EMDR Therapists in Hyattsville, MD

Photo of Chevon Mathews-Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Chevon Mathews-Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20785  (Online Only)
I have been in the helping profession for over 7 years and utilize a variety of interventions such as Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, EMDR and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help each person I come in contact with to learn to cope, effectively handle challenges and achieve their goals.
Are you someone who feels constantly stressed? Are you noticing your sleep isn't the best? Maybe you've been feeling down or distancing yourself from others? Perhaps you've experienced quite a few life transitions over the past couple of years and need space to sort it out? I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the District of Columbia & Virginia, as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland who is dedicated to enhancing lives through the many facets of mental health. I believe that creating a space that's warm, welcoming and non-judgmental will help you embark on a journey of mental wellness.
I have been in the helping profession for over 7 years and utilize a variety of interventions such as Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, EMDR and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help each person I come in contact with to learn to cope, effectively handle challenges and achieve their goals.
Are you someone who feels constantly stressed? Are you noticing your sleep isn't the best? Maybe you've been feeling down or distancing yourself from others? Perhaps you've experienced quite a few life transitions over the past couple of years and need space to sort it out? I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the District of Columbia & Virginia, as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland who is dedicated to enhancing lives through the many facets of mental health. I believe that creating a space that's warm, welcoming and non-judgmental will help you embark on a journey of mental wellness.
(301) 381-1709 View (301) 381-1709
Photo of Katrin I Kutlucinar, Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Katrin I Kutlucinar
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20783  (Online Only)
I use EMDR for Trauma, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (ISRT), CBT-P for Psychosis, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and I am one of a handful of clinicians in the United States trained in Family-Focused Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (FFT).
You need to talk to someone. You're in a stressful place in your life. Not only is your desire for clarity and comfort at its peak but your need to find the right therapist is a leap of faith. Seeing me, you may find our sessions to be empowering, challenging, yet comfortable, and at times humorous. You can become energized by the unfolding of your story, and gaining new insights into your thoughts and feelings that are no longer working for you. Are you having difficulties adjusting to life with a mental health disorder or struggling to make sense of a traumatic experience?
I use EMDR for Trauma, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (ISRT), CBT-P for Psychosis, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and I am one of a handful of clinicians in the United States trained in Family-Focused Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (FFT).
You need to talk to someone. You're in a stressful place in your life. Not only is your desire for clarity and comfort at its peak but your need to find the right therapist is a leap of faith. Seeing me, you may find our sessions to be empowering, challenging, yet comfortable, and at times humorous. You can become energized by the unfolding of your story, and gaining new insights into your thoughts and feelings that are no longer working for you. Are you having difficulties adjusting to life with a mental health disorder or struggling to make sense of a traumatic experience?
(301) 685-7654 View (301) 685-7654
Photo of Jessica Henry, Psychologist in Hyattsville, MD
Jessica Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782  (Online Only)
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
(301) 701-3857 View (301) 701-3857
Photo of Arielle Walls, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Arielle Walls
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20785  (Online Only)
I get it... It's hard out here. In a world that demands more than it gives, it is imperative that one develops their voice to speak their truth and find their way to liberation and connection. It may feel impossible to find stability and security not only within your environment but also within yourself. As a clinician, my goal is to support you as you find empowerment, enact self-compassion, expand self- awareness, restore and improve relationships with self and others, and find inner security using an interpersonal/relational approach, psychotherapy, psycho-education. EMDR, and holistic interventions.
I get it... It's hard out here. In a world that demands more than it gives, it is imperative that one develops their voice to speak their truth and find their way to liberation and connection. It may feel impossible to find stability and security not only within your environment but also within yourself. As a clinician, my goal is to support you as you find empowerment, enact self-compassion, expand self- awareness, restore and improve relationships with self and others, and find inner security using an interpersonal/relational approach, psychotherapy, psycho-education. EMDR, and holistic interventions.
(202) 968-2800 View (202) 968-2800
Photo of Vicki Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Vicki Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783  (Online Only)
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
(301) 684-8194 View (301) 684-8194
Photo of Noëlle Opsahl, Psychologist in Hyattsville, MD
Noëlle Opsahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Engaging in self-care is one of the most powerful choices we can make in our lives. Taking care of our mental health is one essential aspect of self-care. Choosing to address emotional pain can feel daunting. Ever imagine it could also feel rewarding? Psychotherapy can provide a unique opportunity to foster growth, compassion, and self-acceptance. As a clinical psychologist, my goal is to guide you on your personal journey, and help you embrace your most authentic self so you can live a life that’s meaningful to you and take value-based actions. Please visit my website to learn more: www.drnoelleopsahl.com
Engaging in self-care is one of the most powerful choices we can make in our lives. Taking care of our mental health is one essential aspect of self-care. Choosing to address emotional pain can feel daunting. Ever imagine it could also feel rewarding? Psychotherapy can provide a unique opportunity to foster growth, compassion, and self-acceptance. As a clinical psychologist, my goal is to guide you on your personal journey, and help you embrace your most authentic self so you can live a life that’s meaningful to you and take value-based actions. Please visit my website to learn more: www.drnoelleopsahl.com
(202) 519-8595 View (202) 519-8595
Photo of Meghan Meros, Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Meghan Meros
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782  (Online Only)
When OCD, depression, and anxiety get in the way of living fully, I help clients reclaim their lives and get unstuck. Clients that work with me are reflective, curious, and intentional about personal growth. Sometimes, clients aren't sure how to name the challenges they're experiencing, and they just have a hunch that life doesn't have to be as hard as it is now. That's okay! You don't need a diagnosis or the perfect description of your symptoms to start counseling. I understand that disorders show up in diverse ways, and I take time to listen to my clients so that treatment can be responsive to their unique needs.
When OCD, depression, and anxiety get in the way of living fully, I help clients reclaim their lives and get unstuck. Clients that work with me are reflective, curious, and intentional about personal growth. Sometimes, clients aren't sure how to name the challenges they're experiencing, and they just have a hunch that life doesn't have to be as hard as it is now. That's okay! You don't need a diagnosis or the perfect description of your symptoms to start counseling. I understand that disorders show up in diverse ways, and I take time to listen to my clients so that treatment can be responsive to their unique needs.
(240) 887-1793 View (240) 887-1793
Photo of Victoria Igbene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Victoria Igbene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20785  (Online Only)
I find that many people have dealt with so much trauma and disappointment in life that they begin to feel powerless. I know it can all feel like too much at times. The way out isn’t necessarily to fix all the problems in your life, but to learn how to respond differently to them, as your capable, beautiful self. You might wonder what your life purpose really is, or feel as if you’re stuck in the same cycle. Many of my clients have described feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending pressures of life. It might seem that no matter what you do, you can’t get ahead.
I find that many people have dealt with so much trauma and disappointment in life that they begin to feel powerless. I know it can all feel like too much at times. The way out isn’t necessarily to fix all the problems in your life, but to learn how to respond differently to them, as your capable, beautiful self. You might wonder what your life purpose really is, or feel as if you’re stuck in the same cycle. Many of my clients have described feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending pressures of life. It might seem that no matter what you do, you can’t get ahead.
(301) 234-7751 View (301) 234-7751
Photo of Kemah M Gbolokai, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Kemah M Gbolokai
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20785
Mental Health has always been a taboo topic in the African community. Why would I want to talk to someone about my problems or what I have experienced growing up? Breaking the silence and creating a voice has been a passion and a mission for Kemah. Kemah M Gbolokai is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. She has 17 years working with Children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. She has 9 years working with women and children fleeing domestic violence. Kemah has worked in the field of corrections and rehabilitation with clients who have co-occurring disorders.
Mental Health has always been a taboo topic in the African community. Why would I want to talk to someone about my problems or what I have experienced growing up? Breaking the silence and creating a voice has been a passion and a mission for Kemah. Kemah M Gbolokai is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. She has 17 years working with Children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. She has 9 years working with women and children fleeing domestic violence. Kemah has worked in the field of corrections and rehabilitation with clients who have co-occurring disorders.
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Photo of Robert S. Seiler Jr., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Robert S. Seiler Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Are you suffering? Have you tried to change on your own but feel stuck? I can help by providing a safe, caring place where you can heal and grow. You can learn to feel and express your emotions without shutting down or acting destructively and to get your needs met.
Are you suffering? Have you tried to change on your own but feel stuck? I can help by providing a safe, caring place where you can heal and grow. You can learn to feel and express your emotions without shutting down or acting destructively and to get your needs met.
(240) 594-8559 View (240) 594-8559
Photo of Concierge Therapeutic Care in Hyattsville, MD
Concierge Therapeutic Care
MA, LPC, LCPC, MMQ
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783
I approach most counseling issues from a perspective that most people are doing the best they can with what they believe and perceive. Hence, the context for most of our pain as human beings and our well being is found within the meanings we code our experiences with and the relationship spheres we foster. Therefore, above all the various strategies I may find the need to employ on behalf of my client, the most impactful of all of these is that of using the compassionate connection we build with each other as being a powerful catalyst to generate the flow of new possibility.
I approach most counseling issues from a perspective that most people are doing the best they can with what they believe and perceive. Hence, the context for most of our pain as human beings and our well being is found within the meanings we code our experiences with and the relationship spheres we foster. Therefore, above all the various strategies I may find the need to employ on behalf of my client, the most impactful of all of these is that of using the compassionate connection we build with each other as being a powerful catalyst to generate the flow of new possibility.
(240) 708-8015 View (240) 708-8015
Gail Arnita Bethea-Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782
I am an African American Christian therapist specializing in the field of victimization and trauma. I have been in private practice and owned my business for over twenty-five ryears. I believe total healing is mind, body and spirit. I am the author of a daily devotional entitled : "Good Morning My Chickadees: Morning Messages From Mom” and a relaxation CD entitled “Surrender.” I have been a consultant to a number of agencies and schools in the metropolitan area; and is trained in the Jeff Mitchell model of critical incident stress debriefing. My motto is "You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you". phil. 4:13
I am an African American Christian therapist specializing in the field of victimization and trauma. I have been in private practice and owned my business for over twenty-five ryears. I believe total healing is mind, body and spirit. I am the author of a daily devotional entitled : "Good Morning My Chickadees: Morning Messages From Mom” and a relaxation CD entitled “Surrender.” I have been a consultant to a number of agencies and schools in the metropolitan area; and is trained in the Jeff Mitchell model of critical incident stress debriefing. My motto is "You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you". phil. 4:13
(301) 861-0562 View (301) 861-0562
Photo of Achieving Joy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Achieving Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20781
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
(301) 691-3874 View (301) 691-3874
Photo of Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center, Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20785  (Online Only)
Without the help from someone who has lived through narcissistic abuse themselves, your journey toward recovery might feel like a lonely, difficult pursuit. Our goal is to help you heal, recover, and reclaim your life and learn to avoid toxic relationships forever. With a proven coaching program, we can walk you through the process with the support you need from coaches and therapists who have lived experiences in narcissistic relationships, themselves.
Without the help from someone who has lived through narcissistic abuse themselves, your journey toward recovery might feel like a lonely, difficult pursuit. Our goal is to help you heal, recover, and reclaim your life and learn to avoid toxic relationships forever. With a proven coaching program, we can walk you through the process with the support you need from coaches and therapists who have lived experiences in narcissistic relationships, themselves.
(858) 251-9791 View (858) 251-9791
Photo of Dwayne Phillips-McNamee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW, CFSW
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Not accepting new clients
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee is a Licensed Social Worker who works to provide a culturally sensitive, inclusive, equitable internal and external space for all clients regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background, or any other factor. Dwayne works with adult individuals surrounding a variety of issues, including issues related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, and relationships. He is particularly interested in working with black adults, those in and around the LGBTQ+ community, and those navigating issues related to building and maintaining relationships.
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee is a Licensed Social Worker who works to provide a culturally sensitive, inclusive, equitable internal and external space for all clients regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background, or any other factor. Dwayne works with adult individuals surrounding a variety of issues, including issues related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, and relationships. He is particularly interested in working with black adults, those in and around the LGBTQ+ community, and those navigating issues related to building and maintaining relationships.
(202) 972-3681 View (202) 972-3681
Photo of Melissa Huang, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hyattsville, MD
Melissa Huang
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20781  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes in life, we feel stuck: stuck in a feeling we don’t like, stuck in patterns of behavior we want to break, or stuck in our relationships. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for my clients to work through whatever struggles keep them from thriving. Bringing warmth and empathy, I will meet you where you are and work with you to achieve your wellness goals. I love helping clients understand and express their emotions, make meaning of their past experiences and present realities, and connect with others in healthy ways.
Sometimes in life, we feel stuck: stuck in a feeling we don’t like, stuck in patterns of behavior we want to break, or stuck in our relationships. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for my clients to work through whatever struggles keep them from thriving. Bringing warmth and empathy, I will meet you where you are and work with you to achieve your wellness goals. I love helping clients understand and express their emotions, make meaning of their past experiences and present realities, and connect with others in healthy ways.
(202) 929-6757 View (202) 929-6757

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brian Polis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Brian Polis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20742  (Online Only)
Brainspotting/EMDR trained, I approach therapy with a humanistic mindset, focused on developing insight to overcome the barriers that are preventing you from fully living life.
Opening up around the vulnerable and intimate details of our lives can be very uncomfortable. There is so much pressure to be “happy”, “better”, or “perfect”, while receiving messaging that being anything else is unacceptable. We are very adaptive yet often struggle to effectively get our needs met, so may engage in avoidance behaviors and withhold or internalize our feelings to try to prevent things from getting worse. You want to feel more like your true self and get more satisfaction out of your relationships. You need an unconditionally supportive, non-judgmental, creative, and humorous therapist who accepts you however you are.
Brainspotting/EMDR trained, I approach therapy with a humanistic mindset, focused on developing insight to overcome the barriers that are preventing you from fully living life.
Opening up around the vulnerable and intimate details of our lives can be very uncomfortable. There is so much pressure to be “happy”, “better”, or “perfect”, while receiving messaging that being anything else is unacceptable. We are very adaptive yet often struggle to effectively get our needs met, so may engage in avoidance behaviors and withhold or internalize our feelings to try to prevent things from getting worse. You want to feel more like your true self and get more satisfaction out of your relationships. You need an unconditionally supportive, non-judgmental, creative, and humorous therapist who accepts you however you are.
(240) 730-2829 View (240) 730-2829
Photo of James DeMaio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
James DeMaio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
I take a trauma-informed approach to my therapy and utilize a strength based approach using Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, CBT, and psychoeducation as my primary therapy methods.
Are you struggling with stress from work, family relationships, addictions, or life transitions? Have you suffered loss of a child, parent, friend or significant other? You don't need to bare your burden alone. Life is filled with ups and downs, and therapy can be a valuable tool in building upon your own strengths to cope with challenges. With a diverse background in social work with families, post-incarceration, addictions, job searching and job coaching, I am experienced working with clients dealing with loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
I take a trauma-informed approach to my therapy and utilize a strength based approach using Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, CBT, and psychoeducation as my primary therapy methods.
Are you struggling with stress from work, family relationships, addictions, or life transitions? Have you suffered loss of a child, parent, friend or significant other? You don't need to bare your burden alone. Life is filled with ups and downs, and therapy can be a valuable tool in building upon your own strengths to cope with challenges. With a diverse background in social work with families, post-incarceration, addictions, job searching and job coaching, I am experienced working with clients dealing with loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
(410) 936-3161 View (410) 936-3161
Photo of Laura Place, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Laura Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
So I use a bunch of tools and methods for helping people to reach their goals, like EMDR, mindfulness, behavioral coping strategies, all based in a person-centered approach.
You've been on a journey just to figure out who you are and even though some of the pieces have come together, you could use a hand figuring out what to do with those pieces. Or you know just who you are and what you want for your life, but you can't seem to figure out how to manage the day to day challenges of adulting that everyone else seems to breeze through. You know you want and need a change, but you're not sure how to get there-and you've gotten pretty discouraged when you try without getting the results you need. I'm here to be a skilled and experienced guide to help you along any and all of those journeys.
So I use a bunch of tools and methods for helping people to reach their goals, like EMDR, mindfulness, behavioral coping strategies, all based in a person-centered approach.
You've been on a journey just to figure out who you are and even though some of the pieces have come together, you could use a hand figuring out what to do with those pieces. Or you know just who you are and what you want for your life, but you can't seem to figure out how to manage the day to day challenges of adulting that everyone else seems to breeze through. You know you want and need a change, but you're not sure how to get there-and you've gotten pretty discouraged when you try without getting the results you need. I'm here to be a skilled and experienced guide to help you along any and all of those journeys.
(240) 202-3058 View (240) 202-3058
Photo of Symone Colquitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Symone Colquitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
Advance training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) helps clients recover from trauma and difficult life experiences.
Over twenty years extensive experience with specialized evidence-based treatment strategies, I help clients in search of solutions to relationship difficulty, traumatic life events and challenging transitions. Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, hopeless, and want to work toward positive changes? My expertise in systemic relational therapy for individuals, couples, and families helps to identify negative patterns, incorporate helpful skills and gain relief from relationship distress. Safe support is given to those living with unprocessed complex trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness demands, grief/historic loss, relational distress.
Advance training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) helps clients recover from trauma and difficult life experiences.
Over twenty years extensive experience with specialized evidence-based treatment strategies, I help clients in search of solutions to relationship difficulty, traumatic life events and challenging transitions. Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, hopeless, and want to work toward positive changes? My expertise in systemic relational therapy for individuals, couples, and families helps to identify negative patterns, incorporate helpful skills and gain relief from relationship distress. Safe support is given to those living with unprocessed complex trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness demands, grief/historic loss, relational distress.
(240) 652-2723 View (240) 652-2723

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.