Photo of Rebecca Baumgardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Rebecca Baumgardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR basic certified to treat trauma, am licensed to treat addiction, including Chemical Dependency Assessments, and if needed, can work closely with medical providers to assist in symptom management.
Hello! I am a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. Perhaps you have arrived here, looking for a way to better manage a difficult situation or season of life, to work through life altering grief/loss, to manage uncomfortable symptoms, or maybe even, to heal from a painful past with the hope of finally feeling free. I truly enjoy working with individuals who are committed to knowing themselves on a deeper level, so they are better equipped to make the changes they hope for in their life. I value human connection, and provide care in a shame free, judgment free, and collaborative way.
I am EMDR basic certified to treat trauma, am licensed to treat addiction, including Chemical Dependency Assessments, and if needed, can work closely with medical providers to assist in symptom management.
Hello! I am a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. Perhaps you have arrived here, looking for a way to better manage a difficult situation or season of life, to work through life altering grief/loss, to manage uncomfortable symptoms, or maybe even, to heal from a painful past with the hope of finally feeling free. I truly enjoy working with individuals who are committed to knowing themselves on a deeper level, so they are better equipped to make the changes they hope for in their life. I value human connection, and provide care in a shame free, judgment free, and collaborative way.
(406) 631-1974 View (406) 631-1974
Photo of Deb D Marquard, Counselor in Billings, MT
Deb D Marquard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I have recently completed my training in EMDR and am excited to help individuals move beyond phobias, traumas, etc.
Whether you're looking for help with parenting challenges, relationship issues, or ways to manage anxiety, depression, or everyday life stressors, choosing a therapist is an important decision. I have found that when clients feel secure and understood in the therapeutic relationship, exploration and resolution of difficult life experiences becomes possible. I'm an experienced licensed professional counselor who works with individuals of all ages (3-80+). I tailor my approach to the individual and utilize a variety of treatment approaches.
I have recently completed my training in EMDR and am excited to help individuals move beyond phobias, traumas, etc.
Whether you're looking for help with parenting challenges, relationship issues, or ways to manage anxiety, depression, or everyday life stressors, choosing a therapist is an important decision. I have found that when clients feel secure and understood in the therapeutic relationship, exploration and resolution of difficult life experiences becomes possible. I'm an experienced licensed professional counselor who works with individuals of all ages (3-80+). I tailor my approach to the individual and utilize a variety of treatment approaches.
(406) 204-0585 View (406) 204-0585
Photo of Lisa Marie Wetzler, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Lisa Marie Wetzler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, M, Ed, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am an EMDR certified therapist.
I work with clients on emphasizing their strengths to assist them in promoting the change that they desire to have in their life. I tailor the therapeutic environment to meet the individual needs of each client to ensure the best possible outcomes. I believe that within each of us we hold skills and strengths to help us attain and improve our quality of life.
I am an EMDR certified therapist.
I work with clients on emphasizing their strengths to assist them in promoting the change that they desire to have in their life. I tailor the therapeutic environment to meet the individual needs of each client to ensure the best possible outcomes. I believe that within each of us we hold skills and strengths to help us attain and improve our quality of life.
(406) 413-9928 View (406) 413-9928
Photo of Felicia Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Felicia Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCLC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
As an EMDR trained therapist, I offer a therapeutic option that can transform the way clients process trauma and adversity.
Embarking on a journey toward healing can be daunting, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist deeply committed to supporting adults navigating the challenges of depression, anxiety, and trauma, I offer a sanctuary where your feelings are validated and your experiences are met with compassion. Through a blend of personalized therapy techniques, we'll work together to uncover the roots of your struggles, foster resilience, and pave a path toward a future filled with hope and healing. Let's take the first step towards a life where you feel empowered, understood, and genuinely connected to your inner strength.
As an EMDR trained therapist, I offer a therapeutic option that can transform the way clients process trauma and adversity.
Embarking on a journey toward healing can be daunting, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist deeply committed to supporting adults navigating the challenges of depression, anxiety, and trauma, I offer a sanctuary where your feelings are validated and your experiences are met with compassion. Through a blend of personalized therapy techniques, we'll work together to uncover the roots of your struggles, foster resilience, and pave a path toward a future filled with hope and healing. Let's take the first step towards a life where you feel empowered, understood, and genuinely connected to your inner strength.
(406) 559-4801 View (406) 559-4801
Photo of Leanna M Winslow, Counselor in Billings, MT
Leanna M Winslow
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I am specialized in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trauma therapy with a focus on complex and chronic trauma.
Healing through therapy will always begin with the relationship we create. My job is to bring a relationship full of compassion and respect for your journey through life. Your job in therapy is to show up. We will work together from there to find out what recovery means to you! Therapy is hard work, whether you are struggling with daily life, relationships, or wounds that have been impacting you for years. I hope to help you to find purpose in the struggle, and to find your best self in the healing.
I am specialized in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trauma therapy with a focus on complex and chronic trauma.
Healing through therapy will always begin with the relationship we create. My job is to bring a relationship full of compassion and respect for your journey through life. Your job in therapy is to show up. We will work together from there to find out what recovery means to you! Therapy is hard work, whether you are struggling with daily life, relationships, or wounds that have been impacting you for years. I hope to help you to find purpose in the struggle, and to find your best self in the healing.
(406) 534-0601 View (406) 534-0601
Photo of Erin Unruh Rodriguez, Counselor in Billings, MT
Erin Unruh Rodriguez
Counselor, LCPC, MAC, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) with certifications from NAADAC (National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Counselors) as a Masters level Addiction Counselor. I have been trained in many modules including; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Seeking Safety, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). I am a trained EMDR specialist and facilitate trauma therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) with certifications from NAADAC (National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Counselors) as a Masters level Addiction Counselor. I have been trained in many modules including; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Seeking Safety, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). I am a trained EMDR specialist and facilitate trauma therapy.
(406) 284-1673 View (406) 284-1673
Photo of Liz Smith, Counselor in Billings, MT
Liz Smith
Counselor, LCPC , CMHC, LMHC, LAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59103  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and very comfortable in using this modality via telehealth.
I am first, a client-centered therapist. I believe therapy should be about the client and be met with unconditional positive regard. There is no place for judgment in therapy, and I am here to help you process and make your own decisions, not to tell you what to do.
I am trained in EMDR and very comfortable in using this modality via telehealth.
I am first, a client-centered therapist. I believe therapy should be about the client and be met with unconditional positive regard. There is no place for judgment in therapy, and I am here to help you process and make your own decisions, not to tell you what to do.
(406) 732-7151 View (406) 732-7151
Photo of Tara Sorenson, Counselor in Billings, MT
Tara Sorenson
Counselor, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
EMDR Intensives can help you feel relief faster than traditional therapy. Are you a healthcare professional or first responder suffering from repeated negative thoughts, intrusive images, flashbacks, or sleepless nights due to work-related stress? The cumulative impact of high-pressure situations, trauma exposure, and the emotional demands of your role can lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and work-related stress. You dedicate yourself to the well-being of others, often at the expense of your own mental health. EMDR therapy and EMDR Intensives offer solutions to help you heal and reclaim your life.
EMDR Intensives can help you feel relief faster than traditional therapy. Are you a healthcare professional or first responder suffering from repeated negative thoughts, intrusive images, flashbacks, or sleepless nights due to work-related stress? The cumulative impact of high-pressure situations, trauma exposure, and the emotional demands of your role can lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and work-related stress. You dedicate yourself to the well-being of others, often at the expense of your own mental health. EMDR therapy and EMDR Intensives offer solutions to help you heal and reclaim your life.
(406) 909-4089 View (406) 909-4089
Photo of Crystal Skies Counseling / Amy Vicars, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Crystal Skies Counseling / Amy Vicars
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy) as an effective treatment for trauma.
I'm a professional mental health/addictions therapist working with adult clients. I utilize a trauma informed and client centered approach to therapy. Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, stress, trauma, or other concerns, I am here to help guide you on your journey with a caring and empathetic approach.
I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy) as an effective treatment for trauma.
I'm a professional mental health/addictions therapist working with adult clients. I utilize a trauma informed and client centered approach to therapy. Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, stress, trauma, or other concerns, I am here to help guide you on your journey with a caring and empathetic approach.
(406) 559-3341 View (406) 559-3341
Photo of Shila Johnson, LLC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Shila Johnson, LLC
Counselor, LAC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My name is Shila Johnson and I focus my private practice around helping clients discover who they authentically are and how they can live a life full of meaning and purpose. I combine intuitive counseling along with energy healing to help people heal from the past and connect to their body and emotions so they can really start living life. I help people overcome a number of life issues such as relationship problems, work/life stress, anxiety and trauma. I use several techniques such as EMDR, (eye movement desensitization therapy), Mindfulness therapy, Solutions focused therapy, Emotion code, and Holy Fire Karuna Reiki.
My name is Shila Johnson and I focus my private practice around helping clients discover who they authentically are and how they can live a life full of meaning and purpose. I combine intuitive counseling along with energy healing to help people heal from the past and connect to their body and emotions so they can really start living life. I help people overcome a number of life issues such as relationship problems, work/life stress, anxiety and trauma. I use several techniques such as EMDR, (eye movement desensitization therapy), Mindfulness therapy, Solutions focused therapy, Emotion code, and Holy Fire Karuna Reiki.
(406) 361-2122 View (406) 361-2122
Photo of Wellness Possebilities, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Wellness Possebilities
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
(406) 578-0646 View (406) 578-0646
Photo of Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EFT, Play Therapy and EMDR.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EFT, Play Therapy and EMDR.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
(406) 578-5042 View (406) 578-5042
Photo of Caleb Abrams in Billings, MT
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Caleb has developed unique skills for working with Addicts and uses state of the art counseling techniques based off of the newest research, such as EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT task model for recovery.
Caleb is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through sex addiction but provides counseling services for all kinds of addictions. He also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb has developed unique skills for working with Addicts and uses state of the art counseling techniques based off of the newest research, such as EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT task model for recovery.
Caleb is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through sex addiction but provides counseling services for all kinds of addictions. He also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(614) 660-5482 View (614) 660-5482
Photo of Joleena Abrams in Billings, MT
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(507) 216-9367 View (507) 216-9367
Photo of Candace Anderson, Counselor in Billings, MT
Candace Anderson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
I am trained and use frequently EMDR and Prolonged Exposure for trauma treatment and PTSD.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
I am trained and use frequently EMDR and Prolonged Exposure for trauma treatment and PTSD.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
(406) 272-0203 View (406) 272-0203
Photo of Mind of Peace Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Mind of Peace Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
I use EMDR and CBT.
You deserve healing! You deserve to put yourself first. Come on, it's time! Make one simple phone call and talk to my incredibly sweet intake specialist, Raine. In 15 minutes, you can be on your way to PEACE. I enjoy helping people through difficult situations. For 22 years, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, OCD, parenting challenges, developmental disabilities, trauma, relationships, and so much more. I specialize in providing gentle trauma therapy. My goal is to help you achieve your goals! I promise to be a safe, non-judgmental person who is here for you through thick and thin. I am licensed in WY and MT.
I use EMDR and CBT.
You deserve healing! You deserve to put yourself first. Come on, it's time! Make one simple phone call and talk to my incredibly sweet intake specialist, Raine. In 15 minutes, you can be on your way to PEACE. I enjoy helping people through difficult situations. For 22 years, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, OCD, parenting challenges, developmental disabilities, trauma, relationships, and so much more. I specialize in providing gentle trauma therapy. My goal is to help you achieve your goals! I promise to be a safe, non-judgmental person who is here for you through thick and thin. I am licensed in WY and MT.
(307) 336-3068 View (307) 336-3068
Photo of Virginia Rightmier Pierce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Virginia Rightmier Pierce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59105
You will find me to be client focused offering a safe, confidential place to address and work through your personal problems/issues. Clients find me easy to talk to and non-judgmental. You get to set your goals and pace for therapy. My 25 years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, adoptive families, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral and emotional problems, parenting issues, relationship problems, and too many other issues to list gives me vast resources to help you grow. It would be an honor to work with you.
You will find me to be client focused offering a safe, confidential place to address and work through your personal problems/issues. Clients find me easy to talk to and non-judgmental. You get to set your goals and pace for therapy. My 25 years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, adoptive families, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral and emotional problems, parenting issues, relationship problems, and too many other issues to list gives me vast resources to help you grow. It would be an honor to work with you.
(406) 961-7375 View (406) 961-7375
Photo of Diament Wellness Marriage & Counseling, PC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Billings, MT
Diament Wellness Marriage & Counseling, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59106  (Online Only)
Congratulations for reaching out! You are not alone. Your step of seeking therapy and recovery - it sure isn't easy. I truly hope that I can relieve some of that... I see each person as a unique individual. A person with life experiences- needing to relate, confide in and be validated. I treat each person with authenticity and unconditional positive regard. I focus on what is in front of me and not "what could be." My approach is a holistic one; I look at the whole person, including any underlying medical concerns, in order to help you identify your basic core self. Remember, you are brave for making the first step - reach out!
Congratulations for reaching out! You are not alone. Your step of seeking therapy and recovery - it sure isn't easy. I truly hope that I can relieve some of that... I see each person as a unique individual. A person with life experiences- needing to relate, confide in and be validated. I treat each person with authenticity and unconditional positive regard. I focus on what is in front of me and not "what could be." My approach is a holistic one; I look at the whole person, including any underlying medical concerns, in order to help you identify your basic core self. Remember, you are brave for making the first step - reach out!
(818) 975-3730 View (818) 975-3730
Photo of Kelly Buck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kelly Buck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
Imagine living your best life! We all face challenges and difficulties in life. For some it is trauma, others experience chronic health issues, not to mention day-to-day stressors of society's unrealistic demands and expectations. No one goes through life without experiencing the struggle. Our time together is spent exploring what is in the gap between where you are and where you desire and hope to be. Our time together is spent exploring what is in the gap between where you are and where you desire and hope to be. I guide individuals through the process to gain insight into what holds them back from realizing their goals.
Imagine living your best life! We all face challenges and difficulties in life. For some it is trauma, others experience chronic health issues, not to mention day-to-day stressors of society's unrealistic demands and expectations. No one goes through life without experiencing the struggle. Our time together is spent exploring what is in the gap between where you are and where you desire and hope to be. Our time together is spent exploring what is in the gap between where you are and where you desire and hope to be. I guide individuals through the process to gain insight into what holds them back from realizing their goals.
(406) 927-8035 View (406) 927-8035
Photo of Dennis William Muri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Dennis William Muri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for twelve years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Hope is everything.
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for twelve years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Hope is everything.
(406) 204-4896 View (406) 204-4896

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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.