Photo of Jane Gilman - Jane Gilman, LCSW-R, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Gilman, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
As an integrative psychotherapist who incorporates a range of psychodynamic and mind/body modalities and techniques, I work with individuals and couples. My passion to provide the best treatment I can is informed by ongoing learning and integration of the latest research. Following 4 years of relational psychoanalytic training, I started years of intensive study of trauma, EMDR, mindfulness, and Somatic Psychotherapy. Additionally, I have a speciality in couples counseling and trained in the Gottman Method and Sue Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. I consider myself an EFT therapist.
As an integrative psychotherapist who incorporates a range of psychodynamic and mind/body modalities and techniques, I work with individuals and couples. My passion to provide the best treatment I can is informed by ongoing learning and integration of the latest research. Following 4 years of relational psychoanalytic training, I started years of intensive study of trauma, EMDR, mindfulness, and Somatic Psychotherapy. Additionally, I have a speciality in couples counseling and trained in the Gottman Method and Sue Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. I consider myself an EFT therapist.
(646) 832-4862 View (646) 832-4862
Photo of Lana Hurst, MA, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lana Hurst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
I draw on client-centered therapy, EMDR, narrative therapy, internal family systems, anti-racism, intersectionality, feminist and queer theories, and psychodynamic approaches to understand and address what’s happening in your life.
Imagine if therapy truly works for you—what would be different in your life? I ask this question in our initial session because therapy is about helping you achieve your goals and find healing. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity, compassion, and exploration are at the forefront. A positive, strong relationship between therapist and client is essential for this process. I specialize in working with clients navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma, with a focus on religious and spiritual trauma.
I draw on client-centered therapy, EMDR, narrative therapy, internal family systems, anti-racism, intersectionality, feminist and queer theories, and psychodynamic approaches to understand and address what’s happening in your life.
Imagine if therapy truly works for you—what would be different in your life? I ask this question in our initial session because therapy is about helping you achieve your goals and find healing. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity, compassion, and exploration are at the forefront. A positive, strong relationship between therapist and client is essential for this process. I specialize in working with clients navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma, with a focus on religious and spiritual trauma.
(347) 391-3629 View (347) 391-3629
Photo of Alexandra Schaumber, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Schaumber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
I take a creative approach to my client's needs by combining traditional talk therapy with mindfulness & body based treatment modalities and techniques, including Somatic Experiencing, attachment focused EMDR and Inner Relationship Focusing (IFR). I have over 15 years of experience helping individuals with issues related to anxiety, eating disorders, trauma (developmental, medical and shock), panic, depression, and relationship issues. Through our work together my clients will come to feel more understood, more comfortable and more confident in their lives.
I take a creative approach to my client's needs by combining traditional talk therapy with mindfulness & body based treatment modalities and techniques, including Somatic Experiencing, attachment focused EMDR and Inner Relationship Focusing (IFR). I have over 15 years of experience helping individuals with issues related to anxiety, eating disorders, trauma (developmental, medical and shock), panic, depression, and relationship issues. Through our work together my clients will come to feel more understood, more comfortable and more confident in their lives.
(929) 600-7785 View (929) 600-7785
Photo of Ginny Paige - Ginny Paige LCSW , LCSW, LICSW, RPT™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginny Paige LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
We'll incorporate talk therapy, EMDR Therapy, Flash Technique and other tools to customize therapy to your needs, stabilize your nervous system & create a safe and secure space to process emotions.
Are you overwhelmed by grief, anxiety, or relationship struggles? Do you feel lost or disconnected? Do you mourn the life you envisioned but don't have? Do you constantly worry or struggle with communicating your needs? Do you fear abandonment? Trauma, career disruption, a breakup, a move, illness, or even the death of a pet can trigger emotional difficulties. If family or friends pressure you to "bounce back" before you are ready, you may feel even more alone. Therapy can help you can navigate your feelings, gain balance, and heal relationships. Your past does not have to be your future. Reach out today.
We'll incorporate talk therapy, EMDR Therapy, Flash Technique and other tools to customize therapy to your needs, stabilize your nervous system & create a safe and secure space to process emotions.
Are you overwhelmed by grief, anxiety, or relationship struggles? Do you feel lost or disconnected? Do you mourn the life you envisioned but don't have? Do you constantly worry or struggle with communicating your needs? Do you fear abandonment? Trauma, career disruption, a breakup, a move, illness, or even the death of a pet can trigger emotional difficulties. If family or friends pressure you to "bounce back" before you are ready, you may feel even more alone. Therapy can help you can navigate your feelings, gain balance, and heal relationships. Your past does not have to be your future. Reach out today.
(212) 381-6168 View (212) 381-6168
Photo of Deloria Berks, MA, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deloria Berks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Trained in various therapeutic models including: Transcendental Meditation (over 25-years in Meditation and Mindfulness), Consciousness Raising, Psychodynamic, EMDR, Cognitive, EXRP, Internal Family Systems, AEDP, and Emotional Intelligence.
Note: Unable to Accept New Clients. Waiting list available. Are you seeking to enhance your happiness or prosperity? Are rational thoughts conflicting with emotional responses? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or struggling in your relationships? Is OCD problematic? I provide a gentle method for uncovering your genuine empowered self. Life can be managed, explored and understood. Consciousness raising is imperative. We can learn to meditate, listen, be effective and meet needs. Leadership and transformation require intention and attention. It may be time to explore your emotional well-being, and take charge of your life.
Trained in various therapeutic models including: Transcendental Meditation (over 25-years in Meditation and Mindfulness), Consciousness Raising, Psychodynamic, EMDR, Cognitive, EXRP, Internal Family Systems, AEDP, and Emotional Intelligence.
Note: Unable to Accept New Clients. Waiting list available. Are you seeking to enhance your happiness or prosperity? Are rational thoughts conflicting with emotional responses? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or struggling in your relationships? Is OCD problematic? I provide a gentle method for uncovering your genuine empowered self. Life can be managed, explored and understood. Consciousness raising is imperative. We can learn to meditate, listen, be effective and meet needs. Leadership and transformation require intention and attention. It may be time to explore your emotional well-being, and take charge of your life.
(646) 350-0669 View (646) 350-0669
Photo of Lisa E Haberman, JD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa E Haberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
I provide supportive, psychodynamic, interactive therapy to individuals and couples. In the process of deeply exploring underlying reasons for pain and undesired behavior, I also focus on client's strengths, some of which are often undiscovered. I tailor the treatment to the client's needs and use an eclectic approach. I prefer to work with clients who are motivated and curious. My treatment approach is not limited to talk therapy. My specialites include: EMDR, which is particularly helpful to clients who are stuck in an unwanted pattern of behavior and/or who have experienced trauma.
I provide supportive, psychodynamic, interactive therapy to individuals and couples. In the process of deeply exploring underlying reasons for pain and undesired behavior, I also focus on client's strengths, some of which are often undiscovered. I tailor the treatment to the client's needs and use an eclectic approach. I prefer to work with clients who are motivated and curious. My treatment approach is not limited to talk therapy. My specialites include: EMDR, which is particularly helpful to clients who are stuck in an unwanted pattern of behavior and/or who have experienced trauma.
(917) 710-6618 View (917) 710-6618
Photo of Ester Goldvarg, PhD, Psychologist
Ester Goldvarg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
That's why we offer a specialized approach to healing through EMDR Therapy.
Do you suffer from anxiety and can’t stop worrying about things? Do you have intrusive thoughts about your experiences that cause difficulty sleeping and concentrating? Do you find it challenging to take the necessary steps to deal with dysfunctional relationships? Do you overexercise, or indulge in food or alcohol? Imagine how good it would feel not to constantly worry about how you will handle the next difficult situation or to be haunted by past disturbing experiences? How great it would be not to invest your energy into worrying about your relationships and instead enjoying them while staying true to who you are.
That's why we offer a specialized approach to healing through EMDR Therapy.
Do you suffer from anxiety and can’t stop worrying about things? Do you have intrusive thoughts about your experiences that cause difficulty sleeping and concentrating? Do you find it challenging to take the necessary steps to deal with dysfunctional relationships? Do you overexercise, or indulge in food or alcohol? Imagine how good it would feel not to constantly worry about how you will handle the next difficult situation or to be haunted by past disturbing experiences? How great it would be not to invest your energy into worrying about your relationships and instead enjoying them while staying true to who you are.
(646) 362-8746 View (646) 362-8746
Photo of Amanda Adili, LCSW-R, SEP, KAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Adili
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SEP, KAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
Waitlist for new clients
As a trauma resolution therapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I help humans increase their bodily awareness about who they are, why they do the things they do, and who they would like to become. I trained in Sex Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR, Art therapy, and Inner Relationship Focusing, I integrate these approaches in the gestalt. I work with people who have difficulty accessing, connecting with, and verbalizing their feelings, as well as those with low self-esteem within their relationships. All humans can reach out to me, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Sex+, CNM, and Kink folks are welcomed with an open heart.
As a trauma resolution therapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I help humans increase their bodily awareness about who they are, why they do the things they do, and who they would like to become. I trained in Sex Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR, Art therapy, and Inner Relationship Focusing, I integrate these approaches in the gestalt. I work with people who have difficulty accessing, connecting with, and verbalizing their feelings, as well as those with low self-esteem within their relationships. All humans can reach out to me, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Sex+, CNM, and Kink folks are welcomed with an open heart.
(347) 573-9684 View (347) 573-9684
Photo of Lisa Arnone, LCSW, MSW, AF-EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Arnone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
When the time comes to make a change, it takes courage to ask for support. To be one who can respond to that request is a privilege. Starting in community mental health (access for all) and moving into my private practice, I have had experience working with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grieving with adults, children, couples, and the LGBTQ community. I specialize in working with people who have a history of trauma, big and small, and varied relational issues. I integrate my psychodynamic and relational training with long- or short-term, problem focused psychotherapeutic work as well as EMDR treatment.
When the time comes to make a change, it takes courage to ask for support. To be one who can respond to that request is a privilege. Starting in community mental health (access for all) and moving into my private practice, I have had experience working with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grieving with adults, children, couples, and the LGBTQ community. I specialize in working with people who have a history of trauma, big and small, and varied relational issues. I integrate my psychodynamic and relational training with long- or short-term, problem focused psychotherapeutic work as well as EMDR treatment.
(347) 697-4253 View (347) 697-4253
Photo of Adalina East, MRes, MSc
Adalina East
MRes, MSc
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
Using neuroscience-based brain retraining and EMDR has worked for so many of my clients, and I would love to work with you to restore calm and peace to your life.
I am a therapist working in New York, Pennsylvania and New Mexico. EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing are my guides to gently lead people towards healing themselves, something I believe we are all capable of. Together, we will set goals for recovery from trauma and major life stressors, incorporating neuroscience-backed strategies and spirituality where you are comfortable.
Using neuroscience-based brain retraining and EMDR has worked for so many of my clients, and I would love to work with you to restore calm and peace to your life.
I am a therapist working in New York, Pennsylvania and New Mexico. EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing are my guides to gently lead people towards healing themselves, something I believe we are all capable of. Together, we will set goals for recovery from trauma and major life stressors, incorporating neuroscience-backed strategies and spirituality where you are comfortable.
(505) 657-4637 View (505) 657-4637
Photo of Lorena Schaeffer, LCSW, CYT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorena Schaeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
I use a range of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-Based, Trauma ( EMDR) and Solution- Focused Therapy to help my clients work through their challenges and achieve their goals.
Therapy is a powerful tool for reflection and change. Whether working with children, teens, or adults, my approach is collaborative and goal-oriented. Sometimes we become stuck in painful or unsatisfying ways of being and need a safe space to learn about ourselves, heal, and grow. Issues I commonly work with include behavioral concerns, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with clients to understand the impact of past experiences on the present, but also focus on the here-and-now in session and incorporate breathing and meditation practices to cope with everyday stress.
I use a range of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-Based, Trauma ( EMDR) and Solution- Focused Therapy to help my clients work through their challenges and achieve their goals.
Therapy is a powerful tool for reflection and change. Whether working with children, teens, or adults, my approach is collaborative and goal-oriented. Sometimes we become stuck in painful or unsatisfying ways of being and need a safe space to learn about ourselves, heal, and grow. Issues I commonly work with include behavioral concerns, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with clients to understand the impact of past experiences on the present, but also focus on the here-and-now in session and incorporate breathing and meditation practices to cope with everyday stress.
(929) 305-1772 View (929) 305-1772
Photo of Bridget Reilly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), “parts”work (the idea that our minds have multiple parts or sub-personalities), and EMDR depending on the needs of the client.
I believe the most important relationship we will ever have is the one we have with ourselves. Yet many of us are never taught how to have a healthy relationship with ourselves and our mental health and relationships suffer. If you struggle with feelings of depression, anxiety, stuckness, people-pleasing, perfectionism, overwhelm, and self-doubt and are ready to work towards building a more solid relationship with yourself, please feel free to reach out.
I incorporate modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), “parts”work (the idea that our minds have multiple parts or sub-personalities), and EMDR depending on the needs of the client.
I believe the most important relationship we will ever have is the one we have with ourselves. Yet many of us are never taught how to have a healthy relationship with ourselves and our mental health and relationships suffer. If you struggle with feelings of depression, anxiety, stuckness, people-pleasing, perfectionism, overwhelm, and self-doubt and are ready to work towards building a more solid relationship with yourself, please feel free to reach out.
(848) 229-9613 View (848) 229-9613
Photo of Connie L Kaplan, PsyD, Psychologist
Connie L Kaplan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
A major focus of my practice is on coping skills development and mind/body connection. I specialize in trauma, anger management, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression, pain and stress management, conflict resolution, relationship issues, work-related problems. Because of the strong relationship between mind and body, the impact of each on the other, the mind/body connection is integrated into all aspects of interventions. Learn to manage fear, anxiety, stress, loneliness, and depression during today’s challeng times.
A major focus of my practice is on coping skills development and mind/body connection. I specialize in trauma, anger management, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression, pain and stress management, conflict resolution, relationship issues, work-related problems. Because of the strong relationship between mind and body, the impact of each on the other, the mind/body connection is integrated into all aspects of interventions. Learn to manage fear, anxiety, stress, loneliness, and depression during today’s challeng times.
(646) 600-5117 View (646) 600-5117
Photo of Dr. Melissa Gluck, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Gluck
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
Welcome! I’m so happy you’re here. It’s my goal to make the therapy process feel as easy & comfortable as possible. I give you the space to heal whether you need a little extra support or are in a time of major transition. By using a directive, empowering, & nonjudgemental approach I’m able to help you identify patterns that no longer serve you and get you “unstuck”. I specialize in helping 20s & 30s professionals navigate: dating, romantic & family relationships, work-life balance, as well as supporting you in the search to find meaning & purpose in your life. My style incorporates psychodynamic, CBT & solution-focused therapies.
Welcome! I’m so happy you’re here. It’s my goal to make the therapy process feel as easy & comfortable as possible. I give you the space to heal whether you need a little extra support or are in a time of major transition. By using a directive, empowering, & nonjudgemental approach I’m able to help you identify patterns that no longer serve you and get you “unstuck”. I specialize in helping 20s & 30s professionals navigate: dating, romantic & family relationships, work-life balance, as well as supporting you in the search to find meaning & purpose in your life. My style incorporates psychodynamic, CBT & solution-focused therapies.
(646) 542-0422 View (646) 542-0422
Photo of Crystal Fong, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Crystal Fong
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Hi there! I work with both couples and individuals. Are you unsure if therapy is the right step for you? Maybe you come from an immigrant culture where mental health is stigmatized, and you're wondering if therapy can help. Perhaps you feel guilt or shame, torn between living for yourself or meeting your family's expectations. These feelings can also impact your relationship, leading to communication struggles, emotional distance, or resentment. If you find yourself constantly proving your worth or feeling unseen, I understand, and I’m here to help you and your partner navigate these challenges together.
Hi there! I work with both couples and individuals. Are you unsure if therapy is the right step for you? Maybe you come from an immigrant culture where mental health is stigmatized, and you're wondering if therapy can help. Perhaps you feel guilt or shame, torn between living for yourself or meeting your family's expectations. These feelings can also impact your relationship, leading to communication struggles, emotional distance, or resentment. If you find yourself constantly proving your worth or feeling unseen, I understand, and I’m here to help you and your partner navigate these challenges together.
(646) 880-9441 View (646) 880-9441
Photo of Erika Hellwig, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Erika Hellwig
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
I help clients heal from trauma and anxiety. I work with my clients to find the roots of their symptoms so they may find relief as quickly as possible. If you are experiencing panic attacks, PTSD, obsessive thoughts, depression or general anxiety, I can help you to heal from these issues. I am skilled in both talk therapy and brain-based techniques such as Brainspotting and hypnosis that help to move along the therapy.
I help clients heal from trauma and anxiety. I work with my clients to find the roots of their symptoms so they may find relief as quickly as possible. If you are experiencing panic attacks, PTSD, obsessive thoughts, depression or general anxiety, I can help you to heal from these issues. I am skilled in both talk therapy and brain-based techniques such as Brainspotting and hypnosis that help to move along the therapy.
(917) 832-1957 View (917) 832-1957
Photo of Renita Dyal, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Renita Dyal
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or struggling to find yourself again? Whether you're facing grief, navigating life changes, or seeking stronger relationships, I'm here to guide you. As a therapist, I walk beside you through the darkness, helping you find the light that sparks your journey to healing and self-discovery. Let's take this transformative step forward together.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or struggling to find yourself again? Whether you're facing grief, navigating life changes, or seeking stronger relationships, I'm here to guide you. As a therapist, I walk beside you through the darkness, helping you find the light that sparks your journey to healing and self-discovery. Let's take this transformative step forward together.
(347) 745-7248 View (347) 745-7248
Photo of Pamela Garber, LMHC, Counselor
Pamela Garber
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
Because people are not defined by a diagnosis or demographic, I don't specialize-I individualize. I have extensive experience helping clients identify personal and professional goals while helping them focus on maintaining present commitments and expectations. Within a structured conversation, it is possible to address barriers-situational and emotional-and effectively develop a realistic plan for creating desired changes. I enjoy combining insight oriented psycho dynamic therapy with the goal setting aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy.
Because people are not defined by a diagnosis or demographic, I don't specialize-I individualize. I have extensive experience helping clients identify personal and professional goals while helping them focus on maintaining present commitments and expectations. Within a structured conversation, it is possible to address barriers-situational and emotional-and effectively develop a realistic plan for creating desired changes. I enjoy combining insight oriented psycho dynamic therapy with the goal setting aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy.
(646) 762-1353 View (646) 762-1353
Photo of Amy DeFilippi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy DeFilippi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
Anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, and depression are issues that often leave people feeling hopeless. These emotional states take a heavy toll on our relationships with our families and our partners. Understanding the body's response to stress is a helpful step in combating anxiety and depression. I help clients to feel more in control of their anxiety by teaching them mindfulness and stress management techniques. Through our work together, you'll learn stress management techniques and build your self esteem so that you can feel more in control of your life. .
Anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, and depression are issues that often leave people feeling hopeless. These emotional states take a heavy toll on our relationships with our families and our partners. Understanding the body's response to stress is a helpful step in combating anxiety and depression. I help clients to feel more in control of their anxiety by teaching them mindfulness and stress management techniques. Through our work together, you'll learn stress management techniques and build your self esteem so that you can feel more in control of your life. .
(808) 419-7305 View (808) 419-7305
Photo of Dr. Christine Romano, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST, Counselor
Dr. Christine Romano
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Wellness, sex, and relationships play a vital role in our everyday lives so let's work together to achieve your individual goals and relationship satisfaction. My dedication and passion for guiding clients and supervisees is unmatched as I not only help you survive, but thrive. My treatment and supervision specializations include trauma, anxiety, sex and intimacy, sexual dysfunctions, sexuality exploration, gender diversity, and relationships. My experience in counselor education, counseling supervision, and research supports counselors-in-training seeking personal growth, multicultural competency, and professional development.
Wellness, sex, and relationships play a vital role in our everyday lives so let's work together to achieve your individual goals and relationship satisfaction. My dedication and passion for guiding clients and supervisees is unmatched as I not only help you survive, but thrive. My treatment and supervision specializations include trauma, anxiety, sex and intimacy, sexual dysfunctions, sexuality exploration, gender diversity, and relationships. My experience in counselor education, counseling supervision, and research supports counselors-in-training seeking personal growth, multicultural competency, and professional development.
(914) 339-5716 View (914) 339-5716
1
EMDR Therapists

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, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.