EMDR Therapists in Bonita Springs, FL

Photo of Tatjana Reyes Jobsky, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tatjana Reyes Jobsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
I am EMDR trained and utilize this approach to treat anxiety, panic attacks, depression, stress, phobias, sleep problems, complicated grief, pain relief, self - esteem and performance anxiety.
Are you overwhelmed and don't know how you got to this point or how to get back? Stuck in past behaviors and patterns? Are you struggling with a relationship or experiencing difficulties with parenting? I am here to assist you in identifying and implementing desired changes.
I am EMDR trained and utilize this approach to treat anxiety, panic attacks, depression, stress, phobias, sleep problems, complicated grief, pain relief, self - esteem and performance anxiety.
Are you overwhelmed and don't know how you got to this point or how to get back? Stuck in past behaviors and patterns? Are you struggling with a relationship or experiencing difficulties with parenting? I am here to assist you in identifying and implementing desired changes.
(239) 558-1197 View (239) 558-1197
Photo of Avery May, LMHC, Counselor
Avery May
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
My name is Avery May and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I am most experienced working with individuals struggling with symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, family conflict and trauma. I primarily work with young adults and adolescents and implement solution-focused, CBT, DBT and EMDR techniques in my counseling sessions. I recall my own experience going through therapy as an adolescent and how awkward it felt to be expected to reveal all of my feelings to a “stranger”. I decided to become a therapist to help others feel safe in a vulnerable setting and comfortable sharing private aspects of
My name is Avery May and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I am most experienced working with individuals struggling with symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, family conflict and trauma. I primarily work with young adults and adolescents and implement solution-focused, CBT, DBT and EMDR techniques in my counseling sessions. I recall my own experience going through therapy as an adolescent and how awkward it felt to be expected to reveal all of my feelings to a “stranger”. I decided to become a therapist to help others feel safe in a vulnerable setting and comfortable sharing private aspects of
(904) 595-8177 View (904) 595-8177
Photo of Andrea Ramos, PMH, RN, NLP, EMDR, MHFA
Andrea Ramos
PMH, RN, NLP, EMDR, MHFA
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
My unique approach combines the precision of EMDR, the transformative power of NLP, and a wealth of experience in trauma nursing, first responder coaching, certified trauma-informed care, and crisis intervention. A client-centered focus demonstrates my commitment to guiding individuals toward lasting healing and resilience. Specializing in working with first responder families, I acknowledge the unique stressors and dynamics these families face.
My unique approach combines the precision of EMDR, the transformative power of NLP, and a wealth of experience in trauma nursing, first responder coaching, certified trauma-informed care, and crisis intervention. A client-centered focus demonstrates my commitment to guiding individuals toward lasting healing and resilience. Specializing in working with first responder families, I acknowledge the unique stressors and dynamics these families face.
(239) 206-8588 View (239) 206-8588
Photo of Natalia German, IMH2370
Natalia German
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, IMH2370
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Natalia is fully trained in EMDR and incorporates several therapeutic techniques in her sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Insight Oriented, person-centered, Trauma-Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy.
Natalia German is a Clinical Mental Health Registered Intern with the state of Florida, working towards her Clinical Licensure. Natalia earned her bachelor’s degree from Capella University. Recently, she completed her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Natalia has previous experience working with children in the school setting in Collier County, where she was a student intern. Natalia has experience being a victim’s advocate/counselor with Project HELP since May of 2022. She has seen clients across the lifespan presenting with grief, victimization, depression, PTSD, and relational distress.
Natalia is fully trained in EMDR and incorporates several therapeutic techniques in her sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Insight Oriented, person-centered, Trauma-Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy.
Natalia German is a Clinical Mental Health Registered Intern with the state of Florida, working towards her Clinical Licensure. Natalia earned her bachelor’s degree from Capella University. Recently, she completed her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Natalia has previous experience working with children in the school setting in Collier County, where she was a student intern. Natalia has experience being a victim’s advocate/counselor with Project HELP since May of 2022. She has seen clients across the lifespan presenting with grief, victimization, depression, PTSD, and relational distress.
(239) 329-7922 View (239) 329-7922
Photo of Cort Gravengood - Mental Health Counselor, MA, EdS, Counselor
Cort Gravengood - Mental Health Counselor
Counselor, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34133
I'm also credentialed in EMDR and CBT and a member of the American Psychological Association.
I specialize in helping people make sense of difficult situations in which they find themselves and are unsure of how to find their way out. This includes confusion from past traumas or adjustment to present circumstances. Some of these adjustments are from environmental pressures or biologically bases issues that need clarification and direction. Experience and the ability to listen carefully are two of my strengths, and two of the necessities of successful counseling. My fees are $125 per session. I do not see couples, but can refer to specialists.
I'm also credentialed in EMDR and CBT and a member of the American Psychological Association.
I specialize in helping people make sense of difficult situations in which they find themselves and are unsure of how to find their way out. This includes confusion from past traumas or adjustment to present circumstances. Some of these adjustments are from environmental pressures or biologically bases issues that need clarification and direction. Experience and the ability to listen carefully are two of my strengths, and two of the necessities of successful counseling. My fees are $125 per session. I do not see couples, but can refer to specialists.
(239) 319-6033 View (239) 319-6033
Photo of Kimberly Rodgers, LCSW, RPT-S, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34133
If talk therapy has not helped you find relief, or if you are ready for more intensive work, EMDR, sand tray therapy, & inner child work provide an avenue to a deeper level of healing & are highly effective for trauma/PTSD/C-PTSD & becoming unstuck.
We understand it takes courage to reach out for help. Whether you are looking to release pain from the past, reduce worries about the future, or process through present challenges, we can accomplish your goals together. We tailor evidence based treatments with a gentle approach to meet your individual or family needs. Specialties include trauma (PTSD & C-PTSD), stress, anxiety, & adjustment to life transitions (grief/loss, illness including cancer & other health issues, relocation, & other life changes). From traditional talk therapy to crisis stabilization following a recent event, we can help you navigate through life's obstacles.
If talk therapy has not helped you find relief, or if you are ready for more intensive work, EMDR, sand tray therapy, & inner child work provide an avenue to a deeper level of healing & are highly effective for trauma/PTSD/C-PTSD & becoming unstuck.
We understand it takes courage to reach out for help. Whether you are looking to release pain from the past, reduce worries about the future, or process through present challenges, we can accomplish your goals together. We tailor evidence based treatments with a gentle approach to meet your individual or family needs. Specialties include trauma (PTSD & C-PTSD), stress, anxiety, & adjustment to life transitions (grief/loss, illness including cancer & other health issues, relocation, & other life changes). From traditional talk therapy to crisis stabilization following a recent event, we can help you navigate through life's obstacles.
(239) 249-3765 View (239) 249-3765
Photo of Shari Chrovian, PsyD, Psychologist
Shari Chrovian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34133
I am an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.
If you are looking to embrace positive change or conquer the challenges life throws your way, let's connect and embark on this journey together! With over two decades of experience as a Licensed Psychologist, I've been privileged to support countless clients in reaching their goals. Whether you're a child, teen, adult, or part of a family unit, I'm here to help. My approach is anything but ordinary—it's all about empowering you. Together, we'll craft a personalized treatment plan that feels right for you, tapping into a variety of therapeutic approaches depending upon your individual needs.
I am an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.
If you are looking to embrace positive change or conquer the challenges life throws your way, let's connect and embark on this journey together! With over two decades of experience as a Licensed Psychologist, I've been privileged to support countless clients in reaching their goals. Whether you're a child, teen, adult, or part of a family unit, I'm here to help. My approach is anything but ordinary—it's all about empowering you. Together, we'll craft a personalized treatment plan that feels right for you, tapping into a variety of therapeutic approaches depending upon your individual needs.
(239) 217-4601 View (239) 217-4601
Photo of Diane T. Colonnello, MSW, DCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane T. Colonnello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, DCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34135  (Online Only)
During these trying times, you can reach out, trust and take refuge in the support I can provide you. Yes this is a leap of faith. I provide telehealth on Doxy me. Take comfort in knowing I have worked over thirty years in the field. My clients have seen great results with my work via Ego state therapy and EMDR. My style involves engaging clients in exploring the etiology of their symptoms, developing specific skills to effectively cope, and to resolve the source(s) of the problem.
During these trying times, you can reach out, trust and take refuge in the support I can provide you. Yes this is a leap of faith. I provide telehealth on Doxy me. Take comfort in knowing I have worked over thirty years in the field. My clients have seen great results with my work via Ego state therapy and EMDR. My style involves engaging clients in exploring the etiology of their symptoms, developing specific skills to effectively cope, and to resolve the source(s) of the problem.
(239) 275-9665 View (239) 275-9665
Photo of Marissa M. Petralia, PhD, Psychologist
Marissa M. Petralia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Petralia & her staff clinicians offer individual therapy, EMDR therapy for trauma, medication management, nutrition counseling & group therapy.
Dr. Petralia is the owner of Premier Psychology, a comprehensive group practice providing psychological, psychiatric, & nutrition services. Dr. Petralia has a PSYPACT mobility authorization and can provide telepsychology in all 42 PSYPACT states. As a Licensed Psychologist & Eating Disorder Specialist, Dr. Petralia provides therapy to individuals dealing with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, Body Image issues, & Obesity. Her clinical focus also includes treating anxiety disorders, depression, chronic illness, grief, life transitions, relationship concerns & postpartum.
Petralia & her staff clinicians offer individual therapy, EMDR therapy for trauma, medication management, nutrition counseling & group therapy.
Dr. Petralia is the owner of Premier Psychology, a comprehensive group practice providing psychological, psychiatric, & nutrition services. Dr. Petralia has a PSYPACT mobility authorization and can provide telepsychology in all 42 PSYPACT states. As a Licensed Psychologist & Eating Disorder Specialist, Dr. Petralia provides therapy to individuals dealing with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, Body Image issues, & Obesity. Her clinical focus also includes treating anxiety disorders, depression, chronic illness, grief, life transitions, relationship concerns & postpartum.
(239) 309-7810 View (239) 309-7810
Photo of Cara Nixon, PsyD, Psychologist
Cara Nixon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34133
I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood, and specialize in Health Psychology. I am most concerned with the psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors that contribute to health and wellness. I have been in private practice since 2014 and completed training in EMDR in 2016. Treating physical and emotional trauma is my primary focus, specifically in first responder populations.
I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood, and specialize in Health Psychology. I am most concerned with the psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors that contribute to health and wellness. I have been in private practice since 2014 and completed training in EMDR in 2016. Treating physical and emotional trauma is my primary focus, specifically in first responder populations.
(305) 985-1114 View (305) 985-1114
Photo of Cathryn McRuer-Wong, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Cathryn McRuer-Wong
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34133
I use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), and other mind-body techniques to promote healing and health.
Are you struggling with past trauma, depression, anxiety, fears, daily stressors, or unhappy family life that is holding you back from enjoying life? I will assist you to overcome what is challenging you, to develop effective skills, to improve your relationships, and your ability to make healthy choices. I will help you to develop positive behaviors, to build upon your strengths towards a strong sense of self-esteem. I'm licensed in both Florida and WA States. I provide in-office or virtual sessions.
I use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), and other mind-body techniques to promote healing and health.
Are you struggling with past trauma, depression, anxiety, fears, daily stressors, or unhappy family life that is holding you back from enjoying life? I will assist you to overcome what is challenging you, to develop effective skills, to improve your relationships, and your ability to make healthy choices. I will help you to develop positive behaviors, to build upon your strengths towards a strong sense of self-esteem. I'm licensed in both Florida and WA States. I provide in-office or virtual sessions.
(239) 294-8874 View (239) 294-8874
Photo of Kara Jansen, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kara Jansen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sand Tray therapy.
I strive to provide everyone who enters my counseling room with a safe and compassionate environment to enable the client to feel comfortable expressing thoughts and emotions as they work toward healing. If you desire to have faith integrated into your therapy, I am able to do that but if faith is not something you want to be a part of your therapy, that is fine as well. As a client-centered therapist, I meet you where you are and I focus on what you need to meet your goals.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sand Tray therapy.
I strive to provide everyone who enters my counseling room with a safe and compassionate environment to enable the client to feel comfortable expressing thoughts and emotions as they work toward healing. If you desire to have faith integrated into your therapy, I am able to do that but if faith is not something you want to be a part of your therapy, that is fine as well. As a client-centered therapist, I meet you where you are and I focus on what you need to meet your goals.
(239) 766-6857 View (239) 766-6857
Photo of Dena Marie Paniccia, LCSW, CFRC, CMCC, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dena Marie Paniccia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFRC, CMCC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
I am a Certified First Responder Counselor, Certified Clinical Military Counselor & EMDR trained.
Accepting new clients. Are you looking for a way to make a shift in your life, but you’re unsure what to do? Maybe you're worried that making this change will impact your life in a way you're not ready? Maybe you’ve been told to compartmentalize and bury what’s been going on for so long that you’re now overwhelmed. Perhaps you spent most your life serving others, and along the way lost your own identity. Maybe you've tried to handle it on your own, but it just isn’t working anymore. Through valued based & wellness living goal setting we can work together to help you make the meaningful changes you need in your life that honors you.
I am a Certified First Responder Counselor, Certified Clinical Military Counselor & EMDR trained.
Accepting new clients. Are you looking for a way to make a shift in your life, but you’re unsure what to do? Maybe you're worried that making this change will impact your life in a way you're not ready? Maybe you’ve been told to compartmentalize and bury what’s been going on for so long that you’re now overwhelmed. Perhaps you spent most your life serving others, and along the way lost your own identity. Maybe you've tried to handle it on your own, but it just isn’t working anymore. Through valued based & wellness living goal setting we can work together to help you make the meaningful changes you need in your life that honors you.
(239) 450-7155 View (239) 450-7155
Photo of Phara Lafortune-Morame - Morame Counseling Services, LCSW, MCAP, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morame Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
I use an eclectic approach including the aspect of CBT, Solution-Focused, ACT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Reality-Based, Mindfulness, and Emotional focus.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist who studied at Western Michigan University. I am a Master’s Certified Addiction Counselor, EMDR & Gotman level I trained. I have been in practice since 2012. My goal is to utilize evidence-based techniques to help clients achieve their wellness goals. I am devoted to helping couples restore intimacy, passion, and commitment, to helping individuals with mental health and addiction concerns to better cope and achieve some level of homeostasis. One of my strengths is the ability to break down complex issues into smaller segments so that clients can get unstuck and move toward healing/recovery.
I use an eclectic approach including the aspect of CBT, Solution-Focused, ACT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Reality-Based, Mindfulness, and Emotional focus.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist who studied at Western Michigan University. I am a Master’s Certified Addiction Counselor, EMDR & Gotman level I trained. I have been in practice since 2012. My goal is to utilize evidence-based techniques to help clients achieve their wellness goals. I am devoted to helping couples restore intimacy, passion, and commitment, to helping individuals with mental health and addiction concerns to better cope and achieve some level of homeostasis. One of my strengths is the ability to break down complex issues into smaller segments so that clients can get unstuck and move toward healing/recovery.
(239) 208-6411 View (239) 208-6411
Photo of Sydney Marmon - Ataraxia Therapy, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Ataraxia Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34135  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I find passion working with individuals who struggle with PTSD/trauma, mood disorders, dissociation, self-harming behaviors/ suicidal ideations, relationships, self-esteem/body image, grief, & more. I have completed intensive training & most commonly use Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) & Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR). I have also completed trainings in Suicide & Crisis Intervention, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Therapy, Solution Based Therapy & much more!
I find passion working with individuals who struggle with PTSD/trauma, mood disorders, dissociation, self-harming behaviors/ suicidal ideations, relationships, self-esteem/body image, grief, & more. I have completed intensive training & most commonly use Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) & Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR). I have also completed trainings in Suicide & Crisis Intervention, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Therapy, Solution Based Therapy & much more!
(239) 747-0859 View (239) 747-0859
Photo of Yaro Garcia - Yaro Garcia Therapy Treatment Team, LLC., PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Yaro Garcia Therapy Treatment Team, LLC.
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Techniques I use include: prolonged exposure therapy, traumatic incident reduction, dialectal behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused, person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
Hello, I'm Dr. Yaro Garcia, please call me Yaro. I am a licensed mental health counselor with extensive training in clinical psychology, cognition, and trauma. I have 14 years of clinical practice. In addition to my work with clients, I also share my expertise as a professor and recognized speaker on topics related to mental health and wellness including complex trauma and treatment techniques.
Techniques I use include: prolonged exposure therapy, traumatic incident reduction, dialectal behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused, person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
Hello, I'm Dr. Yaro Garcia, please call me Yaro. I am a licensed mental health counselor with extensive training in clinical psychology, cognition, and trauma. I have 14 years of clinical practice. In addition to my work with clients, I also share my expertise as a professor and recognized speaker on topics related to mental health and wellness including complex trauma and treatment techniques.
(239) 537-9646 View (239) 537-9646
Photo of Courtney Anderson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Courtney Anderson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
I am passionate about helping children, teens, and young adults resolve anxious and depressive feelings that may keep them from living their best life. Even at a young age, we all experience situations that leave us wondering if we will ever be happy again. This can be devastating for the individual experiencing these symptoms and if not addressed early on, it can have long term effects into adult life. As a mental health counselor, I have had the pleasure of helping countless individuals overcome these feelings and get back to living a quality of life that was once unimaginable.
I am passionate about helping children, teens, and young adults resolve anxious and depressive feelings that may keep them from living their best life. Even at a young age, we all experience situations that leave us wondering if we will ever be happy again. This can be devastating for the individual experiencing these symptoms and if not addressed early on, it can have long term effects into adult life. As a mental health counselor, I have had the pleasure of helping countless individuals overcome these feelings and get back to living a quality of life that was once unimaginable.
(239) 977-3392 View (239) 977-3392
Photo of Anamaria Ryan, MA, LMHC, CAP, Counselor
Anamaria Ryan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
At any time, you can rethink your life and reinvent yourself. In a fast paced modern world, we are finding that more and more people are experiencing challenges such as depression and anxiety. Many of them choose to self medicate through habits that can develop an addiction. Many more choose to relay on prescribed medications only. However, studies have shown that the greatest chances for success are achieved by combining medication and therapy.
At any time, you can rethink your life and reinvent yourself. In a fast paced modern world, we are finding that more and more people are experiencing challenges such as depression and anxiety. Many of them choose to self medicate through habits that can develop an addiction. Many more choose to relay on prescribed medications only. However, studies have shown that the greatest chances for success are achieved by combining medication and therapy.
(239) 344-8420 View (239) 344-8420
Photo of Katherine Gutierrez, LMHC, EMDR, CIT, Counselor
Katherine Gutierrez
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, CIT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
I am driven by a desire to help children and adults overcome the stressors of life, so they can find fulfillment and joy. From anxiety to depression, to self-esteem or self-doubt, to helping survivors of unhealthy/abusive relationships, you are now in the right place. Finding someone that can truly understand and can make a difference in our lives is not easy. I understand that it’s difficult to seek quality help, find someone, only to later learn that they are unfit to help you.
I am driven by a desire to help children and adults overcome the stressors of life, so they can find fulfillment and joy. From anxiety to depression, to self-esteem or self-doubt, to helping survivors of unhealthy/abusive relationships, you are now in the right place. Finding someone that can truly understand and can make a difference in our lives is not easy. I understand that it’s difficult to seek quality help, find someone, only to later learn that they are unfit to help you.
(239) 766-6587 View (239) 766-6587
Photo of Diana M Salazar, LCSW-S, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana M Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
I provide individual, couple's and family therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, and/or social difficulties. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with more than ten years of experience. I co-founded Sunshine State Counseling Center. In my practice, I empower individuals to build and develop their inner strengths by providing compassionate, ethical and professional therapeutic services.
I provide individual, couple's and family therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, and/or social difficulties. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with more than ten years of experience. I co-founded Sunshine State Counseling Center. In my practice, I empower individuals to build and develop their inner strengths by providing compassionate, ethical and professional therapeutic services.
(239) 208-0959 View (239) 208-0959
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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.