EMDR Therapists in Ravena, NY

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Photo of Alicia Renee Rothenberg - Little Light Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, EdM, LMHC, Counselor
Little Light Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
Delmar, NY 12054
I often utilize EMDR but that is optional.
My intention is to help you improve healthy coping to manage depression, anxiety, trauma or distress associated with life transitions. Mental health disorders can leave one feeling isolated and stigmatized which can hinder building healthy relationships with ourselves and others.
I often utilize EMDR but that is optional.
My intention is to help you improve healthy coping to manage depression, anxiety, trauma or distress associated with life transitions. Mental health disorders can leave one feeling isolated and stigmatized which can hinder building healthy relationships with ourselves and others.
(518) 217-4681 View (518) 217-4681
Photo of Chris J Janse van Rensburg, LCSW, CMHIMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris J Janse van Rensburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delmar, NY 12054
I am also trained in EMDR, T-FCBT, Sex & Pornography Addiction and Internet Gaming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider and Certified Health and Wellness Chef who specializes in working with clients motivated to improve their mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. I have worked with preteens, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and employ a compassionate holistic strengths-based approach that considers the unique needs and preferences of each client.
I am also trained in EMDR, T-FCBT, Sex & Pornography Addiction and Internet Gaming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider and Certified Health and Wellness Chef who specializes in working with clients motivated to improve their mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. I have worked with preteens, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and employ a compassionate holistic strengths-based approach that considers the unique needs and preferences of each client.
(518) 919-3073 View (518) 919-3073
Photo of Victoria Haller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Haller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delmar, NY 12054  (Online Only)
With my EMDR training, I hope to help you find ways to transform trauma until it is easier to hold.
I am experienced in working with adult individuals, especially queer and trans individuals, who are seeking to address issues of trauma as well as depression and anxiety. I am ready to help my clients utilize AEDP and EMDR strategies to address and experience change instead of simply verbalize and analyze.
With my EMDR training, I hope to help you find ways to transform trauma until it is easier to hold.
I am experienced in working with adult individuals, especially queer and trans individuals, who are seeking to address issues of trauma as well as depression and anxiety. I am ready to help my clients utilize AEDP and EMDR strategies to address and experience change instead of simply verbalize and analyze.
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Photo of Leah Rachel Silverstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Rachel Silverstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delmar, NY 12054
Waitlist for new clients
I use various approaches, including EMDR, Brainspotting, ego state therapy, art-based interventions, and somatic techniques to support trauma healing, post-traumatic growth, and mental health recovery.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling to manage trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, mood swings, dissociation, or other aspects of your mental health? Do these struggles impact your relationships or wellbeing? I am happy to support your journey of understanding and addressing these concerns. My approach incorporates a feminist perspective, and begins with collaboration and connection. I want to take time to explore your goals and obstacles, while also getting to know you as a person. You are the expert on your life, so I view therapy as a collaborative team approach that allows me to serve as a supportive guide.
I use various approaches, including EMDR, Brainspotting, ego state therapy, art-based interventions, and somatic techniques to support trauma healing, post-traumatic growth, and mental health recovery.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling to manage trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, mood swings, dissociation, or other aspects of your mental health? Do these struggles impact your relationships or wellbeing? I am happy to support your journey of understanding and addressing these concerns. My approach incorporates a feminist perspective, and begins with collaboration and connection. I want to take time to explore your goals and obstacles, while also getting to know you as a person. You are the expert on your life, so I view therapy as a collaborative team approach that allows me to serve as a supportive guide.
(518) 241-1101 View (518) 241-1101
Photo of Jennifer Mattler, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Mattler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kinderhook, NY 12106  (Online Only)
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Client Centered and Solution Focused treatment.
I have been providing individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults for many years. I focus on helping clients with anxiety, depression and those living through traumatic experiences. I believe we all deserve to not only survive, but thrive. Living the life we deserve may look different for everyone. For some this may mean alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns. For others it may mean better understanding how negative thoughts patterns can hinder daily living.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Client Centered and Solution Focused treatment.
I have been providing individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults for many years. I focus on helping clients with anxiety, depression and those living through traumatic experiences. I believe we all deserve to not only survive, but thrive. Living the life we deserve may look different for everyone. For some this may mean alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns. For others it may mean better understanding how negative thoughts patterns can hinder daily living.
(518) 760-0693 View (518) 760-0693
Photo of Deanna Kessler, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deanna Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Delmar, NY 12054  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR & Brainspotting to get to the root of what’s going on.
You are really tired. If you’re being honest, your head is spinning & you’re anxious a lot. It’s keeping you from being able to rest, let alone enjoy life. Your thoughts are moving so fast, that it’s hard to stay focused. Now you’re starting to have headaches, racing heart, & tightness in your chest. You’re not sure what to do about it. All you know is that you don’t feel your best & feel that you’ve been letting people down. Usually things go according to plan and right now that is definitely not happening. It’s starting to become too much.
I use EMDR & Brainspotting to get to the root of what’s going on.
You are really tired. If you’re being honest, your head is spinning & you’re anxious a lot. It’s keeping you from being able to rest, let alone enjoy life. Your thoughts are moving so fast, that it’s hard to stay focused. Now you’re starting to have headaches, racing heart, & tightness in your chest. You’re not sure what to do about it. All you know is that you don’t feel your best & feel that you’ve been letting people down. Usually things go according to plan and right now that is definitely not happening. It’s starting to become too much.
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Photo of Kristine Baker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hannacroix, NY 12087  (Online Only)
My name is Kristine Baker. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 8 years of clinical experience working with various individuals and couples with Anxiety, Family Conflict, Military, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and PTSD. I can help provide tools necessary to combat current areas of struggle as well as highlight resources you already have. Some of my treatment modalities include Experiential Therapy, EMDR, Family Therapy, Family Systems, and Family / Marital therapies. I believe that one of the most significant components of treatment is learning healthy coping tools necessary to combat current areas of struggle.
My name is Kristine Baker. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 8 years of clinical experience working with various individuals and couples with Anxiety, Family Conflict, Military, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and PTSD. I can help provide tools necessary to combat current areas of struggle as well as highlight resources you already have. Some of my treatment modalities include Experiential Therapy, EMDR, Family Therapy, Family Systems, and Family / Marital therapies. I believe that one of the most significant components of treatment is learning healthy coping tools necessary to combat current areas of struggle.
(332) 286-2961 View (332) 286-2961
Photo of Mabatho Lucia Matima, LCSWR, R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mabatho Lucia Matima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, R
Verified Verified
Valatie, NY 12184
I have training treating trauma- EMDR.
I have over 25 years working with children and adults dealing with mental health problems. and other problems of living and challenges that include but are not limited to behavior / oppositional problems, school problems, relationship and addiction problems, poor anger management, grief and loss, chronic pain and trauma. I am experienced in conducting comprehensive suicide risk assessments. I also offer supervised visits for non- custodial parents. I am experienced working with individuals with a diversity of issues and backgrounds. I offer individualized treatment plans that are tailored to the clients challenges and needs.
I have training treating trauma- EMDR.
I have over 25 years working with children and adults dealing with mental health problems. and other problems of living and challenges that include but are not limited to behavior / oppositional problems, school problems, relationship and addiction problems, poor anger management, grief and loss, chronic pain and trauma. I am experienced in conducting comprehensive suicide risk assessments. I also offer supervised visits for non- custodial parents. I am experienced working with individuals with a diversity of issues and backgrounds. I offer individualized treatment plans that are tailored to the clients challenges and needs.
(518) 941-8417 View (518) 941-8417
Photo of Alex Haselbeck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Haselbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kinderhook, NY 12106  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is holistic; I utilize a blend of attachment theory, somatic experiencing, IFS-informed/parts work, mindfulness practices and am an EMDR Certified Therapist.
I specialize in working with people that struggle with anxiety, that have survived trauma, or that find themselves stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns. I'm also passionate about working with couples to help them better understand their relationship dynamics, attachment patterns and negative cycles that they might like to shift. I like to dig into therapy with you, build a frank & trusting dynamic & co-create a sense of curiosity about the experiences in your life that inform present patterns of thinking, feeling & behaving. I believe that humor, trust & unconditional regard are essential in a strong therapeutic relationship.
My approach to therapy is holistic; I utilize a blend of attachment theory, somatic experiencing, IFS-informed/parts work, mindfulness practices and am an EMDR Certified Therapist.
I specialize in working with people that struggle with anxiety, that have survived trauma, or that find themselves stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns. I'm also passionate about working with couples to help them better understand their relationship dynamics, attachment patterns and negative cycles that they might like to shift. I like to dig into therapy with you, build a frank & trusting dynamic & co-create a sense of curiosity about the experiences in your life that inform present patterns of thinking, feeling & behaving. I believe that humor, trust & unconditional regard are essential in a strong therapeutic relationship.
(929) 930-4535 View (929) 930-4535
Photo of Courtney Slade: Self-Esteem And Relationship Concerns, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Slade: Self-Esteem And Relationship Concerns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Delmar, NY 12054  (Online Only)
Book a free consultation, and let’s see if we’re the right fit to meet your goals. Are you finding it challenging to get your needs met? Have you considered therapy, but weren't sure how to enter into the process or how to vocalize what your needs or goals are? Do you want to feel more emotionally stable or manage your emotions better, maybe in times of higher stress or transition? I work with a variety of individuals looking for a safe space to explore ongoing or newer challenges in their life, that might be causing discomfort, worry/anxiety, mood fluctuations, and trouble within close relationships.
Book a free consultation, and let’s see if we’re the right fit to meet your goals. Are you finding it challenging to get your needs met? Have you considered therapy, but weren't sure how to enter into the process or how to vocalize what your needs or goals are? Do you want to feel more emotionally stable or manage your emotions better, maybe in times of higher stress or transition? I work with a variety of individuals looking for a safe space to explore ongoing or newer challenges in their life, that might be causing discomfort, worry/anxiety, mood fluctuations, and trouble within close relationships.
(518) 809-7651 View (518) 809-7651
Photo of Andrea Horowitz, LMHC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Andrea Horowitz
Counselor, LMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valatie, NY 12184  (Online Only)
In the beginning there was fun, excitement and sex in your relationship. Now your relationship has moved to roommate status and you don’t know how to get the spark back.You love your partner but lately things have not felt the same. TV and phones have replaced long conversations and kids take up any “adult” time the two of you can have together. Sometimes you find yourself thinking some pretty negative things about your partner and sometimes they come out of your mouth, which leads to a fight or worse, stoney silence.
In the beginning there was fun, excitement and sex in your relationship. Now your relationship has moved to roommate status and you don’t know how to get the spark back.You love your partner but lately things have not felt the same. TV and phones have replaced long conversations and kids take up any “adult” time the two of you can have together. Sometimes you find yourself thinking some pretty negative things about your partner and sometimes they come out of your mouth, which leads to a fight or worse, stoney silence.
(518) 348-4345 View (518) 348-4345
Photo of Patricia I Phillips, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia I Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castleton On Hudson, NY 12033  (Online Only)
I believe in the ability of people to change. I also know that what often holds us back is the lack of trust, confidence and support that often emantes from things we did not receive in our childhood. This is not to blame our parents-I am one and have made my own mistakes-but to acknowledge that how we become who we become can be greatly influenced by our early experiences. That being said, there are so many tools available today, to help us reach our goals, successfully manage our emotions and have healthy, loving relationships. A lot of what we struggle with is essentailly learned behavior and it can be unlearned.
I believe in the ability of people to change. I also know that what often holds us back is the lack of trust, confidence and support that often emantes from things we did not receive in our childhood. This is not to blame our parents-I am one and have made my own mistakes-but to acknowledge that how we become who we become can be greatly influenced by our early experiences. That being said, there are so many tools available today, to help us reach our goals, successfully manage our emotions and have healthy, loving relationships. A lot of what we struggle with is essentailly learned behavior and it can be unlearned.
(518) 765-7943 View (518) 765-7943

Online Therapists

Photo of Susan Healy, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
South Salem, NY 10590  (Online Only)
A cognitive-behavioral therapist, Susan's signature strength is treating overall health and the implications on mental well-being. Her 25± years of experience includes confidential treatment in anxiety, traditional therapy, holistic attention to brain and nutrition, EMDR, general life difficulties, depression, relationship and adolescent issues and parent coaching. Susan patiently and non-judgmentally facilitates navigating life changes and focuses on results. Her flexible style, experience and total awareness lead to successful outcomes within short-term psychotherapy treatments.
A cognitive-behavioral therapist, Susan's signature strength is treating overall health and the implications on mental well-being. Her 25± years of experience includes confidential treatment in anxiety, traditional therapy, holistic attention to brain and nutrition, EMDR, general life difficulties, depression, relationship and adolescent issues and parent coaching. Susan patiently and non-judgmentally facilitates navigating life changes and focuses on results. Her flexible style, experience and total awareness lead to successful outcomes within short-term psychotherapy treatments.
(914) 368-2357 View (914) 368-2357
Photo of Ninette Robinson, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ninette Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, IFS-informed, DBT, CBT, and mindfulness, body-based (somatic) psychotherapy modalities.
Are you feeling anxious, isolated, depressed after so long functioning in "pandemic mode"? Do you feel stuck, like your life is on repeat? Do you find yourself making the same choices that lead you to the same problems over and over? It's time to find out why you do this and how to break these patterns! I help people heal from painful life experiences and move towards a meaningful future filled with passion and purpose. When we work together, we'll explore your fears, anxieties, and traumas to uncover your inner negative voice that blocks you in life. We'll make a plan for you to take action and start living your best life.
I utilize EMDR, IFS-informed, DBT, CBT, and mindfulness, body-based (somatic) psychotherapy modalities.
Are you feeling anxious, isolated, depressed after so long functioning in "pandemic mode"? Do you feel stuck, like your life is on repeat? Do you find yourself making the same choices that lead you to the same problems over and over? It's time to find out why you do this and how to break these patterns! I help people heal from painful life experiences and move towards a meaningful future filled with passion and purpose. When we work together, we'll explore your fears, anxieties, and traumas to uncover your inner negative voice that blocks you in life. We'll make a plan for you to take action and start living your best life.
(845) 671-3832 View (845) 671-3832
Photo of Tacey A Shannon, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tacey A Shannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Ballston Spa, NY 12020
She also holds certificates in EMDR and Animal Assisted Psychotherapy.
Tacey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) with an office conveniently located in downtown Ballston Sp, NY. Currently she offers in-office and tele-health sessions. She works with individuals using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. Tacey has over 30 years of experience in a variety of settings. Areas of expertise include anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship challenges, phase-of-life changes, grief and loss, and coping with life stressors.
She also holds certificates in EMDR and Animal Assisted Psychotherapy.
Tacey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) with an office conveniently located in downtown Ballston Sp, NY. Currently she offers in-office and tele-health sessions. She works with individuals using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. Tacey has over 30 years of experience in a variety of settings. Areas of expertise include anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship challenges, phase-of-life changes, grief and loss, and coping with life stressors.
(518) 659-0114 View (518) 659-0114
Photo of Christopher Chamberlin, LHMC, NCC, MA, EdM, Counselor
Christopher Chamberlin
Counselor, LHMC, NCC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
Stone Ridge, NY 12484
I am trained in many modalities including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and am a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Provider supporting clients through Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and offer integration work with other healing medicines.
I'm a NY licensed psychotherapist focusing on life transitions, connecting with our true selves, and navigating all that life throws our way. From a holistic, trauma-informed, relational lens, I work with you as a whole person to address all the intersections (internal and external) that are impacting you. I will work with you collaboratively to understand your experiences - your joy, your pain, your struggles, and your goals and aspirations. If you are looking to get to know all the parts that make up who you are and explore ways to connect more deeply with your true self, reach out and let's see if we can work together.
I am trained in many modalities including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and am a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Provider supporting clients through Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and offer integration work with other healing medicines.
I'm a NY licensed psychotherapist focusing on life transitions, connecting with our true selves, and navigating all that life throws our way. From a holistic, trauma-informed, relational lens, I work with you as a whole person to address all the intersections (internal and external) that are impacting you. I will work with you collaboratively to understand your experiences - your joy, your pain, your struggles, and your goals and aspirations. If you are looking to get to know all the parts that make up who you are and explore ways to connect more deeply with your true self, reach out and let's see if we can work together.
(845) 415-7430 View (845) 415-7430
Photo of Christina Celmer, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Celmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR Certified therapist, offering specialized help for the treatment of trauma.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 40 years. Throughout all of my years in practice, I have been amazed by the resilience of the human spirit. I work with clients who have endured and survived traumatic histories or devastating losses, and are now presenting with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Complex PTSD. Healing from trauma can happen with support and effective therapeutic tools.
I am an EMDR Certified therapist, offering specialized help for the treatment of trauma.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 40 years. Throughout all of my years in practice, I have been amazed by the resilience of the human spirit. I work with clients who have endured and survived traumatic histories or devastating losses, and are now presenting with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Complex PTSD. Healing from trauma can happen with support and effective therapeutic tools.
(518) 901-2670 View (518) 901-2670
Photo of Malerie Schwartz, MA, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor
Malerie Schwartz
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kingston, NY 12401
I utilize a variety of somatic modalities including mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Hakomi and EMDR to support the systems natural tendency towards healing.
When life becomes overwhelming its easy to withdraw inside or reach towards unhealthy habits. With the right support you can start to feel comfortable in your own skin. If you are curious about what has been holding you back, I provide a compassionate space to let go of what is standing in your way. I offer the tools to identify and work through barriers, as well as support to navigate challenging relationships and emotions.
I utilize a variety of somatic modalities including mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Hakomi and EMDR to support the systems natural tendency towards healing.
When life becomes overwhelming its easy to withdraw inside or reach towards unhealthy habits. With the right support you can start to feel comfortable in your own skin. If you are curious about what has been holding you back, I provide a compassionate space to let go of what is standing in your way. I offer the tools to identify and work through barriers, as well as support to navigate challenging relationships and emotions.
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Photo of Heather Anne Zuckerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Anne Zuckerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garrison, NY 10524
I can work with you to let go of past feelings and traumas that may be holding you back through EMDR as well as DBT, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Transitions are difficult and overwhelming at any age. You feel stuck, and unable to think clearly. Many days you are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood swings, and irritability. Past traumas and the heavy weight of life are being triggered and getting in the way of your best self. Picture what it would look like to have a more positive, and stress-free life where you can move forward. I work with children and adults through issues that are causing anger, mood swings and problems with friends and relationships.
I can work with you to let go of past feelings and traumas that may be holding you back through EMDR as well as DBT, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Transitions are difficult and overwhelming at any age. You feel stuck, and unable to think clearly. Many days you are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood swings, and irritability. Past traumas and the heavy weight of life are being triggered and getting in the way of your best self. Picture what it would look like to have a more positive, and stress-free life where you can move forward. I work with children and adults through issues that are causing anger, mood swings and problems with friends and relationships.
(914) 598-9093 View (914) 598-9093
Photo of Shaun D Levine - Shaun D. Levine, LCSW/A Better Path Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaun D. Levine, LCSW/A Better Path Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Armonk, NY 10504
Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and other approaches can help to reduce the effect.
It is important to us to work with our clients as a cohesive team, developing the most effective, individualized therapeutic strategies. After all, people are different and shouldn't be fit into a cookie cutter approach. Some clients benefit from in-depth therapy focusing on childhood trauma and loss discovering how these events currently impact them and the destructive patterns that result. Others focus on developing a set of tools they can use to cope with the challenges and stressors in their lives-working on changing the maladaptive ways they may think, feel and act.
Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and other approaches can help to reduce the effect.
It is important to us to work with our clients as a cohesive team, developing the most effective, individualized therapeutic strategies. After all, people are different and shouldn't be fit into a cookie cutter approach. Some clients benefit from in-depth therapy focusing on childhood trauma and loss discovering how these events currently impact them and the destructive patterns that result. Others focus on developing a set of tools they can use to cope with the challenges and stressors in their lives-working on changing the maladaptive ways they may think, feel and act.
(914) 861-3918 View (914) 861-3918

See more therapy options for Ravena

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.