EMDR Counselling in Navan
![Photo of Ruth Carroll-Clarke, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9d0b270-8456-473e-9c97-ff293afe4b50/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Martina McAleer, MSc, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34c600a4-3544-4c3c-9239-633ea2755523/2/320x400.jpeg)
It's never too late to change your life. Are you overwhelmed by life just now, do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, angry. Are you worn out by vicious negative circle of thoughts, feelings and behaviors stopping you enjoying life. Professional Counselling, Psychotherapy, CBT, & EMDR may enable development of coping skills to enjoy life again. I provide a Nationwide Online service including areas such as Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Tyrone, Derry, Fermanagh etc. Evening & Saturday Appointments available. Details on www.mentalwellbeingservices.com. Face to face sessions in Stranorlar, Co. Donegal. Privacy, & Confidentiality Assured.
It's never too late to change your life. Are you overwhelmed by life just now, do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, angry. Are you worn out by vicious negative circle of thoughts, feelings and behaviors stopping you enjoying life. Professional Counselling, Psychotherapy, CBT, & EMDR may enable development of coping skills to enjoy life again. I provide a Nationwide Online service including areas such as Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Tyrone, Derry, Fermanagh etc. Evening & Saturday Appointments available. Details on www.mentalwellbeingservices.com. Face to face sessions in Stranorlar, Co. Donegal. Privacy, & Confidentiality Assured.
![Photo of Renata Redyk, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e25eb2ec-c30c-438e-90ea-d3fd3a58f2df/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Beverley Theresa Cummins, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cda04f7b-d755-4ec0-8f97-d28471e3c8b9/3/320x400.jpeg)
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
![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.
![Photo of Tony Monahan Online Emdr, MA, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/325c2b09-db30-420c-809b-9a8c5c6027da/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Karen Foran - Karen Foran Pyschotherapist Online Counselling, MSc, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60c7cf46-40d8-43d6-8eb1-4788834a48eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Foran Pyschotherapist Online Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D08 (Online Only)
Hi everyone, I'm a psychotherapist working online. My approach is integrative, meaning I use different therapy methods, such as EMDR, that will help with your recovery process. My speciality is working with trauma, specifically sexual trauma and childhood trauma. When we are faced with challenges in our life the opportunity to discuss with someone impartial who will not judge you, can be a positive step. My experience enables me to support you to make sense of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Together we can identify what might be stopping you from reaching your full potential.
Hi everyone, I'm a psychotherapist working online. My approach is integrative, meaning I use different therapy methods, such as EMDR, that will help with your recovery process. My speciality is working with trauma, specifically sexual trauma and childhood trauma. When we are faced with challenges in our life the opportunity to discuss with someone impartial who will not judge you, can be a positive step. My experience enables me to support you to make sense of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Together we can identify what might be stopping you from reaching your full potential.
![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 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
Galway, County Galway H91
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 Fai Monaghan - Mindful Practice Counselling and Psychotherapy , MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec93da6c-0c4f-494b-b5d4-51d33dbd3537/3/320x400.jpeg)
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 Ruth Dixon, MIACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b103fb4-e41d-4e55-82e3-017aeffb3926/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Anthony Burke, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f757d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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 mid 2024. I am a qualified, experienced Integrative Psychotherapist accredited with IACP and IAHIP. I am also a COSRT registered Sexual & Relationship Psychotherapist for both individuals and couples and an EMDR accredited practitioner. I completed postgraduate CBT training in Trinity College Dublin and also completed Foundational and 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 mid 2024. I am a qualified, experienced Integrative Psychotherapist accredited with IACP and IAHIP. I am also a COSRT registered Sexual & Relationship Psychotherapist for both individuals and couples and an EMDR accredited practitioner. I completed postgraduate CBT training in Trinity College Dublin and also completed Foundational and 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.
![Photo of Stephanie Maria Quinn, MA, APPI, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/759c25ee-15e1-47ec-8bdf-e8a89b6c1e6d/1/320x400.png)
I began my training as a Mental Health professional in 2006. My first MA was in Dramatherapy. In 2011 I completed a postgraduate certificate in Child psychotherapy. In 2012 I completed my second MA in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist with first-class honors. I am also a trained EMDR therapist. My specialist interest is in supporting Women's Emotional Well - Being throughout the life span, with Fertility Issues and Reproductive trauma, in particular. As Women, we have complex biological needs and this all has an impact on our psychological well-being.
I began my training as a Mental Health professional in 2006. My first MA was in Dramatherapy. In 2011 I completed a postgraduate certificate in Child psychotherapy. In 2012 I completed my second MA in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist with first-class honors. I am also a trained EMDR therapist. My specialist interest is in supporting Women's Emotional Well - Being throughout the life span, with Fertility Issues and Reproductive trauma, in particular. As Women, we have complex biological needs and this all has an impact on our psychological well-being.
![Photo of Brian Harrington - Next Step Therapy, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/515a5509-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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 Katie Rose Richardson - Inner Therapy Centre Naas , APCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be27b743-ef67-479f-b570-f3117bb0af30/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ana Griselda Fernandez, MPSI, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf884c8-9778-4b11-877b-9736905ca517/2/320x400.png)
If you feel you could start to work in your issues and want to be better, I could help you in that working with mindfulness, Emdr, and Coaching. I am guarantee we could work together and in a short term, start to feel better with your self.
If you feel you could start to work in your issues and want to be better, I could help you in that working with mindfulness, Emdr, and Coaching. I am guarantee we could work together and in a short term, start to feel better with your self.
![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 Christina Mary Enright, MA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a082d94d-0c2e-4c3d-95cc-c94e71bb90fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Craig Joseph McCullough, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37f6e8a0-e5f7-427e-a330-6d81353ca37e/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Navan
Nearby Searches for Navan
See More CounsellorsEMDR 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.