Photo of Drew Shegda, Counselor in Boston, MA
Drew Shegda
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
It's important to process mental barriers that are getting in the way of happiness (typically via EMDR or IFS), which then greatly facilitates taking action towards goals.
It's an unfortunate reality, but many people never reach their full potential in life; there always seems to be one or more things holding them back. This can be due to past traumatic experiences, a difficult childhood, their own thoughts, etc... the list is endless! As a result, anxiety and depression can set in.
It's important to process mental barriers that are getting in the way of happiness (typically via EMDR or IFS), which then greatly facilitates taking action towards goals.
It's an unfortunate reality, but many people never reach their full potential in life; there always seems to be one or more things holding them back. This can be due to past traumatic experiences, a difficult childhood, their own thoughts, etc... the list is endless! As a result, anxiety and depression can set in.
(857) 367-4106 View (857) 367-4106
Photo of Kimika Watkins-Tashima, Counselor in Boston, MA
Kimika Watkins-Tashima
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
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.
(508) 406-7522 View (508) 406-7522
Photo of Heidi E. Seekins, Counselor in Boston, MA
Heidi E. Seekins
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I also utilize EMDR, Brainspotting, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing as appropriate.
This fire will not burn you; it will only burn what you are not. - Mooji I love this quote as applied to the therapeutic process. Many of us feel instinctively that we have a core self inside who is wise and who knows what is best for us, yet things seem to keep going sideways in the course of our everyday lives. I work with clients to manage mood disorders, recover from trauma, or cut down or stop substance use (or to stay in recovery). I also work with clients who are exploring alternative approaches to their healing such as the medicinal use of psychedelics, in order to support integration of their experiences.
I also utilize EMDR, Brainspotting, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing as appropriate.
This fire will not burn you; it will only burn what you are not. - Mooji I love this quote as applied to the therapeutic process. Many of us feel instinctively that we have a core self inside who is wise and who knows what is best for us, yet things seem to keep going sideways in the course of our everyday lives. I work with clients to manage mood disorders, recover from trauma, or cut down or stop substance use (or to stay in recovery). I also work with clients who are exploring alternative approaches to their healing such as the medicinal use of psychedelics, in order to support integration of their experiences.
(857) 342-4603 View (857) 342-4603
Photo of Emily Merchant in Boston, MA
Emily Merchant
MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I've trained somatic, CBT, ACT and EMDR therapy to support you in having more joy, peace, calm and confidence.
If you have been struggling with past trauma that finds its way into day to day life, you are not alone. Perhaps you are a mom or a women who has experienced PTSD in the past and would like to heal from those disturbing memories and gain back confidence and joy. These traumas which can be emotional, physical and psychologically harming can show up in ways like deep depression and anxiety. When we go through hard experiences it is normal to experience a variety of symptoms that can feel overwhelming and even out of our control. The hopeful news is that you can find fulfillment & gain back your strength, your worth it!
I've trained somatic, CBT, ACT and EMDR therapy to support you in having more joy, peace, calm and confidence.
If you have been struggling with past trauma that finds its way into day to day life, you are not alone. Perhaps you are a mom or a women who has experienced PTSD in the past and would like to heal from those disturbing memories and gain back confidence and joy. These traumas which can be emotional, physical and psychologically harming can show up in ways like deep depression and anxiety. When we go through hard experiences it is normal to experience a variety of symptoms that can feel overwhelming and even out of our control. The hopeful news is that you can find fulfillment & gain back your strength, your worth it!
(508) 978-3782 View (508) 978-3782
Photo of Stephanie Baird, Counselor in Boston, MA
Stephanie Baird
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
(617) 997-0367 View (617) 997-0367
Photo of Madison Detwiler, Counselor in Boston, MA
Madison Detwiler
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, play therapy, and family therapy.
I will work with you to improve your relationships, learn how to advocate for yourself and build self-confidence, and work through trauma. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks and empowering them to live authentically and confidently in a world that may not always understand or support their experiences. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, learn new skills, and work towards living your best life.
I am trained in EMDR, play therapy, and family therapy.
I will work with you to improve your relationships, learn how to advocate for yourself and build self-confidence, and work through trauma. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks and empowering them to live authentically and confidently in a world that may not always understand or support their experiences. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, learn new skills, and work towards living your best life.
(508) 625-9184 View (508) 625-9184
Photo of Robinson Counseling and Wellness, LLC, Counselor in Boston, MA
Robinson Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CAGS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
At Robinson Counseling and Wellness, LLC our clinicians offer a variety of treatment modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, CBT for Insomnia, ACT, and more.
Depression, anxiety, trouble concentrating, behavioral problems, insomnia, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, and flashbacks are just a few symptoms that can be caused by underlying trauma. Most of us have dealt with trauma in our lives. A traumatic event could be one isolated incident, such as a car accident or death in the family. Some individuals have experienced pervasive trauma, such as an ongoing medical procedure or family discord. At Robinson Counseling and Wellness, LLC we have clinicians who been trained to effectively resolve the symptoms of trauma and provide a safe environment for healing.
At Robinson Counseling and Wellness, LLC our clinicians offer a variety of treatment modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, CBT for Insomnia, ACT, and more.
Depression, anxiety, trouble concentrating, behavioral problems, insomnia, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, and flashbacks are just a few symptoms that can be caused by underlying trauma. Most of us have dealt with trauma in our lives. A traumatic event could be one isolated incident, such as a car accident or death in the family. Some individuals have experienced pervasive trauma, such as an ongoing medical procedure or family discord. At Robinson Counseling and Wellness, LLC we have clinicians who been trained to effectively resolve the symptoms of trauma and provide a safe environment for healing.
(857) 858-2391 View (857) 858-2391
Photo of Alyssa Monahan, Counselor in Boston, MA
Alyssa Monahan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained, working towards certification.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Massachusetts. I am seeking clients to support through transitional times in their lives or processing trauma, through EMDR modality. Please email me to join waitlist for summer openings!
I am EMDR trained, working towards certification.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Massachusetts. I am seeking clients to support through transitional times in their lives or processing trauma, through EMDR modality. Please email me to join waitlist for summer openings!
(617) 917-9448 View (617) 917-9448
Photo of ThriveMind Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
ThriveMind Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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.
(857) 380-9340 View (857) 380-9340
Photo of Jess LeBow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Jess LeBow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
While I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and IFS, and Narrative therapy (which is my predominant style) I am always learning with my clients and bring awareness but not authority into session so that my clients may clarify to me the world as they see it before I attempt to intervene with any assumptions.
I believe that problems develop relationally and therefore it makes sense to solve them relationally: to seek resolution through genuine understanding is the work of therapy. In my experience, the relief that clients seek is contingent upon being seen as they are, and as they want to be seen, and feeling understood.
While I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and IFS, and Narrative therapy (which is my predominant style) I am always learning with my clients and bring awareness but not authority into session so that my clients may clarify to me the world as they see it before I attempt to intervene with any assumptions.
I believe that problems develop relationally and therefore it makes sense to solve them relationally: to seek resolution through genuine understanding is the work of therapy. In my experience, the relief that clients seek is contingent upon being seen as they are, and as they want to be seen, and feeling understood.
(617) 682-0598 View (617) 682-0598
Photo of Catherine Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
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.
(617) 812-8770 View (617) 812-8770
Photo of Genevieve Fuller, Counselor in Boston, MA
Genevieve Fuller
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
As a certified EMDR and dance/movement therapist (D/MT), my approach is rooted in the healing power of embodiment, mindfulness and a trusted therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever find it difficult to stand on solid ground while the world is in constant motion around you? And no matter what you do, it never feels like enough? We know life’s obstacles are unlikely to go away all together, but what if you were able to navigate them from a place of curiosity and self-compassion? I offer a relaxed, trauma-informed and non-judgmental space to collaboratively expand on the strengths you already possess and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. Together we can unlock your natural potential for restoration and growth- where you can root into your authentic self with confidence and ease.
As a certified EMDR and dance/movement therapist (D/MT), my approach is rooted in the healing power of embodiment, mindfulness and a trusted therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever find it difficult to stand on solid ground while the world is in constant motion around you? And no matter what you do, it never feels like enough? We know life’s obstacles are unlikely to go away all together, but what if you were able to navigate them from a place of curiosity and self-compassion? I offer a relaxed, trauma-informed and non-judgmental space to collaboratively expand on the strengths you already possess and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. Together we can unlock your natural potential for restoration and growth- where you can root into your authentic self with confidence and ease.
(617) 249-3727 View (617) 249-3727
Photo of Lauren Beeman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Lauren Beeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109
EMDR has been successfully used to treat the following: Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Phobias, Sleep Problems, Grief and Loss, Additions, Pain, Performance Anxiety, and Feelings of Worthless/Low Self-Esteem.
Welcome! My name is Lauren Bissette. I have been a social worker since 2015 with experience with many diverse populations. I am a great listener, patient, and here for you!
EMDR has been successfully used to treat the following: Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Phobias, Sleep Problems, Grief and Loss, Additions, Pain, Performance Anxiety, and Feelings of Worthless/Low Self-Esteem.
Welcome! My name is Lauren Bissette. I have been a social worker since 2015 with experience with many diverse populations. I am a great listener, patient, and here for you!
(857) 578-1710 View (857) 578-1710
Photo of Lisa Diaz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Lisa Diaz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02122  (Online Only)
Lisa is a proud Boricua, born and raised in the diaspora. Her identity as the daughter of parents who emigrated from Borikén (presently known as Puerto Rico) has significantly shaped her world-view and continues to fuel her passion for social justice, activism, and the healing of those of the global majority. Lisa utilizes EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in her clinical practice. Lisa’s therapeutic approach is anchored in the understanding that emotional distress manifests both mentally and within our bodies (somatically), therefore healing needs to include the body.
Lisa is a proud Boricua, born and raised in the diaspora. Her identity as the daughter of parents who emigrated from Borikén (presently known as Puerto Rico) has significantly shaped her world-view and continues to fuel her passion for social justice, activism, and the healing of those of the global majority. Lisa utilizes EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in her clinical practice. Lisa’s therapeutic approach is anchored in the understanding that emotional distress manifests both mentally and within our bodies (somatically), therefore healing needs to include the body.
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Photo of Dallas Sierra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Dallas Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(857) 420-5911 View (857) 420-5911
Photo of Heads Held High Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Heads Held High Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Our therapists offer a range of modalities including expressive arts therapy, EMDR, and much more!.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
Our therapists offer a range of modalities including expressive arts therapy, EMDR, and much more!.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
(857) 877-3999 View (857) 877-3999
Photo of Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™
Psychologist, PsyD
Not Verified Not 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.
(203) 212-9890 View (203) 212-9890
Photo of Penny Tavar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Penny Tavar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW's, LCSW's
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and EMDR therapist with over 25 years of experience.
As Clinical Director of Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, I am part of a talented and compassionate team of Clinical Psychotherapists that work extensively with individuals, and couples. Our treatment focus includes, but is not limited to, the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. Meridian Psychotherapy Associates strives to provide a compassionate and safe space to talk and heal.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and EMDR therapist with over 25 years of experience.
As Clinical Director of Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, I am part of a talented and compassionate team of Clinical Psychotherapists that work extensively with individuals, and couples. Our treatment focus includes, but is not limited to, the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. Meridian Psychotherapy Associates strives to provide a compassionate and safe space to talk and heal.
(617) 872-3612 View (617) 872-3612
Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of Katie Kalina, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Katie Kalina
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
One of my specialties is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Hi! My name is Katie Kalina, a licensed clinician with over 6 years of experience. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and healed, and that as your therapist, it's my job to meet you exactly where you're at. I have worked with individuals and groups of all ages, from children to teens and adults through anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, body image issues, relationship issues, and anger management.
One of my specialties is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Hi! My name is Katie Kalina, a licensed clinician with over 6 years of experience. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and healed, and that as your therapist, it's my job to meet you exactly where you're at. I have worked with individuals and groups of all ages, from children to teens and adults through anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, body image issues, relationship issues, and anger management.
(857) 597-2599 View (857) 597-2599
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.