needs and listen to what their body is trying to tell them. By addressing chronic and acute stress through evidence based interventions clients can begin to regulate, process and implement change in their life.
I am a trauma informed psychotherapist who specialises in EMDR.
I offer a safe environment to allow clients to connect mind and body to promote healing in their life. I support clients through helping them to understand their needs and listen to what their body is trying to tell them. By addressing chronic and acute stress through evidence based interventions clients can begin to regulate, process and implement change in their life.
![Photo of Claire Moloney, MSc, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2d659e4-b923-4299-ae22-e2885be8ec82/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
![Photo of Larry O Reilly - Access Wellness Centre, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3018ed7-eb3e-4c17-98f1-464f432c7def/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larry O’Reilly is a Larry is EMDR Europe accredited Consultant at Adult and at Child and Adolescent level and a Senior Counsellor/Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor with specialist experience in somatic trauma therapy, complex addiction and with extensive experience working with more vulnerable young people and adults. He has extensive experience as a trainer with the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT). MINT is an international academic and clinical professional network which requires advanced level clinical training.
Larry O’Reilly is a Larry is EMDR Europe accredited Consultant at Adult and at Child and Adolescent level and a Senior Counsellor/Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor with specialist experience in somatic trauma therapy, complex addiction and with extensive experience working with more vulnerable young people and adults. He has extensive experience as a trainer with the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT). MINT is an international academic and clinical professional network which requires advanced level clinical training.
![Photo of Toufik Messabih - Back Into Balance Body and Mind, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f045e50-ae10-4478-9f28-1fac58077d4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Back Into Balance Body and Mind
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
Carrigaline, County Cork P43
To support you I use a humanistic person-centred approach nourished by various tools such as transactional analysis, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Internal Family System (IFS).
I trust that we all have, within us, what it takes to be well and have a fulfilling life. All we need is to simply allow our Self to be. “Simply”? Often, it is easier said than done. This is where Counselling and Psychotherapy can translate that professional collaborative working relationship. In that confidential space you can find the courage to explore and understand yourself, feel supported, tell your story, be listened to, reduce the suffering you experience and find respect and acceptance. In that context your Self can, hopefully, begin to shine and heal.
To support you I use a humanistic person-centred approach nourished by various tools such as transactional analysis, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Internal Family System (IFS).
I trust that we all have, within us, what it takes to be well and have a fulfilling life. All we need is to simply allow our Self to be. “Simply”? Often, it is easier said than done. This is where Counselling and Psychotherapy can translate that professional collaborative working relationship. In that confidential space you can find the courage to explore and understand yourself, feel supported, tell your story, be listened to, reduce the suffering you experience and find respect and acceptance. In that context your Self can, hopefully, begin to shine and heal.
![Photo of Tara O’Connor, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71ab5f57-9056-46df-a42f-3d163e718888/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tara is a Tralee and Killarney based MIACP psychotherapist with a medical background in general nursing. Her personal and theoretical counselling philosophy is grounded in her belief that the client (and all people) are inherently driven towards and have the capacity for growth, thriving and self actualisation. She is trauma informed and has done further training in the areas of fertility counselling, grief and loss studies, CBT for menopause, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and EMDR. She provides supports, tools and relational safety to help clients go from surviving to living a more fulfilled life.
Tara is a Tralee and Killarney based MIACP psychotherapist with a medical background in general nursing. Her personal and theoretical counselling philosophy is grounded in her belief that the client (and all people) are inherently driven towards and have the capacity for growth, thriving and self actualisation. She is trauma informed and has done further training in the areas of fertility counselling, grief and loss studies, CBT for menopause, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and EMDR. She provides supports, tools and relational safety to help clients go from surviving to living a more fulfilled life.
![Photo of Jason Cowell, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8416ae69-eccb-4f85-813f-0623901aabd0/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a fully accredited Psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), EMDR therapist and Hakomi Practitioner.
I am so happy you are here and well done on taking this first step - I am here to help. Perhaps you are struggling to find or reconnect to the innate stable and strong roots within yourself and wish today to begin to gently face your current dilemma and/or be supported to heal from past experiences. I am passionate about supporting you by standing by your side as we navigate a clear path back to you feeling happier in your life. I work with Adults.
I am a fully accredited Psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), EMDR therapist and Hakomi Practitioner.
I am so happy you are here and well done on taking this first step - I am here to help. Perhaps you are struggling to find or reconnect to the innate stable and strong roots within yourself and wish today to begin to gently face your current dilemma and/or be supported to heal from past experiences. I am passionate about supporting you by standing by your side as we navigate a clear path back to you feeling happier in your life. I work with Adults.
![Photo of Sarah Hynes - Connemara Therapy, DCounsPsych, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ab68b0-e1d5-4b79-a58a-95f30bd8f140/1/320x400.jpeg)
Connemara Therapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MIAHIP
Verified Verified
Oughterard, County Galway H91
I have completed further trainings in the areas of EMDR Level 1, 2 &3, adult-child relationships, regulation, trauma, anxiety, neuroscience, mindfulness, self-compassion and attachment.
Welcome. I am Sarah Hynes, an Adult and Child Psychotherapist with experience between educational settings (NUI Galway Student Counselling, Primary Education) and private practice. I was also a primary school teacher for 10 years. My practice is based in Oughterard, Co. Galway and I also work with clients online. I provide psychotherapy and counselling to adults, teenagers and children. I use play therapy with children up to 12 years old and creative therapy/talk therapy with adolescents and adults. I also provide psychoeducation, support and counselling to parents.
I have completed further trainings in the areas of EMDR Level 1, 2 &3, adult-child relationships, regulation, trauma, anxiety, neuroscience, mindfulness, self-compassion and attachment.
Welcome. I am Sarah Hynes, an Adult and Child Psychotherapist with experience between educational settings (NUI Galway Student Counselling, Primary Education) and private practice. I was also a primary school teacher for 10 years. My practice is based in Oughterard, Co. Galway and I also work with clients online. I provide psychotherapy and counselling to adults, teenagers and children. I use play therapy with children up to 12 years old and creative therapy/talk therapy with adolescents and adults. I also provide psychoeducation, support and counselling to parents.
![Photo of Ulrike Kennedy, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dca1062a-188b-4003-abaa-f6267eefdc56/1/320x400.jpeg)
I draw from different concepts, mainly EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and solution-focused brief therapy.
There are times when life can become overwhelming - you may feel depressed or anxious, have a sense of being stuck or lost. Events like an accident, a bereavement, an illness, a separation can leave us traumatised and challenge our ability to cope. Or you had certain experiences, a 'Near Death' or other 'Spiritual Transformative Experiences' (NDEs/STEs) that you cannot explain and don't feel comfortable to share with family and friends. Maybe there is a niggling feeling that something is missing in your life and you want to dive deeper and learn to understand deeper layers of your psyche through dreams and symbols.
I draw from different concepts, mainly EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and solution-focused brief therapy.
There are times when life can become overwhelming - you may feel depressed or anxious, have a sense of being stuck or lost. Events like an accident, a bereavement, an illness, a separation can leave us traumatised and challenge our ability to cope. Or you had certain experiences, a 'Near Death' or other 'Spiritual Transformative Experiences' (NDEs/STEs) that you cannot explain and don't feel comfortable to share with family and friends. Maybe there is a niggling feeling that something is missing in your life and you want to dive deeper and learn to understand deeper layers of your psyche through dreams and symbols.
![Photo of James Lloyd, MSc, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bcd4964-17db-4533-bc08-3829b328f818/3/320x400.jpeg)
My extensive training in trauma-informed modalities, including EMDR and IFS, allows me to facilitate profound change and healing.
Life can often feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of how to navigate our thoughts, emotions, and actions. It's common to feel isolated in these struggles, uncertain of where to turn for help. Therapy offers a space to unravel these complexities, bringing clarity and understanding to the challenges we face. With nearly a decade of experience, I've had the privilege of working with individuals dealing with a wide range of issues. This journey has equipped me with the knowledge and tools to confidently guide those seeking clarity and direction, whether they’re facing recent challenges or long-standing concerns.
My extensive training in trauma-informed modalities, including EMDR and IFS, allows me to facilitate profound change and healing.
Life can often feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of how to navigate our thoughts, emotions, and actions. It's common to feel isolated in these struggles, uncertain of where to turn for help. Therapy offers a space to unravel these complexities, bringing clarity and understanding to the challenges we face. With nearly a decade of experience, I've had the privilege of working with individuals dealing with a wide range of issues. This journey has equipped me with the knowledge and tools to confidently guide those seeking clarity and direction, whether they’re facing recent challenges or long-standing concerns.
![Photo of Elizabeth Horgan, MSc, MPSI, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33797fd2-90ef-44f8-8364-d7d68b357aaa/2/320x400.jpeg)
I hold an MSc in Psychology and certificates in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Mind-Body Medicine.
I specialise in assisting individuals who have suffered from Narcissistic Abuse, whether it was experienced in a parental or relationship setting. My practice provides confidential, compassionate, and competent support to help you identify specific issues that may be directly related to this type of trauma. Many adult survivors of narcissistic abuse experience feelings of isolation, hyper-vigilance, confusion, low self-esteem, fear of failure, and worthlessness. Whether you were raised by a narcissistic parent or were in a relationship with someone who has NPD personality disorder, I am here to work with you to resolve these issues.
I hold an MSc in Psychology and certificates in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Mind-Body Medicine.
I specialise in assisting individuals who have suffered from Narcissistic Abuse, whether it was experienced in a parental or relationship setting. My practice provides confidential, compassionate, and competent support to help you identify specific issues that may be directly related to this type of trauma. Many adult survivors of narcissistic abuse experience feelings of isolation, hyper-vigilance, confusion, low self-esteem, fear of failure, and worthlessness. Whether you were raised by a narcissistic parent or were in a relationship with someone who has NPD personality disorder, I am here to work with you to resolve these issues.
![Photo of Bernice Casey, MA, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/360cf221-1bc9-406d-8f09-c83e39cb8b8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
This means I work with a variety of theories, therapeutic skills and techniques, which include Person-centred, Gestalt, Somatic trauma therapies, EMDR, Psychoanalytic unconscious process, and Mindfulness.
As a therapist I have attended my own counselling throughout the years and I understand how difficult it is to take those first steps as a client. So well-done in taking the first steps in to therapy. You can expect a warm welcome from me, in a non-judgement, safe space where you will receive empathy and understanding, kindness and compassion. You don’t have to be alone.
This means I work with a variety of theories, therapeutic skills and techniques, which include Person-centred, Gestalt, Somatic trauma therapies, EMDR, Psychoanalytic unconscious process, and Mindfulness.
As a therapist I have attended my own counselling throughout the years and I understand how difficult it is to take those first steps as a client. So well-done in taking the first steps in to therapy. You can expect a warm welcome from me, in a non-judgement, safe space where you will receive empathy and understanding, kindness and compassion. You don’t have to be alone.
![Photo of Kirsty Austin Counsellor Emdr, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8aa1d38-ee0a-49b1-9e9e-e0f7f4fad61a/1/320x400.png)
Kirsty Austin Counsellor Emdr
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Bantry, County Cork P75 (Online Only)
As an Accredited Integrative Counsellor & EMDR Therapist I understand that you are unique and I will adapt my professional skills to your needs. I have extensive experience working with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Phobias, Depression, Bereavement, Stress, Low Self Esteem and much more. I aim to provide a warm, accepting environment that is confidential and safe. Developing a supportive, non-judgmental relationship to facilitate self understanding, new insights and to help individuals find new ways of being.
As an Accredited Integrative Counsellor & EMDR Therapist I understand that you are unique and I will adapt my professional skills to your needs. I have extensive experience working with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Phobias, Depression, Bereavement, Stress, Low Self Esteem and much more. I aim to provide a warm, accepting environment that is confidential and safe. Developing a supportive, non-judgmental relationship to facilitate self understanding, new insights and to help individuals find new ways of being.
![Photo of Markus Hohmann, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2a4a6e-2c59-46ee-b9aa-d91407634158/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working with a Trauma-Specific approach, that includes Body-Psychotherapie, humanistic / person-centred, EMDR, as well as Transpersonal.
With over 24 years of experience as a Psychotherapist and covering a multitude of styles and techniques in an integrative way, I offer a warm and compassionate approach to the healing journey of my clients. Together we embark, learn, understand and try to transform the challenges and wounds that might have manifested in symptoms you might experience. I will guide you gently when needed.
I have been working with a Trauma-Specific approach, that includes Body-Psychotherapie, humanistic / person-centred, EMDR, as well as Transpersonal.
With over 24 years of experience as a Psychotherapist and covering a multitude of styles and techniques in an integrative way, I offer a warm and compassionate approach to the healing journey of my clients. Together we embark, learn, understand and try to transform the challenges and wounds that might have manifested in symptoms you might experience. I will guide you gently when needed.
![Photo of Antoinette Taggart, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/375ca2ca-b094-4c65-983c-382fc8984aee/1/320x400.png)
Cert in EMDR.
My approach to psychotherapy is Integrative which means that I use a range of therapeutic techniques as treatment depending upon the client and the difficulty that person is experiencing. I view each individual as a unique being with endless potential and I believe that under the appropriate conditions everyone has the ability to self-actualize.
Cert in EMDR.
My approach to psychotherapy is Integrative which means that I use a range of therapeutic techniques as treatment depending upon the client and the difficulty that person is experiencing. I view each individual as a unique being with endless potential and I believe that under the appropriate conditions everyone has the ability to self-actualize.
See more therapy options for Ennis
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.