Perspectives Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Specializations include: DBT, EMDR, Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse, Self harm, Life Transitions, Complex Trauma.
Are you or your loved one experiencing difficulty managing emotions, chaotic relationships, overwhelming stress, or high risk behaviors? Have other treatments been unsuccessful? We offer evidenced based treatments designed to help you gain control of your life and adopt healthy and balanced thinking/behaviors. Individuals will gain greater awareness of self, ability to manage emotions, improve relationships, and build a life worth living. We offer a safe environment, personalized treatment plans, and are dedicated to helping you reach your personal goals.
Specializations include: DBT, EMDR, Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse, Self harm, Life Transitions, Complex Trauma.
Are you or your loved one experiencing difficulty managing emotions, chaotic relationships, overwhelming stress, or high risk behaviors? Have other treatments been unsuccessful? We offer evidenced based treatments designed to help you gain control of your life and adopt healthy and balanced thinking/behaviors. Individuals will gain greater awareness of self, ability to manage emotions, improve relationships, and build a life worth living. We offer a safe environment, personalized treatment plans, and are dedicated to helping you reach your personal goals.
(732) 831-7534 View (732) 831-7534
Photo of Gliceria Pérez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Gliceria Pérez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
and I have received certifications in family therapy, Trauma Stress Studies, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Y-CBT.
I enjoy working with individuals, groups and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss issues, etc. I am interested in working with children (10+), adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and People of Color who are ready and willing to work on repairing their relationships with self and others (peers, partners, family and friends).
and I have received certifications in family therapy, Trauma Stress Studies, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Y-CBT.
I enjoy working with individuals, groups and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss issues, etc. I am interested in working with children (10+), adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and People of Color who are ready and willing to work on repairing their relationships with self and others (peers, partners, family and friends).
(848) 233-3115 View (848) 233-3115
Photo of Miriam Jaffe, Licensed Social Worker in Highland Park, NJ
Miriam Jaffe
Licensed Social Worker, PhD, LSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I am trained in EMDR, sandtray therapy, somatic experiencing, energy healing, guided meditation, and breath medicine.
I work primarily with children, teenagers, and college students, as well as adult women, specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I am trained in EMDR, sandtray therapy, somatic experiencing, energy healing, guided meditation, and breath medicine.
I work primarily with children, teenagers, and college students, as well as adult women, specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(848) 220-1712 View (848) 220-1712
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth
Psychologist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
IPG's large, diverse staff has a wide range of expertise in different modalities, from CBT to psychodynamic, EMDR, and EFT.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free, for a limited time. IPG has roughly 30 therapists over three NJ offices: Highland Park, Freehold, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for concerns ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We have a special focus on the LGBTQ community, including transgender/GNC youth, but we see clients from all walks of life. We also have many other niche specialties such as sex therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and eating disorders.
IPG's large, diverse staff has a wide range of expertise in different modalities, from CBT to psychodynamic, EMDR, and EFT.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free, for a limited time. IPG has roughly 30 therapists over three NJ offices: Highland Park, Freehold, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for concerns ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We have a special focus on the LGBTQ community, including transgender/GNC youth, but we see clients from all walks of life. We also have many other niche specialties such as sex therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and eating disorders.
(732) 487-3688 View (732) 487-3688
Photo of Pat Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Pat Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have a certificate in trauma studies, I am EMDR trained through EMDRIA and I am certified Imago Relationship therapist .
Whether looking for individual or couples therapy, finding the right therapist can be challenging. Who would be a good match? Who has the balance of supporting you and challenging you when needed? Who do you trust? Perhaps I can be that right match. I have experience in the LGBT, military, and Veterans communities. I have experience working with adults and children from cultures across the world. I have worked with various issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, work/school/sports performance. I have a calm, friendly, interactive, supportive style while focusing on the healing power of a therapeutic relationship.
I have a certificate in trauma studies, I am EMDR trained through EMDRIA and I am certified Imago Relationship therapist .
Whether looking for individual or couples therapy, finding the right therapist can be challenging. Who would be a good match? Who has the balance of supporting you and challenging you when needed? Who do you trust? Perhaps I can be that right match. I have experience in the LGBT, military, and Veterans communities. I have experience working with adults and children from cultures across the world. I have worked with various issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, work/school/sports performance. I have a calm, friendly, interactive, supportive style while focusing on the healing power of a therapeutic relationship.
(732) 837-2317 View (732) 837-2317
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth - LGBTQ Community, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth - LGBTQ Community
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Among the modalities we've trained in and adapted for the LGBTQ+ community: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Imago couples counseling, Emotionally Focused Therapy for relationships, and sex therapy.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free. IPG paved the way for other Queer-affirmative therapists. Founded in 1983 specifically to serve the LGBTQ+ community, back when most practitioners viewed it as a mental illness, we are still trailblazers, working with trans/GNC folks, bi/pansexuals, the kink/BDSM community, consensual nonmonogamists, and others who make up the "Q+" in LGBTQ+. You may not want therapy because you are gay, but you likely want a therapist who is not only affirming but knowledgeable. We understand the special issues of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and we provide sex therapy as well.
Among the modalities we've trained in and adapted for the LGBTQ+ community: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Imago couples counseling, Emotionally Focused Therapy for relationships, and sex therapy.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free. IPG paved the way for other Queer-affirmative therapists. Founded in 1983 specifically to serve the LGBTQ+ community, back when most practitioners viewed it as a mental illness, we are still trailblazers, working with trans/GNC folks, bi/pansexuals, the kink/BDSM community, consensual nonmonogamists, and others who make up the "Q+" in LGBTQ+. You may not want therapy because you are gay, but you likely want a therapist who is not only affirming but knowledgeable. We understand the special issues of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and we provide sex therapy as well.
(732) 978-4574 View (732) 978-4574
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth - Jersey City, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth - Jersey City
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
We work with PTSD/trauma (including EMDR), anger management, couples/marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, trans/non-binary/GNC youth and adults, ketamine therapy, EMDR, and more.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free when you contact us, to see if it's right for you. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
We work with PTSD/trauma (including EMDR), anger management, couples/marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, trans/non-binary/GNC youth and adults, ketamine therapy, EMDR, and more.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free when you contact us, to see if it's right for you. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
(848) 222-8978 View (848) 222-8978
Photo of Kelly Stolberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Kelly Stolberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Waitlist for new clients
I love utilizing EMDR and Inner Child Work to support my therapy.
I am a firm believer that change and recovery are possible for everyone. Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. My approach centers around trust and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am an open-minded and nonjudgmental support who can walk with a person through this journey. I hope to help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and it's stress. We don't necessarily live in a world that embraces uniqueness, let me assist you in tapping into that magic.
I love utilizing EMDR and Inner Child Work to support my therapy.
I am a firm believer that change and recovery are possible for everyone. Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. My approach centers around trust and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am an open-minded and nonjudgmental support who can walk with a person through this journey. I hope to help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and it's stress. We don't necessarily live in a world that embraces uniqueness, let me assist you in tapping into that magic.
(609) 770-2031 View (609) 770-2031
Photo of Margaret Nichols, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Margaret Nichols
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
My work is a vocation, not a job. I love being a therapist because it allows me to connect with diverse people in a deep, meaningful way and to have the privilege of trying to help them on their unique journeys. I'm a diplomate in sex therapy as well as a licensed psychologist, and I am trained in EMDR, hypnotherapy,and two methods of couples counseling as well. I pride myself on keeping up with the most current developments in my field because I owe it to the people I'm trying to help.
My work is a vocation, not a job. I love being a therapist because it allows me to connect with diverse people in a deep, meaningful way and to have the privilege of trying to help them on their unique journeys. I'm a diplomate in sex therapy as well as a licensed psychologist, and I am trained in EMDR, hypnotherapy,and two methods of couples counseling as well. I pride myself on keeping up with the most current developments in my field because I owe it to the people I'm trying to help.
(800) 379-9220 View (800) 379-9220
Tammy Dorff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have specialized training and experience in play therapy, parenting, working with LGBTQ clients and their families, EMDR, crisis intervention, and feminist therapy.
I have a diverse practice in which I work with adults, children, adolescents and couples who are struggling with a variety of different issues. These include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, relationship problems, school and behavioral issues, parenting challenges, ADHD, low self-esteem, stress, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns, struggles with spirituality, self-injurious behavior, adoption, dealing with medical problems, grief and loss, trauma, and coping with divorce and its aftermath. My ideal client is one who wants help and is feeling ready to do the work necessary to improve and enrich his or her life.
I have specialized training and experience in play therapy, parenting, working with LGBTQ clients and their families, EMDR, crisis intervention, and feminist therapy.
I have a diverse practice in which I work with adults, children, adolescents and couples who are struggling with a variety of different issues. These include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, relationship problems, school and behavioral issues, parenting challenges, ADHD, low self-esteem, stress, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns, struggles with spirituality, self-injurious behavior, adoption, dealing with medical problems, grief and loss, trauma, and coping with divorce and its aftermath. My ideal client is one who wants help and is feeling ready to do the work necessary to improve and enrich his or her life.
(732) 201-2138 View (732) 201-2138
Photo of Giving Tree Psychotherapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Giving Tree Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have participated in extensive evidence-based therapies for depression, anxiety, and trauma including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Interpersonal Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Many of the people who engage in therapy with me do so as a result of stress related to relationship conflict or life transitions including pregnancy. I utilize an integrative, personalized approach to therapy and believe the therapeutic process should be collaborative and transparent. Together we will work to identify your unique needs and goals and will use shared-decision making in identifying how we will work together.
I have participated in extensive evidence-based therapies for depression, anxiety, and trauma including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Interpersonal Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Many of the people who engage in therapy with me do so as a result of stress related to relationship conflict or life transitions including pregnancy. I utilize an integrative, personalized approach to therapy and believe the therapeutic process should be collaborative and transparent. Together we will work to identify your unique needs and goals and will use shared-decision making in identifying how we will work together.
(848) 253-3576 View (848) 253-3576
Photo of Sophia Fountoukidis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Sophia Fountoukidis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Life's challenges are diverse and dynamic. They can manifest as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, or a myriad of other forms. Every human bears their unique burdens and just as no two struggles are identical, no pain should ever be underestimated. Therapy is not solely about alleviating pain, it's about becoming empowered to live one's best life. It's about learning the tools and strategies to navigate life's storms, to find your inner strength, and to embrace your authentic self. It's a transformative process that can lead to profound self-discovery and personal growth.
Life's challenges are diverse and dynamic. They can manifest as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, or a myriad of other forms. Every human bears their unique burdens and just as no two struggles are identical, no pain should ever be underestimated. Therapy is not solely about alleviating pain, it's about becoming empowered to live one's best life. It's about learning the tools and strategies to navigate life's storms, to find your inner strength, and to embrace your authentic self. It's a transformative process that can lead to profound self-discovery and personal growth.
(201) 584-8254 View (201) 584-8254
Photo of Rachel Schwartz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Rachel Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have been a Licensed professional counselor for almost a decade and truly believe everyone can grow, change, and live the happiness they seek. Every person has a unique story and background.It is my job to assist you in understanding your journey and gaining the skills to help you become a healthier you. I help clients with overcoming their depression and anxiety. I am a certified trauma therapist who specializes in mood and suicidality. I have worked with different populations at several clinics and community mental health centers, including adolescents, adults, and couples.
I have been a Licensed professional counselor for almost a decade and truly believe everyone can grow, change, and live the happiness they seek. Every person has a unique story and background.It is my job to assist you in understanding your journey and gaining the skills to help you become a healthier you. I help clients with overcoming their depression and anxiety. I am a certified trauma therapist who specializes in mood and suicidality. I have worked with different populations at several clinics and community mental health centers, including adolescents, adults, and couples.
(732) 782-9443 View (732) 782-9443
Photo of Kere Loughlin-Presnal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Kere Loughlin-Presnal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Welcome! My belief in the healing potential of psychotherapy is grounded in the decades of research on attachment, trauma and the body, and relational neuroscience. Our early relationships and experiences, including trauma, form the lens through which we experience our day-to-day lives. By understanding distressing patterns in our here-and-now functioning as remnants of protective and adaptive functioning in early life, we can move towards change from a place of self-compassion and deep understanding.
Welcome! My belief in the healing potential of psychotherapy is grounded in the decades of research on attachment, trauma and the body, and relational neuroscience. Our early relationships and experiences, including trauma, form the lens through which we experience our day-to-day lives. By understanding distressing patterns in our here-and-now functioning as remnants of protective and adaptive functioning in early life, we can move towards change from a place of self-compassion and deep understanding.
(848) 208-8629 View (848) 208-8629
Photo of We Rise Therapy and Wellness , Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
We Rise Therapy and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Are you a South/East Asian or BIPOC woman struggling with anxiety, self doubt, a need to be perfect or low self esteem? Are you having trouble keeping up with the demands of work, school, family and social life and it feels like a constant balancing act? Do you have trouble being assertive and confident in your relationships? Are you going through a break up, life transition or just have trouble relating to your parents and family who have different expectations for you? Are you a new mom, expecting or navigating infertility challenges? Being a woman in today’s modern society is hard, but you don't have to be alone.
Are you a South/East Asian or BIPOC woman struggling with anxiety, self doubt, a need to be perfect or low self esteem? Are you having trouble keeping up with the demands of work, school, family and social life and it feels like a constant balancing act? Do you have trouble being assertive and confident in your relationships? Are you going through a break up, life transition or just have trouble relating to your parents and family who have different expectations for you? Are you a new mom, expecting or navigating infertility challenges? Being a woman in today’s modern society is hard, but you don't have to be alone.
(862) 245-4369 View (862) 245-4369
Photo of Kenneth Marcus Lipman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Kenneth Marcus Lipman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CH, ACS
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have been in practice for over 30 years, working with couples, individuals, children and families. I use many therapeutic tools depending on my clients' individual needs. These include: helping clients look at the negative things they tell themselves; discover how their problem(s) arose, which often ends a cycle of shame and self-blame; learn the interpersonal skills they lack and then devise homework assignments to practice new skills. I often use hypnosis to address issues on a deeper level than our conscious will. Finally I help my couples and families to understand and change destructive patterns of interaction.
I have been in practice for over 30 years, working with couples, individuals, children and families. I use many therapeutic tools depending on my clients' individual needs. These include: helping clients look at the negative things they tell themselves; discover how their problem(s) arose, which often ends a cycle of shame and self-blame; learn the interpersonal skills they lack and then devise homework assignments to practice new skills. I often use hypnosis to address issues on a deeper level than our conscious will. Finally I help my couples and families to understand and change destructive patterns of interaction.
(908) 420-0897 View (908) 420-0897
Photo of Lori Sequeira, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Lori Sequeira
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
My specialty is in relationships and sexual satisfaction. I work with individuals and couples addressing issues with intimacy, sexual desire, challenges to sexual functioning, and sexual pain. Therapy is about you and living a fulfilling life. Therapy offers you a special time and place to take care of you, as well as the relationships that you are a part of. Understanding the importance of relationships and their contribution to emotional and physical health leads me to greatly value the significance of the work that I am a part of.
My specialty is in relationships and sexual satisfaction. I work with individuals and couples addressing issues with intimacy, sexual desire, challenges to sexual functioning, and sexual pain. Therapy is about you and living a fulfilling life. Therapy offers you a special time and place to take care of you, as well as the relationships that you are a part of. Understanding the importance of relationships and their contribution to emotional and physical health leads me to greatly value the significance of the work that I am a part of.
(908) 364-7834 View (908) 364-7834
Photo of Healing Road Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Healing Road Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BBA, Author, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Do you feel stressed, anxious or depressed? Do you have problems with your partner or your children? Have you been a survivor of abuse? Do you feel like nobody understands you? Do you want to feel happy and enjoy life in your terms? Healing Road is here to help you. Schedule an appointment with us and start your journey to healing and happiness. Te sientes ansioso, estresado o triste? Tienes problemas de pareja o con tus hijos? Haz sido víctima de abuso? Sientes que nadie te entiende? Quieres ser feliz y vivir como quieras? Healing Road esta aquí para ayudarte. LLámanos y empieza tu camino de sanación.
Do you feel stressed, anxious or depressed? Do you have problems with your partner or your children? Have you been a survivor of abuse? Do you feel like nobody understands you? Do you want to feel happy and enjoy life in your terms? Healing Road is here to help you. Schedule an appointment with us and start your journey to healing and happiness. Te sientes ansioso, estresado o triste? Tienes problemas de pareja o con tus hijos? Haz sido víctima de abuso? Sientes que nadie te entiende? Quieres ser feliz y vivir como quieras? Healing Road esta aquí para ayudarte. LLámanos y empieza tu camino de sanación.
(908) 509-6117 View (908) 509-6117
Photo of Jill Lavender, Marriage & Family Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Jill Lavender
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Finding a trustworthy and compassionate individual with whom you can be vulnerable and share your most fragile moments, is necessary in order for healing to occur. My approach is collaborative in nature and tailored to fulfill each client’s needs. My goal is to help the individual, couple, or family explore, identify, and change cycles that maintain suffering in life.
Finding a trustworthy and compassionate individual with whom you can be vulnerable and share your most fragile moments, is necessary in order for healing to occur. My approach is collaborative in nature and tailored to fulfill each client’s needs. My goal is to help the individual, couple, or family explore, identify, and change cycles that maintain suffering in life.
(848) 246-1893 View (848) 246-1893
Photo of Lessons N Sessions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Lessons N Sessions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JDs, LCSWs, LPCs
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
“Day One or One Day?" We are here to help... As an integrated group practice, we offer interactive, strength-based, and culturally competent services designed to provide support and practical feedback. We help our clients effectively address personal as well as professional, life challenges. We utilize a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. We work with each individual to help them build upon their strengths to accomplish the personal and/or professional growth they have identified and set for themselves.
“Day One or One Day?" We are here to help... As an integrated group practice, we offer interactive, strength-based, and culturally competent services designed to provide support and practical feedback. We help our clients effectively address personal as well as professional, life challenges. We utilize a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. We work with each individual to help them build upon their strengths to accomplish the personal and/or professional growth they have identified and set for themselves.
(732) 838-9567 View (732) 838-9567

See more therapy options for Highland Park

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.