EMDR Therapists in 19019

Photo of Sarah Mulberry-Barrier, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Mulberry-Barrier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
As an LCSW specializing in reproductive mental health, I hold a Certificate in Perinatal Mental Health from Post Partum Support International and I am trained in EMDR.
Hello, I'm Sarah, an LCSW and PMH-C specializing in reproductive, perinatal, and postpartum mental health. Whether it's fertility struggles, pregnancy loss, or the stress of pregnancy or parenthood, know you're not alone. I understand first hand the range of emotions that accompany these transitional periods because I've been there too. I offer compassionate support and evidence-based guidance to navigate this journey. Let's work together towards healing and empowerment. Reach out for a consultation today.
As an LCSW specializing in reproductive mental health, I hold a Certificate in Perinatal Mental Health from Post Partum Support International and I am trained in EMDR.
Hello, I'm Sarah, an LCSW and PMH-C specializing in reproductive, perinatal, and postpartum mental health. Whether it's fertility struggles, pregnancy loss, or the stress of pregnancy or parenthood, know you're not alone. I understand first hand the range of emotions that accompany these transitional periods because I've been there too. I offer compassionate support and evidence-based guidance to navigate this journey. Let's work together towards healing and empowerment. Reach out for a consultation today.
(484) 261-4989 View (484) 261-4989
Photo of Carol L Frey, LPC, MS, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol L Frey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CLC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and solution-focused coaching techniques.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, college students and adults in all stages of life to reach their full potential by assisting them in healing from past wounds and developing healthy patterns for the future. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of mental health issues and have helped my clients to heal from depression, anxiety, PSTD, OCD, relational conflicts and trauma related conditions. As well, I have coached clients toward reaching goals of significant weight loss, relationship resolutions, career transitions and reaching other personal goals.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and solution-focused coaching techniques.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, college students and adults in all stages of life to reach their full potential by assisting them in healing from past wounds and developing healthy patterns for the future. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of mental health issues and have helped my clients to heal from depression, anxiety, PSTD, OCD, relational conflicts and trauma related conditions. As well, I have coached clients toward reaching goals of significant weight loss, relationship resolutions, career transitions and reaching other personal goals.
(724) 359-2720 View (724) 359-2720
Photo of Tara M Wiker, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara M Wiker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
Helping clients navigate trauma and it's impact on our lives is my passion! I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and hold a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level 2 Certification.
Are you having difficulty managing tough emotions? Do you find that past stuff is getting in your way of living life to the fullest? I can help! I am a Bilingual (English/ Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in the therapy domain. I received my Bachelor's in Social Work from Temple University in 2004 and my Master's in Social Work from Millersville University in 2012.
Helping clients navigate trauma and it's impact on our lives is my passion! I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and hold a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level 2 Certification.
Are you having difficulty managing tough emotions? Do you find that past stuff is getting in your way of living life to the fullest? I can help! I am a Bilingual (English/ Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in the therapy domain. I received my Bachelor's in Social Work from Temple University in 2004 and my Master's in Social Work from Millersville University in 2012.
(223) 226-1270 View (223) 226-1270
Photo of Mark L Lee, PhD, EMDR, CSAT, Psychologist
Mark L Lee
Psychologist, PhD, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
As an EMDRIA-approved Certified EMDR Therapist, I have witnessed numerous times EMDR successfully resolving clients’ traumas and other disturbing experiences.
Are you dealing with depression and anxiety and feeling lonely due to past hurt and wounds? Are you struggling with porn addiction, infidelity, or other forms of sexual addiction that conflict with your faith and moral values, and are you keeping your suffering in secret? You don’t have to face these problems alone. I am here to support your healing journey to find freedom and to live a fulfilling life. I am a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer online sessions. My specialties include trauma, sexual addiction, partner betrayal, phobia, anxiety, panic attacks, social phobia,depression, low self-esteem, and grief and loss.
As an EMDRIA-approved Certified EMDR Therapist, I have witnessed numerous times EMDR successfully resolving clients’ traumas and other disturbing experiences.
Are you dealing with depression and anxiety and feeling lonely due to past hurt and wounds? Are you struggling with porn addiction, infidelity, or other forms of sexual addiction that conflict with your faith and moral values, and are you keeping your suffering in secret? You don’t have to face these problems alone. I am here to support your healing journey to find freedom and to live a fulfilling life. I am a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer online sessions. My specialties include trauma, sexual addiction, partner betrayal, phobia, anxiety, panic attacks, social phobia,depression, low self-esteem, and grief and loss.
(717) 922-5131 View (717) 922-5131
Photo of Melissa McLean, MA, LPC, ACS, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa McLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
As a Certified EMDR therapist, I am here to help you overcome anxiety and stress & break free from the adverse experiences that have held you back from achieving greatness in your personal and professional life.
Anxiety, Stress, or Adverse experience(s), may be holding you back from taking the next step toward greatness in your personal or professional life. You long to break free from the grips of negative thoughts and self-limiting beliefs that have held you back for far too long. You recognize the value of investing in your mental health and are ready to embark on a transformative healing process of self-awareness, managing stress and setbacks more effectively, and cultivating healthier relationships with yourself and others. You ultimately want to experience a greater sense of fulfillment, happiness, and purpose in your life.
As a Certified EMDR therapist, I am here to help you overcome anxiety and stress & break free from the adverse experiences that have held you back from achieving greatness in your personal and professional life.
Anxiety, Stress, or Adverse experience(s), may be holding you back from taking the next step toward greatness in your personal or professional life. You long to break free from the grips of negative thoughts and self-limiting beliefs that have held you back for far too long. You recognize the value of investing in your mental health and are ready to embark on a transformative healing process of self-awareness, managing stress and setbacks more effectively, and cultivating healthier relationships with yourself and others. You ultimately want to experience a greater sense of fulfillment, happiness, and purpose in your life.
(856) 776-4628 View (856) 776-4628
Photo of Gwen Marlatt Vela, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Marlatt Vela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
I employ EMDR to help individuals (children and adults) move beyond past trauma and access the brains desire to heal old wounds.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming. It can take time to find someone that is the right fit for you. I offer free phone consultations to help initiate an understanding of what your needs are and if I am the right therapist for you. I engage with clients using varied therapy modalities tailored to my patient's needs. I offer Sandplay and EMDR to help access the spirit and body's natural tendency towards healing. I provide a comfortable atmosphere for personal growth and the space to be able to move beyond your past.
I employ EMDR to help individuals (children and adults) move beyond past trauma and access the brains desire to heal old wounds.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming. It can take time to find someone that is the right fit for you. I offer free phone consultations to help initiate an understanding of what your needs are and if I am the right therapist for you. I engage with clients using varied therapy modalities tailored to my patient's needs. I offer Sandplay and EMDR to help access the spirit and body's natural tendency towards healing. I provide a comfortable atmosphere for personal growth and the space to be able to move beyond your past.
(908) 975-0170 View (908) 975-0170
Photo of Barbara Ivanko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Ivanko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction instructor and am trained in Ego State and Internal Family Systems.
Your distressing emotions may be what bring you to therapy, but they can also be a doorway to hope, curiosity, insight, and self-compassion. These emotions are an invitation to access the strength and worth that are also within you, providing an opportunity to heal and move forward with greater ease. I have the privilege of working with individuals that are experiencing the anxiety, sadness and confusion that arise from complex trauma. These show up as issues in relationships, feelings of overwhelm, "stuck-ness", low self-worth and difficulty finding joy in life.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction instructor and am trained in Ego State and Internal Family Systems.
Your distressing emotions may be what bring you to therapy, but they can also be a doorway to hope, curiosity, insight, and self-compassion. These emotions are an invitation to access the strength and worth that are also within you, providing an opportunity to heal and move forward with greater ease. I have the privilege of working with individuals that are experiencing the anxiety, sadness and confusion that arise from complex trauma. These show up as issues in relationships, feelings of overwhelm, "stuck-ness", low self-worth and difficulty finding joy in life.
(910) 957-2362 View (910) 957-2362
Photo of Cynthia Dempsey, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Dempsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
I utilize my background and graduate education in cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR in order to help clients work through concerns such as trauma, anxiety, stress, panic, depression and navigating a medical diagnosis.
As of 9/9/24 I am accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and can see clients located anywhere in PA. I hold a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware and an MS in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology from PCOM. I work with teens and adults dealing with stress, anxiety and trauma-related issues and I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist as well a CBT and DBT trained therapist. I use a mix of many different styles in order to customize therapy to the direct needs of each individual client. I would be happy to discuss more and answer any questions you might have!
I utilize my background and graduate education in cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR in order to help clients work through concerns such as trauma, anxiety, stress, panic, depression and navigating a medical diagnosis.
As of 9/9/24 I am accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and can see clients located anywhere in PA. I hold a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware and an MS in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology from PCOM. I work with teens and adults dealing with stress, anxiety and trauma-related issues and I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist as well a CBT and DBT trained therapist. I use a mix of many different styles in order to customize therapy to the direct needs of each individual client. I would be happy to discuss more and answer any questions you might have!
(215) 770-1283 View (215) 770-1283
Photo of Bill Martin - Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
Currently, I'm only accepting male clients who have been sexually abused and/or assaulted. I work mainly with older men who have never talked about being sexually abused. While there are many female therapists who work well with male sexual abuse survivors, I believe being a straight male therapist with a wife and family helps. I am certified in Interactional Guided Imagery, a trained EMDR therapist, facilitated over 100 psychodramas, and am effective and successful in my work. I'm licensed in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Currently, I'm only accepting male clients who have been sexually abused and/or assaulted. I work mainly with older men who have never talked about being sexually abused. While there are many female therapists who work well with male sexual abuse survivors, I believe being a straight male therapist with a wife and family helps. I am certified in Interactional Guided Imagery, a trained EMDR therapist, facilitated over 100 psychodramas, and am effective and successful in my work. I'm licensed in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Delaware.
(215) 515-4654 View (215) 515-4654
Photo of Melinda Halpern, MS, LPC, PC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Halpern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
I am an EMDR Level 2 therapist working specifically with complex trauma.
I have spent the last 20 years working with children, adolescents, individuals and couples. My diverse practice has helped me to understand how people of all ages and walks of life function and how to help relieve their pain and work towards health and live without trauma.
I am an EMDR Level 2 therapist working specifically with complex trauma.
I have spent the last 20 years working with children, adolescents, individuals and couples. My diverse practice has helped me to understand how people of all ages and walks of life function and how to help relieve their pain and work towards health and live without trauma.
(458) 254-5970 View (458) 254-5970
Photo of Katherine Pearson - Kate Pearson, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Pearson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment-based therapies, and practice from a trauma-informed approach.
Anaïs Nin wrote "we see the world not as it is, but as we are." Without self-reflection, we can all fall into old patterns and behaviors which no longer serve us. With self-reflection we can make sense of our worldview and become active agents of change and growth in our own lives. I have about 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings.
I have extensive training in DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment-based therapies, and practice from a trauma-informed approach.
Anaïs Nin wrote "we see the world not as it is, but as we are." Without self-reflection, we can all fall into old patterns and behaviors which no longer serve us. With self-reflection we can make sense of our worldview and become active agents of change and growth in our own lives. I have about 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings.
(415) 853-3850 View (415) 853-3850
Photo of Stacy Hunt - Bucks Eating Support Collaborative, PhD, Psychologist
Bucks Eating Support Collaborative
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
We integrate EMDR, Neurofeedback, Art & Somatic therapies.
Spearheaded by eating disorder specialists Dr. Stacy Hunt, Clinical Psychologist and Leah Frazee, RD, LND, Bucks Eating Support Collaborative provides comprehensive and quality care for patients of all ages and genders dealing with disordered eating in a HAES informed framework and a body neutrality lens. With two Bucks County locations, Bucks ESC provides individual therapy, family, nutrition and group sessions. Our group of providers also offers trauma support, LGBTQ support, co-occurring Dx, ARFID, & PANS/PANDAS related eating concerns. We also work with athletes with eating disorders and disordered eating.
We integrate EMDR, Neurofeedback, Art & Somatic therapies.
Spearheaded by eating disorder specialists Dr. Stacy Hunt, Clinical Psychologist and Leah Frazee, RD, LND, Bucks Eating Support Collaborative provides comprehensive and quality care for patients of all ages and genders dealing with disordered eating in a HAES informed framework and a body neutrality lens. With two Bucks County locations, Bucks ESC provides individual therapy, family, nutrition and group sessions. Our group of providers also offers trauma support, LGBTQ support, co-occurring Dx, ARFID, & PANS/PANDAS related eating concerns. We also work with athletes with eating disorders and disordered eating.
(267) 592-6873 View (267) 592-6873
Photo of Jessica Gazzola, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Gazzola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a combination of psychodynamic, attachment-focused EMDR, and narrative approaches to guide you toward your goals.
Welcome! I believe the therapeutic relationship has a significant impact on outcomes in therapy. As your counselor, I plan to foster a caring and attuned relationship that creates a sense of safety. By allowing me to be a part of your journey, I hope to help you feel seen, heard, and supported.
I draw on a combination of psychodynamic, attachment-focused EMDR, and narrative approaches to guide you toward your goals.
Welcome! I believe the therapeutic relationship has a significant impact on outcomes in therapy. As your counselor, I plan to foster a caring and attuned relationship that creates a sense of safety. By allowing me to be a part of your journey, I hope to help you feel seen, heard, and supported.
(412) 516-3251 View (412) 516-3251
Photo of Danielle Stoner Sampson, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Stoner Sampson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Through the use of schema therapy, EMDR, and the Gottman Method of couples therapy, we can work together to achieve your goals.
Licensed in NY and PA. Have you experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood? Are you having issues in your relationship, and you're not sure how to fix them? I am here to help. I provide inclusive, identity-affirming care to individuals and couples seeking help for trauma (individuals) or relationship stress (couples). I am experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
Through the use of schema therapy, EMDR, and the Gottman Method of couples therapy, we can work together to achieve your goals.
Licensed in NY and PA. Have you experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood? Are you having issues in your relationship, and you're not sure how to fix them? I am here to help. I provide inclusive, identity-affirming care to individuals and couples seeking help for trauma (individuals) or relationship stress (couples). I am experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
(716) 287-6836 View (716) 287-6836
Photo of Nancy Mitchell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
Are you OK? So many of us are experiencing anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Some of us feel stuck in our careers or lost in destructive patterns in our relationships. Perhaps you’re still grieving a lost loved one and feeling as though the hole in your heart will never heal – or maybe some trauma in your past has you trapped in a cycle of unwanted or unhealthy thoughts or behaviors. There is hope! We were designed to heal, and healing often takes place within safe relationships and connections with others. Therapy provides that safe relationship where real change can occur.
Are you OK? So many of us are experiencing anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Some of us feel stuck in our careers or lost in destructive patterns in our relationships. Perhaps you’re still grieving a lost loved one and feeling as though the hole in your heart will never heal – or maybe some trauma in your past has you trapped in a cycle of unwanted or unhealthy thoughts or behaviors. There is hope! We were designed to heal, and healing often takes place within safe relationships and connections with others. Therapy provides that safe relationship where real change can occur.
(267) 214-0359 View (267) 214-0359
Photo of Dr. Brady Kilgore McDaniels - Dr. Brady McDaniels, DMin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brady McDaniels
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
(609) 881-1767 View (609) 881-1767
Photo of Dr. Lauren Elizabeth Linn, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lauren Elizabeth Linn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
I consider it a great honor to partner with clients to find ways to live with more authenticity and presence. With a Ph.D, in Clinical and School Psychology, and more than 20 years of experience, I have a deep appreciation for the journeys we take in life-where we have been, where we are now, and where we want to go. Although I see adults of all ages, I specialize in assisting college age/young adults to navigate the many challenges these years of identity development can bring.
I consider it a great honor to partner with clients to find ways to live with more authenticity and presence. With a Ph.D, in Clinical and School Psychology, and more than 20 years of experience, I have a deep appreciation for the journeys we take in life-where we have been, where we are now, and where we want to go. Although I see adults of all ages, I specialize in assisting college age/young adults to navigate the many challenges these years of identity development can bring.
(860) 864-5939 View (860) 864-5939
Photo of Adam Pritchard, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adam Pritchard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Each of us faces a whole host of challenges in our lives. Whether these are challenges from our past that are still affecting us today or situations that are ongoing. Or maybe we’re having a tough time with life in general, and we’re not sure why that is, where it’s coming from, or even how to begin to process what we’re struggling with.
Each of us faces a whole host of challenges in our lives. Whether these are challenges from our past that are still affecting us today or situations that are ongoing. Or maybe we’re having a tough time with life in general, and we’re not sure why that is, where it’s coming from, or even how to begin to process what we’re struggling with.
(412) 844-5707 View (412) 844-5707
Photo of Elif Dogru, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elif Dogru
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Hi! My name is Elif, and I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist at StoneBridge Counseling. I completed my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. As a Mental Health Counselor, my aim is to create an environment filled with support and safety for self-exploration and growth toward healing and change. I believe that every individual is an expert of themselves. This is why I focus on working together in a more person-centered approach. From infancy to adulthood, I am here to form a safe therapeutic space for everyone knocking on my door.
Hi! My name is Elif, and I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist at StoneBridge Counseling. I completed my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. As a Mental Health Counselor, my aim is to create an environment filled with support and safety for self-exploration and growth toward healing and change. I believe that every individual is an expert of themselves. This is why I focus on working together in a more person-centered approach. From infancy to adulthood, I am here to form a safe therapeutic space for everyone knocking on my door.
(484) 789-8149 View (484) 789-8149
Photo of Ann B Spooner, MSS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann B Spooner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
As a therapist specializing in empowering survivors of sexual abuse, navigating depression and anxiety, assisting with life transitions, and supporting blended families, I create a safe space for clients to reclaim their agency. I use trauma-informed techniques, CBT, mindfulness, and emotion-focused therapy to foster resilience. With open communication and boundaries, I help blended families thrive. Faith-based counseling is available upon request. I'm committed to holistic care, guiding clients with compassion on their journey to healing and transformation
As a therapist specializing in empowering survivors of sexual abuse, navigating depression and anxiety, assisting with life transitions, and supporting blended families, I create a safe space for clients to reclaim their agency. I use trauma-informed techniques, CBT, mindfulness, and emotion-focused therapy to foster resilience. With open communication and boundaries, I help blended families thrive. Faith-based counseling is available upon request. I'm committed to holistic care, guiding clients with compassion on their journey to healing and transformation
(215) 883-4884 View (215) 883-4884
1

See more therapy options for 19019

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.