Therapists in Washington, DC
Karin S Tovar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also use a lot of somatic techniques, brainspotting, EMDR, and mindfulness meditation to better access the connection between mind and body, resulting in improved mental and physical well-being.
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also use a lot of somatic techniques, brainspotting, EMDR, and mindfulness meditation to better access the connection between mind and body, resulting in improved mental and physical well-being.
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I have some training in EMDR and Family Constellations.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
I have some training in EMDR and Family Constellations.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
Tara Zandi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011 (Online Only)
I will be able to provide: CBT, DBT, EMDR (for all ages), and PCIT (for ages 2-7).
I hold licensure as an independent clinical social worker and possess dual Master's degrees-an MA in clinical psychology and an MSW in clinical social work. Over the course of my clinical career, I have gained experience in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, hospitals, foster care, and schools, offering therapeutic assistance to a diverse range of individuals. Presently, I provide therapy to clients spanning various ages and backgrounds. My expertise includes working with individuals dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, anger, and other emotional health challenges.
I will be able to provide: CBT, DBT, EMDR (for all ages), and PCIT (for ages 2-7).
I hold licensure as an independent clinical social worker and possess dual Master's degrees-an MA in clinical psychology and an MSW in clinical social work. Over the course of my clinical career, I have gained experience in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, hospitals, foster care, and schools, offering therapeutic assistance to a diverse range of individuals. Presently, I provide therapy to clients spanning various ages and backgrounds. My expertise includes working with individuals dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, anger, and other emotional health challenges.
Mayra Figueroa-Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010 (Online Only)
Are you so exhausted? Feel emotionally drain? Numb? Depression? Anxious? Insomnia? Lost your YOU, in this process of HELPING others? Everyone gets the best of you but; YOU? Are you simply tired, only to get up and show up for others the next day, with a coke and smile? Yes? You don't have to do "this" alone! I am here! Schedule an appointment today, I look forward to meeting you. I specialized in working creating a holding space for us, helpers/healers/givers. I use Somatic practices, Mindfulness, CBT, Meditations and EMDR as tools to move away from these symptoms and begin the HEALING process. See you soon!
Are you so exhausted? Feel emotionally drain? Numb? Depression? Anxious? Insomnia? Lost your YOU, in this process of HELPING others? Everyone gets the best of you but; YOU? Are you simply tired, only to get up and show up for others the next day, with a coke and smile? Yes? You don't have to do "this" alone! I am here! Schedule an appointment today, I look forward to meeting you. I specialized in working creating a holding space for us, helpers/healers/givers. I use Somatic practices, Mindfulness, CBT, Meditations and EMDR as tools to move away from these symptoms and begin the HEALING process. See you soon!
I have been on the EMDR teaching faculty for 14 years, was the spokesperson for NIMH's Anxiety Disorders Education and Depression (DART) Programs, served as a consultant to PBS special "The Brain", provide psychological information to national news programs, newspapers, and magazines.
Do you want a better life with more choices and success- every day? I am honored to work with clients to help them address life issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical illness & pain, relationship and general life issues to better live the life they chose. I work with you in a collaborative and interactive way. We work to help you understand what has happened in your life, but more importantly, how to address and create the meaningful changes, the life success, and happiness, that is most important to you to have your best life.
I have been on the EMDR teaching faculty for 14 years, was the spokesperson for NIMH's Anxiety Disorders Education and Depression (DART) Programs, served as a consultant to PBS special "The Brain", provide psychological information to national news programs, newspapers, and magazines.
Do you want a better life with more choices and success- every day? I am honored to work with clients to help them address life issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical illness & pain, relationship and general life issues to better live the life they chose. I work with you in a collaborative and interactive way. We work to help you understand what has happened in your life, but more importantly, how to address and create the meaningful changes, the life success, and happiness, that is most important to you to have your best life.
Freedom's Flow Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
I guide clients with healing the mind/body connection, with therapy modalities like EMDR and Brainspotting.
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC-Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
I guide clients with healing the mind/body connection, with therapy modalities like EMDR and Brainspotting.
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC-Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
Phalande Jean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LGPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
My offerings include EMDR, body-based somatics, talk therapy, and expressive therapy.
I see you. If you've made it here, you are searching for something and I am passionate about joining you at the core of the pain, in the middle of the mess, and within the distress. I aim to be a witness and to co-create a space where we can tap into your capacity to resist, rejoice, rest, and recharge.
My offerings include EMDR, body-based somatics, talk therapy, and expressive therapy.
I see you. If you've made it here, you are searching for something and I am passionate about joining you at the core of the pain, in the middle of the mess, and within the distress. I aim to be a witness and to co-create a space where we can tap into your capacity to resist, rejoice, rest, and recharge.
Angela Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
Hi! Are you ready to ease the pressure from high standards, gain clarity, and live a more joyful life? You are in the right place. I will teach you tools to reduce stress, regulate your nervous system, tap into your authentic self, resolve long-standing stuck patterns, and create clear goals for your future. I use an integrative approach and specialize in EMDR therapy. I can help you rewrite the narrative you've been living so you can hone in on your intuition, feel more confident, and have more clarity so you can reach the goals that you set for yourself! EMDR Intensives and short-term therapy are now available!
Hi! Are you ready to ease the pressure from high standards, gain clarity, and live a more joyful life? You are in the right place. I will teach you tools to reduce stress, regulate your nervous system, tap into your authentic self, resolve long-standing stuck patterns, and create clear goals for your future. I use an integrative approach and specialize in EMDR therapy. I can help you rewrite the narrative you've been living so you can hone in on your intuition, feel more confident, and have more clarity so you can reach the goals that you set for yourself! EMDR Intensives and short-term therapy are now available!
I also specialize in mind-body approaches, like EMDR, meditation, and yoga, which help you reconnect with your body and the present to overcome stress or trauma.
Do you feel “stuck” in repeating patterns? Do you long for a change but can’t seem to make it happen? Or have you recently made a big transition and need help adjusting? Has trauma – either a one-time life event, or an ongoing stressful situation – stopped you from living fully? I help individuals and couples identify goals and the barriers to reaching them. With a collaborative and supportive approach you will find purpose, confidence, and belonging. My approach emphasizes self- determination and collaboration, drawing on evidence-based talk therapies and mind-body approaches like EMDR, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
I also specialize in mind-body approaches, like EMDR, meditation, and yoga, which help you reconnect with your body and the present to overcome stress or trauma.
Do you feel “stuck” in repeating patterns? Do you long for a change but can’t seem to make it happen? Or have you recently made a big transition and need help adjusting? Has trauma – either a one-time life event, or an ongoing stressful situation – stopped you from living fully? I help individuals and couples identify goals and the barriers to reaching them. With a collaborative and supportive approach you will find purpose, confidence, and belonging. My approach emphasizes self- determination and collaboration, drawing on evidence-based talk therapies and mind-body approaches like EMDR, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
EMDR of Washington, DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
EMDR is a well-researched method of psychotherapy which utilizes the innate growth and healing mechanisms of the human nervous system.
I am co-director with my wife, Deany Laliotis, of the EMDR therapy training program, The Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy, Inc. We have trained many of the EMDR therapists listed on the Psychology Today DC/MD/VA website as well as therapists around the world. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and difficulties related to normal life-cycle challenges. I have been practicing EMDR since it's introduction 30 years ago and I am offering services to clients who might benefit from brief EMDR therapy.
EMDR is a well-researched method of psychotherapy which utilizes the innate growth and healing mechanisms of the human nervous system.
I am co-director with my wife, Deany Laliotis, of the EMDR therapy training program, The Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy, Inc. We have trained many of the EMDR therapists listed on the Psychology Today DC/MD/VA website as well as therapists around the world. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and difficulties related to normal life-cycle challenges. I have been practicing EMDR since it's introduction 30 years ago and I am offering services to clients who might benefit from brief EMDR therapy.
Victoria Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015 (Online Only)
My practice offers specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Attachment Therapy, Mindset Coaching, with expertise in trauma, relationships, and empowerment.
The journey to wholeness and intimacy is not always an easy path but it is one that can rebuild confidence, repair trust and intimacy, and create transformational growth. Having someone who is compassionate, affirming, and experienced in healing, restoration, and transformation can lead to healing, deeper intimacy, and authentic self and relationships.
My practice offers specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Attachment Therapy, Mindset Coaching, with expertise in trauma, relationships, and empowerment.
The journey to wholeness and intimacy is not always an easy path but it is one that can rebuild confidence, repair trust and intimacy, and create transformational growth. Having someone who is compassionate, affirming, and experienced in healing, restoration, and transformation can lead to healing, deeper intimacy, and authentic self and relationships.
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She can apply techniques that tap into the healing wisdom of your body, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Brainspotting.
Your body is designed to heal – it is encoded in the cells of your being. If you’re like many individuals, you’ve invested time and effort in therapy that isn’t working. You’ve tried traditional talk therapy, explored various online resources, and even looked into alternative treatments. But none of it worked, and you’re trying to figure out why. In Teayra’s care, you’ll discover a safe and supportive space where you can finally unpack it all and decide what healing looks like for you.
She can apply techniques that tap into the healing wisdom of your body, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Brainspotting.
Your body is designed to heal – it is encoded in the cells of your being. If you’re like many individuals, you’ve invested time and effort in therapy that isn’t working. You’ve tried traditional talk therapy, explored various online resources, and even looked into alternative treatments. But none of it worked, and you’re trying to figure out why. In Teayra’s care, you’ll discover a safe and supportive space where you can finally unpack it all and decide what healing looks like for you.
Angela Sarafin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
I use EMDR, family systems, and ego-state therapy methods to help you settle unresolved issues from the past, calm your inner turmoil, and focus on building positive and satisfying relationships with others.
Do you keep asking yourself "When is this going to get better?" or "Why can't I figure this out?" or "Why does this keep happening?" Your past experiences might be causing you to be fearful or angry or defensive and negative feelings often get us stuck in unhelpful repetitive patterns. When those feelings and patterns are interrupting your productivity at work or are causing communication or connection problems with friends, family members, and romantic partners, counseling can help.
I use EMDR, family systems, and ego-state therapy methods to help you settle unresolved issues from the past, calm your inner turmoil, and focus on building positive and satisfying relationships with others.
Do you keep asking yourself "When is this going to get better?" or "Why can't I figure this out?" or "Why does this keep happening?" Your past experiences might be causing you to be fearful or angry or defensive and negative feelings often get us stuck in unhelpful repetitive patterns. When those feelings and patterns are interrupting your productivity at work or are causing communication or connection problems with friends, family members, and romantic partners, counseling can help.
I am the creator of a powerful Quantum Healing Method that is more effective than talk therapy! I specialize in somatic/ mind-body techniques like EMDR, Hypnotherapy and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Here we go again, another day of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, tense in your stomach, aches & pains in your body with intrusive, racing thoughts that feel like they have hijacked your brain. Are you frustrated that you can't seem to reach your goals and dreams in career or relationships despite your best efforts & intentions, like something is blocking you? Feel like you don't fit in, "too sensitive or overly emotional"? Do you absorb the energy around you? Do you want to help others with their pain, yet you neglect your own problems? You are at war with an invisible enemy, tired of watching life go by while you are missing out.
I am the creator of a powerful Quantum Healing Method that is more effective than talk therapy! I specialize in somatic/ mind-body techniques like EMDR, Hypnotherapy and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Here we go again, another day of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, tense in your stomach, aches & pains in your body with intrusive, racing thoughts that feel like they have hijacked your brain. Are you frustrated that you can't seem to reach your goals and dreams in career or relationships despite your best efforts & intentions, like something is blocking you? Feel like you don't fit in, "too sensitive or overly emotional"? Do you absorb the energy around you? Do you want to help others with their pain, yet you neglect your own problems? You are at war with an invisible enemy, tired of watching life go by while you are missing out.
Our trained EMDR therapists utilize detailed protocols and procedures to help clients active their natural healing processes, and heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN FEELING: Worried about future; Stressed about work; Discouraged and not motivated for life; Feeling I am not good enough; Feeling lost, loneliness, hopeless, and confused...WE WILL HELP YOU FEEL: Fulfilled life with purpose and joy; Ready for whatever life obstacles are ahead of you; Connected with the people who you are close to! You have been struggling for some time with negative thoughts and feelings that just won't seem to go away. You are in the right place. We can help! Mindology is a professional and licensed private counseling practice that is specialized in treatment for Trauma, Substance Abuse and other mental/behavioral disorders, in order to empower and help our clients to overcome day-to-day life challenges; achieve personal goals and improve the qualities of life.
Our trained EMDR therapists utilize detailed protocols and procedures to help clients active their natural healing processes, and heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN FEELING: Worried about future; Stressed about work; Discouraged and not motivated for life; Feeling I am not good enough; Feeling lost, loneliness, hopeless, and confused...WE WILL HELP YOU FEEL: Fulfilled life with purpose and joy; Ready for whatever life obstacles are ahead of you; Connected with the people who you are close to! You have been struggling for some time with negative thoughts and feelings that just won't seem to go away. You are in the right place. We can help! Mindology is a professional and licensed private counseling practice that is specialized in treatment for Trauma, Substance Abuse and other mental/behavioral disorders, in order to empower and help our clients to overcome day-to-day life challenges; achieve personal goals and improve the qualities of life.
Selah Wellness & Therapeutic Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, ACSW, CAMS-II, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001 (Online Only)
We utilize various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) to assist clients in addressing unresolved concerns and areas of their life that matters most.
Now Accepting New Clients! - - - Are you a clinician or other professional having a difficult time figuring out how to manage your life? Are you experiencing stress? Are you having difficulty in your relationships at home or in the workplace? We all experience challenges in our lives that can lead to us feeling helpless, anxious, angry, stuck or even taken over by our emotions. We're here to help you revive your life and achieve change.
We utilize various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) to assist clients in addressing unresolved concerns and areas of their life that matters most.
Now Accepting New Clients! - - - Are you a clinician or other professional having a difficult time figuring out how to manage your life? Are you experiencing stress? Are you having difficulty in your relationships at home or in the workplace? We all experience challenges in our lives that can lead to us feeling helpless, anxious, angry, stuck or even taken over by our emotions. We're here to help you revive your life and achieve change.
I utilize EMDR as well as talk therapy to help you reach your goals.
Behavioral and cognitive patterns can have a significant impact on our lives, relationships, and sense of self-worth. If you are taking a closer, deeper look at your own patterns, you may find it helpful to do so in a safe, collaborative environment. I would love to come alongside you to help you identify and disrupt negative patterns and develop improved skills to grow and handle challenges. My specialities include: anxiety, trauma, grief, self esteem issues, life transitions, communication, and setting boundaries.
I utilize EMDR as well as talk therapy to help you reach your goals.
Behavioral and cognitive patterns can have a significant impact on our lives, relationships, and sense of self-worth. If you are taking a closer, deeper look at your own patterns, you may find it helpful to do so in a safe, collaborative environment. I would love to come alongside you to help you identify and disrupt negative patterns and develop improved skills to grow and handle challenges. My specialities include: anxiety, trauma, grief, self esteem issues, life transitions, communication, and setting boundaries.
Amplify Counseling & Coaching LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20500
At our therapy practice, I offer therapies, that support mind and body connection such as CBT, EMDR, and Interpersonal Neurobiology.
Are you struggling with negative self-talk, low self-esteem, or a lack of self-love? Our self-love therapy can help you overcome these challenges and develop a more positive and compassionate relationship with yourself. Our therapists specialize in helping clients develop self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-love to overcome negative self-talk, and past traumas, and develop a more positive outlook on life. Our self-love therapy is designed to help you develop a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and to identify and challenge negative self-beliefs that are holding you back.
At our therapy practice, I offer therapies, that support mind and body connection such as CBT, EMDR, and Interpersonal Neurobiology.
Are you struggling with negative self-talk, low self-esteem, or a lack of self-love? Our self-love therapy can help you overcome these challenges and develop a more positive and compassionate relationship with yourself. Our therapists specialize in helping clients develop self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-love to overcome negative self-talk, and past traumas, and develop a more positive outlook on life. Our self-love therapy is designed to help you develop a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and to identify and challenge negative self-beliefs that are holding you back.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
Giana M. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCADAS, SAP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
EMDR, trauma focused, trained clinician.
Giana M. Davis is a graduate from Columbia University School of Social Work, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., and a Certified Health Education Specialist. With over 10 years in the field of public health, fitness, and social work, Ms. Davis works with young children, adolescents, young and older adults dealing with a variety of health and mental health concerns. Ms. Davis integrates culturally sensitive holistic evidence-based modalities in daily work to address the concerns of her clients, while supporting her clients to achieve improved quality of life and healing.
EMDR, trauma focused, trained clinician.
Giana M. Davis is a graduate from Columbia University School of Social Work, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., and a Certified Health Education Specialist. With over 10 years in the field of public health, fitness, and social work, Ms. Davis works with young children, adolescents, young and older adults dealing with a variety of health and mental health concerns. Ms. Davis integrates culturally sensitive holistic evidence-based modalities in daily work to address the concerns of her clients, while supporting her clients to achieve improved quality of life and healing.
See more therapy options for Washington
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.