Photo of Cara Depp Dehghan, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Cara Depp Dehghan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
These include EMDR, which is a science-backed treatment to help lessen the impact of past traumatic events.
My passion is in working together with my clients to help them overcome anxiety and panic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship problems, grief and loss, problems with motivation, medically unexplained symptoms, behavior issues, and inattention. I enjoy helping people develop self-compassion and live more authentically so they can go from surviving to thriving. I integrate evidence-based techniques into treatment that I tailor to meet the unique needs of each individual with whom I work. I am able to provide services remotely to clients physically located in Maryland, DC, and Virginia and in-person in DC.
These include EMDR, which is a science-backed treatment to help lessen the impact of past traumatic events.
My passion is in working together with my clients to help them overcome anxiety and panic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship problems, grief and loss, problems with motivation, medically unexplained symptoms, behavior issues, and inattention. I enjoy helping people develop self-compassion and live more authentically so they can go from surviving to thriving. I integrate evidence-based techniques into treatment that I tailor to meet the unique needs of each individual with whom I work. I am able to provide services remotely to clients physically located in Maryland, DC, and Virginia and in-person in DC.
(202) 750-3425 View (202) 750-3425
Photo of Freedom's Flow Pllc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Freedom's Flow Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
” I guide clients with storing these types of phrases in their brain’s memory banks with evidenced based techniques that heal the mind/body connection, 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 storing these types of phrases in their brain’s memory banks with evidenced based techniques that heal the mind/body connection, 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!
(202) 866-2115 View (202) 866-2115
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Washington, DC
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(202) 953-5174 View (202) 953-5174
Photo of The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
We use the best intervention for you including assessments, CBT, mindfulness, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Neurofeedback to help you.
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
We use the best intervention for you including assessments, CBT, mindfulness, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Neurofeedback to help you.
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
(202) 499-6780 View (202) 499-6780
Photo of Megan K Doherty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan K Doherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
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.
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.
(202) 952-2134 View (202) 952-2134
Photo of EMDR of Washington, DC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
EMDR of Washington, DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
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.
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.
(202) 670-8968 x2 View (202) 670-8968 x2
Photo of Hannah Braunstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Hannah Braunstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
I specialize in using EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic expertise to identify core issues rapidly and resolve past negative experiences and trauma.
Using the powerful tools of EMDR and Brainspotting to directly heal the nervous system and create new neural pathways in the brain, I will guide you from feeling stuck in old patterns to change with confidence and expansiveness. Together, we can free you from old traumas and habits to move past the past with renewed strength, real growth, and authenticity. It is possible to gain resilience and transform your life to live in the present moment and create meaningful relationships.
I specialize in using EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic expertise to identify core issues rapidly and resolve past negative experiences and trauma.
Using the powerful tools of EMDR and Brainspotting to directly heal the nervous system and create new neural pathways in the brain, I will guide you from feeling stuck in old patterns to change with confidence and expansiveness. Together, we can free you from old traumas and habits to move past the past with renewed strength, real growth, and authenticity. It is possible to gain resilience and transform your life to live in the present moment and create meaningful relationships.
(202) 559-4985 View (202) 559-4985
Photo of Michael Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Michael Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
(202) 925-8545 View (202) 925-8545
Photo of Sarah Goldman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sarah Goldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – a powerful, integrative psychotherapy approach – to tackle deeply rooted issues that have remained stuck, often for many years.
Many of us find ourselves struggling with persistent feelings, patterns, and reactions that hold us back. Perhaps you’ve tried psychotherapy before, and you have a good understanding of your problems but they haven’t changed. Or perhaps you 'know' that you are capable, worthy, and appreciated by others, but at your core, you don't feel this way. I believe that much of the time, symptoms develop from negative life experiences that have not been fully resolved.
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – a powerful, integrative psychotherapy approach – to tackle deeply rooted issues that have remained stuck, often for many years.
Many of us find ourselves struggling with persistent feelings, patterns, and reactions that hold us back. Perhaps you’ve tried psychotherapy before, and you have a good understanding of your problems but they haven’t changed. Or perhaps you 'know' that you are capable, worthy, and appreciated by others, but at your core, you don't feel this way. I believe that much of the time, symptoms develop from negative life experiences that have not been fully resolved.
(571) 222-6624 View (571) 222-6624
Photo of Jessica Henry, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jessica Henry
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT) to adolescents and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning. I am also passionate about men's health and helping men learn how to express and cope with mental health.
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT) to adolescents and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning. I am also passionate about men's health and helping men learn how to express and cope with mental health.
(202) 952-8963 View (202) 952-8963
Photo of Lisa Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lisa Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
I work from a psychodynamic base and integrate a range of approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral strategies, EMDR and sand therapy to address the client's specific needs and preferences.
Knowing when to reach out for help is one of the most important things in life - I'm glad you're here. I work with clients to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and travel phobias; to navigate grief, life transitions, and relationship issues; and to establish a healthy sense of self that doesn't change with other people's opinions. I also work with individuals who aren't sure at first what they want to work on but have a vague sense that they aren't as happy as they want to be. Whatever the concern, we explore it in a safe and relaxed atmosphere and agree together on a plan to move forward.
I work from a psychodynamic base and integrate a range of approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral strategies, EMDR and sand therapy to address the client's specific needs and preferences.
Knowing when to reach out for help is one of the most important things in life - I'm glad you're here. I work with clients to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and travel phobias; to navigate grief, life transitions, and relationship issues; and to establish a healthy sense of self that doesn't change with other people's opinions. I also work with individuals who aren't sure at first what they want to work on but have a vague sense that they aren't as happy as they want to be. Whatever the concern, we explore it in a safe and relaxed atmosphere and agree together on a plan to move forward.
(202) 931-0849 View (202) 931-0849
Photo of Margie Stohner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Margie Stohner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
When appropriate, I incorporate mind-body techniques, hypnosis and/or EMDR into treatment.
With over 50 years of psychotherapy experience, I specialize in anxiety management, relationship issues, depression, medical illness-related concerns and chronic insomnia.
When appropriate, I incorporate mind-body techniques, hypnosis and/or EMDR into treatment.
With over 50 years of psychotherapy experience, I specialize in anxiety management, relationship issues, depression, medical illness-related concerns and chronic insomnia.
(202) 656-4943 View (202) 656-4943
Photo of Carole Stovall, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carole Stovall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
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.
(202) 759-2293 View (202) 759-2293
Photo of Kara O'Leary, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Kara O'Leary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
I have a psychodynamic, relational orientation and practice empirically-supported treatments such as ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT-Insomnia, and EMDR.
When life becomes hard, painful, stressful, or traumatic, as it sometimes will, a person needs both new tools and new support. I specialize in helping people heal from the past and thrive in the present. I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples to reduce their suffering and find their resilience when they have been experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and health struggles.
I have a psychodynamic, relational orientation and practice empirically-supported treatments such as ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT-Insomnia, and EMDR.
When life becomes hard, painful, stressful, or traumatic, as it sometimes will, a person needs both new tools and new support. I specialize in helping people heal from the past and thrive in the present. I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples to reduce their suffering and find their resilience when they have been experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and health struggles.
(202) 915-8990 View (202) 915-8990
Photo of Restoration 1:99, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Restoration 1:99
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDBT, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Our therapist are trained in a variety of modalities such as EMDR, DBT, sensorimotor, and expressive therapies that will give you the tools so that you can experience life to its fullest.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
Our therapist are trained in a variety of modalities such as EMDR, DBT, sensorimotor, and expressive therapies that will give you the tools so that you can experience life to its fullest.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
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Photo of EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, EMDR-C, BSP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
(202) 804-9954 View (202) 804-9954
Photo of Emily Remillard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Emily Remillard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I often use EMDR to address these issues.
I believe that even in the darkest seasons, we contain within ourselves the seeds of healing, change and growth. However, we often need someone to walk alongside us to ask good questions, offer perspective, and cheer us on. I love listening to people’s stories in order to help them untangle the different threads and consider the impact their past is having on their emotions and behavior in the present.
I often use EMDR to address these issues.
I believe that even in the darkest seasons, we contain within ourselves the seeds of healing, change and growth. However, we often need someone to walk alongside us to ask good questions, offer perspective, and cheer us on. I love listening to people’s stories in order to help them untangle the different threads and consider the impact their past is having on their emotions and behavior in the present.
(202) 932-8192 View (202) 932-8192
Photo of Amy Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Amy Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
I take an integrative approach to therapy; I am trained in IFS and EMDR, and incorporate skills from other frameworks to compliment these modalities.
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
I take an integrative approach to therapy; I am trained in IFS and EMDR, and incorporate skills from other frameworks to compliment these modalities.
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
(410) 612-3808 View (410) 612-3808
Photo of Elizabeth Horrigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Elizabeth Horrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist trained in different modalities, including EMDR, Mindfulness, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & other Strength Based Modalities.
Our mind supports us in so many ways. But from time to time our mind needs support just like the rest of our body. Events in our life may impact our mind. You might have just gotten some challenging health news, recently lost a loved one, or sometimes it’s something from your past that keeps popping up. Or it could be the day to day of witnessing sadness in the news. Regardless of the reason, your mind deserves the same care as the rest of your body. My specialties include trauma, grief, anxiety, and health conditions (including fertility journeys and perinatal care).
I am a trauma informed therapist trained in different modalities, including EMDR, Mindfulness, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & other Strength Based Modalities.
Our mind supports us in so many ways. But from time to time our mind needs support just like the rest of our body. Events in our life may impact our mind. You might have just gotten some challenging health news, recently lost a loved one, or sometimes it’s something from your past that keeps popping up. Or it could be the day to day of witnessing sadness in the news. Regardless of the reason, your mind deserves the same care as the rest of your body. My specialties include trauma, grief, anxiety, and health conditions (including fertility journeys and perinatal care).
(571) 616-9593 View (571) 616-9593
Photo of Dr. Jessica Klement, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Jessica Klement
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I integrate other approaches depending on clients’ needs, including EMDR and CBT.
I work alongside adults and teens, treating anxiety, chronic stress, sleep problems, history of trauma, and/or co-occurring medical conditions. Most of us don’t recognize the ways in which we might be holding ourselves back, whether it be due to anxiety, our relationship with food, or beliefs that we have taken on from others. I’ve seen firsthand the transformation that is possible when you get out of your own way.
I integrate other approaches depending on clients’ needs, including EMDR and CBT.
I work alongside adults and teens, treating anxiety, chronic stress, sleep problems, history of trauma, and/or co-occurring medical conditions. Most of us don’t recognize the ways in which we might be holding ourselves back, whether it be due to anxiety, our relationship with food, or beliefs that we have taken on from others. I’ve seen firsthand the transformation that is possible when you get out of your own way.
(214) 833-9383 View (214) 833-9383
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.