Photo of Megan Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Megan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I integrate AEDP with EMDR and Internal Family Systems and teach Mindfulness based practices.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
I integrate AEDP with EMDR and Internal Family Systems and teach Mindfulness based practices.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
(503) 713-6166 View (503) 713-6166
Photo of Adriane Nada, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Adriane Nada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Mind-body techniques (such as EMDR) may be used to allow for more integration and balance between thoughts and feelings.
Are you having difficulty overcoming a problem, mood or behavior? If an issue is not relatively easy to change, then chances are, there is a block of some sort preventing the progression and flow of positive thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is frustrating, discouraging and painful as an intelligent and competent person to work on a goal and not get the results you hope for.
Mind-body techniques (such as EMDR) may be used to allow for more integration and balance between thoughts and feelings.
Are you having difficulty overcoming a problem, mood or behavior? If an issue is not relatively easy to change, then chances are, there is a block of some sort preventing the progression and flow of positive thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is frustrating, discouraging and painful as an intelligent and competent person to work on a goal and not get the results you hope for.
(503) 966-8393 View (503) 966-8393
Photo of Therapy, Altered LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Therapy, Altered LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
Our clinicians utilize somatic therapies, creative arts therapies, EMDR, trauma-focused psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychoanalysis and more.
Therapy, Altered best supports BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, families, and groups who are healing from abuse, neglect, or psychological trauma, including racial/systemic oppression. Our clients know that hope is out there, and that they have the ability to heal and feel better. Most of our clients hold multiple marginalized identities while managing complex mental health challenges. Our clients come to us seeking culturally relevant services and authentic relationship with clinicians who share some of their lived experience.
Our clinicians utilize somatic therapies, creative arts therapies, EMDR, trauma-focused psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychoanalysis and more.
Therapy, Altered best supports BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, families, and groups who are healing from abuse, neglect, or psychological trauma, including racial/systemic oppression. Our clients know that hope is out there, and that they have the ability to heal and feel better. Most of our clients hold multiple marginalized identities while managing complex mental health challenges. Our clients come to us seeking culturally relevant services and authentic relationship with clinicians who share some of their lived experience.
(971) 256-8244 View (971) 256-8244
Photo of Julie Sliga, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Julie Sliga
Professional Counselor Associate, CRC, CCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
I also use somatic-based approaches like EMDR to provide holistic support.
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety or overwhelmed by life's challenges? I understand the struggles that come with being human. As your therapist, my focus is on you and creating a safe, judgment-free space for your self-exploration. Together, we'll explore the roots of your struggles – whether it's linked to trauma, grief, work stress, major life changes, or any other source of unease. I want to help you understand and ease your suffering with compassion, empowering you to lessen its impact on your life.
I also use somatic-based approaches like EMDR to provide holistic support.
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety or overwhelmed by life's challenges? I understand the struggles that come with being human. As your therapist, my focus is on you and creating a safe, judgment-free space for your self-exploration. Together, we'll explore the roots of your struggles – whether it's linked to trauma, grief, work stress, major life changes, or any other source of unease. I want to help you understand and ease your suffering with compassion, empowering you to lessen its impact on your life.
(503) 400-3389 View (503) 400-3389
Photo of Amanda Antenucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Amanda Antenucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR Certified Therapist in OR and WA. Our social environments, whether that be the workplace, school, family, or community can have deep impacts on our mental health. Workplace trauma has increased, especially for those in the helping professions. I identify as white, cisgender, and queer, and I work from an understanding of how privilege and power show up in my personal life, as well as in my therapy practice. My approach affirms my clients’ racial identities, sexual orientation, gender identities, and body size. I maintain awareness of how oppression can impact our internal and external experiences.
EMDR Certified Therapist in OR and WA. Our social environments, whether that be the workplace, school, family, or community can have deep impacts on our mental health. Workplace trauma has increased, especially for those in the helping professions. I identify as white, cisgender, and queer, and I work from an understanding of how privilege and power show up in my personal life, as well as in my therapy practice. My approach affirms my clients’ racial identities, sexual orientation, gender identities, and body size. I maintain awareness of how oppression can impact our internal and external experiences.
(503) 486-4234 View (503) 486-4234
Photo of Tiffany Kettermann, Counselor in Portland, OR
Tiffany Kettermann
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Each team member brings unique experience and skills to these issues - from using somatic solutions such as EMDR and art therapy, to individuals trained in parenting, family or child therapy, CBT, DBT, and more.
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
Each team member brings unique experience and skills to these issues - from using somatic solutions such as EMDR and art therapy, to individuals trained in parenting, family or child therapy, CBT, DBT, and more.
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
(503) 831-9909 View (503) 831-9909
Photo of Joyce Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Joyce Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
My specialty is Attachment Focused EMDR.
Trauma comes in many forms. It can be from childhood abuse, car accidents, toxic work environment, toxic relationship, racial injustice, war, rape, bullying, natural and manmade disasters like wildfires and earthquakes. You may have the symptoms of PTSD but not have explicit memories of the traumatizing experience. EMDR walks you through a series of steps to help decrease the symptoms of PTSD (nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, insomnia, avoidance and hopelessness about the future). It also helps to map out a plan to deal with future triggers and gives a renewed and positive belief system about the self. I offer a free consultation.
My specialty is Attachment Focused EMDR.
Trauma comes in many forms. It can be from childhood abuse, car accidents, toxic work environment, toxic relationship, racial injustice, war, rape, bullying, natural and manmade disasters like wildfires and earthquakes. You may have the symptoms of PTSD but not have explicit memories of the traumatizing experience. EMDR walks you through a series of steps to help decrease the symptoms of PTSD (nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, insomnia, avoidance and hopelessness about the future). It also helps to map out a plan to deal with future triggers and gives a renewed and positive belief system about the self. I offer a free consultation.
(510) 500-9760 View (510) 500-9760
Photo of Revae Hackett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Revae Hackett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266
I have advanced trainings in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Thanks for stopping by! I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are navigating life transitions, relationship distress, or seeking healing and healthier ways of coping after trauma or loss therapy can help. My goal is to support my clients in creating the change that will lead to living a more fulfilling life.
I have advanced trainings in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Thanks for stopping by! I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are navigating life transitions, relationship distress, or seeking healing and healthier ways of coping after trauma or loss therapy can help. My goal is to support my clients in creating the change that will lead to living a more fulfilling life.
(503) 854-0515 View (503) 854-0515
Photo of Skyline Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Skyline Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
EMDR is a significant component of my work with children and adults, integrated with other interventions.
We all deserve to heal, to find meaning in our lives, and to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Clients I work with are often in therapy because they are overwhelmed by worry, stress, and sadness. I am honored to join my clients on their path to healing, as they bring courage, insight, and determination to our work together. While my clients may be children, teens, or adults, come from diverse backgrounds, and have different needs and goals, we all seek well-being and connection. I welcome clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
EMDR is a significant component of my work with children and adults, integrated with other interventions.
We all deserve to heal, to find meaning in our lives, and to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Clients I work with are often in therapy because they are overwhelmed by worry, stress, and sadness. I am honored to join my clients on their path to healing, as they bring courage, insight, and determination to our work together. While my clients may be children, teens, or adults, come from diverse backgrounds, and have different needs and goals, we all seek well-being and connection. I welcome clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
(458) 202-2921 View (458) 202-2921
Photo of Miranda York, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Miranda York
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who reside in California or Oregon. I offer clinical supervision to associates residing and working in the state of California. As a psychotherapist, I am flexible and tailor my approach to the need of each client. I have been trained in many modalities that offer various benefits, depending on your needs and preferences (EMDR, AEDP, Sensorimotor, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic, Somatic). As a clinical supervisor, I supervise from a primarily psychodynamic orientation. My practice is anti oppression and trauma informed.
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who reside in California or Oregon. I offer clinical supervision to associates residing and working in the state of California. As a psychotherapist, I am flexible and tailor my approach to the need of each client. I have been trained in many modalities that offer various benefits, depending on your needs and preferences (EMDR, AEDP, Sensorimotor, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic, Somatic). As a clinical supervisor, I supervise from a primarily psychodynamic orientation. My practice is anti oppression and trauma informed.
(971) 314-6752 View (971) 314-6752
Photo of Aid Station Performance Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Aid Station Performance Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
(503) 782-9339 View (503) 782-9339
Photo of Danielle Render Turmaud, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Danielle Render Turmaud
Professional Counselor Associate, PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, parts work, STAIR, somatic approaches, mindfulness practices, narrative therapy, art therapy practices, creative play and game therapy approaches, and more.
In life, having a space where we can be seen, heard, accepted, and valued can be invaluable. My ultimate aim is to provide a counseling environment characterized by compassion and unconditional positive regard where together we can meet you authentically for who you are, right where you are, wherever that is. Whether you are coming to therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, or something else, I believe in a collaborative journey that provides a space for you to be, explore, grow, and heal.
I utilize and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, parts work, STAIR, somatic approaches, mindfulness practices, narrative therapy, art therapy practices, creative play and game therapy approaches, and more.
In life, having a space where we can be seen, heard, accepted, and valued can be invaluable. My ultimate aim is to provide a counseling environment characterized by compassion and unconditional positive regard where together we can meet you authentically for who you are, right where you are, wherever that is. Whether you are coming to therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, or something else, I believe in a collaborative journey that provides a space for you to be, explore, grow, and heal.
(971) 232-3137 View (971) 232-3137
Photo of Carrie Holloran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Carrie Holloran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I draw from EMDR, attachment, and psychodynamic therapy, while also utilizing other tools tailored to each individual I work with.
I see individuals who are experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, body image issues, relational distress, spiritual issues, grief/loss, and eating disorders. Many of my clients are trying to cope with the effects of trauma in their life in addition to feelings of insecurity, perfectionism, self-hatred or shame. If any of this sounds like you, I want you to know that you are not alone and counseling can help. It takes great courage to seek counseling, and I can help you develop insight into yourself, learn new tools for coping, find your voice, and seek healing from your past.
I draw from EMDR, attachment, and psychodynamic therapy, while also utilizing other tools tailored to each individual I work with.
I see individuals who are experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, body image issues, relational distress, spiritual issues, grief/loss, and eating disorders. Many of my clients are trying to cope with the effects of trauma in their life in addition to feelings of insecurity, perfectionism, self-hatred or shame. If any of this sounds like you, I want you to know that you are not alone and counseling can help. It takes great courage to seek counseling, and I can help you develop insight into yourself, learn new tools for coping, find your voice, and seek healing from your past.
(503) 336-9982 View (503) 336-9982
Photo of Simone Maya Weit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Simone Maya Weit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Some methods that I incorporate with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy might include mindfulness, trauma-informed yoga and somatic awareness work, expressive arts, EMDR, parts integration work, and attachment based therapy.
I am currently accepting adult clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy in Grass Valley, CA and Portland, OR. My regular therapy practice is only open for Telehealth. I work with individuals experiencing PTSD, grief, end-of life transition, eco-anxiety, treatment resistant depression, relational challenges, and integrating non-ordinary states of consciousness. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight through self-inquiry, heal attachment through authentic connection, release trauma through embodied awareness, and experience breakthrough by dismantling patterns that no longer serve them.
Some methods that I incorporate with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy might include mindfulness, trauma-informed yoga and somatic awareness work, expressive arts, EMDR, parts integration work, and attachment based therapy.
I am currently accepting adult clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy in Grass Valley, CA and Portland, OR. My regular therapy practice is only open for Telehealth. I work with individuals experiencing PTSD, grief, end-of life transition, eco-anxiety, treatment resistant depression, relational challenges, and integrating non-ordinary states of consciousness. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight through self-inquiry, heal attachment through authentic connection, release trauma through embodied awareness, and experience breakthrough by dismantling patterns that no longer serve them.
(971) 299-2898 View (971) 299-2898
Photo of Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
) combined with EMDR and the attachment-informed psychotherapy of AEDP.
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
) combined with EMDR and the attachment-informed psychotherapy of AEDP.
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
(503) 563-7407 View (503) 563-7407
Photo of Alex Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Alex Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I am also EMDR trained and utilized this approach with a variety of clients seeking trauma support.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
I am also EMDR trained and utilized this approach with a variety of clients seeking trauma support.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
(503) 433-8452 View (503) 433-8452
Photo of Allison Spector, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Allison Spector
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Therapy is deeply vulnerable work, but by building trust in the therapeutic relationship we can explore and identify automatic patterns and habits that may be keeping you from feeling your best and work together to practice new ways of living. In my work, I pull from a variety of theoretical approaches including Brainspotting, EMDR, CBT, Family Systems Theory, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness Based practices.
Therapy is deeply vulnerable work, but by building trust in the therapeutic relationship we can explore and identify automatic patterns and habits that may be keeping you from feeling your best and work together to practice new ways of living. In my work, I pull from a variety of theoretical approaches including Brainspotting, EMDR, CBT, Family Systems Theory, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness Based practices.
(503) 461-9786 View (503) 461-9786
Photo of Barbara Eggenberger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Barbara Eggenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist serving clients via zoom in California and Oregon. If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist serving clients via zoom in California and Oregon. If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
(916) 571-9297 View (916) 571-9297
Photo of Naomi Berg, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Naomi Berg
Professional Counselor Associate , MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I offer an integrated approach, incorporating Relational-Cultural Theory, Somatic Pscyhotherapy, Ecopsychology, and Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR Therapy.
I specialize in supporting adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse or assault, or climate-event trauma, and people who are experiencing acute stress, complex trauma, posttraumatic stress, panic, dissociation, disconnection, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, death-anxiety, eco-grief, eco-anxiety, or eco-trauma.
I offer an integrated approach, incorporating Relational-Cultural Theory, Somatic Pscyhotherapy, Ecopsychology, and Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR Therapy.
I specialize in supporting adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse or assault, or climate-event trauma, and people who are experiencing acute stress, complex trauma, posttraumatic stress, panic, dissociation, disconnection, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, death-anxiety, eco-grief, eco-anxiety, or eco-trauma.
(971) 571-5636 View (971) 571-5636
Photo of Kara Busse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kara Busse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I enjoy using evidence-based approaches including internal family systems, EMDR, and mindfulness based CBT.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
I enjoy using evidence-based approaches including internal family systems, EMDR, and mindfulness based CBT.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
(971) 216-5904 View (971) 216-5904
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.