EMDR Therapists in Cranberry, PA

Photo of Jennifer Lynne DeLosa, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cranberry, PA
Jennifer Lynne DeLosa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
I am a Trauma informed, EMDR trained associate therapist. I work with a diverse range of teen as well as adult individual clients. Helping others to be the best version of themselves is my passion in life. There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing a client make progress. Embarking into therapy takes courage and I am inspired by my clients everyday. Their perseverance and strength always impress me and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them and possibly you on your journey. I do not take your trust for granted and I would be honored if you entrust your personal story and experiences with me.
I am a Trauma informed, EMDR trained associate therapist. I work with a diverse range of teen as well as adult individual clients. Helping others to be the best version of themselves is my passion in life. There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing a client make progress. Embarking into therapy takes courage and I am inspired by my clients everyday. Their perseverance and strength always impress me and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them and possibly you on your journey. I do not take your trust for granted and I would be honored if you entrust your personal story and experiences with me.
(412) 896-7955 View (412) 896-7955
Photo of Katie Robb Sewall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Katie Robb Sewall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Waitlist for new clients
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. I work primarily with adults experiencing emotional challenges. This often looks like depression, anxiety, or grief. I also work with individuals going through a transition in life, relationships, career, or health status. During a difficult season in life we are more open to learning new skills and perspectives.
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. I work primarily with adults experiencing emotional challenges. This often looks like depression, anxiety, or grief. I also work with individuals going through a transition in life, relationships, career, or health status. During a difficult season in life we are more open to learning new skills and perspectives.
(412) 566-7674 View (412) 566-7674
Photo of Catia M. Fath, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Catia M. Fath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
I am committed to guiding individuals toward inspired changes in a safe place without judgment. For over twenty years I've helped individuals with anxiety, depression, personality concerns, and relationship concerns. Each of us has unique needs, but can find new mindfulness and empowering self-awareness. Mindfulness can be a state of liberating awareness and also an active practice. It can promote psychological flexibility, a return to the present moment and the resolving of complex trauma-related problems. In the words of Clarice Lispector, "Life is for anyone who is brave enough to risk and humble enough to learn."
I am committed to guiding individuals toward inspired changes in a safe place without judgment. For over twenty years I've helped individuals with anxiety, depression, personality concerns, and relationship concerns. Each of us has unique needs, but can find new mindfulness and empowering self-awareness. Mindfulness can be a state of liberating awareness and also an active practice. It can promote psychological flexibility, a return to the present moment and the resolving of complex trauma-related problems. In the words of Clarice Lispector, "Life is for anyone who is brave enough to risk and humble enough to learn."
(412) 259-5077 View (412) 259-5077
Photo of Jessie D'Antonio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Jessie D'Antonio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
Not accepting new clients
I have an eclectic style to help support each individual utilizing EMDR, IFS/parts work, DBT, somatic therapy and provide telehealth and in person.
Unable to accept new clients at this time.I believe it takes strength and courage to acknowledge difficult experiences, feelings and life stressors. Sometimes things can build up individually or within relationships and become overwhelming.
I have an eclectic style to help support each individual utilizing EMDR, IFS/parts work, DBT, somatic therapy and provide telehealth and in person.
Unable to accept new clients at this time.I believe it takes strength and courage to acknowledge difficult experiences, feelings and life stressors. Sometimes things can build up individually or within relationships and become overwhelming.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessie Sabella, Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Jessie Sabella
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oil City, PA 16301  (Online Only)
I often see people who struggle with symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety and center interventions with a mind-body approach. I provide a unique combination of treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, ESFT, and DBT. I approach mental health with a holistic lens, weaving many factors in treatment to enhance wellness. I believe the growth experienced during our most difficult times helps to transform and define the moments within our lives, and I am honored to help people grow after facing hardship, tragedy, and trauma.
I often see people who struggle with symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety and center interventions with a mind-body approach. I provide a unique combination of treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, ESFT, and DBT. I approach mental health with a holistic lens, weaving many factors in treatment to enhance wellness. I believe the growth experienced during our most difficult times helps to transform and define the moments within our lives, and I am honored to help people grow after facing hardship, tragedy, and trauma.
(814) 200-0861 View (814) 200-0861
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Counselor
Verified Verified
Franklin, PA 16323
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 954-3692 View (724) 954-3692

Online Therapists

Photo of Carol L Frey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Carol L Frey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CLC
Verified Verified
Grove City, PA 16127
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and solution-focused coaching techniques.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, college students and adults in all stages of life to reach their full potential by assisting them in healing from past wounds and developing healthy patterns for the future. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of mental health issues and have helped my clients to heal from depression, anxiety, PSTD, OCD, relational conflicts and trauma related conditions. As well, I have coached clients toward reaching goals of significant weight loss, relationship resolutions, career transitions and reaching other personal goals.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and solution-focused coaching techniques.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, college students and adults in all stages of life to reach their full potential by assisting them in healing from past wounds and developing healthy patterns for the future. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of mental health issues and have helped my clients to heal from depression, anxiety, PSTD, OCD, relational conflicts and trauma related conditions. As well, I have coached clients toward reaching goals of significant weight loss, relationship resolutions, career transitions and reaching other personal goals.
(724) 359-2720 View (724) 359-2720
Photo of Ben Hearn in Cranberry, PA
Ben Hearn
PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
I draw from cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies, EMDR and other mindfulness approaches while integrating neuroscience, existentialism, and spirituality into my practice.
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families on a range of issues including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, spiritual development, identity exploration, and psychedelic integration. I work with clients such as yourself deep-seated respect and acknowledgment of your humanity and right to be treated with dignity, care, and respect. I assist clients develop their curiosity and courage for introspection to work through the "hard stuff". Overall, I hope to help my clients become more open and whole in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
I draw from cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies, EMDR and other mindfulness approaches while integrating neuroscience, existentialism, and spirituality into my practice.
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families on a range of issues including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, spiritual development, identity exploration, and psychedelic integration. I work with clients such as yourself deep-seated respect and acknowledgment of your humanity and right to be treated with dignity, care, and respect. I assist clients develop their curiosity and courage for introspection to work through the "hard stuff". Overall, I hope to help my clients become more open and whole in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
(412) 419-2772 View (412) 419-2772
Photo of Lucent Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Lucent Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
The interventions we draw from include: Dialectical Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Harm Reduction, Mindfulness, EMDR, Somatic, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychedelic Integration therapies.
Being a human is hard. Some of the things that make it harder are big life transitions, unexpected or chronic illness, loss of a loved one, experiencing abuse or neglect, past or present trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. At Lucent Counseling, we find it a privilege to help you process and integrate these experiences so that you can heal and move through the difficult times in your life. Our Master's level therapists have excellent training and draw from an eclectic variety of techniques. Our interventions are guided by the therapeutic relationship, and are individually curated to help you move toward your goals.
The interventions we draw from include: Dialectical Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Harm Reduction, Mindfulness, EMDR, Somatic, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychedelic Integration therapies.
Being a human is hard. Some of the things that make it harder are big life transitions, unexpected or chronic illness, loss of a loved one, experiencing abuse or neglect, past or present trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. At Lucent Counseling, we find it a privilege to help you process and integrate these experiences so that you can heal and move through the difficult times in your life. Our Master's level therapists have excellent training and draw from an eclectic variety of techniques. Our interventions are guided by the therapeutic relationship, and are individually curated to help you move toward your goals.
(878) 645-3643 View (878) 645-3643
Photo of JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
(484) 334-4170 View (484) 334-4170
Photo of Counseling Meadville - Mercy House, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Counseling Meadville - Mercy House
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Meadville, PA 16335
How can Mercy House help you in 2024? You might have trauma-our therapists are EMDR trained and can assist you in decreasing your inner pain. Maybe you have anxiety and depression, let us provide resources to help you achieve a more stable mood. Maybe stress is high-you could add clinical aroma therapy, healing touch, medical qigong, herbs that support mental health, or yoga therapy to your health regimen. Sleep and nutrition may exacerbate your mental health. Integrative Nutrition therapy for mental health can offer supportive benefits. Licensed Drug/alcohol intensive outpatient services are also offered on site.
How can Mercy House help you in 2024? You might have trauma-our therapists are EMDR trained and can assist you in decreasing your inner pain. Maybe you have anxiety and depression, let us provide resources to help you achieve a more stable mood. Maybe stress is high-you could add clinical aroma therapy, healing touch, medical qigong, herbs that support mental health, or yoga therapy to your health regimen. Sleep and nutrition may exacerbate your mental health. Integrative Nutrition therapy for mental health can offer supportive benefits. Licensed Drug/alcohol intensive outpatient services are also offered on site.
(814) 389-4084 View (814) 389-4084
Photo of Dittmar Counseling Services with med management in Cranberry, PA
Dittmar Counseling Services with med management
LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
We also have a therapist trained and certified in the use of EMDR, a relatively new treatment for traumatized individuals.
Dittmar Counseling Services has been providing therapy to individuals from communities throughout Westmoreland County since 2009. From its inception, treatment for adults, adolescents, families and couples in a quiet, private setting has enabled us to create a safe environment for the development of productive therapeutic relationships to occur. Because of the practice’s growth, we have been able to include adult psychiatric medication management for individuals needing medicinal intervention as well. We continue to offer flexible hours for appointments during the week.
We also have a therapist trained and certified in the use of EMDR, a relatively new treatment for traumatized individuals.
Dittmar Counseling Services has been providing therapy to individuals from communities throughout Westmoreland County since 2009. From its inception, treatment for adults, adolescents, families and couples in a quiet, private setting has enabled us to create a safe environment for the development of productive therapeutic relationships to occur. Because of the practice’s growth, we have been able to include adult psychiatric medication management for individuals needing medicinal intervention as well. We continue to offer flexible hours for appointments during the week.
(724) 200-8599 View (724) 200-8599
Photo of Lauren Lazar Stern, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Lauren Lazar Stern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Recovering from an eating disorder and/or severe trauma can frequently be difficult. My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR. I work with each individual patient to determine the type of approach that best matches her personality and therapeutic needs. I have been one of the first psychotherapists to make use of expressive arts and EMDR in the treatment of eating disorders.
Recovering from an eating disorder and/or severe trauma can frequently be difficult. My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR. I work with each individual patient to determine the type of approach that best matches her personality and therapeutic needs. I have been one of the first psychotherapists to make use of expressive arts and EMDR in the treatment of eating disorders.
(412) 847-5210 View (412) 847-5210
Photo of Mindful Matters Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Mindful Matters Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
My practice of therapy is trauma focused and I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and International Certified Gambling Counselor.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
My practice of therapy is trauma focused and I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and International Certified Gambling Counselor.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
(412) 357-4035 View (412) 357-4035
Photo of Molly Wolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Molly Wolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16506
I have specialized training using Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and the Flash Technique.
Hi! My name is Dr. Molly Wolf, and I have spent many years studying trauma and child sexual abuse as a researcher and Professor, and lately, as a trauma therapist. Surviving trauma is terrible and painful, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you were brave enough to read my bio, it’s because a part of you wants to heal. I am proud of you for coming this far, and I want you to know: trauma is healable. My office is a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ population.
I have specialized training using Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and the Flash Technique.
Hi! My name is Dr. Molly Wolf, and I have spent many years studying trauma and child sexual abuse as a researcher and Professor, and lately, as a trauma therapist. Surviving trauma is terrible and painful, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you were brave enough to read my bio, it’s because a part of you wants to heal. I am proud of you for coming this far, and I want you to know: trauma is healable. My office is a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ population.
(814) 628-8169 View (814) 628-8169
Photo of Josie Albrecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Josie Albrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Take your healing to new heights. Are you seeking a space to explore the “hard stuff”? Have you been struggling to get past survival-mode living? Do you long for a genuine, authentic connection to yourself and others? I work with clients who desire to get to the root of their struggles. Whether you want to overcome your symptoms, process something difficult that has happened to you, or explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving you, I am here to help.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Take your healing to new heights. Are you seeking a space to explore the “hard stuff”? Have you been struggling to get past survival-mode living? Do you long for a genuine, authentic connection to yourself and others? I work with clients who desire to get to the root of their struggles. Whether you want to overcome your symptoms, process something difficult that has happened to you, or explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving you, I am here to help.
(412) 415-7328 View (412) 415-7328
Photo of Sam Ehrlich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Sam Ehrlich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TCT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Waitlist for new clients
I work from strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered, and Feminist perspectives. I'm LGBTQIA+, sex, and body positive and neurodivergent affirming. I have experience working with people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, emotional abuse and neglect. I use DBT, CBT, MI, and EMDR. I believe that, since every client is different, they each require a different approach. Nothing cookie cookie cutter here! My approach uses a lot of laughter, really connecting with the client on a personal level, using lots of validation, and comes from a place that each client is the expert on themselves.
I work from strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered, and Feminist perspectives. I'm LGBTQIA+, sex, and body positive and neurodivergent affirming. I have experience working with people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, emotional abuse and neglect. I use DBT, CBT, MI, and EMDR. I believe that, since every client is different, they each require a different approach. Nothing cookie cookie cutter here! My approach uses a lot of laughter, really connecting with the client on a personal level, using lots of validation, and comes from a place that each client is the expert on themselves.
(412) 838-4357 View (412) 838-4357
Photo of Rebecca Pollack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Rebecca Pollack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I am an EMDR trained clinician, a Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator and trained in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
I have many years of experience working with adolescents and their families, adults, and couples throughout a variety of life stages. I am passionate about treating women who are struggling with infertility, postpartum depression, anxiety and/or OCD as well as other transitional issues that can occur throughout the perinatal period. I also work with individuals dealing with general depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
I am an EMDR trained clinician, a Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator and trained in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
I have many years of experience working with adolescents and their families, adults, and couples throughout a variety of life stages. I am passionate about treating women who are struggling with infertility, postpartum depression, anxiety and/or OCD as well as other transitional issues that can occur throughout the perinatal period. I also work with individuals dealing with general depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
(412) 912-2840 View (412) 912-2840
Photo of Clarissa S Arbuckle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cranberry, PA
Clarissa S Arbuckle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
Are you finding that you are stuck in a loop of behavior, thinking, or feeling that is holding you back from achieving peace and happiness? EMDR might be the treatment for you. Solving our own life's riddles can be too complex to handle on our own. Join me in therapy for an authentic exchange of words, a little bit of education, and a treatment that is evidence based and used globally to resolve emotional dysfunction. My goal is to help you show up in the world as your most authentic self, without past wounds grabbing at your attention.
Are you finding that you are stuck in a loop of behavior, thinking, or feeling that is holding you back from achieving peace and happiness? EMDR might be the treatment for you. Solving our own life's riddles can be too complex to handle on our own. Join me in therapy for an authentic exchange of words, a little bit of education, and a treatment that is evidence based and used globally to resolve emotional dysfunction. My goal is to help you show up in the world as your most authentic self, without past wounds grabbing at your attention.
(724) 200-8218 View (724) 200-8218
Photo of Damien Gabis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cranberry, PA
Damien Gabis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15209  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing tools and techniques to help clients get the most out of therapy.
Damien has provided therapeutic interventions for people going through grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and other barriers. He is an LGBTQ+ and trauma informed therapist. Damien is a veteran and has experience in treating military trauma.
I utilize EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing tools and techniques to help clients get the most out of therapy.
Damien has provided therapeutic interventions for people going through grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and other barriers. He is an LGBTQ+ and trauma informed therapist. Damien is a veteran and has experience in treating military trauma.
(412) 435-1359 View (412) 435-1359
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.