Photo of Felicia McParland- Trauma Specialist, Counselor in Medfield, MA
Felicia McParland- Trauma Specialist
Counselor, MEd, MSW, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Medfield, MA 02052
Waitlist for new clients
As a Trauma Specialist, I will take you on a journey of healing using Attachment-Focused EMDR, Brainspotting, and I incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, Mind-Body techniques, and Mindfulness to help you heal and feel at peace.
You may have been emotionally, sexually, verbally, physically abused and/or neglected. You may be a survivor of Parental Alienation, another form of abuse; a child or the targeted parent. You want to be healed, not just struggling in life. You want your terrifying panic attacks that no one understands to be gone. You want to stop struggling and live the life you were meant to. You want your relationship with yourself and others to be healthier. Is the abuse/neglect you survived still affecting your life? It doesn't have to anymore. There is hope and healing. PTSD, Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD), Agoraphobia, and panic can be healed forever.
As a Trauma Specialist, I will take you on a journey of healing using Attachment-Focused EMDR, Brainspotting, and I incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, Mind-Body techniques, and Mindfulness to help you heal and feel at peace.
You may have been emotionally, sexually, verbally, physically abused and/or neglected. You may be a survivor of Parental Alienation, another form of abuse; a child or the targeted parent. You want to be healed, not just struggling in life. You want your terrifying panic attacks that no one understands to be gone. You want to stop struggling and live the life you were meant to. You want your relationship with yourself and others to be healthier. Is the abuse/neglect you survived still affecting your life? It doesn't have to anymore. There is hope and healing. PTSD, Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD), Agoraphobia, and panic can be healed forever.
(781) 713-3114 View (781) 713-3114
Photo of Gabrielle Marie Siraco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Gabrielle Marie Siraco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Medfield, MA 02052
I use evidence-based practices to help clients process disturbing life events through EMDR therapy and learn coping skills based on DBT.
Living with stress, anxiety, and/or depression can be exhausting. Learning strategies to manage symptoms can be liberating. I work with adolescents and adults who are looking for ways to manage a variety of concerns -from the stress of daily life to major mental illness and trauma.
I use evidence-based practices to help clients process disturbing life events through EMDR therapy and learn coping skills based on DBT.
Living with stress, anxiety, and/or depression can be exhausting. Learning strategies to manage symptoms can be liberating. I work with adolescents and adults who are looking for ways to manage a variety of concerns -from the stress of daily life to major mental illness and trauma.
View
Photo of Jayne Shea, Counselor in Medfield, MA
Jayne Shea
Counselor, LMHC, CYT
Verified Verified
Medfield, MA 02052
Waitlist for new clients
Through open and client centered dialogue, I help my clients move through the challenges they are seeking support for by utilizing cognitive behavioral and narrative therapy. Development and practice of mindfulness strategies and introduction to how breath and movement can change anxious thought patterns to assist clients to transform their lives. They can feel positively connected to others and successful in achieving their defined goals.
Through open and client centered dialogue, I help my clients move through the challenges they are seeking support for by utilizing cognitive behavioral and narrative therapy. Development and practice of mindfulness strategies and introduction to how breath and movement can change anxious thought patterns to assist clients to transform their lives. They can feel positively connected to others and successful in achieving their defined goals.
(774) 208-0625 View (774) 208-0625

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Nisenbaum Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Susan Nisenbaum Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, RDT
Verified Verified
Foxboro, MA 02035
My training is eclectic including traditional psychodynamic theory, gestalt, Eriksonian hypnosis, family systems theory, EMDR, meditation/mindfulness, yoga, alcohol and drug counseling, and drama/expressive therapies.
I have been been in private practice for over 20 years and find I remain engaged and excited about my work. I strive to develop good rapport and an empathetic connection with each person, to be an ally and guide, and to develop a good working relationship where together clients and I can focus on their desired changes. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive place for clients to work to transform their challenges regarding mood, addiction, relationship, spirituality, parenting, life transitions, illness, loss, divorce, creative/performance blocks, body image and self esteem.
My training is eclectic including traditional psychodynamic theory, gestalt, Eriksonian hypnosis, family systems theory, EMDR, meditation/mindfulness, yoga, alcohol and drug counseling, and drama/expressive therapies.
I have been been in private practice for over 20 years and find I remain engaged and excited about my work. I strive to develop good rapport and an empathetic connection with each person, to be an ally and guide, and to develop a good working relationship where together clients and I can focus on their desired changes. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive place for clients to work to transform their challenges regarding mood, addiction, relationship, spirituality, parenting, life transitions, illness, loss, divorce, creative/performance blocks, body image and self esteem.
(508) 342-8174 View (508) 342-8174
Photo of Selina Lang, Counselor in Medfield, MA
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained Clinician, and I utilize Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, and Art Therapy approaches.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings including school, crisis stabilization, residential, and inpatient settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulties around anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, and trauma. I bring authenticity and transparency, creativity, unconditional acceptance, and humor to the therapy space.
I am a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained Clinician, and I utilize Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, and Art Therapy approaches.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings including school, crisis stabilization, residential, and inpatient settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulties around anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, and trauma. I bring authenticity and transparency, creativity, unconditional acceptance, and humor to the therapy space.
(781) 678-7398 View (781) 678-7398
Photo of Wayne Kessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Wayne Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, MA 02090  (Online Only)
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), EMDR, Narrative therapy, and IFS.
If you are experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, toxic work environments, relationship issues, low self-confidence, illness, school challenges, layoffs, grief/loss, career transition, or retirement, I can help. If you are finding it difficult to manage your stress, anxiety, sleep, depression, or ADHD, why not get help dealing with your symptoms, feelings, thoughts, and emotions? You should not have to suffer alone. Advances in therapy now allow for a transformative experience and can help you achieve things for yourself that you never thought possible. Get the help you need by contacting me to get started.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), EMDR, Narrative therapy, and IFS.
If you are experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, toxic work environments, relationship issues, low self-confidence, illness, school challenges, layoffs, grief/loss, career transition, or retirement, I can help. If you are finding it difficult to manage your stress, anxiety, sleep, depression, or ADHD, why not get help dealing with your symptoms, feelings, thoughts, and emotions? You should not have to suffer alone. Advances in therapy now allow for a transformative experience and can help you achieve things for yourself that you never thought possible. Get the help you need by contacting me to get started.
(339) 329-8046 View (339) 329-8046
Photo of Mira Kelsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Mira Kelsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492
I utilize multiple approaches, drawing mainly from cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness.
Are you experiencing distress more often than you'd like, or feeling overwhelmed by life stressors? Perhaps you are navigating a life transition, or searching for new ways of responding to the world around you. Living in a world filled with uncertainty, upheaval, and disconnection can lead us to seek new ways of finding balance within ourselves. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice for twenty years, and I look forward to partnering with you to create a path forward.
I utilize multiple approaches, drawing mainly from cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness.
Are you experiencing distress more often than you'd like, or feeling overwhelmed by life stressors? Perhaps you are navigating a life transition, or searching for new ways of responding to the world around you. Living in a world filled with uncertainty, upheaval, and disconnection can lead us to seek new ways of finding balance within ourselves. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice for twenty years, and I look forward to partnering with you to create a path forward.
(781) 725-6677 View (781) 725-6677
Photo of Deborah Rouslin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Deborah Rouslin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Medway, MA 02053
I specialize in trauma work and am trained in EMDR.
As of Feb 18, 2024 my practice is full. I will post as i have openings going forward. Please contact me only through email. Hello and welcome to my Private Practice. I understand how difficult and scary it can be to take this first step and reach out for help and support. Life sometimes is not easy and we find ourselves navigating issues such as trauma, parenting, relationships. or unexpected loss. My style is oriented around growth and strength. I am here and ready to help.
I specialize in trauma work and am trained in EMDR.
As of Feb 18, 2024 my practice is full. I will post as i have openings going forward. Please contact me only through email. Hello and welcome to my Private Practice. I understand how difficult and scary it can be to take this first step and reach out for help and support. Life sometimes is not easy and we find ourselves navigating issues such as trauma, parenting, relationships. or unexpected loss. My style is oriented around growth and strength. I am here and ready to help.
(617) 315-2782 View (617) 315-2782
Photo of Frances Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Frances Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
In addition to my 15 + years of experience working with many disorders and life stressors I took a year long course at the Trauma Institute in Brookline, was trained in EMDR and have taken many continuing education classes in CBT, DBT, Narrative Treatment, and Play Therapy.
I try to welcome my clients in to my practice by providing a safe, supportive warm, quiet and non-judgmental space. I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families aged 10 and older. I have treated people with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol Abuse, Grief, Divorce and other major life stressors. I believe that it is important to look at both the difficulties in life and what works in your life.
In addition to my 15 + years of experience working with many disorders and life stressors I took a year long course at the Trauma Institute in Brookline, was trained in EMDR and have taken many continuing education classes in CBT, DBT, Narrative Treatment, and Play Therapy.
I try to welcome my clients in to my practice by providing a safe, supportive warm, quiet and non-judgmental space. I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families aged 10 and older. I have treated people with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol Abuse, Grief, Divorce and other major life stressors. I believe that it is important to look at both the difficulties in life and what works in your life.
(508) 568-6028 View (508) 568-6028
Photo of Ananda DeMaio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Ananda DeMaio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCDP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Foxboro, MA 02035  (Online Only)
With training in EMDR, I also specialize in issues of trauma and complex trauma, addiction and co-dependency.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Are you tired of living out the same patterns again and again? At times, our personal experiences can be difficult to navigate or make sense of. When our experiences begin to overwhelm us, affecting our relationships, happiness, or functioning, guidance from an effective therapist can make a difference. My goal is to help you feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and to provide a safe space for you to reflect, process, grow, and recover. I offer a strength based, trauma informed approach in assisting you to clarify and work towards your personal goals.
With training in EMDR, I also specialize in issues of trauma and complex trauma, addiction and co-dependency.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Are you tired of living out the same patterns again and again? At times, our personal experiences can be difficult to navigate or make sense of. When our experiences begin to overwhelm us, affecting our relationships, happiness, or functioning, guidance from an effective therapist can make a difference. My goal is to help you feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and to provide a safe space for you to reflect, process, grow, and recover. I offer a strength based, trauma informed approach in assisting you to clarify and work towards your personal goals.
(401) 305-1592 View (401) 305-1592
Photo of Rita Vatcher, Counselor in Medfield, MA
Rita Vatcher
Counselor, LMHC, MCCS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Waitlist for new clients
Interventions include art therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, and EMDR.
I love to work with kids and adolescents and their families. I believe people don't have "problems" but rather "challenges" they learn to move through or re-frame. Together we learn new ways of doing things; new ways of looking at things; find a new path of our own choosing that feels better than the one we were on; relate to ourselves and others in a healthier way; learn to smile and laugh more; find the things we are good at doing; make a contribution; stress less; be who we are meant to be, and love who we are as a person!
Interventions include art therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, and EMDR.
I love to work with kids and adolescents and their families. I believe people don't have "problems" but rather "challenges" they learn to move through or re-frame. Together we learn new ways of doing things; new ways of looking at things; find a new path of our own choosing that feels better than the one we were on; relate to ourselves and others in a healthier way; learn to smile and laugh more; find the things we are good at doing; make a contribution; stress less; be who we are meant to be, and love who we are as a person!
(508) 471-3442 View (508) 471-3442
Photo of Jordan Castonguay, Mental Health Counselor in Medfield, MA
Jordan Castonguay
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Franklin, MA 02038
Jordan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who strives to provide clients with the support and guidance needed to heal from painful life experiences and achieve meaningful growth. Jordan utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from an array of disciplines including: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Jordan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who strives to provide clients with the support and guidance needed to heal from painful life experiences and achieve meaningful growth. Jordan utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from an array of disciplines including: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(413) 887-3671 View (413) 887-3671
Photo of Dawn Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Dawn Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT and exposure prevention therapy, all from a trauma informed lens.
Psychotherapy focuses on restoring perspective and building confidence in addressing life's challenges. Counseling can be an exciting and challenging experience. Together we can help you focus on and repair struggles from day to day life. Whether it be stress, worry, depression, conflict or even feeling "off", whatever it may be let's start this journey together and focus on creating a new chapter.
I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT and exposure prevention therapy, all from a trauma informed lens.
Psychotherapy focuses on restoring perspective and building confidence in addressing life's challenges. Counseling can be an exciting and challenging experience. Together we can help you focus on and repair struggles from day to day life. Whether it be stress, worry, depression, conflict or even feeling "off", whatever it may be let's start this journey together and focus on creating a new chapter.
(508) 571-6687 View (508) 571-6687
Photo of Susannah Barry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Susannah Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Medway, MA 02053
Susannah received her Bachelor of Science degree from Northeastern University and went on to complete her Master of Social Work degree at Simmons College. She has experience working in a variety of clinical settings including community based mental health, residential treatment, and private practice. Susannah’s clinical training is in the treatment of complex trauma and she is trained in various trauma treatment models including Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC), Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment (SMART) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Susannah received her Bachelor of Science degree from Northeastern University and went on to complete her Master of Social Work degree at Simmons College. She has experience working in a variety of clinical settings including community based mental health, residential treatment, and private practice. Susannah’s clinical training is in the treatment of complex trauma and she is trained in various trauma treatment models including Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC), Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment (SMART) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
(508) 306-8592 View (508) 306-8592
Photo of Katie Kalina, Pre-Licensed Professional in Medfield, MA
Katie Kalina
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dedham, MA 02026  (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
Photo of Manjit Khalsa, Psychologist in Medfield, MA
Manjit Khalsa
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Millis, MA 02054  (Online Only)
Along with support, my skills include EMDR, Mindfulness, NLP and Y-CBT (Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
What you focus on today creates your tomorrow. My goal as a therapist is to help you to become the person you always hoped you'd be. Whether you are interested in help with anxiety, depression, or relationships psychotherapy can help you to create simple strategies for success. You can turn self-defeating childhood patterns into adult patterns of victory. I am a co-author of "the Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Workbook for Anxiety." Ongoing Workshops is in Millis, MA: Visit us at: Y-CBT.com
Along with support, my skills include EMDR, Mindfulness, NLP and Y-CBT (Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
What you focus on today creates your tomorrow. My goal as a therapist is to help you to become the person you always hoped you'd be. Whether you are interested in help with anxiety, depression, or relationships psychotherapy can help you to create simple strategies for success. You can turn self-defeating childhood patterns into adult patterns of victory. I am a co-author of "the Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Workbook for Anxiety." Ongoing Workshops is in Millis, MA: Visit us at: Y-CBT.com
(508) 257-7132 View (508) 257-7132
Photo of Karah Logan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Medfield, MA
Karah Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR, CBT, art therapy, and motivational interviewing, Karah encourages a holistic approach to wellness.
Karah specializes in helping children and adults experiencing posttraumatic stress and related issues, such as anxiety and depression. She understands that trauma symptoms can present in unexpected ways, often originating from experiences such as bullying, discrimination, violence, recurrent trauma, and grief. Her clinical interests include traumas intersection with substance use and eating disorders, spiritual and religious trauma, early intervention, neurodiversity, and the unique experiences of first responders, immigrants, and individuals with disabilities.
Trained in EMDR, CBT, art therapy, and motivational interviewing, Karah encourages a holistic approach to wellness.
Karah specializes in helping children and adults experiencing posttraumatic stress and related issues, such as anxiety and depression. She understands that trauma symptoms can present in unexpected ways, often originating from experiences such as bullying, discrimination, violence, recurrent trauma, and grief. Her clinical interests include traumas intersection with substance use and eating disorders, spiritual and religious trauma, early intervention, neurodiversity, and the unique experiences of first responders, immigrants, and individuals with disabilities.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Matt Counseling Services, Counselor in Medfield, MA
Matt Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medway, MA 02053
Waitlist for new clients
I would like to thank all of the people on the front line for risking their lives to save ours. I am certified in EMDR and prolonged exposure, both have been proven to do well with acute stress symptoms. If you work on the front lines (healthcare, grocery stores, construction, etc) please reach out so I can help you as much as possible. Currently, I am only accepting new clients that have a PTSD diagnosis. I apologize for any inconvenience. If you feel like I am great for you please reach out!
I would like to thank all of the people on the front line for risking their lives to save ours. I am certified in EMDR and prolonged exposure, both have been proven to do well with acute stress symptoms. If you work on the front lines (healthcare, grocery stores, construction, etc) please reach out so I can help you as much as possible. Currently, I am only accepting new clients that have a PTSD diagnosis. I apologize for any inconvenience. If you feel like I am great for you please reach out!
(508) 590-9896 View (508) 590-9896
Photo of Antoanette Gonzales, Counselor in Medfield, MA
Antoanette Gonzales
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
I am uniquely trained in EMDR and use CBT, DBT and solution-focused methods to tailor therapy strategies to clients' unique goals and circumstances.
Whether clients are facing new stressors that impact their mood, relationships or behavior or they're struggling with long-standing concerns from childhood development, their family history or traumatic loss, I understand the isolation these challenges can bring and the difficulty that comes with processing and adjustment. For you and your relationships or for your child and family, beginning the journey toward change can be hard and overwhelming. Through a warm and collaborative approach, my work is focused on supporting clients as they begin and continue on their journey to develop new ways of thinking, feeling and relating.
I am uniquely trained in EMDR and use CBT, DBT and solution-focused methods to tailor therapy strategies to clients' unique goals and circumstances.
Whether clients are facing new stressors that impact their mood, relationships or behavior or they're struggling with long-standing concerns from childhood development, their family history or traumatic loss, I understand the isolation these challenges can bring and the difficulty that comes with processing and adjustment. For you and your relationships or for your child and family, beginning the journey toward change can be hard and overwhelming. Through a warm and collaborative approach, my work is focused on supporting clients as they begin and continue on their journey to develop new ways of thinking, feeling and relating.
(781) 633-7235 View (781) 633-7235
Photo of Kelly Clancy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Medfield, MA
Kelly Clancy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
To support my clients in finding their best set of coping skills, I often uses breath work along with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatments in my practice.
My goal is to help individuals find their own joy, acceptance, and peace through talk therapy and mindfulness practices. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults and adults going through difficult transitional periods in life, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
To support my clients in finding their best set of coping skills, I often uses breath work along with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatments in my practice.
My goal is to help individuals find their own joy, acceptance, and peace through talk therapy and mindfulness practices. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults and adults going through difficult transitional periods in life, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
(774) 355-3711 View (774) 355-3711
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.