EMDR Therapists in New York

Photo of Maria Spitz, Psychologist in New York
Maria Spitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship & job performance issues, grief & loss. I use evidenced based treatment modalities; trained in ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, holistic, & psychodynamic therapies. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to your individual needs. I am a certified Yoga instructor, use breath work to help clients w/the mind body connection & assist them to a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.
I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship & job performance issues, grief & loss. I use evidenced based treatment modalities; trained in ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, holistic, & psychodynamic therapies. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to your individual needs. I am a certified Yoga instructor, use breath work to help clients w/the mind body connection & assist them to a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.
(646) 362-1398 View (646) 362-1398
Photo of Susan Lee Bady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Susan Lee Bady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWBCD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a highly experienced psychotherapist, with a spiritual orientation. I use psychodynamic therapy, hypnosis, meditation and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to help individuals and couples find their own power. I offer you a safe space, an empathic manner and my active involvement to help you overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, work difficulties, smoking cessation, medical problems and many other issues I have worked with people from many different backgrounds and am very eclectic in my approach. For those who wish, I will help you explore the meaning of spirituality in your life.
I am a highly experienced psychotherapist, with a spiritual orientation. I use psychodynamic therapy, hypnosis, meditation and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to help individuals and couples find their own power. I offer you a safe space, an empathic manner and my active involvement to help you overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, work difficulties, smoking cessation, medical problems and many other issues I have worked with people from many different backgrounds and am very eclectic in my approach. For those who wish, I will help you explore the meaning of spirituality in your life.
(718) 701-8896 View (718) 701-8896
Photo of Charm Little-Ray, Counselor in New York
Charm Little-Ray
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11239  (Online Only)
Some of my specialties are SFT, CBT, EMDR, and DBT.
This is a start! Be proud of yourself for being here. Life attacks us in so many ways, and it is not without hardships. However, I believe we all have the innate ability to navigate life with the belief, "no matter what comes I can make it through." I work with you to develop your ability to learn more about yourself, others and life so you are able to live resiliently. I have 10 years of experience working with individuals overcoming life stressors, traumas, relational problems, internal conflicts and so much more. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to develop healthier thoughts, skills, relationships, etc.
Some of my specialties are SFT, CBT, EMDR, and DBT.
This is a start! Be proud of yourself for being here. Life attacks us in so many ways, and it is not without hardships. However, I believe we all have the innate ability to navigate life with the belief, "no matter what comes I can make it through." I work with you to develop your ability to learn more about yourself, others and life so you are able to live resiliently. I have 10 years of experience working with individuals overcoming life stressors, traumas, relational problems, internal conflicts and so much more. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to develop healthier thoughts, skills, relationships, etc.
(607) 695-5911 View (607) 695-5911
Photo of Zakiyyah Abdul-Mateen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Zakiyyah Abdul-Mateen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR-trained, child/adolescent & young adult psychotherapist who has created a safe space providing services to strengthen the most vulnerable populations. I use meditative practices to reduce anxiety associated with traumatic memory. Things such as childhood traumas, environmental factors, depression, anxiety and adjustments can all effect the way one interprets life. For Caregivers: With treatment catered to your child's specific needs, I will begin the process of helping them heal through therapeutic play, relaxation techniques, listening skills, while also engaging the family to formulate best treatment for the child.
I am an EMDR-trained, child/adolescent & young adult psychotherapist who has created a safe space providing services to strengthen the most vulnerable populations. I use meditative practices to reduce anxiety associated with traumatic memory. Things such as childhood traumas, environmental factors, depression, anxiety and adjustments can all effect the way one interprets life. For Caregivers: With treatment catered to your child's specific needs, I will begin the process of helping them heal through therapeutic play, relaxation techniques, listening skills, while also engaging the family to formulate best treatment for the child.
(516) 701-1552 View (516) 701-1552
Photo of Gail Zussman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Gail Zussman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Trumansburg, NY 14886  (Online Only)
Through our work together we will use a variety of therapeutic methods including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Based Practices, Family Systems, EMDR, Meditation, Polyvagal & more.
At times you can feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stressed by the events of your life. I provide a safe and caring space where you can explore these feelings. I bring humor, respect and a spirit of collaboration into our work together. I work with adults, college and graduate students. Some common issues I work with include: stress, career and academic issues, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting challenges, attachment styles and trauma. Our goal together is to empower you and develop skills you can take with you on your journey through life.
Through our work together we will use a variety of therapeutic methods including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Based Practices, Family Systems, EMDR, Meditation, Polyvagal & more.
At times you can feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stressed by the events of your life. I provide a safe and caring space where you can explore these feelings. I bring humor, respect and a spirit of collaboration into our work together. I work with adults, college and graduate students. Some common issues I work with include: stress, career and academic issues, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting challenges, attachment styles and trauma. Our goal together is to empower you and develop skills you can take with you on your journey through life.
(607) 218-2732 View (607) 218-2732
Photo of Robyn E Rozwaski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Robyn E Rozwaski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, NY 10977
I provide a warm place with patience, and hold the critical emotional space to help you attune to these experiences, at your pace! With expansive compassion and a psychodynamic lens, I use skills within IFS, EMDR, Somatic Intervention, and CBT modalities.
I invite you to share a therapeutic experience with me to explore and uncover your true essence, manage your emotional pain, and work to shift your internal view of yourself to a positive awareness of who you genuinely are. In NY/NJ, I work well with issues such as: anxiety; depression; trauma; self esteem; single parents; familial and other relationships.
I provide a warm place with patience, and hold the critical emotional space to help you attune to these experiences, at your pace! With expansive compassion and a psychodynamic lens, I use skills within IFS, EMDR, Somatic Intervention, and CBT modalities.
I invite you to share a therapeutic experience with me to explore and uncover your true essence, manage your emotional pain, and work to shift your internal view of yourself to a positive awareness of who you genuinely are. In NY/NJ, I work well with issues such as: anxiety; depression; trauma; self esteem; single parents; familial and other relationships.
(646) 461-4038 View (646) 461-4038
Photo of Anna Coppola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Anna Coppola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508  (Online Only)
My name is Anna, and I am a therapist specializing in PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and the more general impacts of trauma in the many ways it shows up. I work with those that are struggling to meet their goals or find peace due to past struggles, attachment injuries, dysfunctional relationships, and related moods including anxiety or depression. I've been trained in EMDR, CPT for PTSD and Attachment Theory based couples therapy. I also completed some training in DBT, which helps those struggling with intense emotions and tumultuous personal relationships.
My name is Anna, and I am a therapist specializing in PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and the more general impacts of trauma in the many ways it shows up. I work with those that are struggling to meet their goals or find peace due to past struggles, attachment injuries, dysfunctional relationships, and related moods including anxiety or depression. I've been trained in EMDR, CPT for PTSD and Attachment Theory based couples therapy. I also completed some training in DBT, which helps those struggling with intense emotions and tumultuous personal relationships.
(646) 681-6286 View (646) 681-6286
Photo of Aimee Pearson, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Aimee Pearson
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR therapist and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process trauma effectively as needed.
Feeling Stuck? You're Not Alone. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or the effects of past trauma? You don't have to face them alone. As a therapist and fellow human being, I'm here to walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. I prioritize creating a safe and confidential space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. While harmful experiences often happen in relationships, a safe therapeutic relationship can be the catalyst for tremendous growth and healing. My ideal client is someone ready to break free from the impacts of past trauma and embrace personal and relational growth.
I am an EMDR therapist and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process trauma effectively as needed.
Feeling Stuck? You're Not Alone. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or the effects of past trauma? You don't have to face them alone. As a therapist and fellow human being, I'm here to walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. I prioritize creating a safe and confidential space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. While harmful experiences often happen in relationships, a safe therapeutic relationship can be the catalyst for tremendous growth and healing. My ideal client is someone ready to break free from the impacts of past trauma and embrace personal and relational growth.
(347) 321-9740 View (347) 321-9740
Photo of Renee Obstfeld in New York
Renee Obstfeld
PhD, NCPsyA, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My background in disciplines including Sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR make for a deep and engaging treatment experience that goes beyond intellectual insight.
If you are seeking therapy, you've most likely identified patterns in your life that you'd like to change. The path to this recognition is unique to each person, as is the process of therapy itself. My practice is devoted to helping people express their most authentic, creative selves, and to remain present while navigating life and its transitions. I have worked for over 30 years with people who struggle with addictions and self harm, and who have experienced profound trauma or challenging life stressors.
My background in disciplines including Sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR make for a deep and engaging treatment experience that goes beyond intellectual insight.
If you are seeking therapy, you've most likely identified patterns in your life that you'd like to change. The path to this recognition is unique to each person, as is the process of therapy itself. My practice is devoted to helping people express their most authentic, creative selves, and to remain present while navigating life and its transitions. I have worked for over 30 years with people who struggle with addictions and self harm, and who have experienced profound trauma or challenging life stressors.
(917) 746-1534 View (917) 746-1534
Photo of Joseph LaBadia, Counselor in New York
Joseph LaBadia
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I use an integrated dynamic approach to therapy informed by mindfulness, relaxation techniques, psychodynamics, motivational interviewing, EMDR and cognitive-type therapies.
I help my clients learn and enhance their abilities to utilize their own strengths in order to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, and daily or work related stress. I put in a strong effort to connect with my clients and create a working alliance. The treatment I provide is a collaborative process where we will work together for positive changes. I've spent the last five years training and working with clients at institutions such as New York Presbyterian Hospital, the William Alanson White Institute, New York University, and Cornell Medical College.
I use an integrated dynamic approach to therapy informed by mindfulness, relaxation techniques, psychodynamics, motivational interviewing, EMDR and cognitive-type therapies.
I help my clients learn and enhance their abilities to utilize their own strengths in order to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, and daily or work related stress. I put in a strong effort to connect with my clients and create a working alliance. The treatment I provide is a collaborative process where we will work together for positive changes. I've spent the last five years training and working with clients at institutions such as New York Presbyterian Hospital, the William Alanson White Institute, New York University, and Cornell Medical College.
(646) 601-5172 View (646) 601-5172
Photo of Rachel Marino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Rachel Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
Rachel utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in working with victims of abuse and trauma.
At any given moment, YOU have the POWER to say: this is NOT how the story is going to END." Rachel's passion is helping clients find peace in their lives by helping to empower them to succeed in overcoming their difficulties and adversities. Rachel Marino is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with considerable experience in providing services to individuals, children, adolescents, families and couples. Rachel is also an EMDR clinician.
Rachel utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in working with victims of abuse and trauma.
At any given moment, YOU have the POWER to say: this is NOT how the story is going to END." Rachel's passion is helping clients find peace in their lives by helping to empower them to succeed in overcoming their difficulties and adversities. Rachel Marino is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with considerable experience in providing services to individuals, children, adolescents, families and couples. Rachel is also an EMDR clinician.
(716) 403-4218 View (716) 403-4218
Photo of Dr. Giacinta Talarico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Dr. Giacinta Talarico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10026
In addition to holding a PhD in Human Sexuality, I hold certificates in CBT & EMDR.
Do you feel caught in the past & unable to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed or burned out? Tired of repeating the same patterns? Ready for a change, but unsure of what it looks like and how to get there? Whether you feel anxious & overwhelmed or depressed & bored by your relationships with work, partners, friends and family, I'm here to help you move forward into the life that you want for yourself. Everyone comes to therapy for unique reasons. Whether you have a specific goal for therapy, or a nagging feeling you would like to shake, I am here to support you through an active & holistic process of collaborative exploration.
In addition to holding a PhD in Human Sexuality, I hold certificates in CBT & EMDR.
Do you feel caught in the past & unable to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed or burned out? Tired of repeating the same patterns? Ready for a change, but unsure of what it looks like and how to get there? Whether you feel anxious & overwhelmed or depressed & bored by your relationships with work, partners, friends and family, I'm here to help you move forward into the life that you want for yourself. Everyone comes to therapy for unique reasons. Whether you have a specific goal for therapy, or a nagging feeling you would like to shake, I am here to support you through an active & holistic process of collaborative exploration.
(347) 434-8376 View (347) 434-8376
Photo of Arthur Pomponio, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York
Arthur Pomponio
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
I am also certified in EMDR, an approach to therapy that addresses certain intense traumas.
If you feel depressed, stressed (especially now with COVID-19), unsure about where your career is heading, or are having a hard time with relationships, psychotherapy can help. I am trained in multiple approaches to offer optimal results. Therapy is about insight and action. You will often encounter surprises along the way. I will help you on your journey towards self awareness, work satisfaction, improved relationships, deepened creativity, and greater contentment in your life. I welcome your call or email today. I am often in session, but will get back to you as soon as I can.
I am also certified in EMDR, an approach to therapy that addresses certain intense traumas.
If you feel depressed, stressed (especially now with COVID-19), unsure about where your career is heading, or are having a hard time with relationships, psychotherapy can help. I am trained in multiple approaches to offer optimal results. Therapy is about insight and action. You will often encounter surprises along the way. I will help you on your journey towards self awareness, work satisfaction, improved relationships, deepened creativity, and greater contentment in your life. I welcome your call or email today. I am often in session, but will get back to you as soon as I can.
(917) 521-6710 View (917) 521-6710
Photo of Rebecca N Schoenewolf, Counselor in New York
Rebecca N Schoenewolf
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, RMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Katonah, NY 10536
My training in EMDR, CBT, communication and practical coping skills, and psychodynamic methods combined with holistic methods- creativity, spirituality, and existentialism- have been proven to enhance lifestyle transformations.
With compassion, dedication, knowledge, and gentle guidance, we will focus on decreasing distresses, actively resolving psychological and emotional issues, and increasing your coping skills & well-being- all at your pace. Drawing upon over 20 years of experience in the mental health field that includes inpatient hospitals, agencies, and private practice, we will use a mixture of traditional and holistic methods of psychotherapy and healing to assist and support you in achieving satisfaction and fulfillment in life. I am currently licensed in CT and NY, with an office in Katonah, NY, and am certified in telemental health.
My training in EMDR, CBT, communication and practical coping skills, and psychodynamic methods combined with holistic methods- creativity, spirituality, and existentialism- have been proven to enhance lifestyle transformations.
With compassion, dedication, knowledge, and gentle guidance, we will focus on decreasing distresses, actively resolving psychological and emotional issues, and increasing your coping skills & well-being- all at your pace. Drawing upon over 20 years of experience in the mental health field that includes inpatient hospitals, agencies, and private practice, we will use a mixture of traditional and holistic methods of psychotherapy and healing to assist and support you in achieving satisfaction and fulfillment in life. I am currently licensed in CT and NY, with an office in Katonah, NY, and am certified in telemental health.
(914) 768-4412 View (914) 768-4412
Photo of Sprouting Roots Mental Health Counseling in New York
Sprouting Roots Mental Health Counseling
LMHC, LPC/MHS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Therapists specialize in EMDR, DBT, Psychodynamic and more.
Have you tried talk therapy to no avail? Do you suffer from trauma, stuck in negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, relationship issues? We at Sprouting Roots Counseling serve a wide variety of clients, from pre-teen age up through adults. We specialize in a holistic, trauma informed approach utilizing mainly EMDR therapy among other modalities. We believe strongly everyone can grow new roots and heal from the underlying wounds that hurt us. For more info about each therapists specific niche and specialty- visit our website. We look forward to getting you on the path to healing.
Therapists specialize in EMDR, DBT, Psychodynamic and more.
Have you tried talk therapy to no avail? Do you suffer from trauma, stuck in negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, relationship issues? We at Sprouting Roots Counseling serve a wide variety of clients, from pre-teen age up through adults. We specialize in a holistic, trauma informed approach utilizing mainly EMDR therapy among other modalities. We believe strongly everyone can grow new roots and heal from the underlying wounds that hurt us. For more info about each therapists specific niche and specialty- visit our website. We look forward to getting you on the path to healing.
(718) 795-2648 View (718) 795-2648
Photo of Melanie C Saulle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Melanie C Saulle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I’m Melanie and so happy to welcome you to my page. I’m a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDR certified & a certified yoga instructor. Being a therapist reflects a core part of me that enjoys making authentic connections with people. I treasure the people who have positively impacted my life and work to be that person for others.
I’m Melanie and so happy to welcome you to my page. I’m a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDR certified & a certified yoga instructor. Being a therapist reflects a core part of me that enjoys making authentic connections with people. I treasure the people who have positively impacted my life and work to be that person for others.
(516) 774-1392 View (516) 774-1392
Photo of Terceira A Molnar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Terceira A Molnar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Blending their intersectional, trauma-informed lenses, they orchestrate a dialogue between the body and the mind using mindfulness techniques and EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing).
As a New York University trained psychotherapist, Terceira specializes in treating anxiety, depression, complex grief, trauma, identity, career and life transitions. They serve a diverse clientele that ranges across race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and spiritual backgrounds. Terceira has experience serving survivors of various traumas and PTSD both globally and in New York City.
Blending their intersectional, trauma-informed lenses, they orchestrate a dialogue between the body and the mind using mindfulness techniques and EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing).
As a New York University trained psychotherapist, Terceira specializes in treating anxiety, depression, complex grief, trauma, identity, career and life transitions. They serve a diverse clientele that ranges across race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and spiritual backgrounds. Terceira has experience serving survivors of various traumas and PTSD both globally and in New York City.
(347) 697-4093 View (347) 697-4093
Photo of Sarah Meckler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Sarah Meckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I will work collaboratively with you to analyze areas you feel need improvement, manage stress, clarify goals, and modify unwanted patterns in your life. I specialize in reducing anxiety, improving relationship dynamics, facilitating a deeper understanding of family issues, and assisting and supporting you through life transitions. I have a lot of experience with the LGBTQIA community, people in non-monogamous relationships, young adults and teens. I also offer EMDR for the treatment of trauma.
I will work collaboratively with you to analyze areas you feel need improvement, manage stress, clarify goals, and modify unwanted patterns in your life. I specialize in reducing anxiety, improving relationship dynamics, facilitating a deeper understanding of family issues, and assisting and supporting you through life transitions. I have a lot of experience with the LGBTQIA community, people in non-monogamous relationships, young adults and teens. I also offer EMDR for the treatment of trauma.
(929) 334-4930 View (929) 334-4930
Photo of Colin Whitaker, Counselor in New York
Colin Whitaker
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014
I draw from a variety of approaches based on a client’s individual needs, including DBT, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
I have years of experience working in both residential and outpatient settings, with a focus on addictions, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma.
I draw from a variety of approaches based on a client’s individual needs, including DBT, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
I have years of experience working in both residential and outpatient settings, with a focus on addictions, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma.
(646) 490-3987 View (646) 490-3987
Photo of Soul Discovery Mental Health Counseling, Counselor in New York
Soul Discovery Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC-T, NCC
Verified Verified
Malverne, NY 11565
Soul Discovery provides individual & group therapy, a comprehensive DBT program, EMDR and Brainingspotting to help with past trauma and present difficulties.
Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you feel unhappy, depressed, anxious, confused, or stuck? Are you on an emotional roller coaster? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we may be of some help. With over 16 years of experience we have all worked with trauma survivors, substance use clients and individuals who have experienced difficulties in various areas of their life. Clinicians at Soul Discovery Mental Health Counseling can offer an understanding environment where the true nature of problems can be addressed and healthy solutions can be discovered without judgment.
Soul Discovery provides individual & group therapy, a comprehensive DBT program, EMDR and Brainingspotting to help with past trauma and present difficulties.
Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you feel unhappy, depressed, anxious, confused, or stuck? Are you on an emotional roller coaster? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we may be of some help. With over 16 years of experience we have all worked with trauma survivors, substance use clients and individuals who have experienced difficulties in various areas of their life. Clinicians at Soul Discovery Mental Health Counseling can offer an understanding environment where the true nature of problems can be addressed and healthy solutions can be discovered without judgment.
(516) 847-4636 View (516) 847-4636
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.