EMDR Therapists in 63011

Photo of Sharon Moehle, Psychologist in 63011, MO
Sharon Moehle
Psychologist, EdS, BCIA
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
Sharon Moehle provides conventional counseling services and she offers additional therapies such as Biofeedback (several Biofeedback services are offered including Neurotherapy/EEG Biofeedback) and EMDR. Some clients request these newer counseling techniques because they can shorten treatment time. Traditional therapy successfully resolves many issues, yet in cases such as: -issues not responding well to talk therapy alone -clients not responding well to medication -individuals preferring to be medication free...then Sharon provides additional therapies to better address client concerns and better meet individual needs. Sharon has been providing Biofeedback services for 18 years and has been practicing EMDR for 13 years.
Sharon Moehle provides conventional counseling services and she offers additional therapies such as Biofeedback (several Biofeedback services are offered including Neurotherapy/EEG Biofeedback) and EMDR. Some clients request these newer counseling techniques because they can shorten treatment time. Traditional therapy successfully resolves many issues, yet in cases such as: -issues not responding well to talk therapy alone -clients not responding well to medication -individuals preferring to be medication free...then Sharon provides additional therapies to better address client concerns and better meet individual needs. Sharon has been providing Biofeedback services for 18 years and has been practicing EMDR for 13 years.
(314) 561-7075 View (314) 561-7075
Photo of Angela Sastry, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Angela Sastry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, RYT
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
I offer a nervous system-centered approach that combines neuroscience, EMDR, somatic practices, parts work, attachment theory, and ego state work to help you get to the root issues holding you back and keeping you from overcoming difficult life experiences and challenging situations.
Are you looking to experience more joy and peace in your life while increasing your resilience and balance? Do you want to improve your relationships? I believe encouragement and acceptance are essential. Therefore, I utilize a holistic person-centered approach focused on you as a whole person. My goal as a therapist is to help you attain emotional well-being, enhance your resilience, and unlock your full potential. By adopting a nervous system approach that focuses on your entire being, body, and mind, you can tap into your innate capacity for healing, resulting in profound personal growth.
I offer a nervous system-centered approach that combines neuroscience, EMDR, somatic practices, parts work, attachment theory, and ego state work to help you get to the root issues holding you back and keeping you from overcoming difficult life experiences and challenging situations.
Are you looking to experience more joy and peace in your life while increasing your resilience and balance? Do you want to improve your relationships? I believe encouragement and acceptance are essential. Therefore, I utilize a holistic person-centered approach focused on you as a whole person. My goal as a therapist is to help you attain emotional well-being, enhance your resilience, and unlock your full potential. By adopting a nervous system approach that focuses on your entire being, body, and mind, you can tap into your innate capacity for healing, resulting in profound personal growth.
(314) 254-2574 View (314) 254-2574
Photo of Responding First Counseling EMDR Brainspotting, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Responding First Counseling EMDR Brainspotting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CTP, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
We create a clearly intuitive situation using Brainspotting (BSP) and/or EMDR.
I’m glad you’re here! I work in trauma and understand narcissist abuse. Let's begin there, one step at a time. Leave the uncertainty behind and go forward with confidence! It's time to INVEST in yourself! I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, so you're never alone in your process. You're looking for someone who will say it like it is and encourage you to get curious. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better!
We create a clearly intuitive situation using Brainspotting (BSP) and/or EMDR.
I’m glad you’re here! I work in trauma and understand narcissist abuse. Let's begin there, one step at a time. Leave the uncertainty behind and go forward with confidence! It's time to INVEST in yourself! I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, so you're never alone in your process. You're looking for someone who will say it like it is and encourage you to get curious. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better!
(314) 207-4172 View (314) 207-4172
Photo of Bob Bertolino, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Bob Bertolino
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC, CRC
Not Verified Not Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer clinical hypnosis, EMDR, and teletherapy, as needed.
We all face challenges. It's how we respond to those challenges that matters. My passion is to help clients is live their lives to the fullest. I have 30+ years of experience as a therapist with individuals, couples, and families in both nonprofit and private practice sectors. My background as a consultant and trainer includes work with residential facilities, hospitals, schools, the Department of Defense, and organizations throughout north America and 11 countries. I have authored/coauthored 15 books and am a Professor of Rehabilitation Counseling at Maryville University and Sr. Clinical Advisor at Youth In Need, Inc.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer clinical hypnosis, EMDR, and teletherapy, as needed.
We all face challenges. It's how we respond to those challenges that matters. My passion is to help clients is live their lives to the fullest. I have 30+ years of experience as a therapist with individuals, couples, and families in both nonprofit and private practice sectors. My background as a consultant and trainer includes work with residential facilities, hospitals, schools, the Department of Defense, and organizations throughout north America and 11 countries. I have authored/coauthored 15 books and am a Professor of Rehabilitation Counseling at Maryville University and Sr. Clinical Advisor at Youth In Need, Inc.
(636) 238-5995 View (636) 238-5995
Photo of Jamie Bodily, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Jamie Bodily
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
If you have experienced pregnancy or birth trauma, I utilize EMDR and IFS therapies to help process the trauma and build self-compassion.
I understand the rollercoaster of emotions that come with infertility, pregnancy, and early parenthood. Whether you are struggling to conceive, anxious about pregnancy changes, or feeling overwhelmed as a new parent, I can help. With over 20 years of experience working with expectant and new families, I provide the support, tools and information you need to navigate this journey. My goal is to help you feel empowered, connected and equipped with realistic parenting strategies.
If you have experienced pregnancy or birth trauma, I utilize EMDR and IFS therapies to help process the trauma and build self-compassion.
I understand the rollercoaster of emotions that come with infertility, pregnancy, and early parenthood. Whether you are struggling to conceive, anxious about pregnancy changes, or feeling overwhelmed as a new parent, I can help. With over 20 years of experience working with expectant and new families, I provide the support, tools and information you need to navigate this journey. My goal is to help you feel empowered, connected and equipped with realistic parenting strategies.
(636) 782-3339 View (636) 782-3339
Photo of Kimela Kluthe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 63011, MO
Kimela Kluthe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I am certified in EMDR & love it because it helps clients finally shake loose self-limiting negative beliefs that keep them stuck (like ‘I’m not good enough’ and ‘nobody can be trusted’).
Life comes at you fast, and whatever you didn’t fix in 2023 will continue to hold you back in 2024! It’s time to take action. Stop carrying around the fear, sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, etc, that has been holding you back. Let’s face those issues head-on … I’ll help.
I am certified in EMDR & love it because it helps clients finally shake loose self-limiting negative beliefs that keep them stuck (like ‘I’m not good enough’ and ‘nobody can be trusted’).
Life comes at you fast, and whatever you didn’t fix in 2023 will continue to hold you back in 2024! It’s time to take action. Stop carrying around the fear, sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, etc, that has been holding you back. Let’s face those issues head-on … I’ll help.
(636) 336-1363 View (636) 336-1363
Photo of Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Our approaches are as varied as our clients but includes exploring the source of your problems, and implementing mindfulness, CBT, & EMDR based strategies.
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each speciality in the greater St. Louis area and we have openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals.
Our approaches are as varied as our clients but includes exploring the source of your problems, and implementing mindfulness, CBT, & EMDR based strategies.
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each speciality in the greater St. Louis area and we have openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals.
(314) 648-8192 View (314) 648-8192
Photo of Adrienne Skarin, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Adrienne Skarin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I use trauma-informed, evidence-based theoretical approaches including Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), and I am also well-versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
Do you ever feel like you’ve been fighting an internal battle with yourself? Do you notice that the more you try to force yourself to stop thinking and feeling a certain way, the more unmanageable it becomes? What if I told you that you could let go of this struggle and instead use that energy to focus on what is most important to you in your life? I know this may sound impossible, but in our work together I will teach you how to change your relationship with your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and self so you can get back to living the life you want and deserve.
I use trauma-informed, evidence-based theoretical approaches including Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), and I am also well-versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
Do you ever feel like you’ve been fighting an internal battle with yourself? Do you notice that the more you try to force yourself to stop thinking and feeling a certain way, the more unmanageable it becomes? What if I told you that you could let go of this struggle and instead use that energy to focus on what is most important to you in your life? I know this may sound impossible, but in our work together I will teach you how to change your relationship with your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and self so you can get back to living the life you want and deserve.
(314) 310-1273 View (314) 310-1273
Photo of Stephanie Robertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Stephanie Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, Owner, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
We all struggle at one time or another with grief, excessive stress, anxiety, depression and even addiction. As an LPC it is my privilege to walk with my clients through their healing process. You need a place you feel safe and not judged. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction but work with a range of issues in adolescents and adults. Additionally I am trained in EMDR therapy. I have a passion for helping people find their inner strengths in order to live a happier and healthier life. I am the owner of Inspire Change Counseling and living in AZ full time but have 4 therapists at the Chesterfield office to help.
We all struggle at one time or another with grief, excessive stress, anxiety, depression and even addiction. As an LPC it is my privilege to walk with my clients through their healing process. You need a place you feel safe and not judged. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction but work with a range of issues in adolescents and adults. Additionally I am trained in EMDR therapy. I have a passion for helping people find their inner strengths in order to live a happier and healthier life. I am the owner of Inspire Change Counseling and living in AZ full time but have 4 therapists at the Chesterfield office to help.
(636) 489-2072 View (636) 489-2072
Photo of Afshan Malik, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011  (Online Only)
 Our sessions may include the use of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Family Systems Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Positive Parenting, Narrative Therapy, and Life Coaching skills as needed.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
 Our sessions may include the use of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Family Systems Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Positive Parenting, Narrative Therapy, and Life Coaching skills as needed.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
(314) 310-7916 View (314) 310-7916
Photo of Denise Frisella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 63011, MO
Denise Frisella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
My approach is inherently holistic, integrating the transformative techniques of EMDR, embracing inner child work, and employing visualizations and manifestations.
I specialize in trauma therapy, navigating the complexities of grief and loss, managing depression and fostering general mental health wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection. ​
My approach is inherently holistic, integrating the transformative techniques of EMDR, embracing inner child work, and employing visualizations and manifestations.
I specialize in trauma therapy, navigating the complexities of grief and loss, managing depression and fostering general mental health wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection. ​
(636) 422-5684 View (636) 422-5684
Photo of Stephan Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Stephan Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
His primary intervention/treatment modality is EMDR & VIR (visual imaging replacement), integrating and utilizing this treatment modality with those experiencing past and present traumatic experiences and dissociation.
Stephan Baker earned an undergraduate from University of Louisville Ky in Psychology, Master's from Missouri Baptist University in Counseling and a doctorate in Healthcare and Leadership from Nebraska Methodist College in Omaha, NE. Stephan is currently completing a second doctorate and currently in a PsyD program at Cal Southern University. Stephan has a vast amount of military experience and was trained at Jefferson Barracks VA hospital working with combat veterans. Stephan works with all types of trauma related victims from any degree of severity.
His primary intervention/treatment modality is EMDR & VIR (visual imaging replacement), integrating and utilizing this treatment modality with those experiencing past and present traumatic experiences and dissociation.
Stephan Baker earned an undergraduate from University of Louisville Ky in Psychology, Master's from Missouri Baptist University in Counseling and a doctorate in Healthcare and Leadership from Nebraska Methodist College in Omaha, NE. Stephan is currently completing a second doctorate and currently in a PsyD program at Cal Southern University. Stephan has a vast amount of military experience and was trained at Jefferson Barracks VA hospital working with combat veterans. Stephan works with all types of trauma related victims from any degree of severity.
(314) 748-1821 View (314) 748-1821
Photo of Krista Mertz, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Krista Mertz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy which is a specialty therapy where one is completely conscious and in charge and is able through the strength of the mind to desensitize and reprocess memories that affect us in the present.
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in the treatment of adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress. My role is to help individuals find their voice to fight against shame through empowerment and self-exploration. I believe that counseling can be a safe place to begin this healing. Through an integrated approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, we are able to move towards our hopes and desires, no longer stuck.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy which is a specialty therapy where one is completely conscious and in charge and is able through the strength of the mind to desensitize and reprocess memories that affect us in the present.
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in the treatment of adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress. My role is to help individuals find their voice to fight against shame through empowerment and self-exploration. I believe that counseling can be a safe place to begin this healing. Through an integrated approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, we are able to move towards our hopes and desires, no longer stuck.
(314) 546-4082 View (314) 546-4082
Photo of Joanna Lucia Bissell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 63011, MO
Joanna Lucia Bissell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011  (Online Only)
Depending on our goals, I typically incorporate trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, and/or EMDR (although I find it less effective online).
I love working with teenagers, college students and young adults ages 13-30. I most enjoy working with anxiety disorders (including OCD, phobias, and panic disorder), the effects of trauma, as well as LGBTQ clients. The majority of my training as a therapist has been in treating trauma, OCD and generalized anxiety. I am also a native Spanish speaker and love working with immigrant clients. Feel free to email with any questions about my experience.
Depending on our goals, I typically incorporate trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, and/or EMDR (although I find it less effective online).
I love working with teenagers, college students and young adults ages 13-30. I most enjoy working with anxiety disorders (including OCD, phobias, and panic disorder), the effects of trauma, as well as LGBTQ clients. The majority of my training as a therapist has been in treating trauma, OCD and generalized anxiety. I am also a native Spanish speaker and love working with immigrant clients. Feel free to email with any questions about my experience.
(314) 690-9582 View (314) 690-9582
Photo of Elizabeth Stallone-Lowder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 63011, MO
Elizabeth Stallone-Lowder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Brené Brown), EMDR, visual art techniques, journaling with cognitive-behavioral filter.
Elizabeth Stallone-Lowder is considered an expert in the field of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the midwest region. She is highly trained in pregnancy and birth trauma and has been working with women as an LCSW for almost twenty years. You can find her recent publication "The Sweet Spot of Self-Care for Moms' on Amazon.
Brené Brown), EMDR, visual art techniques, journaling with cognitive-behavioral filter.
Elizabeth Stallone-Lowder is considered an expert in the field of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the midwest region. She is highly trained in pregnancy and birth trauma and has been working with women as an LCSW for almost twenty years. You can find her recent publication "The Sweet Spot of Self-Care for Moms' on Amazon.
(636) 435-7239 View (636) 435-7239
Photo of Counselor Kate LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Counselor Kate LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
I work with adults, teenagers and adolescents. My approach is eclectic and individualized to meet each client's needs. I am supportive but also believe that the issues that bring people to counseling are not easy ones,so I believe in challenging my clients when appropriate. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore the issues that are getting in the way of a more rewarding home life, career and even relationships. The goal is to help provide you with the insights and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors.
I work with adults, teenagers and adolescents. My approach is eclectic and individualized to meet each client's needs. I am supportive but also believe that the issues that bring people to counseling are not easy ones,so I believe in challenging my clients when appropriate. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore the issues that are getting in the way of a more rewarding home life, career and even relationships. The goal is to help provide you with the insights and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors.
(314) 888-5631 View (314) 888-5631
Photo of Deborah S Scallorn, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Deborah S Scallorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
Please consider allowing me to help guide you to live your life to the fullest, to live the life you have always wanted, to become all you are meant to be. Do you find that joy and happiness are missing from your life? Are negative beliefs holding you back from living the life you truly want? You do not have to live like this any longer. Let me help you discover your true potential and awaken to the life you have always imagined. A life with more happiness, joy and gratitude.
Please consider allowing me to help guide you to live your life to the fullest, to live the life you have always wanted, to become all you are meant to be. Do you find that joy and happiness are missing from your life? Are negative beliefs holding you back from living the life you truly want? You do not have to live like this any longer. Let me help you discover your true potential and awaken to the life you have always imagined. A life with more happiness, joy and gratitude.
(636) 779-3820 View (636) 779-3820
Photo of Blair Mayher, Pre-Licensed Professional in 63011, MO
Blair Mayher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Perhaps you’re feeling lost, stuck, or out of ideas. Maybe you’re struggling spiritually, in a relationship, or are navigating life with anxiety or depression. Maybe you need a shift in perspective, or help coping with your experience of life. No matter what you’re going through, you’re not alone. You deserve to feel accepted and supported.
Perhaps you’re feeling lost, stuck, or out of ideas. Maybe you’re struggling spiritually, in a relationship, or are navigating life with anxiety or depression. Maybe you need a shift in perspective, or help coping with your experience of life. No matter what you’re going through, you’re not alone. You deserve to feel accepted and supported.
(314) 947-3803 View (314) 947-3803
Photo of Susan Robson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 63011, MO
Susan Robson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
All of my work is based on a foundation of respect for individual and family strengths and abilities. I provide a comfortable place for folks to identify and explore issues that may be getting in the way of happy family relationships. Everyone has unique skills that they often don't recognize. Together we identify them and then fill in gaps with added skills. I have a special interest in supporting kids who have challenges that affect their behavior and their social interactions. I also assist children and families who've experienced loss through death, divorce or transition.
All of my work is based on a foundation of respect for individual and family strengths and abilities. I provide a comfortable place for folks to identify and explore issues that may be getting in the way of happy family relationships. Everyone has unique skills that they often don't recognize. Together we identify them and then fill in gaps with added skills. I have a special interest in supporting kids who have challenges that affect their behavior and their social interactions. I also assist children and families who've experienced loss through death, divorce or transition.
(636) 336-1335 View (636) 336-1335
Photo of Vicki Simmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in 63011, MO
Vicki Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR, CCDVC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Manchester, MO 63011
Specializing in stress and anxiety which may stem from childhood trauma, current situations, loss and grieving, as well as unidentified issues which may be problematic and dysfunctional.
Specializing in stress and anxiety which may stem from childhood trauma, current situations, loss and grieving, as well as unidentified issues which may be problematic and dysfunctional.
(314) 323-3373 View (314) 323-3373
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.