EMDR Therapists in Minnesota

Photo of Dr. Maggie Moe, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Maggie Moe
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Waconia, MN 55387  (Online Only)
She utilizes a variety of theoretical orientations and frameworks, including trauma and attachment focused interventions, somatic and attachment focused EMDR, exposure therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Maggie Moe, PsyD, LP is a licensed psychologist practicing at Clinical and Developmental Services. Dr. Moe provides individual therapeutic services to adults.
She utilizes a variety of theoretical orientations and frameworks, including trauma and attachment focused interventions, somatic and attachment focused EMDR, exposure therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Maggie Moe, PsyD, LP is a licensed psychologist practicing at Clinical and Developmental Services. Dr. Moe provides individual therapeutic services to adults.
(952) 592-1949 x18 View (952) 592-1949 x18
Photo of Michael Sadowsky, MSW, LICSW, MAHS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Sadowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MAHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55116
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical social worker with an integrative and holistic approach to psychotherapy. My therapy practice is rooted in mindfulness, CBT and DBT approaches, EMDR, and contemporary Psychodynamic therapy. I also draw from the mind-body connection, spirituality, social/cultural influences, neuroscience, and compassion. My background is in social work, which gives me a social justice lens and awareness of how societal factors like inequality and discrimination can affect mental health. I primarily provide psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy/Ketamine assisted psychotherapy at Intero Psychedelic Therapy in St. Paul, MN.
I am a clinical social worker with an integrative and holistic approach to psychotherapy. My therapy practice is rooted in mindfulness, CBT and DBT approaches, EMDR, and contemporary Psychodynamic therapy. I also draw from the mind-body connection, spirituality, social/cultural influences, neuroscience, and compassion. My background is in social work, which gives me a social justice lens and awareness of how societal factors like inequality and discrimination can affect mental health. I primarily provide psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy/Ketamine assisted psychotherapy at Intero Psychedelic Therapy in St. Paul, MN.
(651) 299-6577 View (651) 299-6577
Photo of Sheri Johnson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheri Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55807  (Online Only)
Through traditional talk therapy and EMDR processing we will explore the past, understand the present, and help you feel confident about your future.
I work with men and women ages 30+ and welcome high performers who can't relax or feel peaceful, perfectionists who have a hard time asking for help, and people pleasers who find it difficult to set boundaries.
Through traditional talk therapy and EMDR processing we will explore the past, understand the present, and help you feel confident about your future.
I work with men and women ages 30+ and welcome high performers who can't relax or feel peaceful, perfectionists who have a hard time asking for help, and people pleasers who find it difficult to set boundaries.
(218) 395-5820 View (218) 395-5820
Photo of Kiel Walters, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiel Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55431
Waitlist for new clients
I offer EMDR, along with drawing from cognitive-behavioral, somatic, ACT, IFS, and solution-focused approaches to foster deep therapeutic work.
I look forward to engaging in an open dialogue with you, offering perspective, and providing support as you take steps toward positive life change. I have extensive experience treating clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and refine my therapeutic approach to each individual's needs. This means helping clients develop coping skills and change behaviors, connecting with teenagers, providing parent guidance, facilitating communication among families, and guiding processing to find resolution and relieve suffering.
I offer EMDR, along with drawing from cognitive-behavioral, somatic, ACT, IFS, and solution-focused approaches to foster deep therapeutic work.
I look forward to engaging in an open dialogue with you, offering perspective, and providing support as you take steps toward positive life change. I have extensive experience treating clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and refine my therapeutic approach to each individual's needs. This means helping clients develop coping skills and change behaviors, connecting with teenagers, providing parent guidance, facilitating communication among families, and guiding processing to find resolution and relieve suffering.
(612) 260-1537 View (612) 260-1537
Photo of Melissa Fjelstad, MA, LADC, LPCC, Counselor
Melissa Fjelstad
Counselor, MA, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Virginia, MN 55792
My primary focus is creating a therapeutic relationship to facilitate change and healing in order to assist you in creating or rediscovering a sense of meaning and purpose in your life and relationships. I specialize in working with adults and families who have experienced the impacts of trauma and chemical dependency to assist in challenging old patterns of managing emotional distress and developing positive beliefs about the world and ourselves. My background in working with individuals who have experienced trauma has led me to pursue training in EMDR and to integrate this practice into therapy.
My primary focus is creating a therapeutic relationship to facilitate change and healing in order to assist you in creating or rediscovering a sense of meaning and purpose in your life and relationships. I specialize in working with adults and families who have experienced the impacts of trauma and chemical dependency to assist in challenging old patterns of managing emotional distress and developing positive beliefs about the world and ourselves. My background in working with individuals who have experienced trauma has led me to pursue training in EMDR and to integrate this practice into therapy.
(952) 234-8058 View (952) 234-8058
Photo of Nicole Carreon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Carreon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
In addition to EMDR, I'm also proficient in Havening Techniques, a revolutionary approach to emotional and psychological healing.
As a direct therapist, I believe in the power of establishing a genuine and empathetic connection with clients. Drawing from a deep understanding of human psychology, I create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I'm committed to staying informed of the latest research and developments in psychology. This dedication to ongoing education ensures that I'm providing clients with the most effective and evidence-based therapeutic interventions available.
In addition to EMDR, I'm also proficient in Havening Techniques, a revolutionary approach to emotional and psychological healing.
As a direct therapist, I believe in the power of establishing a genuine and empathetic connection with clients. Drawing from a deep understanding of human psychology, I create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I'm committed to staying informed of the latest research and developments in psychology. This dedication to ongoing education ensures that I'm providing clients with the most effective and evidence-based therapeutic interventions available.
(507) 593-7712 View (507) 593-7712
Photo of Karen Heyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Heyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
I conduct EMDR with adults and kids who have experienced significant trauma in their lives.
I understand that therapy doesn't have to be a life-long process but it can help significantly when you are going through difficult circumstances that create worry, anger or a feeling of being at a loss. Stress seems to be an indicator that issues need to be addressed. I am a therapist who believes that my clients have many of the answers to their problems, I am there to help them through the journey to uncover what the answers are.
I conduct EMDR with adults and kids who have experienced significant trauma in their lives.
I understand that therapy doesn't have to be a life-long process but it can help significantly when you are going through difficult circumstances that create worry, anger or a feeling of being at a loss. Stress seems to be an indicator that issues need to be addressed. I am a therapist who believes that my clients have many of the answers to their problems, I am there to help them through the journey to uncover what the answers are.
(888) 637-2490 View (888) 637-2490
Photo of Rebecca Blaede, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Blaede
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT to assist others to fully process traumatic experiences.
I work with teens, adults, couples and families who struggle with a variety of conflicts. I strive to help others feel a sense of healing and understanding after challenging, stressful or traumatic situations.
I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT to assist others to fully process traumatic experiences.
I work with teens, adults, couples and families who struggle with a variety of conflicts. I strive to help others feel a sense of healing and understanding after challenging, stressful or traumatic situations.
(612) 425-1846 View (612) 425-1846
Photo of Heidi McNulty, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Heidi McNulty
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and AIR Network modalities.
The mission for healing at Inner Light Counseling is to help individuals feel reconnected to their core selves and their inner wisdom. Therapy at Inner Light Counseling can help if: it seems like your emotions or emotional responses are ruling your life and relationships rather than you leading the direction of your life; symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety are making it challenging to live the life that you want; it feels like your inner voice is your worst critic, or, it feels like that voice is drowned out by critical messages you received from others on life’s journey. We can work together to help your inner wisdom lead.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and AIR Network modalities.
The mission for healing at Inner Light Counseling is to help individuals feel reconnected to their core selves and their inner wisdom. Therapy at Inner Light Counseling can help if: it seems like your emotions or emotional responses are ruling your life and relationships rather than you leading the direction of your life; symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety are making it challenging to live the life that you want; it feels like your inner voice is your worst critic, or, it feels like that voice is drowned out by critical messages you received from others on life’s journey. We can work together to help your inner wisdom lead.
(952) 900-5875 View (952) 900-5875
Photo of Lynn Whalen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Whalen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Two Harbors, MN 55616
I specialize in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) approaches to help you uncover the "Why" behind the mental health struggles you are experiencing.
I work primarily with adults 18 years and older, providing a trauma-informed approach that ensures a safe and supportive environment. My purpose is to share space with you on your healing journey, offering support in whatever way feels best for you. Whether you're seeking to process past trauma, navigate life's challenges, or find a deeper sense of purpose, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
I specialize in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) approaches to help you uncover the "Why" behind the mental health struggles you are experiencing.
I work primarily with adults 18 years and older, providing a trauma-informed approach that ensures a safe and supportive environment. My purpose is to share space with you on your healing journey, offering support in whatever way feels best for you. Whether you're seeking to process past trauma, navigate life's challenges, or find a deeper sense of purpose, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
(763) 373-5154 View (763) 373-5154
Photo of Jill Salo, LADC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Salo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55343
Jill is a compassionate therapist who believes that we are all searching for meaning in our lives. She approaches her work with clients by encouraging them to trust their intuition, explore different ways of finding understanding, and nurture helpful relationships in their lives. She also brings in her calm, laid back personality to help her build authentic connections with her clients. Jill tailors her treatment methods to the unique needs of his clients, always keeping them at the center of the therapeutic work. While Jill is well-versed in a variety of treatment modalities, specializing in complex families, EMDR and AIR Network.
Jill is a compassionate therapist who believes that we are all searching for meaning in our lives. She approaches her work with clients by encouraging them to trust their intuition, explore different ways of finding understanding, and nurture helpful relationships in their lives. She also brings in her calm, laid back personality to help her build authentic connections with her clients. Jill tailors her treatment methods to the unique needs of his clients, always keeping them at the center of the therapeutic work. While Jill is well-versed in a variety of treatment modalities, specializing in complex families, EMDR and AIR Network.
(952) 243-5376 View (952) 243-5376
Photo of Isabelle Lankhorst, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Isabelle Lankhorst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104  (Online Only)
Hi! Finding a therapist who's the right fit for you can be such a rough process, right? I'll be as straightforward as possible: From me you can expect gentle honesty, flexibility, and lots of humor. I'm also super gay, super ADHD, anti capitalist, and body neutral. I've worked in mental health care for ten years focusing on the intersections of sex and trauma, as well as body size and trauma. Fat is not a bad word. I'm trained in EMDR and love it, but my goal is truly to meet you where you're at, pushing you just to your comfortable edge for growth.
Hi! Finding a therapist who's the right fit for you can be such a rough process, right? I'll be as straightforward as possible: From me you can expect gentle honesty, flexibility, and lots of humor. I'm also super gay, super ADHD, anti capitalist, and body neutral. I've worked in mental health care for ten years focusing on the intersections of sex and trauma, as well as body size and trauma. Fat is not a bad word. I'm trained in EMDR and love it, but my goal is truly to meet you where you're at, pushing you just to your comfortable edge for growth.
(651) 888-8591 View (651) 888-8591
Photo of Reece Forrester, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Reece Forrester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55436
Waitlist for new clients
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) has been helping people just like you to heal from their past and break free from unhelpful patterns for decades.
You've been through a lot of pain in your life, but nothing has stopped you yet. You've persevered and gotten this far. Yet you keep finding yourself stuck in the same patterns. Your history doesn't define you, but you can't seem to leave it behind either. When life is just too overwhelming you find yourself self medicating, overeating, overspending, or doom scrolling through social media just to get a few moments of relief. At times you get irritable, snap at your kids or your partner, or disengage altogether. You know there's a better life waiting for you, but it's so elusive.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) has been helping people just like you to heal from their past and break free from unhelpful patterns for decades.
You've been through a lot of pain in your life, but nothing has stopped you yet. You've persevered and gotten this far. Yet you keep finding yourself stuck in the same patterns. Your history doesn't define you, but you can't seem to leave it behind either. When life is just too overwhelming you find yourself self medicating, overeating, overspending, or doom scrolling through social media just to get a few moments of relief. At times you get irritable, snap at your kids or your partner, or disengage altogether. You know there's a better life waiting for you, but it's so elusive.
(651) 370-8714 View (651) 370-8714
Photo of David Bjorklund, MA, LPCC
David Bjorklund
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wayzata, MN 55391
Through a structured eight-phase process, EMDR helps individuals reprocess disturbing thoughts and feelings, leading to significant relief from the symptoms of PTSD.
David is a dedicated therapist with a profound passion for treating PTSD. His approach heavily rooted by his special interest in interconnected neurobiology, a term coined by Dr. Daniel Siegel. Interconnected neurobiology explores the intricate connections within the brain and how they influence our emotional and psychological well-being. This perspective underscores the importance of understanding the brain's complex networks and their role in mental health. David offers a holistic and effective path to recovery, addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying neural mechanisms.
Through a structured eight-phase process, EMDR helps individuals reprocess disturbing thoughts and feelings, leading to significant relief from the symptoms of PTSD.
David is a dedicated therapist with a profound passion for treating PTSD. His approach heavily rooted by his special interest in interconnected neurobiology, a term coined by Dr. Daniel Siegel. Interconnected neurobiology explores the intricate connections within the brain and how they influence our emotional and psychological well-being. This perspective underscores the importance of understanding the brain's complex networks and their role in mental health. David offers a holistic and effective path to recovery, addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying neural mechanisms.
(763) 325-8508 View (763) 325-8508
Photo of Laura Michelle Houlton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Michelle Houlton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arden Hills, MN 55126
I am trained in EMDR therapy which helps to reprocess past wounds and develop healthier core beliefs.
As a marriage and family therapist I specialize in work with individuals and couples who find themselves wrestling with their own brokenness. I am passionate about building healthy connections with my clients and using that platform of trust to help facilitate self-compassion, shame resilience, and healing. I offer a non-judgmental, strength based perspective, in which I work together in a team approach with my clients to help them achieve their goals. I identify as a Christian and incorporate faith into my sessions as much or as little as clients want.
I am trained in EMDR therapy which helps to reprocess past wounds and develop healthier core beliefs.
As a marriage and family therapist I specialize in work with individuals and couples who find themselves wrestling with their own brokenness. I am passionate about building healthy connections with my clients and using that platform of trust to help facilitate self-compassion, shame resilience, and healing. I offer a non-judgmental, strength based perspective, in which I work together in a team approach with my clients to help them achieve their goals. I identify as a Christian and incorporate faith into my sessions as much or as little as clients want.
(651) 400-7607 x821 View (651) 400-7607 x821
Photo of Emily K C Wood, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily K C Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
In her practice, she utilizes therapeutic techniques including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and RCT (Relational-Cultural Therapy).
Emily believes in collaborating with her clients to enhance resiliency, increase self-acceptance, and emotion regulation. Emily sees individuals ages 13 through adulthood. Emily is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor (PMH-C) and has a special interest helping people journey through the perinatal experience. She can provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and parent coaching.
In her practice, she utilizes therapeutic techniques including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and RCT (Relational-Cultural Therapy).
Emily believes in collaborating with her clients to enhance resiliency, increase self-acceptance, and emotion regulation. Emily sees individuals ages 13 through adulthood. Emily is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor (PMH-C) and has a special interest helping people journey through the perinatal experience. She can provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and parent coaching.
(651) 661-3525 View (651) 661-3525
Photo of Kimberly Zammitt, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Zammitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, MN 56308  (Online Only)
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and EMDR.
My name is Dr. Kimberly Zammitt (please call me Kim). I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and practice in Minnesota. I have twenty+ years of clinical social work practice experience. In my clinical practice, I maintain a culturally responsive, strengths-based approach in my work. I value collaboration and believe that trust and safety are the cornerstones of quality therapy.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and EMDR.
My name is Dr. Kimberly Zammitt (please call me Kim). I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and practice in Minnesota. I have twenty+ years of clinical social work practice experience. In my clinical practice, I maintain a culturally responsive, strengths-based approach in my work. I value collaboration and believe that trust and safety are the cornerstones of quality therapy.
(320) 322-7199 View (320) 322-7199
Photo of Frances Lee Mican, LMFT, CSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frances Lee Mican
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55412  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
That might include EMDR (a modality I’m certified in) to process traumatic experiences, including those that led to a negative view of yourself.
Do you have trouble understanding what you’re feeling, or why you’re feeling it? Maybe you find yourself asking “does that make sense?”, unsure whether your thoughts are coming across how you want them to. Or you tend to be really hard on yourself, with a running narrative of “I’m the worst!”. Perhaps you’re scared to get things wrong, and feel unable to trust yourself to know what you want, let alone how to get there. This might come from being told how you think doesn't make sense, past mistakes, or being told to deny your own perceptions. You want to feel more at ease, confident, and relaxed. If this describes you, I can help!
That might include EMDR (a modality I’m certified in) to process traumatic experiences, including those that led to a negative view of yourself.
Do you have trouble understanding what you’re feeling, or why you’re feeling it? Maybe you find yourself asking “does that make sense?”, unsure whether your thoughts are coming across how you want them to. Or you tend to be really hard on yourself, with a running narrative of “I’m the worst!”. Perhaps you’re scared to get things wrong, and feel unable to trust yourself to know what you want, let alone how to get there. This might come from being told how you think doesn't make sense, past mistakes, or being told to deny your own perceptions. You want to feel more at ease, confident, and relaxed. If this describes you, I can help!
(763) 878-6821 View (763) 878-6821
Photo of Laura J Johnson, MSW, LICSW, CHTP, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura J Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CHTP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55417  (Online Only)
I incorporate EMDR, meditation, imagery, yoga, energy work, sand tray therapy, and other body practices into the healing process.
With compassion and an open heart and mind, I invite you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Using a holistic approach to wellness, we will assess all areas of your life - mind, body, heart, spirit - and determine if these feel integrated and fulfilling and reflect your true nature. While exploring, honoring, and releasing patterns that no longer serve and treating unresolved trauma, you will naturally reconnect with your true self and life will begin to unfold in the most beautiful ways.
I incorporate EMDR, meditation, imagery, yoga, energy work, sand tray therapy, and other body practices into the healing process.
With compassion and an open heart and mind, I invite you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Using a holistic approach to wellness, we will assess all areas of your life - mind, body, heart, spirit - and determine if these feel integrated and fulfilling and reflect your true nature. While exploring, honoring, and releasing patterns that no longer serve and treating unresolved trauma, you will naturally reconnect with your true self and life will begin to unfold in the most beautiful ways.
(612) 260-1891 View (612) 260-1891
Photo of Britni A Kelley - Britni Kelley: Adults, EMDR, First Responders, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Britni Kelley: Adults, EMDR, First Responders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I specialize in EMDR, a treatment approach for trauma and ongoing problems that have felt immovable.
I especially enjoy working with motivated clients wanting to develop a greater understanding of where they have come from and heal from their past traumas. Those struggling with a dysregulated nervous system, anxious, or simply stuck are a delight for me to walk along side. I have a strong passion for working with individuals/couples who have endured difficult experiences in their younger years and need some help with healing. Highly relational and compassionate, I prioritize relationship and trauma interventions in the midst of healing wounds. Licensed in Minnesota (in person/virtual)& Iowa! Virtual visits only for Iowa residents.
I specialize in EMDR, a treatment approach for trauma and ongoing problems that have felt immovable.
I especially enjoy working with motivated clients wanting to develop a greater understanding of where they have come from and heal from their past traumas. Those struggling with a dysregulated nervous system, anxious, or simply stuck are a delight for me to walk along side. I have a strong passion for working with individuals/couples who have endured difficult experiences in their younger years and need some help with healing. Highly relational and compassionate, I prioritize relationship and trauma interventions in the midst of healing wounds. Licensed in Minnesota (in person/virtual)& Iowa! Virtual visits only for Iowa residents.
(612) 324-3142 View (612) 324-3142
1
...
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.