EMDR Therapists in Portland, ME

Photo of Ginie Thorp, Counselor in Portland, ME
Ginie Thorp
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL> . I believe that we all seek to be seen and known. Counseling is a place where we can be supported and reconnect to our strengths, flexibility and resourcefulness. My approach to helping you reconnect to your strengths incorporates mind-body awareness, and relational theory. We'll work in collaboration to help you regain the balance you need to meet your challenges. I offer clients many body based tools from my training in EMDR, AEDP, IFS, meditation, yoga, acupressure, and Attunement work as well as journaling, and spirituality exploration.
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL> . I believe that we all seek to be seen and known. Counseling is a place where we can be supported and reconnect to our strengths, flexibility and resourcefulness. My approach to helping you reconnect to your strengths incorporates mind-body awareness, and relational theory. We'll work in collaboration to help you regain the balance you need to meet your challenges. I offer clients many body based tools from my training in EMDR, AEDP, IFS, meditation, yoga, acupressure, and Attunement work as well as journaling, and spirituality exploration.
(207) 518-7554 View (207) 518-7554
Photo of Catherine Christy Leschey, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Catherine Christy Leschey
Psychologist, MSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
The most important aspect of my work as a therapist is the relationship between therapist and client. This allows the therapuetic alliance to be formed. My focus is on teaching adults and seniors new coping skills and life skills to help alleviate their symptoms of depression, anxiety, fears or phobias. I also help people who are struggling with traumatic memories using EMDR as a treatment modality. I have been trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, teaching one to change existing thought processes thus leading to positive thinking and coping skills. I use a holistic bio-psycho-social model which incorporates mindfulness therapy using relaxation techniques.
The most important aspect of my work as a therapist is the relationship between therapist and client. This allows the therapuetic alliance to be formed. My focus is on teaching adults and seniors new coping skills and life skills to help alleviate their symptoms of depression, anxiety, fears or phobias. I also help people who are struggling with traumatic memories using EMDR as a treatment modality. I have been trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, teaching one to change existing thought processes thus leading to positive thinking and coping skills. I use a holistic bio-psycho-social model which incorporates mindfulness therapy using relaxation techniques.
(207) 400-9067 View (207) 400-9067
William G Shea
Counselor, MFT, RC, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
We work with Family Systems therapy, EMDR (and two other PTSD protocols) in addition to Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.
25 years working as an independent psychotherapist with individuals, families and trauma difficulties. We resolve conflict, remove behavioral triggers, and work systemically to minimize issues. Our goal for our clients is to process current and past troubles in order to healthfully achieve resolution...
We work with Family Systems therapy, EMDR (and two other PTSD protocols) in addition to Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.
25 years working as an independent psychotherapist with individuals, families and trauma difficulties. We resolve conflict, remove behavioral triggers, and work systemically to minimize issues. Our goal for our clients is to process current and past troubles in order to healthfully achieve resolution...
(207) 218-0048 View (207) 218-0048
Photo of Matthew Fein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Matthew Fein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MATM, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I’m trained in EMDR (Level I and II) and offer psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, spiritual, and harm reduction approaches in my practice.
Welcome! My practice is oriented towards serving persons who need support for coping with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, grief, and substance/alcohol use. My approach is concerned with creating a safe space in which you may share your current experience and history, and explore solutions, build skills, and engage in healing modalities. My clinical interests include working with adults, couples, and especially persons in the LGBTQIA+ community. I utilize a trauma responsive, strengths based, solution focused approach. I offer frameworks of compassionate self-understanding, and help people find meaning and purpose in living.
I’m trained in EMDR (Level I and II) and offer psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, spiritual, and harm reduction approaches in my practice.
Welcome! My practice is oriented towards serving persons who need support for coping with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, grief, and substance/alcohol use. My approach is concerned with creating a safe space in which you may share your current experience and history, and explore solutions, build skills, and engage in healing modalities. My clinical interests include working with adults, couples, and especially persons in the LGBTQIA+ community. I utilize a trauma responsive, strengths based, solution focused approach. I offer frameworks of compassionate self-understanding, and help people find meaning and purpose in living.
(207) 370-8099 View (207) 370-8099
Photo of Sarah Spiegel, Counselor in Portland, ME
Sarah Spiegel
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
While I use evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), motivational interviewing, and EMDR, each session is tailored to you.
Seeking counseling is a sign of hope. My intent is to create a compassionate, grounded, and non-judgmental collaboration with you to facilitate change and help you move forward in a meaningful way. Let's tap into your strengths to get the most out of our sessions, making space for new insights and skills, and improving communication. My expertise includes helping people heal from past hurts and traumas, navigating life transitions, relationship issues (family, intimacy, parenting), depression, anxiety, stress reduction, conflict resolution, and grief/loss. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are committed to growth.
While I use evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), motivational interviewing, and EMDR, each session is tailored to you.
Seeking counseling is a sign of hope. My intent is to create a compassionate, grounded, and non-judgmental collaboration with you to facilitate change and help you move forward in a meaningful way. Let's tap into your strengths to get the most out of our sessions, making space for new insights and skills, and improving communication. My expertise includes helping people heal from past hurts and traumas, navigating life transitions, relationship issues (family, intimacy, parenting), depression, anxiety, stress reduction, conflict resolution, and grief/loss. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are committed to growth.
(207) 835-3429 View (207) 835-3429
Photo of Karina Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Karina Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Whether you have done therapy for years or never before, I would be honored to support you during these anxiety provoking times. I am trauma-sensitive and EMDR certified; I provide treatment for PTSD, anxiety, depression, prenatal and postpartum concerns, grief, relationship conflict, medical hardships and life transitions. I love working with individuals who are ready to be challenged and grow. Using a strength based mindfulness and holistic approach I will empower you to improve your overall well-being and find a healthier balance in your life.
Hello! Whether you have done therapy for years or never before, I would be honored to support you during these anxiety provoking times. I am trauma-sensitive and EMDR certified; I provide treatment for PTSD, anxiety, depression, prenatal and postpartum concerns, grief, relationship conflict, medical hardships and life transitions. I love working with individuals who are ready to be challenged and grow. Using a strength based mindfulness and holistic approach I will empower you to improve your overall well-being and find a healthier balance in your life.
(207) 705-0974 View (207) 705-0974
Photo of Caitlin Aiona Smith, Counselor in Portland, ME
Caitlin Aiona Smith
Counselor, MA, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I use a variety of techniques such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, and Somatic Therapy to support clients in creating the life they want for themselves.
You are the expert to your own life. The services I offer are tailored to help you best connect with yourself and your own needs. I offer individualized, trauma-informed, and evidenced-based treatment plans to support clients in exploring areas of their life where they feel stuck or stagnant and aid them in developing and achieving meaningful goals for their future.
I use a variety of techniques such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, and Somatic Therapy to support clients in creating the life they want for themselves.
You are the expert to your own life. The services I offer are tailored to help you best connect with yourself and your own needs. I offer individualized, trauma-informed, and evidenced-based treatment plans to support clients in exploring areas of their life where they feel stuck or stagnant and aid them in developing and achieving meaningful goals for their future.
(207) 489-4969 View (207) 489-4969
Photo of Dr. Sarah Durant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, ME
Dr. Sarah Durant
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I conceptualize our work through family systems and attachment theory, and draw from several different therapies including EMDR, DBT, CPT, NET, & Gottman Couples' Therapy.
Have you found yourself running into the same patterns over and over in relationships or in life? Perhaps therapy can help you to understand the root of these problems and make some meaningful changes. As a therapist, I provide a safe and compassionate environment where you can feel understood and supported, while offering current research-based treatment and psychoeducation related to your current goals for therapy. For more information about my practice and background, please see my website and send a message here or by email to contact me.
I conceptualize our work through family systems and attachment theory, and draw from several different therapies including EMDR, DBT, CPT, NET, & Gottman Couples' Therapy.
Have you found yourself running into the same patterns over and over in relationships or in life? Perhaps therapy can help you to understand the root of these problems and make some meaningful changes. As a therapist, I provide a safe and compassionate environment where you can feel understood and supported, while offering current research-based treatment and psychoeducation related to your current goals for therapy. For more information about my practice and background, please see my website and send a message here or by email to contact me.
(207) 358-9519 View (207) 358-9519
Photo of Margaret Munsell, Counselor in Portland, ME
Margaret Munsell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
(207) 481-4515 View (207) 481-4515
Photo of Mahala Jordan, Counselor in Portland, ME
Mahala Jordan
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am specially trained in EMDR, an evidence based practice that facilitates more efficient healing of trauma.
I specialize in pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, fertility challenges, perinatal loss, and trauma in the perinatal period. Whether you're finding it harder than you imagined to get pregnant, are struggling with a birth that didn't go according to plan, experienced a major loss, or aren't thriving in a new parent role, we can process, vent, reframe, learn new skills, or problem solve. Whatever you need. You may also be finding that unresolved wounds from your past are resurfacing and getting in the way of you showing up as your best self, we can address those issues too.
I am specially trained in EMDR, an evidence based practice that facilitates more efficient healing of trauma.
I specialize in pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, fertility challenges, perinatal loss, and trauma in the perinatal period. Whether you're finding it harder than you imagined to get pregnant, are struggling with a birth that didn't go according to plan, experienced a major loss, or aren't thriving in a new parent role, we can process, vent, reframe, learn new skills, or problem solve. Whatever you need. You may also be finding that unresolved wounds from your past are resurfacing and getting in the way of you showing up as your best self, we can address those issues too.
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Photo of Elisa Orme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Elisa Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
I am currently accepting new clients for telehealth and outdoor sessions (after initial telehealth intake session). I am a LCSW providing evidence-based psychotherapy to individuals. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) through an EMDRIA-certified organization.
I am currently accepting new clients for telehealth and outdoor sessions (after initial telehealth intake session). I am a LCSW providing evidence-based psychotherapy to individuals. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) through an EMDRIA-certified organization.
(207) 261-0460 View (207) 261-0460
Photo of Leslie Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Leslie Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have developed an integrated approach to treatment which is individualized and may include; Mindfulness, EMDR, IFS/Ego state work, Polyvagal theory, Neuroscience, DBT, Body Oriented Psychotherapy, Expressive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindful & Intuitive Eating, HAES.
Welcome! I'm licensed in ME & NY. I believe the work is to find our way back to what is already whole. My mission is to help you reshape your neural landscape and support a life of meaning and resilience. Additionally, my approach can be directive & challenge you to be courageous & confront yourself in order to unburden & heal. This can be intense work as we together invite the best version of yourself to step up & evolve, by befriending your nervous system and creating more effective patterns/beliefs & internal resources. I truly enjoy this work & bringing humor & levity to my sessions with individuals, families, couples & groups.
I have developed an integrated approach to treatment which is individualized and may include; Mindfulness, EMDR, IFS/Ego state work, Polyvagal theory, Neuroscience, DBT, Body Oriented Psychotherapy, Expressive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindful & Intuitive Eating, HAES.
Welcome! I'm licensed in ME & NY. I believe the work is to find our way back to what is already whole. My mission is to help you reshape your neural landscape and support a life of meaning and resilience. Additionally, my approach can be directive & challenge you to be courageous & confront yourself in order to unburden & heal. This can be intense work as we together invite the best version of yourself to step up & evolve, by befriending your nervous system and creating more effective patterns/beliefs & internal resources. I truly enjoy this work & bringing humor & levity to my sessions with individuals, families, couples & groups.
(207) 218-0102 View (207) 218-0102
Photo of Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
I frequently integrate other theoretical approaches into evidence based theoretical models including motivational interviewing techniques, EMDR, ASAM, Mindfulness, Narrative therapy, Harm Reduction, Codependency, Trauma Informed Care, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorders.
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of evidence based clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life.
I frequently integrate other theoretical approaches into evidence based theoretical models including motivational interviewing techniques, EMDR, ASAM, Mindfulness, Narrative therapy, Harm Reduction, Codependency, Trauma Informed Care, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorders.
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of evidence based clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life.
(207) 598-4958 View (207) 598-4958
Photo of Juniper Therapeutic Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Juniper Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Our mission at Juniper Therapeutic Services is to help clients in New York and Maine heal through a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and traditional talk therapy. We apply our values of omnipresent compassion and curiosity to achieve this goal.
Our mission at Juniper Therapeutic Services is to help clients in New York and Maine heal through a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and traditional talk therapy. We apply our values of omnipresent compassion and curiosity to achieve this goal.
(207) 825-7059 View (207) 825-7059
Photo of Lindsay Woodward, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Portland, ME
Lindsay Woodward
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Therapy is an interactive process where we explore solutions and experience ourselves in new ways. Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), a proven approach to treating trauma and anxiety disorders. I believe memories shape the way we feel about ourselves, others, and the world, and EMDR can help neutralize the negative energy we hold in the body. I’ve uncovered so much about the healing process and how to let go of burdens both big and small, which allows us to move through the world more freely.
Therapy is an interactive process where we explore solutions and experience ourselves in new ways. Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), a proven approach to treating trauma and anxiety disorders. I believe memories shape the way we feel about ourselves, others, and the world, and EMDR can help neutralize the negative energy we hold in the body. I’ve uncovered so much about the healing process and how to let go of burdens both big and small, which allows us to move through the world more freely.
(207) 517-2015 View (207) 517-2015
Photo of Mollie Volinsky (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Mollie Volinsky (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I am a warm and empathetic clinician who is passionate about combining the groundbreaking treatments of EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)! My goal is to use my specialized trainings to support you on your healing journey. I work with clients in New York (virtually) and Maine (virtually and in-person). EMDR and KAP have adapted to the times and are just as effective virtually as they are in-person!
I am a warm and empathetic clinician who is passionate about combining the groundbreaking treatments of EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)! My goal is to use my specialized trainings to support you on your healing journey. I work with clients in New York (virtually) and Maine (virtually and in-person). EMDR and KAP have adapted to the times and are just as effective virtually as they are in-person!
(917) 905-9806 View (917) 905-9806
Photo of Victoria Libby, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Victoria Libby
Psychologist, MSEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, relational therapies, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Systems Therapy (TST), family and couples counseling, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
To me, the bedrock of meaningful treatment is a feeling of comfort and ease with your therapist. I consider it a great privilege to assist people in their growth and healing. Giving to people in this way is an honor and a joy.
I have training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, relational therapies, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Systems Therapy (TST), family and couples counseling, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
To me, the bedrock of meaningful treatment is a feeling of comfort and ease with your therapist. I consider it a great privilege to assist people in their growth and healing. Giving to people in this way is an honor and a joy.
(207) 656-5763 View (207) 656-5763
Photo of Max Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, ME
Max Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I now provide counseling and psychotherapy telehealth sessions online only. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, and substance addictions. I provide a safe, empathic therapy environment in which clients can explore self-care strategies and tools to increase well-being and life satisfaction.
I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I now provide counseling and psychotherapy telehealth sessions online only. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, and substance addictions. I provide a safe, empathic therapy environment in which clients can explore self-care strategies and tools to increase well-being and life satisfaction.
(409) 263-4666 View (409) 263-4666
Photo of Brenna O’Sullivan, Clinical Professional Counselor in Portland, ME
Brenna O’Sullivan
Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04104  (Online Only)
As an EMDR therapist and yoga teacher, I emphasize mind-body approaches that support you to develop self-insight through embodied awareness.
I believe that all people are doing the best they can with the resources they have at the time. A good therapeutic fit could be just the resource you need to take your growth or healing into a new phase. Finding the right therapist can be a challenge, and I’m honored you are considering connecting with me. I am committed to creating an empowering space for you to tap into the tools, values, and beliefs already within that can help you thrive. I am especially passionate about holding space for Gen Z’ers, Neurodivergent folks or those exploring diagnoses, and folks healing from trauma and challenging family dynamics.
As an EMDR therapist and yoga teacher, I emphasize mind-body approaches that support you to develop self-insight through embodied awareness.
I believe that all people are doing the best they can with the resources they have at the time. A good therapeutic fit could be just the resource you need to take your growth or healing into a new phase. Finding the right therapist can be a challenge, and I’m honored you are considering connecting with me. I am committed to creating an empowering space for you to tap into the tools, values, and beliefs already within that can help you thrive. I am especially passionate about holding space for Gen Z’ers, Neurodivergent folks or those exploring diagnoses, and folks healing from trauma and challenging family dynamics.
(207) 506-2740 View (207) 506-2740
Photo of Marisa Mohrer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Marisa Mohrer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I offer 60 and 90 minute sessions, and specialize in half day trauma therapy intensives. A therapy intensive is an efficient and comprehensive pathway to heal trauma in consecutive days instead of over many years in weekly therapy, and can accelerate symptom relief. I utilize evidence-informed modalities such as EMDR, Progressive Counting, and the Flash technique to effectively heal the roots of distressing emotions and negative beliefs stored within traumatic memories.
I offer 60 and 90 minute sessions, and specialize in half day trauma therapy intensives. A therapy intensive is an efficient and comprehensive pathway to heal trauma in consecutive days instead of over many years in weekly therapy, and can accelerate symptom relief. I utilize evidence-informed modalities such as EMDR, Progressive Counting, and the Flash technique to effectively heal the roots of distressing emotions and negative beliefs stored within traumatic memories.
(207) 290-8617 View (207) 290-8617
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.