EMDR Therapists in Lake Waukomis, MO

Photo of Brian Abbott - Brian J Abbott Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian J Abbott Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Waukomis, MO 64151
I am certified in AEDP, EMDR, and am a student of Somatic Experiencing.
I am passionate about helping people who struggle with anxiety, addiction, developmental trauma, depression, and relational issues. At the core of my approach is an attitude of warmth, acceptance, and faith in my client's innate capacity for healing and transformation. Often people come to therapy with a sense of disempowerment. The impulse to reach out in hope of finding a caring, safe, or 'true other' shows your innate wisdom and strength. We are all in desperate need of help and connection. The implicit hope is that you can do more than just survive.
I am certified in AEDP, EMDR, and am a student of Somatic Experiencing.
I am passionate about helping people who struggle with anxiety, addiction, developmental trauma, depression, and relational issues. At the core of my approach is an attitude of warmth, acceptance, and faith in my client's innate capacity for healing and transformation. Often people come to therapy with a sense of disempowerment. The impulse to reach out in hope of finding a caring, safe, or 'true other' shows your innate wisdom and strength. We are all in desperate need of help and connection. The implicit hope is that you can do more than just survive.
(816) 227-6550 View (816) 227-6550
Photo of Katie Kephart, MHA, MA, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Kephart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHA, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Waukomis, MO 64151
I provide mental health counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. Areas of special interest include eating disorders, complex trauma, and emotional abuse and neglect. I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety and mood disorder symptoms. I generally take a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach to treatment, but I integrate other therapy modalities as appropriate to help you meet your goals.
I provide mental health counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. Areas of special interest include eating disorders, complex trauma, and emotional abuse and neglect. I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety and mood disorder symptoms. I generally take a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach to treatment, but I integrate other therapy modalities as appropriate to help you meet your goals.
(816) 670-3428 View (816) 670-3428

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Ford, MS, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
I offer a blend of science-based approaches like EMDR & Somatic Experiencing, and psychotherapeutic Reiki and sacred wisdom practices for body-mind-spirit healing.
I help women 35 + find more ease by resolving the lingering effects of trauma held in their body. I specifically help women navigate menopause, midlife transitions, and anything still hanging around that gets in the way of enjoying and planning a great life. (Self critical talk, unhelpful habits, resentment, losses, fears) I also support women to recover from womb-related trauma: from assault, infertility, miscarriage, birth trauma, medical procedures, intimate betrayal, or cancer. Recovering means feeling whole and enough, self-kindness with your body-mind-spirit, feeling present & at home inside your body; freedom.
I offer a blend of science-based approaches like EMDR & Somatic Experiencing, and psychotherapeutic Reiki and sacred wisdom practices for body-mind-spirit healing.
I help women 35 + find more ease by resolving the lingering effects of trauma held in their body. I specifically help women navigate menopause, midlife transitions, and anything still hanging around that gets in the way of enjoying and planning a great life. (Self critical talk, unhelpful habits, resentment, losses, fears) I also support women to recover from womb-related trauma: from assault, infertility, miscarriage, birth trauma, medical procedures, intimate betrayal, or cancer. Recovering means feeling whole and enough, self-kindness with your body-mind-spirit, feeling present & at home inside your body; freedom.
(816) 227-6865 View (816) 227-6865
Photo of Sohna Shook, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sohna Shook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Platte Woods, MO 64151  (Online Only)
My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
(816) 578-0212 View (816) 578-0212
Photo of Jacqueline Keitel, PsyD, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Keitel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64154
My therapeutic approach routinely includes: CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and/or Ericksonian Hypnosis.
Have you experienced a trauma such as sexual/physical/emotional abuse, bullying, a shooting, car accident, or combat/military trauma? Did you survive a traumatic/dysfunctional childhood? Do you have a relationship in your life that you want to be healthier? Does perfectionism consume you? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or depression? Some people think seeking help is a sign of weakness. I completely disagree. I believe it takes an inordinate amount of strength to reach out for help and to become your healthiest authentic self. I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
My therapeutic approach routinely includes: CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and/or Ericksonian Hypnosis.
Have you experienced a trauma such as sexual/physical/emotional abuse, bullying, a shooting, car accident, or combat/military trauma? Did you survive a traumatic/dysfunctional childhood? Do you have a relationship in your life that you want to be healthier? Does perfectionism consume you? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or depression? Some people think seeking help is a sign of weakness. I completely disagree. I believe it takes an inordinate amount of strength to reach out for help and to become your healthiest authentic self. I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
(816) 925-9628 View (816) 925-9628
Photo of Victoria L Weddle, LPC, LCPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria L Weddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
These include acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive-behavioral strategies (CBT), mindfulness, eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), parent child interaction therapy (PCIT) and interpersonal and client-centered Interventions.
Hey there, I'm Victoria! I am so happy you're considering taking the next step in your wellness journey. My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma-informed and solution-focused. In a safe, open and supportive environment, we will identify and work towards your treatment goals. I am here to highlight your strengths, resiliency factors and celebrate your accomplishments. I'm also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Certified, as well as Perinatal Mental Health Trained and EMDR Trained.
These include acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive-behavioral strategies (CBT), mindfulness, eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), parent child interaction therapy (PCIT) and interpersonal and client-centered Interventions.
Hey there, I'm Victoria! I am so happy you're considering taking the next step in your wellness journey. My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma-informed and solution-focused. In a safe, open and supportive environment, we will identify and work towards your treatment goals. I am here to highlight your strengths, resiliency factors and celebrate your accomplishments. I'm also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Certified, as well as Perinatal Mental Health Trained and EMDR Trained.
(816) 290-7675 View (816) 290-7675
Photo of Teresa Paterson Bartch - Embark Counseling Services, LPC, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Embark Counseling Services
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
We offer an integrative trauma-informed approach, where healing is noticed through EMDR, Play Therapy, Gottman Method, ACT, CBT and DBT.
Life is hard. Family is hard. Raising kids is hard. You want someone who can help when everything in your daily life is affected, including our thoughts, emotions and resulting behaviors. Also, impacting the way your body feels, and ultimately how you experience YOU and your relationships. You may feel overwhelmed or stuck, unsatisfied in your relationship, anxious, or wondering if things can change or things can get better. There is hope, and we are here. We have many clinicians at all locations that are experienced and ready to help, including affordable options.
We offer an integrative trauma-informed approach, where healing is noticed through EMDR, Play Therapy, Gottman Method, ACT, CBT and DBT.
Life is hard. Family is hard. Raising kids is hard. You want someone who can help when everything in your daily life is affected, including our thoughts, emotions and resulting behaviors. Also, impacting the way your body feels, and ultimately how you experience YOU and your relationships. You may feel overwhelmed or stuck, unsatisfied in your relationship, anxious, or wondering if things can change or things can get better. There is hope, and we are here. We have many clinicians at all locations that are experienced and ready to help, including affordable options.
(913) 674-5365 View (913) 674-5365
Photo of Christine Flores, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64154  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & have found both of these to be extremely helpful in helping clients rethink and reprocess areas that have been troublesome for them.
Life can be really stressful for all of us. Add on top of that the childhood traumas that many people are still carrying, making it even more difficult to deal with the everyday stresses and demands of life. I love working with clients who are battling anxiety and unhealed trauma, and helping them get to the root of their anxiety and work to heal those traumas.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & have found both of these to be extremely helpful in helping clients rethink and reprocess areas that have been troublesome for them.
Life can be really stressful for all of us. Add on top of that the childhood traumas that many people are still carrying, making it even more difficult to deal with the everyday stresses and demands of life. I love working with clients who are battling anxiety and unhealed trauma, and helping them get to the root of their anxiety and work to heal those traumas.
(636) 556-6988 View (636) 556-6988
Photo of Jeffrey Soulliere, MSCP, LPC, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jeffrey Soulliere
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
I utilize a combination of EMDR, skills building, psychoeducation, cognitive techniques, and mindfulness to help clients overcome their personal and interpersonal challenges.
Trauma and difficult life experiences can change the way we perceive ourselves and the world. The effects of these experiences can sometimes leave us feeling out of control, frustrated, lost, and miserable. However, every person has the ability to change, grow, and heal. When we process through our experiences, we can develop a more accurate understanding of who we are—our inner strengths, resources, and needs, and our deeply held hopes for our lives. I'm here to help you grow toward your potential and experience healing and peace.
I utilize a combination of EMDR, skills building, psychoeducation, cognitive techniques, and mindfulness to help clients overcome their personal and interpersonal challenges.
Trauma and difficult life experiences can change the way we perceive ourselves and the world. The effects of these experiences can sometimes leave us feeling out of control, frustrated, lost, and miserable. However, every person has the ability to change, grow, and heal. When we process through our experiences, we can develop a more accurate understanding of who we are—our inner strengths, resources, and needs, and our deeply held hopes for our lives. I'm here to help you grow toward your potential and experience healing and peace.
(816) 744-6302 x35 View (816) 744-6302 x35
Photo of Sally A. Frede, LCSW, CCLS, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally A. Frede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCLS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
I often incorporate EMDR and trauma processing for children who have experienced scary events.
I love working with children and teens of all ages! My goal is to help children navigate the increasingly complex world and difficulties that come with it. This includes family, school and personal challenges. I enjoy partnering with parents to create family environment where children can thrive. Children are naturally resilient and love to learn. This belief feeds my practice of helping children grow and master life's challenges. As a Certified Chid Life Specialist I have a lot of experience working with children with medical needs.
I often incorporate EMDR and trauma processing for children who have experienced scary events.
I love working with children and teens of all ages! My goal is to help children navigate the increasingly complex world and difficulties that come with it. This includes family, school and personal challenges. I enjoy partnering with parents to create family environment where children can thrive. Children are naturally resilient and love to learn. This belief feeds my practice of helping children grow and master life's challenges. As a Certified Chid Life Specialist I have a lot of experience working with children with medical needs.
(816) 323-8890 View (816) 323-8890
Photo of Laura Tovar, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Tovar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64151
My primary psychotherapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Internal Family Systems/Parts Work.
I would be honored to help you navigate current challenges in your life as well as past painful experiences. Current challenges might include life transitions, problem solving a difficult situation, or exploring new coping strategies. But sometimes, it is past painful memories that cause trouble in our lives. When difficult or traumatic experiences are left unaddressed our physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational health can be negatively affected. The extraordinarily good and hopeful news is that within each person is the ability for self-leadership and healing. Therapy just helps guide the journey.
My primary psychotherapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Internal Family Systems/Parts Work.
I would be honored to help you navigate current challenges in your life as well as past painful experiences. Current challenges might include life transitions, problem solving a difficult situation, or exploring new coping strategies. But sometimes, it is past painful memories that cause trouble in our lives. When difficult or traumatic experiences are left unaddressed our physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational health can be negatively affected. The extraordinarily good and hopeful news is that within each person is the ability for self-leadership and healing. Therapy just helps guide the journey.
(816) 495-3659 View (816) 495-3659
Photo of Tara L Crowl, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD-CC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara L Crowl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD-CC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64151  (Online Only)
Please note, all sessions are conducted via teletherapy, which is highly effective (including EMDR)!.
Are you ready to feel in control of your life? Imagine waking up each day with a clear mind and a focused heart, knowing exactly what you want and how to achieve it. With my therapeutic approach, you'll feel heard and understood, receiving the support and the tools you need to navigate your current life challenges with confidence. Gain improved self-worth and self-esteem. As you progress through my holistic approach to therapy, you'll begin to see yourself in a new light, embracing your true potential and feeling confident about who you are. You may be down and disempowered now, but you are not broken!
Please note, all sessions are conducted via teletherapy, which is highly effective (including EMDR)!.
Are you ready to feel in control of your life? Imagine waking up each day with a clear mind and a focused heart, knowing exactly what you want and how to achieve it. With my therapeutic approach, you'll feel heard and understood, receiving the support and the tools you need to navigate your current life challenges with confidence. Gain improved self-worth and self-esteem. As you progress through my holistic approach to therapy, you'll begin to see yourself in a new light, embracing your true potential and feeling confident about who you are. You may be down and disempowered now, but you are not broken!
(816) 227-6522 View (816) 227-6522
Photo of Danyell Brown, MS, LPC-S, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danyell Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
These include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Strategies, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Grief Informed and Client Centered Techniques.
Hello, my name is Danyell and I would love to be a part of your journey back to the whole woman that you are! I approach therapy using empathy, compassion, and support to create a safe and warm space to explore self acceptance, challenge societal norms, heal from past trauma, connect with partners, create boundaries, help guide you through the stress of womanhood and reach your goals!
These include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Strategies, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Grief Informed and Client Centered Techniques.
Hello, my name is Danyell and I would love to be a part of your journey back to the whole woman that you are! I approach therapy using empathy, compassion, and support to create a safe and warm space to explore self acceptance, challenge societal norms, heal from past trauma, connect with partners, create boundaries, help guide you through the stress of womanhood and reach your goals!
(816) 209-1832 View (816) 209-1832
Photo of Leigh Anne Randa, PhD, Psychologist
Leigh Anne Randa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64151
I am certified and experienced in CBT, Cognitive Processing for PTSD, Prolonged Exposure, Interpersonal Therapy, STAIR therapy for Complex PTSD, EMDR, and Exposure/Response Prevention.
Hello! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Randa, PhD. I am a multiply licensed Clinical Psychologist with active licenses in Missouri, Kansas, Arizona and Oregon. I believe each of my clients is unique and deserves a personalized approach to treatment that honors their preferences and needs balanced with clinical expertise. My goal is to tailor interventions that work with the very real constraints of time and finances that exist in our hectic modern culture. I am experienced and happy to help you from single session brief intervention to long term treatment for serious mental health concerns.
I am certified and experienced in CBT, Cognitive Processing for PTSD, Prolonged Exposure, Interpersonal Therapy, STAIR therapy for Complex PTSD, EMDR, and Exposure/Response Prevention.
Hello! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Randa, PhD. I am a multiply licensed Clinical Psychologist with active licenses in Missouri, Kansas, Arizona and Oregon. I believe each of my clients is unique and deserves a personalized approach to treatment that honors their preferences and needs balanced with clinical expertise. My goal is to tailor interventions that work with the very real constraints of time and finances that exist in our hectic modern culture. I am experienced and happy to help you from single session brief intervention to long term treatment for serious mental health concerns.
(314) 408-6299 View (314) 408-6299
Photo of Courtney Peters, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64151
I specialize in working with adults and couples 18+ who are seeking care for trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, and more. I provide EMDR therapist, CBT, and Gottman Method couples therapy.
I specialize in working with adults and couples 18+ who are seeking care for trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, and more. I provide EMDR therapist, CBT, and Gottman Method couples therapy.
(816) 293-4468 View (816) 293-4468
Photo of Heather Eaton, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Eaton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151  (Online Only)
I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, ACT, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and family systems theory, to provide comprehensive and effective treatment.
Whether navigating life transitions, managing stress and anxiety, or addressing past traumas, I work collaboratively with my clients to develop practical strategies and coping skills that promote resilience and well-being. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and collaboration, with the belief in resilience and potential for growth within each individual and family system. If you are ready to make changes, create and achieve goals, and improve your relationship with yourself and others, I would love to help.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, ACT, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and family systems theory, to provide comprehensive and effective treatment.
Whether navigating life transitions, managing stress and anxiety, or addressing past traumas, I work collaboratively with my clients to develop practical strategies and coping skills that promote resilience and well-being. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and collaboration, with the belief in resilience and potential for growth within each individual and family system. If you are ready to make changes, create and achieve goals, and improve your relationship with yourself and others, I would love to help.
(816) 680-6946 View (816) 680-6946
Photo of Abigail Toy, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Toy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64152
EMDR now avalible! I strive to create a judgment free and safe environment for all regardless of your sex, gender, or race/ethnicity.
Are you having sex or sexuality concerns? Exploring your gender? Or dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms? If so we may be the perfect fit! As a member of queer community myself, I love the opportunity to work with individuals from the community.
EMDR now avalible! I strive to create a judgment free and safe environment for all regardless of your sex, gender, or race/ethnicity.
Are you having sex or sexuality concerns? Exploring your gender? Or dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms? If so we may be the perfect fit! As a member of queer community myself, I love the opportunity to work with individuals from the community.
(816) 439-7557 View (816) 439-7557
Photo of Zachariah L. Whertvine, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zachariah L. Whertvine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64118
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR trained.
You will not go where you have not yet been without learning to do what you have not yet done. Many seek wellness, peace, joy, and such believing they must discover it for themselves, by themselves. Yet we see example after example that the most successful have guides, coaches, mentors, or counselors.
I am EMDR trained.
You will not go where you have not yet been without learning to do what you have not yet done. Many seek wellness, peace, joy, and such believing they must discover it for themselves, by themselves. Yet we see example after example that the most successful have guides, coaches, mentors, or counselors.
(816) 339-5107 View (816) 339-5107
Photo of Abby Wiggins, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
In addition to these therapies, I also am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT, and Sand Tray.
My style is very warm, empathetic, and client-centered with an attachment lens. I believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I work alongside my clients in order to create a treatment plan that is unique to them in order to process their life experiences and help them to move towards healing. Much of my experience as a therapist is with individuals and families who have experienced traumatic events, family conflict, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and attachment challenges. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies based on the needs of my clients.
In addition to these therapies, I also am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT, and Sand Tray.
My style is very warm, empathetic, and client-centered with an attachment lens. I believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I work alongside my clients in order to create a treatment plan that is unique to them in order to process their life experiences and help them to move towards healing. Much of my experience as a therapist is with individuals and families who have experienced traumatic events, family conflict, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and attachment challenges. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies based on the needs of my clients.
(816) 239-2023 View (816) 239-2023
Photo of Andrea Frey Metzger, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Frey Metzger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64152  (Online Only)
More specifically, I use experiential methods - (AEDP and EFT) as well as EMDR in my work and have seen incredible transformation and growth.
I specialize in three types of clients - people who have been through so much transition that they often don't recognize themselves in the mirror, bilingual couples holding on by a thread, and people whose lives have plunged into chaos and need a guide to help them get their bearings.
More specifically, I use experiential methods - (AEDP and EFT) as well as EMDR in my work and have seen incredible transformation and growth.
I specialize in three types of clients - people who have been through so much transition that they often don't recognize themselves in the mirror, bilingual couples holding on by a thread, and people whose lives have plunged into chaos and need a guide to help them get their bearings.
(417) 212-5297 View (417) 212-5297

See more therapy options for Lake Waukomis

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.