EMDR Therapists in Charlevoix County, MI

Photo of Ann T Holland - Ann Holland Professional Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Holland Professional Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boyne City, MI 49712
Professional provider with 40 years experience in the management, organization and outreach services to families in small, state-run and large mental health organizations, substance abuse, EMDR therapy, and behavioral issues. Individual treatment planning, individual, family and group therapy, crisis intervention and cultural sensitivity, internship, supervision and program development. Therapists need counseling too and I can help you! Evidence based practices. Most of all, I possess a great deal of understanding and compassion for how to provide the best possible range of service and advocacy to families in our community.
Professional provider with 40 years experience in the management, organization and outreach services to families in small, state-run and large mental health organizations, substance abuse, EMDR therapy, and behavioral issues. Individual treatment planning, individual, family and group therapy, crisis intervention and cultural sensitivity, internship, supervision and program development. Therapists need counseling too and I can help you! Evidence based practices. Most of all, I possess a great deal of understanding and compassion for how to provide the best possible range of service and advocacy to families in our community.
(231) 276-2399 View (231) 276-2399
Photo of Michael Lucido, PhD, LP, MSCP, Psychologist
Michael Lucido
Psychologist, PhD, LP, MSCP
Verified Verified
Charlevoix, MI 49720  (Online Only)
I have specialized in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I believe every individual is their own expert and has the ability to be the editor to their story finding the truest and empowering version rather than one that’s defined by others or by trauma. All people are capable of achieving a greater potential and have within them, the answers. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, compulsions, history of trauma, social challenges, or executive dysfunction, all of these problems have answers and can be overcome with believing in yourself.
I have specialized in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I believe every individual is their own expert and has the ability to be the editor to their story finding the truest and empowering version rather than one that’s defined by others or by trauma. All people are capable of achieving a greater potential and have within them, the answers. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, compulsions, history of trauma, social challenges, or executive dysfunction, all of these problems have answers and can be overcome with believing in yourself.
(231) 660-8867 View (231) 660-8867
Photo of Naomi Casement, LMSW, CAADC, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Casement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Modalities such as, IFS (internal family systems), EMDR, (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic experiencing, EFT (emotionally focused couples therapy), are samples of tools that are there for us to consider.
At times life brings challenging experiences that feel too large to overcome. The results are exhaustion and feeling lost from emotional upset with no solution in sight. Are you someone who is carrying the struggle of trauma, betrayal, conflicts in your relationship? Do you battle the struggles of out of control sex/porn behaviors, alcohol/drug issues, depression/anxiety? Know that you do not have to silently carry these burdens alone. Humans are resilient and the answers are within. You can prevail. I welcome you to a safe, non-judgmental place to begin your transformation, as you discover what lie's within you.
Modalities such as, IFS (internal family systems), EMDR, (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic experiencing, EFT (emotionally focused couples therapy), are samples of tools that are there for us to consider.
At times life brings challenging experiences that feel too large to overcome. The results are exhaustion and feeling lost from emotional upset with no solution in sight. Are you someone who is carrying the struggle of trauma, betrayal, conflicts in your relationship? Do you battle the struggles of out of control sex/porn behaviors, alcohol/drug issues, depression/anxiety? Know that you do not have to silently carry these burdens alone. Humans are resilient and the answers are within. You can prevail. I welcome you to a safe, non-judgmental place to begin your transformation, as you discover what lie's within you.
(231) 487-6046 View (231) 487-6046
Photo of Heather Cornett, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Cornett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Boyne City, MI 49712
I use a number of evidence based practices including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS informed therapy and EMDR to help you grow.
I love empowering individuals ; helping them to heal, rise above their challenges, take personal ownership over their life, and learn to thrive in every circumstance. I take a strengths based approach to therapy. "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" - Helen Keller.
I use a number of evidence based practices including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS informed therapy and EMDR to help you grow.
I love empowering individuals ; helping them to heal, rise above their challenges, take personal ownership over their life, and learn to thrive in every circumstance. I take a strengths based approach to therapy. "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" - Helen Keller.
(231) 442-0886 View (231) 442-0886
Photo of Arch Wright, LPC, CMHC, NARM, Counselor
Arch Wright
Counselor, LPC, CMHC, NARM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boyne City, MI 49712
My ideal client is inspired to be curious together and work together to identify and remove blockages that prevent a life of clarity and abundance. Whether relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief, unresolved trauma, addiction, career matters, or even the most deeply-stuck moods (anxiety, depression, etc.), we all possess within us the capacity to instinctively heal and thrive with sustained connection, vibrancy and aliveness. It’s likely a simple solution, in need of the right "non-pathological" and rigorously client-centered approach is all. My clients are empowered to reconnect with and regain trust in themselves.
My ideal client is inspired to be curious together and work together to identify and remove blockages that prevent a life of clarity and abundance. Whether relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief, unresolved trauma, addiction, career matters, or even the most deeply-stuck moods (anxiety, depression, etc.), we all possess within us the capacity to instinctively heal and thrive with sustained connection, vibrancy and aliveness. It’s likely a simple solution, in need of the right "non-pathological" and rigorously client-centered approach is all. My clients are empowered to reconnect with and regain trust in themselves.
(231) 241-6901 View (231) 241-6901
Photo of Elizabeth Simpson, Elizabeth Simpson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, Elizabeth Simpson, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Waitlist for new clients
I help people address mental health issues through a combination of highly individualized therapy and lifestyle interventions. I have extensive experience treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and trauma. I help people better understand how their attitudes and behaviors are influenced by their life experience and current environment, so change is possible. My approach is highly collaborative and flexible, and I work with my clients to maximize the benefits of therapy by helping them develop supports and opportunities for growth outside scheduled sessions.
I help people address mental health issues through a combination of highly individualized therapy and lifestyle interventions. I have extensive experience treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and trauma. I help people better understand how their attitudes and behaviors are influenced by their life experience and current environment, so change is possible. My approach is highly collaborative and flexible, and I work with my clients to maximize the benefits of therapy by helping them develop supports and opportunities for growth outside scheduled sessions.
(231) 459-3213 View (231) 459-3213
Photo of Kelly S Ingleson, MRC, LPC-S, Counselor
Kelly S Ingleson
Counselor, MRC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boyne City, MI 49712
Kaleidoscope Counseling specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I am experienced in working with trauma such as sexual or physical abuse, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder. All Counseling is confidential with a personalized approach for each client. The goal of therapy at Kaleidoscope Counseling is to help develop skills and techniques to navigate your life journey. Our initial meeting will provide an opportunity to complete a comprehensive client assessment. This will be a ninety minute appointment. In the following appointment, we will agree on a treatment plan with your individual measurable goals to include frequency and length of attendance.
Kaleidoscope Counseling specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I am experienced in working with trauma such as sexual or physical abuse, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder. All Counseling is confidential with a personalized approach for each client. The goal of therapy at Kaleidoscope Counseling is to help develop skills and techniques to navigate your life journey. Our initial meeting will provide an opportunity to complete a comprehensive client assessment. This will be a ninety minute appointment. In the following appointment, we will agree on a treatment plan with your individual measurable goals to include frequency and length of attendance.
(231) 480-0348 View (231) 480-0348
Photo of Sherry Guthrie, MS, LPC, MITS, Counselor
Sherry Guthrie
Counselor, MS, LPC, MITS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlevoix, MI 49720
I work with individuals who wish to live a full and rewarding life regardless of past experiences or current challenges. My clients have a range of issues which may include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, recent or remote trauma, childhood maltreatment, family dysfunction, women's issues, distortions of thought, or grief and loss. I use a variety of carefully chosen modalities to assist clients in reaching their personal goals. Such modalities might include CBT, traditional talk therapy, relaxation, biofeedback, pyschodynamic interpretation, assessment measures, and reading or writing material.
I work with individuals who wish to live a full and rewarding life regardless of past experiences or current challenges. My clients have a range of issues which may include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, recent or remote trauma, childhood maltreatment, family dysfunction, women's issues, distortions of thought, or grief and loss. I use a variety of carefully chosen modalities to assist clients in reaching their personal goals. Such modalities might include CBT, traditional talk therapy, relaxation, biofeedback, pyschodynamic interpretation, assessment measures, and reading or writing material.
(231) 389-1047 View (231) 389-1047
Photo of Jessica R. Stefanski, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica R. Stefanski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. I am so happy you are here. As humans we are extremely resilient and adaptive to our surroundings. At times, this can be a gift and it can also lead us on a path that is no longer serving us. Therapy has the potential to change the quality of our lives, as well as for those around us, for generations to come. I specialize in guiding people back to themselves, while setting the conditions for healing to take place. Given the right conditions our bodies and minds can heal. You already carry everything you need from within. My approach is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and client empowerment.
Welcome. I am so happy you are here. As humans we are extremely resilient and adaptive to our surroundings. At times, this can be a gift and it can also lead us on a path that is no longer serving us. Therapy has the potential to change the quality of our lives, as well as for those around us, for generations to come. I specialize in guiding people back to themselves, while setting the conditions for healing to take place. Given the right conditions our bodies and minds can heal. You already carry everything you need from within. My approach is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and client empowerment.
(231) 227-4309 View (231) 227-4309
Photo of Sabrina Spearman - Second Chance Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Second Chance Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlevoix, MI 49720
At Second Chance Counseling Center, we strive to accommodate every client. We are a group of professionals here to meet your needs with our unique combination of skills. Our clinicians have been trained in various modalities to treat trauma, relationship issues, depression, grief, anxiety, and many other disorders. This allows each of our clinicians to focus on you in your treatment. Let us help guide you in your journey.
At Second Chance Counseling Center, we strive to accommodate every client. We are a group of professionals here to meet your needs with our unique combination of skills. Our clinicians have been trained in various modalities to treat trauma, relationship issues, depression, grief, anxiety, and many other disorders. This allows each of our clinicians to focus on you in your treatment. Let us help guide you in your journey.
(231) 227-9203 View (231) 227-9203
Photo of Susan Mary Hoffman - Susan M Hoffman LMSW, LLC, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Hoffman LMSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlevoix, MI 49720  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
With more than 35 years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker, I have learned invaluable lessons in the fields of mental health and addiction. I have been actively involved in guiding others as a clinical supervisor and mentor, with endorsements from the NASW as a Supervisor and holding a CAADC credential for substance use disorders.
With more than 35 years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker, I have learned invaluable lessons in the fields of mental health and addiction. I have been actively involved in guiding others as a clinical supervisor and mentor, with endorsements from the NASW as a Supervisor and holding a CAADC credential for substance use disorders.
(231) 487-6619 View (231) 487-6619

Online Therapists

Photo of Traci Doran, LMSW, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Traci Doran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CFSW
Verified Verified
Luzerne, MI 48636  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or grief? Do you find it hard to communicate with others or maintain healthy relationships? As a therapist specializing in EMDR and CBT, I can help you overcome these challenges and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in your life. I am passionate about guiding my clients through difficult times and empowering them to make positive changes. Let's work together to create a better future for you.
Are you struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or grief? Do you find it hard to communicate with others or maintain healthy relationships? As a therapist specializing in EMDR and CBT, I can help you overcome these challenges and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in your life. I am passionate about guiding my clients through difficult times and empowering them to make positive changes. Let's work together to create a better future for you.
(989) 614-4329 View (989) 614-4329
Photo of Adam Monfils, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Monfils
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cadillac, MI 49601
In addition, I have considerable experience and specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed Care.
Are experiences with trauma keeping you stuck in the past and interfering with your quality of life? Do you find yourself trapped in harmful patterns that prevent you from having meaningful relationships? Are you constantly seeking to matter, feeling not good enough, or driven towards perfection? Working through these issues can be challenging and provoke tremendous distress. I cannot promise this process will be easy, but I can confidently say that there is hope for the future. As a licensed psychotherapist, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance that can be used as a vehicle for recovery and growth.
In addition, I have considerable experience and specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed Care.
Are experiences with trauma keeping you stuck in the past and interfering with your quality of life? Do you find yourself trapped in harmful patterns that prevent you from having meaningful relationships? Are you constantly seeking to matter, feeling not good enough, or driven towards perfection? Working through these issues can be challenging and provoke tremendous distress. I cannot promise this process will be easy, but I can confidently say that there is hope for the future. As a licensed psychotherapist, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance that can be used as a vehicle for recovery and growth.
(231) 599-9009 x3 View (231) 599-9009 x3
Photo of Nadine Stark - Connective Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connective Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
I integrate techniques from Person-Centered Therapy along with EMDR, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to empower my clients to better cope with stress, anxieties, depression, and emotional or physical pain.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Are you thinking about making positive changes in your life? You've come this far, nice work! Let's take the next steps together. I believe we all have strengths we can use to navigate life's inevitable challenges, whether it's overcoming anxious thoughts, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence and parenting, or improving the quality of your relationships.
I integrate techniques from Person-Centered Therapy along with EMDR, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to empower my clients to better cope with stress, anxieties, depression, and emotional or physical pain.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Are you thinking about making positive changes in your life? You've come this far, nice work! Let's take the next steps together. I believe we all have strengths we can use to navigate life's inevitable challenges, whether it's overcoming anxious thoughts, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence and parenting, or improving the quality of your relationships.
(231) 787-1802 View (231) 787-1802
Photo of Abbi H Mankiewicz - Vibrant Mind, LLC, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vibrant Mind, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Cadillac, MI 49601
Waitlist for new clients
Over the past 14 years, I have been trained in several different therapy styles including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Trauma, and Addictions Counseling.
Do you ever feel like you are not good enough? Do you find yourself avoiding people or situations? Have you noticed you are feeling isolated or withdrawn recently? Do you replay situations on a loop in your mind? Have these started to impact your relationships or work? Together we can build understanding and improve your quality of life.
Over the past 14 years, I have been trained in several different therapy styles including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Trauma, and Addictions Counseling.
Do you ever feel like you are not good enough? Do you find yourself avoiding people or situations? Have you noticed you are feeling isolated or withdrawn recently? Do you replay situations on a loop in your mind? Have these started to impact your relationships or work? Together we can build understanding and improve your quality of life.
(231) 642-9757 View (231) 642-9757
Photo of Courtney Whinnery, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Whinnery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I have specialized training in several different treatment approaches (ART, DBT, CBT, EMDR).
Has your life been feeling overwhelming or discouraging? Maybe you've been feeling sad or pulled in too many directions. You might experience fear that seems to bubble up from nowhere. Maybe you're dealing with addiction or someone you love is using drugs or alcohol. You probably don't want to tell people close to you that you are struggling. These experiences can leave you feeling alone, scared and misunderstood.
I have specialized training in several different treatment approaches (ART, DBT, CBT, EMDR).
Has your life been feeling overwhelming or discouraging? Maybe you've been feeling sad or pulled in too many directions. You might experience fear that seems to bubble up from nowhere. Maybe you're dealing with addiction or someone you love is using drugs or alcohol. You probably don't want to tell people close to you that you are struggling. These experiences can leave you feeling alone, scared and misunderstood.
(231) 853-7411 View (231) 853-7411
Photo of Nicole Schaaf, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Schaaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
I offer evidence-based treatments, such as EMDR and DBT, to assist clients with processing and healing from trauma and impactful issues at their own pace and readiness.
You are worthy and deserving of inner peace and joy. Sometimes we just need guidance and support as we go on our journey to find it. I bring 16 years of experience walking alongside clients that have endured hardships such as trauma, narcissistic and abusive relationships, the aftermath of a difficult childhood and mental health concerns. I offer clients compassionate, evidence-based and specialized care based on their unique needs as they sort through the past, develop an understanding of present difficulties and lay the groundwork for a life fulfilling future.
I offer evidence-based treatments, such as EMDR and DBT, to assist clients with processing and healing from trauma and impactful issues at their own pace and readiness.
You are worthy and deserving of inner peace and joy. Sometimes we just need guidance and support as we go on our journey to find it. I bring 16 years of experience walking alongside clients that have endured hardships such as trauma, narcissistic and abusive relationships, the aftermath of a difficult childhood and mental health concerns. I offer clients compassionate, evidence-based and specialized care based on their unique needs as they sort through the past, develop an understanding of present difficulties and lay the groundwork for a life fulfilling future.
(231) 624-5709 View (231) 624-5709
Photo of Ashley Rich, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Rich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
We will use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and parts work to help expand your window of tolerance and find emotional peace and healing.
Are you being bullied and feel the urge to harm yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety and dissociative issues? Are you a member of the LGBTQIA2-S+ community and feel misunderstood? I can help you improve relationships, overcome challenges, cultivate personal growth, and gain the self-confidence you need to thrive. My specialties are teens, young adults and LGBTQIA2-S+ individuals struggling with trauma, sexuality or gender identity, as well as those who struggle with dissociation and neurodivergent disorders. I make therapy a safe, comfortable, and productive place to be. No judgment. Just clear communication and understanding.
We will use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and parts work to help expand your window of tolerance and find emotional peace and healing.
Are you being bullied and feel the urge to harm yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety and dissociative issues? Are you a member of the LGBTQIA2-S+ community and feel misunderstood? I can help you improve relationships, overcome challenges, cultivate personal growth, and gain the self-confidence you need to thrive. My specialties are teens, young adults and LGBTQIA2-S+ individuals struggling with trauma, sexuality or gender identity, as well as those who struggle with dissociation and neurodivergent disorders. I make therapy a safe, comfortable, and productive place to be. No judgment. Just clear communication and understanding.
(231) 642-9689 View (231) 642-9689
Photo of Paul Krueger, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Krueger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpena, MI 49707
I am trained in EMDR treating individuals with PTSD and trauma.
I enjoy working with teens and their parents. I have experience working with adults with depression anxiety and trauma.
I am trained in EMDR treating individuals with PTSD and trauma.
I enjoy working with teens and their parents. I have experience working with adults with depression anxiety and trauma.
(989) 662-9605 View (989) 662-9605
Photo of Adrienne Shiels, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Shiels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petoskey, MI 49770
Waitlist for new clients
My holistic counseling approach draws on evidence-based and trauma-informed practices rooted in neuroscience, focusing on emotional regulation, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, attachment, mindfulness, meditation, somatic awareness, and the Enneagram.
Life can be hard and sometimes you find yourself struggling with something that you just don’t know how to overcome on your own. That’s where counseling comes in. At Still Space Counseling, I start from the belief that you are whole; that you have everything you need within you right now to heal and thrive in this life. You are not your struggle. Underneath the anxiety, depression, pain, loneliness, anger, insecurity, obsession, addiction...there is an authentic Self, and that is who I will see and help to uncover. I believe that as you find safety and trust within yourself, you will have the power to overcome any challenge.
My holistic counseling approach draws on evidence-based and trauma-informed practices rooted in neuroscience, focusing on emotional regulation, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, attachment, mindfulness, meditation, somatic awareness, and the Enneagram.
Life can be hard and sometimes you find yourself struggling with something that you just don’t know how to overcome on your own. That’s where counseling comes in. At Still Space Counseling, I start from the belief that you are whole; that you have everything you need within you right now to heal and thrive in this life. You are not your struggle. Underneath the anxiety, depression, pain, loneliness, anger, insecurity, obsession, addiction...there is an authentic Self, and that is who I will see and help to uncover. I believe that as you find safety and trust within yourself, you will have the power to overcome any challenge.
(231) 227-4304 View (231) 227-4304

See more therapy options for Charlevoix County

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.