EMDR Counselling in Drogheda

Photo of Ruth Carroll-Clarke, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Ruth Carroll-Clarke
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Drogheda, County Louth A92
Ruth warmly welcomes you to her Psychotherapy and Counselling practice. With the DCU MSc in Psychotherapy, she is IACP Accredited, highly qualified and experienced in working with adults, couples and adolescents who present with a broad range of issues. She has completed advanced trainings in cutting edge evidence based practices including EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems, 'game-changers' for trauma therapy. She has a Post Graduate Diploma in Adolescent Psychotherapy and draws from a diverse range of creative approaches. She looks forward to meeting you where she can provide you with the therapy you need.
Ruth warmly welcomes you to her Psychotherapy and Counselling practice. With the DCU MSc in Psychotherapy, she is IACP Accredited, highly qualified and experienced in working with adults, couples and adolescents who present with a broad range of issues. She has completed advanced trainings in cutting edge evidence based practices including EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems, 'game-changers' for trauma therapy. She has a Post Graduate Diploma in Adolescent Psychotherapy and draws from a diverse range of creative approaches. She looks forward to meeting you where she can provide you with the therapy you need.
(01) 267 6595 x69 View (01) 267 6595 x69
Photo of Robert John Byrne, MIACP, Counsellor
Robert John Byrne
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Drogheda, County Louth A92
My clients are Adults and Adolescence. I like to work with a directive and CBT approach to help my client to gain the coping skills to overcome the problem that they has presented with. Working during Covid as a therapist the main client presenting issues for me are Anxiety, social isolation , behavioral, Low self esteem and confidence, stress. Once we identify the clients goal by creating new coping skills in a safe space. My client can learn to redirect the negative thought patterns, feelings and actions so they can achieve their desired goal.
My clients are Adults and Adolescence. I like to work with a directive and CBT approach to help my client to gain the coping skills to overcome the problem that they has presented with. Working during Covid as a therapist the main client presenting issues for me are Anxiety, social isolation , behavioral, Low self esteem and confidence, stress. Once we identify the clients goal by creating new coping skills in a safe space. My client can learn to redirect the negative thought patterns, feelings and actions so they can achieve their desired goal.
(01) 267 6641 x38 View (01) 267 6641 x38

Online Therapists

Photo of Beverley Theresa Cummins, Psychotherapist
Beverley Theresa Cummins
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ballyhaunis, County Mayo F35
I am an experienced psychotherapist and offer a supportive and confidential environment. I am trained to listen in order to help you make sense of what is troubling you. As an integrative counsellor, I respect each individual’s ability to make their own decisions. Through discussion and exploration, I will work with you in a caring, non-judgmental environment to help you clarify your own beliefs, values and priorities so that you can reach your own decisions on what is best for you. I work Person-Centred and Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, EMDR, COFRA 121 and also offer Auricular acupuncture
I am an experienced psychotherapist and offer a supportive and confidential environment. I am trained to listen in order to help you make sense of what is troubling you. As an integrative counsellor, I respect each individual’s ability to make their own decisions. Through discussion and exploration, I will work with you in a caring, non-judgmental environment to help you clarify your own beliefs, values and priorities so that you can reach your own decisions on what is best for you. I work Person-Centred and Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, EMDR, COFRA 121 and also offer Auricular acupuncture
(01) 267 6641 x92 View (01) 267 6641 x92
Photo of Theresa Merrigan, MSc, IFPP, Psychotherapist
Theresa Merrigan
Psychotherapist, MSc, IFPP
Verified Verified
Dunmore, County Galway H54
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a registered EMDR practitioner.
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
I am also a registered EMDR practitioner.
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
087 412 0758 View 087 412 0758
Photo of Anthony Burke, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Anthony Burke
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Celbridge, County Kildare W23  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I mainly work with the following approaches: EMDR, Psychosexual, CBT, DBT and Psychodynamic.
I am currently only working online and do not expect to work in-person until 2025. I am a qualified, experienced Integrative Psychotherapist accredited with IACP and IAHIP. I am also a COSRT accredited Sexual & Relationship therapist for both individuals and couples. an EMDR accredited consultant and counselling psychologist. I completed postgraduate CBT training in Trinity College Dublin and also completed intensive DBT training. I work with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, grief, psychosexual issues, relationships, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideation and trauma.
I mainly work with the following approaches: EMDR, Psychosexual, CBT, DBT and Psychodynamic.
I am currently only working online and do not expect to work in-person until 2025. I am a qualified, experienced Integrative Psychotherapist accredited with IACP and IAHIP. I am also a COSRT accredited Sexual & Relationship therapist for both individuals and couples. an EMDR accredited consultant and counselling psychologist. I completed postgraduate CBT training in Trinity College Dublin and also completed intensive DBT training. I work with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, grief, psychosexual issues, relationships, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideation and trauma.
(01) 267 6641 x18 View (01) 267 6641 x18
Photo of Nettie Bowie - NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre, MA, Counsellor
NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Enniscorthy, County Wexford Y21
We specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy [CBT], EMDR, Counselling & Psychotherapy and Play Therapy.
At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we are a leading clinic in the field of Child & Adolescent Therapy. We have a team of professional, caring, mental health therapists who provide an excellent service to the community of County Wexford and all the Southeast. We provide therapeutic support for all mental health conditions of children, teens and adolescents from age 4 - 24.
We specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy [CBT], EMDR, Counselling & Psychotherapy and Play Therapy.
At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we are a leading clinic in the field of Child & Adolescent Therapy. We have a team of professional, caring, mental health therapists who provide an excellent service to the community of County Wexford and all the Southeast. We provide therapeutic support for all mental health conditions of children, teens and adolescents from age 4 - 24.
087 330 9994 View 087 330 9994
Photo of Antoinette Taggart, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Antoinette Taggart
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Edenderry, County Offaly R45
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.
(01) 267 6692 x60 View (01) 267 6692 x60
Photo of Renata Redyk, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Renata Redyk
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D02  (Online Only)
Welcome,my practise involves only online sessions with active but empathetic approach, goal directed dependently on an issue, solution focused, creativity and humour, collaborative analysis and search for an understanding of a client psyche and life circumstances, confidentiality, open and safe space for exploration of a wide range of topics, non-judgement and consistent support with encouragement in difficult moments, constructive challenge, an open mind and welcoming attitude to everything you bring into the session. I am using CBT, EMDR, also REBT and Schema Therapy with consistent humanistic core conditions throughout a process.
Welcome,my practise involves only online sessions with active but empathetic approach, goal directed dependently on an issue, solution focused, creativity and humour, collaborative analysis and search for an understanding of a client psyche and life circumstances, confidentiality, open and safe space for exploration of a wide range of topics, non-judgement and consistent support with encouragement in difficult moments, constructive challenge, an open mind and welcoming attitude to everything you bring into the session. I am using CBT, EMDR, also REBT and Schema Therapy with consistent humanistic core conditions throughout a process.
(01) 267 6527 x94 View (01) 267 6527 x94
Photo of Brian Harrington - Next Step Therapy, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Next Step Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D02
Welcome to Next Step Therapy, an experienced and friendly therapy practice in the heart of Dublin. Our clinical services are: counselling and psychotherapy, addiction assessment and treatment, EMDR for PTSD and complex trauma. I see my therapy room as a sacred space where people can explore things they usually don’t talk about. I approach therapy with an attentive reverence and an attitude of kindness and compassion. The process of therapy is to offer a safe place to explore and name and then change, or accept, these thoughts, attitudes, feelings, moods or behaviours and to experience someone who listens and supports.
Welcome to Next Step Therapy, an experienced and friendly therapy practice in the heart of Dublin. Our clinical services are: counselling and psychotherapy, addiction assessment and treatment, EMDR for PTSD and complex trauma. I see my therapy room as a sacred space where people can explore things they usually don’t talk about. I approach therapy with an attentive reverence and an attitude of kindness and compassion. The process of therapy is to offer a safe place to explore and name and then change, or accept, these thoughts, attitudes, feelings, moods or behaviours and to experience someone who listens and supports.
(01) 267 6675 x32 View (01) 267 6675 x32
Photo of Christina Mary Enright, MA, Psychotherapist
Christina Mary Enright
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin A96
Specialist Trauma Psychotherapy for Children, Adolescents and Adults- Integrative Arts Psychotherapy, Body Work, Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitisation Therapy ( EMDR) Specialist Attachment experience working with Adoptive Parents and Foster Carers.
I approach my work with the belief that with compassionate care and acceptance, no matter how challenging our early lives have been, we all have a capacity for transformation and the potential to live a more enriched and fulfilling life. I believe that helping people to recognise and believe in their worth enables them to be more resilient in the face of challenges and difficult emotional experiences and to be able to make self-supportive and affirming choices.
Specialist Trauma Psychotherapy for Children, Adolescents and Adults- Integrative Arts Psychotherapy, Body Work, Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitisation Therapy ( EMDR) Specialist Attachment experience working with Adoptive Parents and Foster Carers.
I approach my work with the belief that with compassionate care and acceptance, no matter how challenging our early lives have been, we all have a capacity for transformation and the potential to live a more enriched and fulfilling life. I believe that helping people to recognise and believe in their worth enables them to be more resilient in the face of challenges and difficult emotional experiences and to be able to make self-supportive and affirming choices.
(01) 267 6595 x40 View (01) 267 6595 x40
Photo of Ruth Dixon, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Ruth Dixon
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D02
Using techniques such as Somatic Experiencing Therapy & EMDR, together we help the body & mind heal.
Eating disorders, childhood developmental trauma, sexual trauma, once-off catastrophic events such as car accidents/assault, gender identification, grief & loss, pre/peri natal trauma, recovery from coercive control/narcissistic abuse, childhood abuse, medical trauma, chronic pain/fibromyalgia, PTSD, victims & survivors of political, conflict, victims & survivors of human trafficking. I work with adults, adolescents and children from age 4 years old. I also work with couples experiencing difficulties. Couples therapy sessions are 90 minutes long scheduled on a fortnightly basis.
Using techniques such as Somatic Experiencing Therapy & EMDR, together we help the body & mind heal.
Eating disorders, childhood developmental trauma, sexual trauma, once-off catastrophic events such as car accidents/assault, gender identification, grief & loss, pre/peri natal trauma, recovery from coercive control/narcissistic abuse, childhood abuse, medical trauma, chronic pain/fibromyalgia, PTSD, victims & survivors of political, conflict, victims & survivors of human trafficking. I work with adults, adolescents and children from age 4 years old. I also work with couples experiencing difficulties. Couples therapy sessions are 90 minutes long scheduled on a fortnightly basis.
(01) 592 4196 x67 View (01) 592 4196 x67
Photo of Tony Monahan Online Emdr, MA, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist
Tony Monahan Online Emdr
Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D02
I'm a MA qualified Psychotherapist, trained in EMDR. I work equally with clients face to face or online via Zoom. EMDR is an integrative approach to the treatment of trauma related symptoms, it incorporates both mind and body awareness and has been scientifically proven to alleviate the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I also work in the area of sexuality, counselling individuals who present in therapy with relationship, sexuality and sexual concerns. I allow each individual to explore their sexual fantasies and desires in order to help them develop a level of comfort to converse on key areas of their difficulties.
I'm a MA qualified Psychotherapist, trained in EMDR. I work equally with clients face to face or online via Zoom. EMDR is an integrative approach to the treatment of trauma related symptoms, it incorporates both mind and body awareness and has been scientifically proven to alleviate the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I also work in the area of sexuality, counselling individuals who present in therapy with relationship, sexuality and sexual concerns. I allow each individual to explore their sexual fantasies and desires in order to help them develop a level of comfort to converse on key areas of their difficulties.
(01) 568 2872 x78 View (01) 568 2872 x78
Photo of Paola Stoklin, MSc, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist
Paola Stoklin
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Verified Verified
Lusk, County Dublin K45  (Online Only)
Additionally I have trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level I, EMDR; DBT; EFT; SSP;l and l Narrative therapy Level I.
I Offer long- and short-term online therapy to adults and adolescents. As a registered Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapist I have completed extensive training to support my therapeutic practice with adults and adolescents. Whether you are looking to engage in a long-term therapeutic relationship or in a short-term solution-focused therapeutic relationship, our work will start with setting therapeutic goals and producing an overall treatment plan, which, depending on the specific needs will involve focusing on symptoms’ relief or symptoms’ resolution.
Additionally I have trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level I, EMDR; DBT; EFT; SSP;l and l Narrative therapy Level I.
I Offer long- and short-term online therapy to adults and adolescents. As a registered Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapist I have completed extensive training to support my therapeutic practice with adults and adolescents. Whether you are looking to engage in a long-term therapeutic relationship or in a short-term solution-focused therapeutic relationship, our work will start with setting therapeutic goals and producing an overall treatment plan, which, depending on the specific needs will involve focusing on symptoms’ relief or symptoms’ resolution.
087 741 7420 x00353 View 087 741 7420 x00353
Photo of Stephanie Maria Quinn, MA, APPI, Psychotherapist
Stephanie Maria Quinn
Psychotherapist, MA, APPI
Verified Verified
Dundalk, County Louth A91
I can work with you in different ways; a solution focussed approach & short-term, long-term which will explore the psychoanalytic approach or using the trauma focussed intervention of EMDR.
Stephanie Quinn is an experienced psychotherapist and educator based in Ireland. She brings valuable experience from her work with both adults and children in clinical environments. Stephanie is former Honorary Secretary of the Irish Fertility Counsellors Association (IFCA), where she supports individuals facing fertility challenges. With specialised training in EMDR therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness, Stephanie helps individuals process trauma, anxiety, and emotional difficulties. She also has a special interest in fertility counselling, offering support to those navigating assisted
I can work with you in different ways; a solution focussed approach & short-term, long-term which will explore the psychoanalytic approach or using the trauma focussed intervention of EMDR.
Stephanie Quinn is an experienced psychotherapist and educator based in Ireland. She brings valuable experience from her work with both adults and children in clinical environments. Stephanie is former Honorary Secretary of the Irish Fertility Counsellors Association (IFCA), where she supports individuals facing fertility challenges. With specialised training in EMDR therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness, Stephanie helps individuals process trauma, anxiety, and emotional difficulties. She also has a special interest in fertility counselling, offering support to those navigating assisted
(01) 267 6595 x17 View (01) 267 6595 x17
Photo of Karen Foran - Karen Foran EMDR & Trauma Psychotherapist, MSc, Psychotherapist
Karen Foran EMDR & Trauma Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D08  (Online Only)
I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), which is powerful healing method that can relieve many troublesome symptoms of trauma.
Hey, I'm a psychotherapist working online. My approach to therapy is integrative, meaning I use different therapy methods, such as EMDR, that will help with your process. My speciality is working with trauma, specifically childhood and sexual trauma. I have additional training working with neurodivergence and EMDR. Further information on my training and background can be found on my website listed below.
I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), which is powerful healing method that can relieve many troublesome symptoms of trauma.
Hey, I'm a psychotherapist working online. My approach to therapy is integrative, meaning I use different therapy methods, such as EMDR, that will help with your process. My speciality is working with trauma, specifically childhood and sexual trauma. I have additional training working with neurodivergence and EMDR. Further information on my training and background can be found on my website listed below.
(01) 267 6675 x37 View (01) 267 6675 x37
Photo of Deirdre Shortt, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Deirdre Shortt
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
Arklow, County Wicklow Y14
I use body work, breathe work, CPD, CPT, EMDR, STAIR, creative therapies.
I am an experienced integrative psychotherapist. I use a wide range of modalities for a unique person centered non judgemental safe approach. I meet people where they are and I walk along side them to where they want to be. Life can be difficult and hard to navigate I believe with the right support we all have innate strength and resilience that can foster growth and healing. I will support you to access that strength. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life's transitions, domestic abuse, burn out.
I use body work, breathe work, CPD, CPT, EMDR, STAIR, creative therapies.
I am an experienced integrative psychotherapist. I use a wide range of modalities for a unique person centered non judgemental safe approach. I meet people where they are and I walk along side them to where they want to be. Life can be difficult and hard to navigate I believe with the right support we all have innate strength and resilience that can foster growth and healing. I will support you to access that strength. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life's transitions, domestic abuse, burn out.
(01) 230 8537 x51 View (01) 230 8537 x51
Photo of Katie Rose Richardson - Inner Therapy Centre Naas , APCP, Psychotherapist
Inner Therapy Centre Naas
Psychotherapist, APCP
Verified Verified
Naas, County Kildare W91
Our therapists are highly trained in various modalities such as CBT, mindfulness based therapy and EMDR.
Welcome to Inner Therapy Centre, a leading provider of counselling and psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and adolescents. Our goal is to empower you to find your inner compass and navigate the challenges in life with confidence and clarity. We understand that every person is unique and has their own set of experiences, emotions and struggles. This is why we offer a wide range of therapeutic approaches to cater for the diverse need of our clients. Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are dedicated to providing the help you need to reach your full potential.
Our therapists are highly trained in various modalities such as CBT, mindfulness based therapy and EMDR.
Welcome to Inner Therapy Centre, a leading provider of counselling and psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and adolescents. Our goal is to empower you to find your inner compass and navigate the challenges in life with confidence and clarity. We understand that every person is unique and has their own set of experiences, emotions and struggles. This is why we offer a wide range of therapeutic approaches to cater for the diverse need of our clients. Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are dedicated to providing the help you need to reach your full potential.
(01) 263 0697 x28 View (01) 263 0697 x28
Photo of Kathryn Boylan, Pre-Accredited Member IACP, Psychotherapist
Kathryn Boylan
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
Carndonagh, County Donegal F93
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist. This means I work in a non-judgmental way integrating therapeutic strategies tailored to you and your presenting issue(s). I am a trauma-informed and EMDR practitioner. I provide a safe, supportive, and confidential space to address whatever issues concern you. We will work to resolve issues in therapy sessions and improve positive thinking and behaviour. This will help you 're-frame' your reactions and provide you with valuable tools to cope with life's obstacles enabling you to live your best life.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist. This means I work in a non-judgmental way integrating therapeutic strategies tailored to you and your presenting issue(s). I am a trauma-informed and EMDR practitioner. I provide a safe, supportive, and confidential space to address whatever issues concern you. We will work to resolve issues in therapy sessions and improve positive thinking and behaviour. This will help you 're-frame' your reactions and provide you with valuable tools to cope with life's obstacles enabling you to live your best life.
(01) 267 6570 x96 View (01) 267 6570 x96
Photo of Craig Joseph McCullough, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Craig Joseph McCullough
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D02
This includes Brainspotting, narrative, EMDR, cognitive behavioural, and body-based mindfulness techniques that strengthen relationships with self and others.
I have provided psychotherapy to clients for a variety of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, and family dynamics. I work with those struggling to overcome a situation, past or present, that is causing them to feel stagnate or disillusioned. I help people make new choices in their thinking and behaviour and better choices to improve resilience and health. Together, we explore ways that will help gain insight that leads to making adjustments for living more authentically and having healthier relationships.
This includes Brainspotting, narrative, EMDR, cognitive behavioural, and body-based mindfulness techniques that strengthen relationships with self and others.
I have provided psychotherapy to clients for a variety of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, and family dynamics. I work with those struggling to overcome a situation, past or present, that is causing them to feel stagnate or disillusioned. I help people make new choices in their thinking and behaviour and better choices to improve resilience and health. Together, we explore ways that will help gain insight that leads to making adjustments for living more authentically and having healthier relationships.
(01) 568 2872 x39 View (01) 568 2872 x39
Photo of Niamh Byrne, MIACP, Counsellor
Niamh Byrne
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
Gaybrook, County Westmeath N91
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.
(01) 267 6595 x22 View (01) 267 6595 x22

See more therapy options for Drogheda

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.