Therapists in Boston, MA
Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: children & adults, individual, couple, family & group techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnosis & the Dream Positioning System.
Have the changes since the pandemic left you feeling stuck? Challenged? Do you want to enhance your life? Have you lost sight of your dreams? Whether you long to feel closer to your partner, are overwhelmed at work, or feel that being a parent leaves no time for your dreams, Dr. Lavi & her Dream Positioning System (DPS) can put YOU back in control of your life so you can start moving towards your dreams. Although the psychotherapeutic relationship lasts for life, therapy with Dr. Lavi will be as brief as possible. When issues arise down the road, clients can return to "recalculate"get back on track & reach their aspirations.
Specialties: children & adults, individual, couple, family & group techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnosis & the Dream Positioning System.
Have the changes since the pandemic left you feeling stuck? Challenged? Do you want to enhance your life? Have you lost sight of your dreams? Whether you long to feel closer to your partner, are overwhelmed at work, or feel that being a parent leaves no time for your dreams, Dr. Lavi & her Dream Positioning System (DPS) can put YOU back in control of your life so you can start moving towards your dreams. Although the psychotherapeutic relationship lasts for life, therapy with Dr. Lavi will be as brief as possible. When issues arise down the road, clients can return to "recalculate"get back on track & reach their aspirations.
I am a well known, respected psychologist and sex therapist with a national and international reputation, AASECT certified since 1996. Clinically, I am warm, innovative, active, and effective. Multiple certifications in types of therapy, including EMDR, Sensorimotor therapy for trauma. Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, hypnosis, and AEDP for couples. Author of 3 commercially published books, I have been cited by my peers in the literature on sexuality and relationships since 1992. You will know if I am right for you in one session, promise! See website for a wealth of information and articles. SexSmart.com
I am a well known, respected psychologist and sex therapist with a national and international reputation, AASECT certified since 1996. Clinically, I am warm, innovative, active, and effective. Multiple certifications in types of therapy, including EMDR, Sensorimotor therapy for trauma. Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, hypnosis, and AEDP for couples. Author of 3 commercially published books, I have been cited by my peers in the literature on sexuality and relationships since 1992. You will know if I am right for you in one session, promise! See website for a wealth of information and articles. SexSmart.com
Frances T. Spillane
Counselor, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02124 (Online Only)
Using Brainspotting, EMDR, and Relational Life Therapy, I help clients access the self-healing power of their deep brain.
Unresolved trauma affects your life. Whether it's the pain of a difficult childhood, a recent traumatic experience, or challenging relationships, I can help you resolve your pain and transform your life. Current pain often stems from past traumas that are stuck in your nervous system. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD are typically related to painful experiences that need care and healing. Although you might not be consciously aware of this pain, it often manifests in ways such as blowing up, shutting down, walling off, or frantically trying to please others.
Using Brainspotting, EMDR, and Relational Life Therapy, I help clients access the self-healing power of their deep brain.
Unresolved trauma affects your life. Whether it's the pain of a difficult childhood, a recent traumatic experience, or challenging relationships, I can help you resolve your pain and transform your life. Current pain often stems from past traumas that are stuck in your nervous system. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD are typically related to painful experiences that need care and healing. Although you might not be consciously aware of this pain, it often manifests in ways such as blowing up, shutting down, walling off, or frantically trying to please others.
With extensive training in group therapy, psychoanalysis and EMDR, my approach is collaborative, practical and engaged.
In my 30 + years as a therapist, I have had the honor of helping many people overcome negative patterns and make meaningful, positive changes in their lives through self-reflection, insight, and behavioral interventions. People with depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges feel supported, understood and respected in our work in individual, couples or group therapy. Sometimes you may feel that your life is at odds with how you wish to see yourself and yet you can't quite figure out what the next step should be. Or maybe you long for closeness and intimacy yet you're afraid of it.
With extensive training in group therapy, psychoanalysis and EMDR, my approach is collaborative, practical and engaged.
In my 30 + years as a therapist, I have had the honor of helping many people overcome negative patterns and make meaningful, positive changes in their lives through self-reflection, insight, and behavioral interventions. People with depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges feel supported, understood and respected in our work in individual, couples or group therapy. Sometimes you may feel that your life is at odds with how you wish to see yourself and yet you can't quite figure out what the next step should be. Or maybe you long for closeness and intimacy yet you're afraid of it.
The clients I work with know how much I love and deeply respect the work we do together. Using a combination of narrative therapy, strengths based therapy and psychodynamic methods, I help each person establish their personal story and identify their personal goals. In addition to talk therapy, I am an EMDR practitioner and use this treatment to relieve trauma and advance clinical treatments. Please visit my website for more info or contact me to set up a quick phone call.
The clients I work with know how much I love and deeply respect the work we do together. Using a combination of narrative therapy, strengths based therapy and psychodynamic methods, I help each person establish their personal story and identify their personal goals. In addition to talk therapy, I am an EMDR practitioner and use this treatment to relieve trauma and advance clinical treatments. Please visit my website for more info or contact me to set up a quick phone call.
Laura Winters Unsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02102
Laura Unsworth is a skilled child, adult, and couples therapist, an expert in attachment and body-focused treatment modalities, and someone who can help you develop the skills and self-compassion needed to embrace a life narrative focused on strength and resilience. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with advanced training in evidenced-based therapies that include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). She also has growing experience with one of our key modalities at 1A Wellness, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Laura Unsworth is a skilled child, adult, and couples therapist, an expert in attachment and body-focused treatment modalities, and someone who can help you develop the skills and self-compassion needed to embrace a life narrative focused on strength and resilience. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with advanced training in evidenced-based therapies that include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). She also has growing experience with one of our key modalities at 1A Wellness, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Laura M. Van Waardenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02102 (Online Only)
Depending on your needs I may support you with the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), or Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).
Not accepting new clients at this time as my practice is full at the moment. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. I have the experience and training to help people suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. I work with adults to assist them in overcoming challenges that impact their lives and relationships. Sometimes memories can be so terrifying, overwhelming and painful its hard to live the life you want with out help. I enjoy helping my clients meet their goals so they can live more fully.
Depending on your needs I may support you with the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), or Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).
Not accepting new clients at this time as my practice is full at the moment. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. I have the experience and training to help people suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. I work with adults to assist them in overcoming challenges that impact their lives and relationships. Sometimes memories can be so terrifying, overwhelming and painful its hard to live the life you want with out help. I enjoy helping my clients meet their goals so they can live more fully.
Blending years of experience with new advances in experiential psychotherapies, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT Certified), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement and Reprocessing ( EMDR Consultant), 3rd wave Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT), and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
Caring for couples and individuals has been my privilege and passion for over thirty years. I provide goal directed short-term and long-tern therapy in a warm, active, and collaborative style to help people solve problems and reach their potential. Treatments are tailored to each client's individual circumstances. Success in therapy reduces distress and creates new possibilities for living with greater ease, purpose, and joy. The skills acquired in therapy enable us to face future challenges with courage and confidence.
Blending years of experience with new advances in experiential psychotherapies, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT Certified), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement and Reprocessing ( EMDR Consultant), 3rd wave Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT), and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
Caring for couples and individuals has been my privilege and passion for over thirty years. I provide goal directed short-term and long-tern therapy in a warm, active, and collaborative style to help people solve problems and reach their potential. Treatments are tailored to each client's individual circumstances. Success in therapy reduces distress and creates new possibilities for living with greater ease, purpose, and joy. The skills acquired in therapy enable us to face future challenges with courage and confidence.
I am EMDR certified and have used this evidence-based approach to help with a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and others.
I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I listen to how you want to move forward with your goals. I always take time to really hear how you, as an individual or couple, want to make changes and respect your own choices in your life. We sometimes find ourselves repeating negative patterns or stuck in challenging situations but have difficulty knowing how to make lasting changes. Therapy can help make this clearer.
I am EMDR certified and have used this evidence-based approach to help with a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and others.
I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I listen to how you want to move forward with your goals. I always take time to really hear how you, as an individual or couple, want to make changes and respect your own choices in your life. We sometimes find ourselves repeating negative patterns or stuck in challenging situations but have difficulty knowing how to make lasting changes. Therapy can help make this clearer.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Carisa Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109 (Online Only)
Therapy is not 'one size fits all,' which is why I offer a range of treatment options, including EMDR, cognitive processing, CBT, DBT, prolonged exposure, internal family systems, and narrative exposure therapy.
Hi! I'm Carisa. I provide telehealth-based psychotherapy for adults, children, and families in Massachusetts and Florida. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and acute, chronic and/or complex trauma. My practice emphasizes a blend of evidence-based care, kindness and unconditional positive regard, which I have found to be the 'recipe' for success. I am a good fit for those seeking a collaborative therapeutic approach in which the wisdom you have gained from your lived experience is a welcomed and honored part of our work together. I prioritize autonomy, choice and informed consent throughout the therapy process.
Therapy is not 'one size fits all,' which is why I offer a range of treatment options, including EMDR, cognitive processing, CBT, DBT, prolonged exposure, internal family systems, and narrative exposure therapy.
Hi! I'm Carisa. I provide telehealth-based psychotherapy for adults, children, and families in Massachusetts and Florida. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and acute, chronic and/or complex trauma. My practice emphasizes a blend of evidence-based care, kindness and unconditional positive regard, which I have found to be the 'recipe' for success. I am a good fit for those seeking a collaborative therapeutic approach in which the wisdom you have gained from your lived experience is a welcomed and honored part of our work together. I prioritize autonomy, choice and informed consent throughout the therapy process.
15 Second Videos
Frances T. Spillane
Laura Winters Unsworth
Charles Codner
Betsy Harris, LICSW
Adam Henderson
Rey Junco
Lauren Blackwood - EMDR Therapist
Salem Black
Daniel J. Harvey
Abby Meszaros
A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW
Susan Brusky
Austin Rogers
Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller
Shana Smith
Cape & Islands Cognitive Behavioral Institute
Melissa A Whelan
Carolina Lancastre
Peg Hurley Dawson, Ph.D.
Emily Jacobs
Toni Marie Mazzaglia
Danielle Rosenblatt
Carol Patricia Hodson
Melissa Rodrigues
Dewin Hernandez
Jacqueline Soboti
Lisa Ibekwe
Emily Cioffi
Jacqueline Menard
Mikaela Trzesniowski Ladd
Keith A. Welsh
Trauma to Hope Counseling Services
Growing Hope Therapy, LLC
Couples Center of the Pioneer Valley
Rebecca Minor
Susan Regan
Shawn Lasker
Mary Tate
Rebecca Jacobs
Trillion Small
Pamela Lowell
She will use an integrative approach to intervention using her training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approach such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, Mindfulness and CBT.
Kimika is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. She specializes particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
She will use an integrative approach to intervention using her training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approach such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, Mindfulness and CBT.
Kimika is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. She specializes particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
Charles is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Mindfulness, and traditional talk therapy.
Charles is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working in therapeutic settings. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Boston College and a certificate in Trauma studies. His extensive experience working in residential care and hospitals has allowed him to work with various clients with chronic medical and mental health issues. He has worked in outpatient group practice providing group and individual therapy to clients for the past two years.
Charles is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Mindfulness, and traditional talk therapy.
Charles is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working in therapeutic settings. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Boston College and a certificate in Trauma studies. His extensive experience working in residential care and hospitals has allowed him to work with various clients with chronic medical and mental health issues. He has worked in outpatient group practice providing group and individual therapy to clients for the past two years.
Annie Rosenthal
Registered Psychotherapist, MA in, Psych, MEd
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118 (Online Only)
What sets my practice apart is a holistic approach that integrates EMDR therapy with complementary modalities, such as mindfulness techniques and cognitive-behavioral strategies, to provide comprehensive support for mental health and personal growth.
Clients seeking relief from trauma, anxiety, and other psychological challenges find solace in my expertise and style. Utilizing the power of EMDR bilateral stimulation and guided processing, I guide clients through their traumatic memories with care and sensitivity, facilitating a journey towards resolution and resilience. My extensive experience in working with diverse populations, including those historically underserved by traditional therapeutic approaches, ensures a safe and inclusive environment for healing. I prioritize cultural sensitivity and empathy, recognizing the importance of addressing the unique experiences and
What sets my practice apart is a holistic approach that integrates EMDR therapy with complementary modalities, such as mindfulness techniques and cognitive-behavioral strategies, to provide comprehensive support for mental health and personal growth.
Clients seeking relief from trauma, anxiety, and other psychological challenges find solace in my expertise and style. Utilizing the power of EMDR bilateral stimulation and guided processing, I guide clients through their traumatic memories with care and sensitivity, facilitating a journey towards resolution and resilience. My extensive experience in working with diverse populations, including those historically underserved by traditional therapeutic approaches, ensures a safe and inclusive environment for healing. I prioritize cultural sensitivity and empathy, recognizing the importance of addressing the unique experiences and
Betsy Harris, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
I use evidence based treatments including DBT, CBT and EMDR.
Are you looking for help managing emotions? Are you stuck in patterns you can't get out of? Looking to understand how your past has influenced your present? As a DBT and trauma therapist, I help clients make changes to improve their lives. Clients I work with may have difficulty coping with emotions, engage in self-harm or substance abuse, disordered eating or have experienced anxiety, trauma or PTSD. Using empathy and validation, along with direct feedback and humor, I enjoy helping clients discover how to build a life worth living.
I use evidence based treatments including DBT, CBT and EMDR.
Are you looking for help managing emotions? Are you stuck in patterns you can't get out of? Looking to understand how your past has influenced your present? As a DBT and trauma therapist, I help clients make changes to improve their lives. Clients I work with may have difficulty coping with emotions, engage in self-harm or substance abuse, disordered eating or have experienced anxiety, trauma or PTSD. Using empathy and validation, along with direct feedback and humor, I enjoy helping clients discover how to build a life worth living.
Sarah Garrity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize CBT, DBT, internal family systems, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, low-self-esteem, or who are coping with behaviors such as disordered eating or substance use. I take a warm, collaborative and holistic approach to help you better understand yourself, un-learn old ways of being, and develop the capacity to manage all that life brings. Together, at a pace you are comfortable with, we can explore places in your life where you feel stuck, and move towards the life you want to live. My goal is to help you find peace with yourself and with your body.
I utilize CBT, DBT, internal family systems, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, low-self-esteem, or who are coping with behaviors such as disordered eating or substance use. I take a warm, collaborative and holistic approach to help you better understand yourself, un-learn old ways of being, and develop the capacity to manage all that life brings. Together, at a pace you are comfortable with, we can explore places in your life where you feel stuck, and move towards the life you want to live. My goal is to help you find peace with yourself and with your body.
Lindsay Scola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC-I
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
I am licensed in MA, FL, VT, and UT and am seeing clients for telehealth only, including EMDR.
Acknowledging that we cannot face life’s challenges alone and making the decision to ask for help is one of the most scary and courageous actions a person can take. I work from the perspective that all behaviors, thoughts, and feelings make sense within the context of our lives. At times though, things that once helped us cope with our circumstances no longer serve their purpose, but the thought of letting go or healing can feel overwhelming. My goal is to help clients gain better insight into their experiences while empowering a greater capacity for self-compassion and change.
I am licensed in MA, FL, VT, and UT and am seeing clients for telehealth only, including EMDR.
Acknowledging that we cannot face life’s challenges alone and making the decision to ask for help is one of the most scary and courageous actions a person can take. I work from the perspective that all behaviors, thoughts, and feelings make sense within the context of our lives. At times though, things that once helped us cope with our circumstances no longer serve their purpose, but the thought of letting go or healing can feel overwhelming. My goal is to help clients gain better insight into their experiences while empowering a greater capacity for self-compassion and change.
I specialize in EMDR, DBT, & CBT/CR.
I'm happy to be a part of your journey to internal understanding, acceptance and growth. Many times we approach therapy from an overwhelming place. We may find ourselves repeating painful patterns that do not bring us enjoyment and satisfaction. My goal is to put you first while implementing evidence based practices, to guide you to reach your goals. Whether that looks like depression, anxiety, substance use, self-harm, suicidal ideations, family conflict, or something else; I am here to help.
I specialize in EMDR, DBT, & CBT/CR.
I'm happy to be a part of your journey to internal understanding, acceptance and growth. Many times we approach therapy from an overwhelming place. We may find ourselves repeating painful patterns that do not bring us enjoyment and satisfaction. My goal is to put you first while implementing evidence based practices, to guide you to reach your goals. Whether that looks like depression, anxiety, substance use, self-harm, suicidal ideations, family conflict, or something else; I am here to help.
I am an EMDR Level 2 therapist working specifically with complex trauma.
I have spent the last 20 years working with children, adolescents, individuals and couples. My diverse practice has helped me to understand how people of all ages and walks of life function and how to help relieve their pain and work towards health and live without trauma.
I am an EMDR Level 2 therapist working specifically with complex trauma.
I have spent the last 20 years working with children, adolescents, individuals and couples. My diverse practice has helped me to understand how people of all ages and walks of life function and how to help relieve their pain and work towards health and live without trauma.
Gina Cipolla Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
I am trained in EMDR Levels 1 & 2 to treat trauma/PTSD.
Current Openings at Flourish Therapy Center! Openings for BED Support Group. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, anxiety disorders & trauma. I am interested in working with individuals who have co-morbid diagnoses, & those who struggle with maladaptive coping mechanisms (self-harm, self-sabotage). I have worked in various mental health settings such as partial hospitalization programs, eating disorder facility and alternative school. Recieved a Bachelor's Degree from Suffolk University, and Master's Degree from Simmons School of Social Work.
I am trained in EMDR Levels 1 & 2 to treat trauma/PTSD.
Current Openings at Flourish Therapy Center! Openings for BED Support Group. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, anxiety disorders & trauma. I am interested in working with individuals who have co-morbid diagnoses, & those who struggle with maladaptive coping mechanisms (self-harm, self-sabotage). I have worked in various mental health settings such as partial hospitalization programs, eating disorder facility and alternative school. Recieved a Bachelor's Degree from Suffolk University, and Master's Degree from Simmons School of Social Work.
See more therapy options for Boston
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.