EMDR Therapists in Las Vegas, NV

Photo of Lisa Schapiro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Lisa Schapiro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
I am also certified in EMDR, a trauma recovery treatment.
Accepting New Clients. My practice is highly focused on helping couples and individuals change painful conflict cycles into deep connected bonds. I want to help you move toward your goals and live a meaningful and connected life. Many of those I work with have tried therapy before with little success and come to me discouraged. You do not need to continue to suffer. I come from a client-centered approach with the greatest attention to creating a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship to foster change in your life. I really value and encourage my clients to make sense of their pain and begin the steps to healing and growth.
I am also certified in EMDR, a trauma recovery treatment.
Accepting New Clients. My practice is highly focused on helping couples and individuals change painful conflict cycles into deep connected bonds. I want to help you move toward your goals and live a meaningful and connected life. Many of those I work with have tried therapy before with little success and come to me discouraged. You do not need to continue to suffer. I come from a client-centered approach with the greatest attention to creating a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship to foster change in your life. I really value and encourage my clients to make sense of their pain and begin the steps to healing and growth.
(702) 903-2871 View (702) 903-2871
Photo of Dina Noricks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Dina Noricks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89134
I use two trauma-based approaches: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing http://www.
I believe a therapist should have a plan of action that works with a wide range of clients without making personal judgments. The plan should embrace your way of thinking, your goals, and your morality. That's the kind of therapist I would be for you. Whether working with families, couples or individuals, I would want to understand what went wrong and how you tried to fix it. Then find something new. The new solution lies in healing your own history: your resentments, losses, disappointments, and traumas. Healing these things will make you whole, as a person or as part of a couple.
I use two trauma-based approaches: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing http://www.
I believe a therapist should have a plan of action that works with a wide range of clients without making personal judgments. The plan should embrace your way of thinking, your goals, and your morality. That's the kind of therapist I would be for you. Whether working with families, couples or individuals, I would want to understand what went wrong and how you tried to fix it. Then find something new. The new solution lies in healing your own history: your resentments, losses, disappointments, and traumas. Healing these things will make you whole, as a person or as part of a couple.
(702) 430-2682 View (702) 430-2682
Photo of Von Diagnostic and Counseling in Las Vegas, NV
Von Diagnostic and Counseling
PsyD, LCSW, LCADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89121
NOW Accepting New Clients. My passion and dedication for helping people has spanned for 22 years. I have provided direct care services through counseling and therapy for the past 15 years. My primary focus and specializations are mental health, substance use disorders and trauma. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, but I also use a variety of therapeutic applications individualized for the client and their needs.
NOW Accepting New Clients. My passion and dedication for helping people has spanned for 22 years. I have provided direct care services through counseling and therapy for the past 15 years. My primary focus and specializations are mental health, substance use disorders and trauma. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, but I also use a variety of therapeutic applications individualized for the client and their needs.
(702) 919-5321 View (702) 919-5321
Photo of Dr. Kit Didericksen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Dr. Kit Didericksen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89144  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and Discernment Counseling, an AAMFT approved supervisor, and a supervision mentor.
Experiencing stress from life transitions or chronic illness? Or are you a fellow therapist or medical provider? Stress can come from life, family, social identities, society/culture, trauma and/or relationships. It can make it harder to cope, connect with people, increase anxiety, and make ourselves unrecognizable. Healing from stress and anxiety is mental, emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual. My work as a therapist is to promote holistic healing, build insight, help you strengthen your important relationships, and build the life you want. I can help, and I have immediate openings for residents in NV and NC!
I am trained in EMDR and Discernment Counseling, an AAMFT approved supervisor, and a supervision mentor.
Experiencing stress from life transitions or chronic illness? Or are you a fellow therapist or medical provider? Stress can come from life, family, social identities, society/culture, trauma and/or relationships. It can make it harder to cope, connect with people, increase anxiety, and make ourselves unrecognizable. Healing from stress and anxiety is mental, emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual. My work as a therapist is to promote holistic healing, build insight, help you strengthen your important relationships, and build the life you want. I can help, and I have immediate openings for residents in NV and NC!
(725) 215-6499 View (725) 215-6499
Photo of Kayci Cooley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Kayci Cooley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Kayci Cooley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in adults who struggle with a variety of maladies including anxiety, depression and trauma. Her practice philosophy is rooted in acceptance, kindness, and respect. Kayci is EMDR trained and utilizes a vast range of treatment modalities tailored to each individual client.
Kayci Cooley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in adults who struggle with a variety of maladies including anxiety, depression and trauma. Her practice philosophy is rooted in acceptance, kindness, and respect. Kayci is EMDR trained and utilizes a vast range of treatment modalities tailored to each individual client.
(725) 255-2441 View (725) 255-2441
Photo of Multicultural Wellness West, Licensed Professional Counselor in Las Vegas, NV
Multicultural Wellness West
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), School related behavioral issues (certified school psychologist), provide psychological evaluations and Trained in supervision of recovery coaches.
I utilize a relational approach to working with clients, which encompasses a variety of therapeutic practices to enhance client strengths and build upon areas requiring development.
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), School related behavioral issues (certified school psychologist), provide psychological evaluations and Trained in supervision of recovery coaches.
I utilize a relational approach to working with clients, which encompasses a variety of therapeutic practices to enhance client strengths and build upon areas requiring development.
(702) 508-7539 View (702) 508-7539
Photo of Gold Clinical Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Gold Clinical Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a holistic approach to healing using the following modalities: EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Narrative Therapy, Equine Assisted Therapy, Sand Tray, Hypnosis, Guided imagery, expressive Art, Breath work, and Shamanic healing.
I am a holistic therapist (Body, Mind, Consciousness, Emotions, Energy, & Spirit). I specialize in the area of trauma and utilize therapeutic modalities and alternative healing methods. My focus is to improve your quality of life by finding the solutions to your unique symptoms and life experiences. I strive to provide a solution to your symptoms through physical, emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual means. Together, we create space for creating conscious intentions and closures, awareness, desensitization, digesting, processing, and reintegration. Moving towards your most authentic self.
I provide a holistic approach to healing using the following modalities: EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Narrative Therapy, Equine Assisted Therapy, Sand Tray, Hypnosis, Guided imagery, expressive Art, Breath work, and Shamanic healing.
I am a holistic therapist (Body, Mind, Consciousness, Emotions, Energy, & Spirit). I specialize in the area of trauma and utilize therapeutic modalities and alternative healing methods. My focus is to improve your quality of life by finding the solutions to your unique symptoms and life experiences. I strive to provide a solution to your symptoms through physical, emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual means. Together, we create space for creating conscious intentions and closures, awareness, desensitization, digesting, processing, and reintegration. Moving towards your most authentic self.
(702) 903-2608 View (702) 903-2608
Photo of Kayci Itza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Kayci Itza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89146  (Online Only)
I work with adult trauma survivors. My expertise is in PTSD/cPTSD, anxiety/depression, mood management & general self growth and development. I am trained and utilize EMDR, as well as, other emotion and cognitive, evidence-based, interventions (ie. CBT, ACT, somatic interventions, etc). I enjoy assisting clients in finding relief from their mental/emotional roadblocks. Many of my clients truly progress and achieve their goals, and I am always honored to be a part of each person's journey. An ideal client is one who is ready and motivated to engage in deep inner work with the goal of embracing their best feeling and thinking self!
I work with adult trauma survivors. My expertise is in PTSD/cPTSD, anxiety/depression, mood management & general self growth and development. I am trained and utilize EMDR, as well as, other emotion and cognitive, evidence-based, interventions (ie. CBT, ACT, somatic interventions, etc). I enjoy assisting clients in finding relief from their mental/emotional roadblocks. Many of my clients truly progress and achieve their goals, and I am always honored to be a part of each person's journey. An ideal client is one who is ready and motivated to engage in deep inner work with the goal of embracing their best feeling and thinking self!
(775) 583-8780 View (775) 583-8780
Photo of Patti J. Barkell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Las Vegas, NV
Patti J. Barkell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89123
I am EMDR therapy trained.
I believe that the foundation of the therapeutic relationship begins with the connection between myself and you. Trust and safety must be present in order for you to express your concerns and to achieve your goals. It is important to me that you feel accepted while sharing the unexpected challenges of life. You are not alone, you don't have to stay stuck, and you can be a better version of yourself once those burdens have been lifted.
I am EMDR therapy trained.
I believe that the foundation of the therapeutic relationship begins with the connection between myself and you. Trust and safety must be present in order for you to express your concerns and to achieve your goals. It is important to me that you feel accepted while sharing the unexpected challenges of life. You are not alone, you don't have to stay stuck, and you can be a better version of yourself once those burdens have been lifted.
(406) 412-3719 View (406) 412-3719
Jay Cassidy
Licensed Professional Counselor, CPC, LADC, LADC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89120
My specialties are wide ranging given the many spaces I've been fortunate enough to work and learn; however, Police/Fire/EMT/Military mental health, adult & teen mental health, men's mental health, substance abuse, family/attachment challenges, and trauma (I am EMDR certified) would constitute areas I would deem as specialties.
I pride myself on maintaining a professional, albeit laid-back environment for my patients. From day one I am very clear that therapy should be a comfortable place one wants to be as opposed to place they must be. I love what I do and work very hard to be the best support I can be for everyone who comes into my office. I have extensive experience over the last 11 years at all levels of mental health including inpatient psych, residential treatment, intensive outpatient, supervising post-grad interns towards licensure, and private practice working with adults, teens, couples, and first responders (Police, Fire, EMT, & Military).
My specialties are wide ranging given the many spaces I've been fortunate enough to work and learn; however, Police/Fire/EMT/Military mental health, adult & teen mental health, men's mental health, substance abuse, family/attachment challenges, and trauma (I am EMDR certified) would constitute areas I would deem as specialties.
I pride myself on maintaining a professional, albeit laid-back environment for my patients. From day one I am very clear that therapy should be a comfortable place one wants to be as opposed to place they must be. I love what I do and work very hard to be the best support I can be for everyone who comes into my office. I have extensive experience over the last 11 years at all levels of mental health including inpatient psych, residential treatment, intensive outpatient, supervising post-grad interns towards licensure, and private practice working with adults, teens, couples, and first responders (Police, Fire, EMT, & Military).
(702) 297-5434 View (702) 297-5434
Photo of James Maltzahn, Psychologist in Las Vegas, NV
James Maltzahn
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in numerous evidence-based psychotherapies such as EMDR, Parts & Memory, Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I truly believe that our feelings and needs deserve to be heard and met by those around us. I meet my clients with compassion and non-judgment, providing a space to nurture growth and acceptance as we collaboratively explore your relationships, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I've been witness to the amazing and profound change that can come from being able to feel comfortable in expressing our most painful and challenging experiences in a environment that cultivates growth and exploration. I aim to meet my clients with unconditional positive regard and genuine empathy.
I am trained in numerous evidence-based psychotherapies such as EMDR, Parts & Memory, Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I truly believe that our feelings and needs deserve to be heard and met by those around us. I meet my clients with compassion and non-judgment, providing a space to nurture growth and acceptance as we collaboratively explore your relationships, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I've been witness to the amazing and profound change that can come from being able to feel comfortable in expressing our most painful and challenging experiences in a environment that cultivates growth and exploration. I aim to meet my clients with unconditional positive regard and genuine empathy.
(702) 829-7909 View (702) 829-7909
Photo of Nicole Anders, Psychologist in Las Vegas, NV
Nicole Anders
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
I am trained in numerous evidence-based psychotherapies such as EMDR, Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I truly believe that our emotional world needs to be witnessed. I meet my patients with compassion and non-judgment, sitting with them as we collaboratively explore their relationships, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I believe that even your most difficult, painful, challenging, embarrassing, or shameful experiences should be held in a safe environment and processed. I aim to meet my patients with unconditional positive regard.
I am trained in numerous evidence-based psychotherapies such as EMDR, Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I truly believe that our emotional world needs to be witnessed. I meet my patients with compassion and non-judgment, sitting with them as we collaboratively explore their relationships, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I believe that even your most difficult, painful, challenging, embarrassing, or shameful experiences should be held in a safe environment and processed. I aim to meet my patients with unconditional positive regard.
(702) 827-0062 View (702) 827-0062
Photo of Elizabeth DeYoung, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Elizabeth DeYoung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89123  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR therapy, an effective treatment for those who have experienced trauma.
Are you searching for happiness? Are you ready to let go of things that hold you back? If you are in a place in your life where you recognize that changes need to take place but you are not sure where to start, therapy could be the opportunity for you to make the changes necessary to live the life you aspire to. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who can provide you the support and guidance to make the changes necessary to live a better life.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, an effective treatment for those who have experienced trauma.
Are you searching for happiness? Are you ready to let go of things that hold you back? If you are in a place in your life where you recognize that changes need to take place but you are not sure where to start, therapy could be the opportunity for you to make the changes necessary to live the life you aspire to. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who can provide you the support and guidance to make the changes necessary to live a better life.
(702) 757-6763 View (702) 757-6763
Photo of Billye M Darbe, Counselor in Las Vegas, NV
Billye M Darbe
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89107  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, parts work, mindfulness-based, emotionally focused, compassion-based approaches to therapy while maintaining the creativity, empathy, and flexibility to meet clients where they are at in their journey.
Do you feel stuck sometimes? Stressed? Do you struggle with overwhelming thoughts and feelings? I know what it's like to feel stuck in the past, trapped by the unknown future, feeling disconnected from the present. Dealing with past trauma, and depression can make you feel like you have lost control of your life, and I don't want to you suffer anymore. Therapy can help you regain a sense of control over your life and find meaning and hope. I look forward to helping you with your journey
I utilize EMDR, parts work, mindfulness-based, emotionally focused, compassion-based approaches to therapy while maintaining the creativity, empathy, and flexibility to meet clients where they are at in their journey.
Do you feel stuck sometimes? Stressed? Do you struggle with overwhelming thoughts and feelings? I know what it's like to feel stuck in the past, trapped by the unknown future, feeling disconnected from the present. Dealing with past trauma, and depression can make you feel like you have lost control of your life, and I don't want to you suffer anymore. Therapy can help you regain a sense of control over your life and find meaning and hope. I look forward to helping you with your journey
(702) 867-5277 View (702) 867-5277
Photo of Arianna Gonzalez-Bueno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Arianna Gonzalez-Bueno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89120  (Online Only)
I trained in EMDR, Gottman Couple’s therapy, DBT, and EFT.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, and family issues could feel isolating. However, you don’t have to deal with it on your own. I am passionate about helping clients navigate challenging and stressful life events by providing a compassionate and supportive treatment environment that promotes healing, learning, and growth. I offer a combination of mindfulness, understanding the connection between the body and mind, and learning coping skills to reduce the symptoms and create long-lasting healthy habits.
I trained in EMDR, Gottman Couple’s therapy, DBT, and EFT.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, and family issues could feel isolating. However, you don’t have to deal with it on your own. I am passionate about helping clients navigate challenging and stressful life events by providing a compassionate and supportive treatment environment that promotes healing, learning, and growth. I offer a combination of mindfulness, understanding the connection between the body and mind, and learning coping skills to reduce the symptoms and create long-lasting healthy habits.
(702) 842-9860 View (702) 842-9860
Photo of Kaylah Dillon, LPC Intern in Las Vegas, NV
Kaylah Dillon
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89108  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of reliving the past or experiences that you have had? Maybe you have been in therapy before and haven’t found relief or feel stuck in life. You don’t have to stay stuck and there are ways to free yourself from the stories that are holding you back. I have experience helping clients with different types of trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I utilize different modalities in my sessions such as Parts and Memory and EMDR to help reduce distress and provide healing. I believe you deserve a warm and supportive space to share your story and feel supported on your journey to healing.
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of reliving the past or experiences that you have had? Maybe you have been in therapy before and haven’t found relief or feel stuck in life. You don’t have to stay stuck and there are ways to free yourself from the stories that are holding you back. I have experience helping clients with different types of trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I utilize different modalities in my sessions such as Parts and Memory and EMDR to help reduce distress and provide healing. I believe you deserve a warm and supportive space to share your story and feel supported on your journey to healing.
(725) 356-1792 View (725) 356-1792
Photo of Justine Patai, Licensed Professional Counselor in Las Vegas, NV
Justine Patai
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89118
*EMDR sessions now available vis internet*. Your past does not have to define you! Have you been living with the emotional pain and negative effects of past trauma because you believe that you have no other choice? Stop accepting that these issues are something you just have to live with and make an appointment to see how therapy can help.
*EMDR sessions now available vis internet*. Your past does not have to define you! Have you been living with the emotional pain and negative effects of past trauma because you believe that you have no other choice? Stop accepting that these issues are something you just have to live with and make an appointment to see how therapy can help.
(702) 930-8710 View (702) 930-8710
Photo of Kirsten Cram, Counselor in Las Vegas, NV
Kirsten Cram
Counselor, CPC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89134
I use cognitive behavioral (CB) therapy, existential therapy, positive psychology, and EMDR methods to help my clients overcome the debilitating effects of their emotional struggles and restore a sense of strength and independence to face life with greater confidence and calm.
Personal experience and science attest the body tends toward wellness, both mentally and physically. Of course, it's also evident life can disrupt that balance in ways that challenge and overwhelm us. My approach to mental health is positive, holistic, viewing individuals as a whole with their strengths that are as much a reality as any emotional distress they may suffer. By utilizing these strengths and through a personalized approach that uses evidence-based practices, I am optimistic that emotional healing and wellness is an attainable goal.
I use cognitive behavioral (CB) therapy, existential therapy, positive psychology, and EMDR methods to help my clients overcome the debilitating effects of their emotional struggles and restore a sense of strength and independence to face life with greater confidence and calm.
Personal experience and science attest the body tends toward wellness, both mentally and physically. Of course, it's also evident life can disrupt that balance in ways that challenge and overwhelm us. My approach to mental health is positive, holistic, viewing individuals as a whole with their strengths that are as much a reality as any emotional distress they may suffer. By utilizing these strengths and through a personalized approach that uses evidence-based practices, I am optimistic that emotional healing and wellness is an attainable goal.
(702) 710-4348 View (702) 710-4348
Photo of Psychology Institute of Las Vegas, Psychologist in Las Vegas, NV
Psychology Institute of Las Vegas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Dr. Moreggi has been practicing in the field of psychology since 1997. She is a nationally recognized professional trainer and the Owner/Founder of The Psychology Institute of Las Vegas (PILV). PILV is a specialized group of mental health professionals made up of top rated Licensed Psychologists, LCPC Therapists, and Psychology Interns. The team specializes in treating and assessing Trauma- Related Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship/Stress- Related concerns. We provide Neuropsychological Assessments, EMDR, Career/Executive Evaluations, Individual Psychotherapy, Couples Counseling, and Board Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Moreggi has been practicing in the field of psychology since 1997. She is a nationally recognized professional trainer and the Owner/Founder of The Psychology Institute of Las Vegas (PILV). PILV is a specialized group of mental health professionals made up of top rated Licensed Psychologists, LCPC Therapists, and Psychology Interns. The team specializes in treating and assessing Trauma- Related Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship/Stress- Related concerns. We provide Neuropsychological Assessments, EMDR, Career/Executive Evaluations, Individual Psychotherapy, Couples Counseling, and Board Clinical Supervision.
(702) 766-6814 View (702) 766-6814
Photo of Tonja Vallin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Las Vegas, NV
Tonja Vallin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89128
Immediate evening openings available! When bad things happen, in childhood or adulthood it can leave an imprint. I help clients heal at the core. There is no topic we can not reprocess, to finally give you the freedom and the ability to create a life you love. I use EMDR as well as Sand Tray therapy to help you heal at the root. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was designed to alleviate the distress. You don't have to go to therapy for years, I believe together we can get you feeling better in a short amount of time. PTSD, OCD, Anxiety or depression, I can help you!
Immediate evening openings available! When bad things happen, in childhood or adulthood it can leave an imprint. I help clients heal at the core. There is no topic we can not reprocess, to finally give you the freedom and the ability to create a life you love. I use EMDR as well as Sand Tray therapy to help you heal at the root. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was designed to alleviate the distress. You don't have to go to therapy for years, I believe together we can get you feeling better in a short amount of time. PTSD, OCD, Anxiety or depression, I can help you!
(702) 745-5575 View (702) 745-5575

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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.