EMDR Therapists in 07722

Photo of Rosalind Pagliano, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07722, NJ
Rosalind Pagliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I am proficient in EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, addiction and depression.
Are you troubled & stressed in a relationship, but don't know how to change things? Do you say "yes" when you want to say "no"? Are you covering up your pain with destructive behaviors? Do you judge yourself harshly & feel you are just never 'good enough'? Negative thoughts, anxiety & low self esteem can be an enormous burden, making it a crushing chore to just get through your day. They effect your relationships, your ability to work and can lead to substance abuse, over eating and other behaviors that can pull you in to a downward spiral that is hard to break free from.
I am proficient in EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, addiction and depression.
Are you troubled & stressed in a relationship, but don't know how to change things? Do you say "yes" when you want to say "no"? Are you covering up your pain with destructive behaviors? Do you judge yourself harshly & feel you are just never 'good enough'? Negative thoughts, anxiety & low self esteem can be an enormous burden, making it a crushing chore to just get through your day. They effect your relationships, your ability to work and can lead to substance abuse, over eating and other behaviors that can pull you in to a downward spiral that is hard to break free from.
(732) 564-5329 View (732) 564-5329
Photo of Jill Portaro: Healing Through The Heart Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Jill Portaro: Healing Through The Heart Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
This may include Mindfulness to increase joy and reduce stress in your day-to-day, EMDR for processing and healing from trauma, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy for both high-risk impulsive behaviors and difficulty accessing ways to balance emotions.
Are change and uncertainty making you feel anxious? Do you feel that it's a struggle to work through challenges in your life? If you are tired of trying to make things better on your own, I am here to help you and your family learn healthy coping strategies to manage the emotions and behaviors that trouble you. In therapy, find the clarity and balance you need to connect deeply to your inner strengths to create lasting, positive changes in your life. I am focused on helping you meet your goals and make the changes to your life that you want to see.
This may include Mindfulness to increase joy and reduce stress in your day-to-day, EMDR for processing and healing from trauma, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy for both high-risk impulsive behaviors and difficulty accessing ways to balance emotions.
Are change and uncertainty making you feel anxious? Do you feel that it's a struggle to work through challenges in your life? If you are tired of trying to make things better on your own, I am here to help you and your family learn healthy coping strategies to manage the emotions and behaviors that trouble you. In therapy, find the clarity and balance you need to connect deeply to your inner strengths to create lasting, positive changes in your life. I am focused on helping you meet your goals and make the changes to your life that you want to see.
(609) 778-4382 View (609) 778-4382
Photo of Marcella DiFedele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Marcella DiFedele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Sandtray Therapy and EMDR can be especially helpful if you are experiencing trauma related stress and/or have difficulty expressing yourself in traditional "talk therapy.
Life can be overwhelmingly difficult at times. Experiences that are painful and disturbing can contribute to troubling emotions and fears that get in the way of feeling whole, happy and fulfilled. Psychotherapy provides tools that can help you improve the quality of your life. I believe in using a strengths based approach, honoring what you are capable of being and achieving. I hope to help you feel empowered and free of distressing thoughts and debilitating emotions that hold you back.
Sandtray Therapy and EMDR can be especially helpful if you are experiencing trauma related stress and/or have difficulty expressing yourself in traditional "talk therapy.
Life can be overwhelmingly difficult at times. Experiences that are painful and disturbing can contribute to troubling emotions and fears that get in the way of feeling whole, happy and fulfilled. Psychotherapy provides tools that can help you improve the quality of your life. I believe in using a strengths based approach, honoring what you are capable of being and achieving. I hope to help you feel empowered and free of distressing thoughts and debilitating emotions that hold you back.
(848) 404-5289 View (848) 404-5289
Photo of Mary Sznyter, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07722, NJ
Mary Sznyter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722  (Online Only)
Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that was developed to resolve symptoms from disturbing and unresolved life experiences.
Mary Sznyter, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been counseling for 14 years and have a private practice in Howell, NJ specializing in adults, family and children; individual and group therapies. I continued my post-graduate training in Psychodrama and Group Counseling, in addition to on-going training in specific interventions for anxiety, depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that was developed to resolve symptoms from disturbing and unresolved life experiences.
Mary Sznyter, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been counseling for 14 years and have a private practice in Howell, NJ specializing in adults, family and children; individual and group therapies. I continued my post-graduate training in Psychodrama and Group Counseling, in addition to on-going training in specific interventions for anxiety, depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(732) 722-5017 View (732) 722-5017
Photo of Stephanie Godwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07722, NJ
Stephanie Godwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I am a certified EMDR therapist and consultant through EMDRIA. I offer specialized care in the treatment of trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, and complex relationship issues. Relationships are hard and are often the foundation of a lot of our pain. Some of the issues I often work with are: healing from narcissistic abuse, navigating co- dependency/ people pleasing, infidelity, present day triggers to childhood trauma ( i.e. through parenting, our partners, bosses, strangers on the road, it comes out in a host of unsuspecting ways) poor self- worth, eating and body imagine issues.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and consultant through EMDRIA. I offer specialized care in the treatment of trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, and complex relationship issues. Relationships are hard and are often the foundation of a lot of our pain. Some of the issues I often work with are: healing from narcissistic abuse, navigating co- dependency/ people pleasing, infidelity, present day triggers to childhood trauma ( i.e. through parenting, our partners, bosses, strangers on the road, it comes out in a host of unsuspecting ways) poor self- worth, eating and body imagine issues.
(732) 889-3614 View (732) 889-3614
Photo of Kelly Stolberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Kelly Stolberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Waitlist for new clients
I love utilizing EMDR and Inner Child Work to support my therapy.
I am a firm believer that change and recovery are possible for everyone. Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. My approach centers around trust and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am an open-minded and nonjudgmental support who can walk with a person through this journey. I hope to help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and it's stress. We don't necessarily live in a world that embraces uniqueness, let me assist you in tapping into that magic.
I love utilizing EMDR and Inner Child Work to support my therapy.
I am a firm believer that change and recovery are possible for everyone. Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. My approach centers around trust and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am an open-minded and nonjudgmental support who can walk with a person through this journey. I hope to help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and it's stress. We don't necessarily live in a world that embraces uniqueness, let me assist you in tapping into that magic.
(609) 770-2031 View (609) 770-2031
Photo of The Women's Psychotherapy Center, Psychologist in 07722, NJ
The Women's Psychotherapy Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
We utilize several evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, and we are excited to begin offering EMDR this coming year.
The Women's Psychotherapy Center, founded by Lauren Gerardi, PhD, is a private psychotherapy practice focused on the issues most important to women's mental and emotional health. We specialize in postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, and trauma/PTSD. In addition, we work with women struggling with general depression, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, and chronic pain as well as other mind-body disorders. While we are a women's center, we welcome individuals of all ages and genders and work not only with women, but with their family members as well in their own individual therapy.
We utilize several evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, and we are excited to begin offering EMDR this coming year.
The Women's Psychotherapy Center, founded by Lauren Gerardi, PhD, is a private psychotherapy practice focused on the issues most important to women's mental and emotional health. We specialize in postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, and trauma/PTSD. In addition, we work with women struggling with general depression, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, and chronic pain as well as other mind-body disorders. While we are a women's center, we welcome individuals of all ages and genders and work not only with women, but with their family members as well in their own individual therapy.
(848) 214-9901 View (848) 214-9901
Photo of Inner Calm & Grace and Healing , Licensed Professional Counselor in 07722, NJ
Inner Calm & Grace and Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. Clarissa Mulligan Attara (she/her), Ph.D., LPC, LMHC, LCADC, ACS, CCS, NCC, EMDR-T and I am licensed and providing virtual sessions in NY and in person or virtual sessions in NJ. I am passionate about helping others achieve a sense of inner calm. I utilize an attachment lens to understand where you were, where you are, and where you want to be. I focus on self compassion, skill development, promoting healing and personal growth. In counseling you should feel validated and supported. I am passionate about helping those who have experienced attachment trauma, co-occurring issues, and addiction.
Hi, I'm Dr. Clarissa Mulligan Attara (she/her), Ph.D., LPC, LMHC, LCADC, ACS, CCS, NCC, EMDR-T and I am licensed and providing virtual sessions in NY and in person or virtual sessions in NJ. I am passionate about helping others achieve a sense of inner calm. I utilize an attachment lens to understand where you were, where you are, and where you want to be. I focus on self compassion, skill development, promoting healing and personal growth. In counseling you should feel validated and supported. I am passionate about helping those who have experienced attachment trauma, co-occurring issues, and addiction.
(848) 229-9214 View (848) 229-9214
Photo of Aaron Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Aaron Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Employing various modalities like IFS, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I help my clients shift their internal messaging and develop more resilience.
You just had another argument with your spouse. They’re happening more and more frequently. You’re not even sure what this most recent one was about, but you’re still reeling from it. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly when things got so bad. For as long as you can remember, painful memories have bubbled to the surface without warning. You’ve always been able to push them down and ignore them, but you're starting to wonder if that’s sustainable. Maybe the constant problems in your relationship stem from these unresolved issues. You want to feel more in control and connected, but you don’t know how. It feels hopeless.
Employing various modalities like IFS, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I help my clients shift their internal messaging and develop more resilience.
You just had another argument with your spouse. They’re happening more and more frequently. You’re not even sure what this most recent one was about, but you’re still reeling from it. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly when things got so bad. For as long as you can remember, painful memories have bubbled to the surface without warning. You’ve always been able to push them down and ignore them, but you're starting to wonder if that’s sustainable. Maybe the constant problems in your relationship stem from these unresolved issues. You want to feel more in control and connected, but you don’t know how. It feels hopeless.
(732) 385-3456 View (732) 385-3456
Photo of Dolores DeGiacomo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Dolores DeGiacomo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in and utilize EMDR in a virtual setting.
If you are looking to make a specific changes in your life, reduce anxiety, or improve relationships then therapy may be the answer. I believe that all of us have the right to live fully and authentically. Sometimes things get in the way; from a chaotic childhood to low self esteem, depression, loss of any kind, or any other adverse life event that blocks us from achieving true satisfaction and happiness in life. I strive to create a compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental environment for those that are struggling with challenging symptoms, have difficulties managing emotions or maintaining healthy and satisfying relationships.
I am fully trained in and utilize EMDR in a virtual setting.
If you are looking to make a specific changes in your life, reduce anxiety, or improve relationships then therapy may be the answer. I believe that all of us have the right to live fully and authentically. Sometimes things get in the way; from a chaotic childhood to low self esteem, depression, loss of any kind, or any other adverse life event that blocks us from achieving true satisfaction and happiness in life. I strive to create a compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental environment for those that are struggling with challenging symptoms, have difficulties managing emotions or maintaining healthy and satisfying relationships.
(609) 916-8761 View (609) 916-8761
Photo of Caitlyn Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Caitlyn Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I have extensive training in sand play therapy, and EMDR which has been proven effective in treating trauma.
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in working with childhood trauma, depression, and anxiety. Symptoms may include suicidal thoughts, self-harm, flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, excessive worrying, irritability, temper tantrums, behavioral concerns, etc. I create highly individualized treatment plans to address all of your concerns. I can help you or your child discover new coping skills, inner resources, and solutions to the challenges you or your family are facing.
I have extensive training in sand play therapy, and EMDR which has been proven effective in treating trauma.
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in working with childhood trauma, depression, and anxiety. Symptoms may include suicidal thoughts, self-harm, flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, excessive worrying, irritability, temper tantrums, behavioral concerns, etc. I create highly individualized treatment plans to address all of your concerns. I can help you or your child discover new coping skills, inner resources, and solutions to the challenges you or your family are facing.
(848) 235-9552 View (848) 235-9552
Photo of Dr. Lauren Gerardi Phd, Psychologist in 07722, NJ
Dr. Lauren Gerardi Phd
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I offer a variety of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR for trauma/PTSD, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy for chronic pain.
I am the owner and director of The Women's Psychotherapy Center. I specialize in women's issues such as postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, and parenting issues. I also focus on depression, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, and chronic pain as well as other mind-body disorders. I believe in building an empathic, trusting relationship between therapist and client, and my work focuses primarily on fostering growth through increased self-awareness. Although I direct the Women's Center, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and genders.
I offer a variety of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR for trauma/PTSD, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy for chronic pain.
I am the owner and director of The Women's Psychotherapy Center. I specialize in women's issues such as postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, and parenting issues. I also focus on depression, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, and chronic pain as well as other mind-body disorders. I believe in building an empathic, trusting relationship between therapist and client, and my work focuses primarily on fostering growth through increased self-awareness. Although I direct the Women's Center, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and genders.
(848) 253-6893 View (848) 253-6893
Photo of Jess Cronin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Jess Cronin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Welcome to my page. I first want to congratulate you on the first step to achieving your goals! Taking this step can feel scary and uncomfortable, but I am here to help you sit in and work through that part of it. I work best with those that are ready to make the commitment to their healing journey and bring my most empathic and authentic self to the session to help you do just that.
Welcome to my page. I first want to congratulate you on the first step to achieving your goals! Taking this step can feel scary and uncomfortable, but I am here to help you sit in and work through that part of it. I work best with those that are ready to make the commitment to their healing journey and bring my most empathic and authentic self to the session to help you do just that.
(732) 654-0975 View (732) 654-0975
Photo of Platinum Counseling LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07722, NJ
Platinum Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCADC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Reaching out for help can be difficult. Often times, we tend to neglect the need for our own self-care as we tackle the challenges of daily life and take care of the ones we love. Platinum Counseling offers a comfortable and casual environment where you can feel safe and supported. We encourage you to discuss your vulnerabilities, without judgement, with professionals who want to hear about your experiences. We can provide you with therapeutic strategies and education to understand and tackle your challenges while increasing your motivation to fulfill your own personal goals. We encourage you to contact us.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. Often times, we tend to neglect the need for our own self-care as we tackle the challenges of daily life and take care of the ones we love. Platinum Counseling offers a comfortable and casual environment where you can feel safe and supported. We encourage you to discuss your vulnerabilities, without judgement, with professionals who want to hear about your experiences. We can provide you with therapeutic strategies and education to understand and tackle your challenges while increasing your motivation to fulfill your own personal goals. We encourage you to contact us.
(732) 355-8273 View (732) 355-8273
Photo of Comprehensive Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Comprehensive Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Comprehensive Counseling Center is a group of professionally trained and experienced psychotherapists who are committed to helping individuals in a comfortable and confidential setting. Our goal is to make a positive difference and to improve the emotional well-being of people in our community. Couples, families, and individuals of all ages are welcomed to embark on the journey of self-exploration, problem-solving, and goal setting with our highly skilled therapists. Our therapists are devoted to empowering their clients by providing guidance, support, and an individualized treatment plan that will cater to their specific needs.
Comprehensive Counseling Center is a group of professionally trained and experienced psychotherapists who are committed to helping individuals in a comfortable and confidential setting. Our goal is to make a positive difference and to improve the emotional well-being of people in our community. Couples, families, and individuals of all ages are welcomed to embark on the journey of self-exploration, problem-solving, and goal setting with our highly skilled therapists. Our therapists are devoted to empowering their clients by providing guidance, support, and an individualized treatment plan that will cater to their specific needs.
(732) 412-6393 View (732) 412-6393
Photo of Hilary Scheer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07722, NJ
Hilary Scheer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Managing life stressors & balancing relationships are common issues that humans struggle with today. We struggle to do it all & more often than not we wind up feeling burned out and/or checked out. We are existing instead of living. I view therapy as offering the opportunity to gain another perspective on life experiences & explore how to navigate them more effectively. Once we gift ourselves the opportunity to engage in therapy we become better equipped to function from a place of gratitude which automatically shifts us into a healthier state of mind.
Managing life stressors & balancing relationships are common issues that humans struggle with today. We struggle to do it all & more often than not we wind up feeling burned out and/or checked out. We are existing instead of living. I view therapy as offering the opportunity to gain another perspective on life experiences & explore how to navigate them more effectively. Once we gift ourselves the opportunity to engage in therapy we become better equipped to function from a place of gratitude which automatically shifts us into a healthier state of mind.
(732) 537-8484 View (732) 537-8484
Photo of Wendy Brundage Huntley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07722, NJ
Wendy Brundage Huntley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Negative and anxious feelings can be transformed. If self-defeating behaviors, anxious feelings, dysfunctional relationships, or feelings of hopelessness are continually causing you pain, we can help you. You can heal and begin to live with a sense of fulfillment. With psychotherapy, you can begin your journey to personal transformation. You can develop tools to decrease your suffering, increase your confidence, and shift your consciousness. If you are ready to rise higher, let's start the conversation. Your best self is waiting.
Negative and anxious feelings can be transformed. If self-defeating behaviors, anxious feelings, dysfunctional relationships, or feelings of hopelessness are continually causing you pain, we can help you. You can heal and begin to live with a sense of fulfillment. With psychotherapy, you can begin your journey to personal transformation. You can develop tools to decrease your suffering, increase your confidence, and shift your consciousness. If you are ready to rise higher, let's start the conversation. Your best self is waiting.
(732) 365-4475 View (732) 365-4475
Photo of Paulina Levinzon, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07722, NJ
Paulina Levinzon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC , PMH-C, DRCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722  (Online Only)
What would it look like to move on from what's heavy on your heart and mind? What if you could be yourself and share whatever you want? You deserve a voice and to get "unstuck". I can help you figure out why you are having difficulty with letting go of some things and why you repeat patterns that are not working for you. I can help you move towards what you think or know you want/need. Your views will be respected and heard. I believe in offering HOPE: Honesty, Openness, Peace, & Empathy in therapy. Know that you choices and views are welcomed without judgment or criticism. So how can I make your journey better today?
What would it look like to move on from what's heavy on your heart and mind? What if you could be yourself and share whatever you want? You deserve a voice and to get "unstuck". I can help you figure out why you are having difficulty with letting go of some things and why you repeat patterns that are not working for you. I can help you move towards what you think or know you want/need. Your views will be respected and heard. I believe in offering HOPE: Honesty, Openness, Peace, & Empathy in therapy. Know that you choices and views are welcomed without judgment or criticism. So how can I make your journey better today?
(848) 420-9272 View (848) 420-9272
Photo of Allison Rosa, Counselor in 07722, NJ
Allison Rosa
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Have you or your child decided that it is time to seek out help? Let’s face it, going to therapy can be a terrifying decision to make with a lot of uncertainties. Whether it’s family conflict, chronic anxiety/depression, relationship conflicts, overthinking, ADHD, insecure attachment, OCD, or a traumatic experience, you deserve a therapist who provides unconditional acceptance and compassion. One who helps you to figure out why we think, feel, and do what we do. I work with children, adults, couples, and families. I graduated with a specialization in Victim Counseling, and I am also a Certified Trauma Professional.
Have you or your child decided that it is time to seek out help? Let’s face it, going to therapy can be a terrifying decision to make with a lot of uncertainties. Whether it’s family conflict, chronic anxiety/depression, relationship conflicts, overthinking, ADHD, insecure attachment, OCD, or a traumatic experience, you deserve a therapist who provides unconditional acceptance and compassion. One who helps you to figure out why we think, feel, and do what we do. I work with children, adults, couples, and families. I graduated with a specialization in Victim Counseling, and I am also a Certified Trauma Professional.
(732) 907-8330 View (732) 907-8330
Photo of Ryan Fields, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07722, NJ
Ryan Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
It is most important for us to have a positive and successful therapeutic relationship where you and I trust one another and work together for your success in therapy. I am here to truly serve you while providing your life with hope, happiness, and meaning.
It is most important for us to have a positive and successful therapeutic relationship where you and I trust one another and work together for your success in therapy. I am here to truly serve you while providing your life with hope, happiness, and meaning.
(856) 209-4835 View (856) 209-4835
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.