EMDR Therapists in Maxatawny, PA

Photo of Richard Joseph Loeb, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Joseph Loeb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Maxatawny, PA 19538
I provide a safe and ethical practice that embraces individuality. My capacities are teacher, mentor, guardian, cheer leader, back-board, and many others. I present in reality and genuinely so.. Change and grow are possible in most cases. Client / patent focus in a holistic, comprehensive manner.
I provide a safe and ethical practice that embraces individuality. My capacities are teacher, mentor, guardian, cheer leader, back-board, and many others. I present in reality and genuinely so.. Change and grow are possible in most cases. Client / patent focus in a holistic, comprehensive manner.
(610) 624-6627 View (610) 624-6627

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brenna Fehr, LPC, CCTPII, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenna Fehr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTPII, CGP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fleetwood, PA 19522
I have been trained in trauma therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Healing does not always look pretty, well put-together and wrapped in a bow. Often, true healing can be messy, hard, tearful and exhausting. If you have made your way here, I imagine you are currently in the process of healing and looking for some support. Whether you are on the journey of healing from any level of trauma, fertility issues, postpartum struggles or general curves that life has thrown you, I am happy to and capable of assisting you along the way. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to help themselves, open to change and willing to have deep conversations about their troubles.
I have been trained in trauma therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Healing does not always look pretty, well put-together and wrapped in a bow. Often, true healing can be messy, hard, tearful and exhausting. If you have made your way here, I imagine you are currently in the process of healing and looking for some support. Whether you are on the journey of healing from any level of trauma, fertility issues, postpartum struggles or general curves that life has thrown you, I am happy to and capable of assisting you along the way. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to help themselves, open to change and willing to have deep conversations about their troubles.
(484) 214-2498 View (484) 214-2498
Photo of Leslie M Chaundy - Mind Matters , PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 595-5762 View (610) 595-5762
Photo of Ina L. Gould, MS,  MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ina L. Gould
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Fleetwood, PA 19522
As a trauma informed therapist, I work with individuals to heal trauma and also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for clients who choose.
I believe counseling can be one of the most amazing and transformational experiences of your life when you feel validated, safe, and supported to explore your life’s struggles. My primary goal in every session is that each of my clients feel safe and supported so that they have the opportunity to realize and achieve the goals they set out and want for their lives. Sometimes that means walking down some difficult paths. I walk alongside each of my clients providing support through this struggle.
As a trauma informed therapist, I work with individuals to heal trauma and also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for clients who choose.
I believe counseling can be one of the most amazing and transformational experiences of your life when you feel validated, safe, and supported to explore your life’s struggles. My primary goal in every session is that each of my clients feel safe and supported so that they have the opportunity to realize and achieve the goals they set out and want for their lives. Sometimes that means walking down some difficult paths. I walk alongside each of my clients providing support through this struggle.
(610) 686-9846 View (610) 686-9846
Photo of Laura Bauder, LPC, CAADC, ATR-BC, CCTP, EMDR-PT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Bauder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, ATR-BC, CCTP, EMDR-PT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530  (Online Only)
She uses art therapy, EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness therapy most frequently.
Overcome trauma through EMDR and/or art therapy/talk therapy.
She uses art therapy, EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness therapy most frequently.
Overcome trauma through EMDR and/or art therapy/talk therapy.
(484) 991-4528 View (484) 991-4528
Photo of Tom Post Jr - Tom Post Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tom Post Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530  (Online Only)
One therapy method is EMDR therapy, but other options can be utilized based on your needs.
I love what I do, and I know why I do it. Since 2007 my focus has been coming along side of people and assisting them with challenges they face in life to become the most authentic and genuine person they were meant to be. In my own journey I've come to accept and appreciate the gifts I've been given, even if they're seemingly unrelated. I love my work as a therapist and I will always be passionate about performing music. How the two coexist within me is the journey I'm on. My focus has been in becoming a better therapist each day ... but I also know I'll never stop playing guitar and performing music, it's part of who I am.
One therapy method is EMDR therapy, but other options can be utilized based on your needs.
I love what I do, and I know why I do it. Since 2007 my focus has been coming along side of people and assisting them with challenges they face in life to become the most authentic and genuine person they were meant to be. In my own journey I've come to accept and appreciate the gifts I've been given, even if they're seemingly unrelated. I love my work as a therapist and I will always be passionate about performing music. How the two coexist within me is the journey I'm on. My focus has been in becoming a better therapist each day ... but I also know I'll never stop playing guitar and performing music, it's part of who I am.
(484) 725-6382 View (484) 725-6382
Photo of Leslie M. Chaundy - Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
Photo of Arti Maharaj, LPC, Counselor
Arti Maharaj
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106  (Online Only)
I employ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to your mental well-being.
Greetings! In this practice, I provide a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space dedicated to offering support. I believe in a client-led approach, empowering you to find your voice. Progress is celebrated in the small steps that accumulate into significant strides throughout the treatment journey. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to everyone, specializing in providing support to the minority population and thriving in working with intercultural couples and families.
I employ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to your mental well-being.
Greetings! In this practice, I provide a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space dedicated to offering support. I believe in a client-led approach, empowering you to find your voice. Progress is celebrated in the small steps that accumulate into significant strides throughout the treatment journey. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to everyone, specializing in providing support to the minority population and thriving in working with intercultural couples and families.
(610) 233-1584 View (610) 233-1584
Photo of Jenna Loz, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenna Loz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Macungie, PA 18062
Using EMDR, somatic resources, parts work, and other skills - my role is to help you rediscover yourself.
Trauma. We all experience it at some point in our lives. It’s that thing that keeps you up at night. The thing that you distract yourself from by working extra hours, scrolling endlessly on Tik-Tok, self-harm, addiction, codependency. We run, fight, freeze, fawn, shut-down. Our bodies are built to adapt to the stress in our lives but what happens when the stress is too much? When we run into obstacles like bullying, abuse, illness, separation, loss, disasters? What happens when there is no one to witness our pain? We forget about the parts of ourselves that are creative, brave, intuitive, funny, smart, kind, gentle, strong.
Using EMDR, somatic resources, parts work, and other skills - my role is to help you rediscover yourself.
Trauma. We all experience it at some point in our lives. It’s that thing that keeps you up at night. The thing that you distract yourself from by working extra hours, scrolling endlessly on Tik-Tok, self-harm, addiction, codependency. We run, fight, freeze, fawn, shut-down. Our bodies are built to adapt to the stress in our lives but what happens when the stress is too much? When we run into obstacles like bullying, abuse, illness, separation, loss, disasters? What happens when there is no one to witness our pain? We forget about the parts of ourselves that are creative, brave, intuitive, funny, smart, kind, gentle, strong.
(215) 584-4511 View (215) 584-4511
Photo of Nicole Dunn - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Allentown, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Allentown
Counselor
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(610) 840-6566 View (610) 840-6566
Photo of Lindsey Tomcics - The Calm Space LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Calm Space LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I am trained in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR.
Do you want a more supportive holistic approach into your mental health struggles? We used to think that mental disorders were not physical disorders. Mind you, this was long ago but the stigma still remains. Some still believe that our symptoms are purely a biochemical imbalance. My belief is focusing on a multidimensional approach exploring all aspects of our current life from our physical and emotional health to our social, spiritual, intellectual, vocational connections and living environment. My hope is to help others reach their full potential by exploring their past traumas, abusive relationships, and grief/loss.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR.
Do you want a more supportive holistic approach into your mental health struggles? We used to think that mental disorders were not physical disorders. Mind you, this was long ago but the stigma still remains. Some still believe that our symptoms are purely a biochemical imbalance. My belief is focusing on a multidimensional approach exploring all aspects of our current life from our physical and emotional health to our social, spiritual, intellectual, vocational connections and living environment. My hope is to help others reach their full potential by exploring their past traumas, abusive relationships, and grief/loss.
(610) 906-8064 View (610) 906-8064
Photo of Philip Anthony Nastasee, PhD, Psychologist
Philip Anthony Nastasee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
I also do EMDR for trauma and have recently completed the Intermediate training in Clinical Hypnosis via American Society for Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH).
I specialize in working with people in transition. These transitions have many sources, but we all struggle with them to some degree. In short, crisis provides danger and opportunity. I facilitate growth and change, rather than being reductionistic and focusing solely on symptoms. Together my clients and I collaborate to create new insights, develop new skills and eliminate old, unproductive ways of thinking and behaving.
I also do EMDR for trauma and have recently completed the Intermediate training in Clinical Hypnosis via American Society for Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH).
I specialize in working with people in transition. These transitions have many sources, but we all struggle with them to some degree. In short, crisis provides danger and opportunity. I facilitate growth and change, rather than being reductionistic and focusing solely on symptoms. Together my clients and I collaborate to create new insights, develop new skills and eliminate old, unproductive ways of thinking and behaving.
(610) 616-2844 View (610) 616-2844
Photo of Nicole Tyson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Tyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I use an eclectic, holistic approach that draws from several therapeutic interventions, including being trained in EMDR.
I endeavor to create a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental setting to help individuals find a healthy balance in life, including physical and mental health, finding peace after experiencing trauma and abuse, and improve their sense of purpose and self-worth in life. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, have experienced trauma/abuse, would like to improve your relationships with others, and/or are experiencing or considering a transition in life, I am ready to help. I enjoy working with adolescents (14+), adults, as well as other clinicians and those preparing to enter the field.
I use an eclectic, holistic approach that draws from several therapeutic interventions, including being trained in EMDR.
I endeavor to create a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental setting to help individuals find a healthy balance in life, including physical and mental health, finding peace after experiencing trauma and abuse, and improve their sense of purpose and self-worth in life. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, have experienced trauma/abuse, would like to improve your relationships with others, and/or are experiencing or considering a transition in life, I am ready to help. I enjoy working with adolescents (14+), adults, as well as other clinicians and those preparing to enter the field.
(610) 801-1856 View (610) 801-1856
Rebecca Kriebel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I have expanded my social work training to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
The focus of my work as a therapist is now supporting those individuals who are battling mental illness but also people who have experienced grief, loss, and trauma and others who may be struggling with relationship issues and life adjustments. I believe that therapy is a way to “find out who you are and do it on purpose.” (Dolly Parton) When we get lost, emotionally, physically, and spiritually it ends up being easier to believe the negative thoughts or to have the negative thinking. Therapy is a place to be heard, validated, and accepted for who you are and reminded how valuable you can be while providing "tools" to do so,
I have expanded my social work training to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
The focus of my work as a therapist is now supporting those individuals who are battling mental illness but also people who have experienced grief, loss, and trauma and others who may be struggling with relationship issues and life adjustments. I believe that therapy is a way to “find out who you are and do it on purpose.” (Dolly Parton) When we get lost, emotionally, physically, and spiritually it ends up being easier to believe the negative thoughts or to have the negative thinking. Therapy is a place to be heard, validated, and accepted for who you are and reminded how valuable you can be while providing "tools" to do so,
(610) 827-5628 View (610) 827-5628
Photo of Coleen Lillie-Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Coleen Lillie-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
Cognitive Behavioral techniques, mindfulness, Sensori-Motor psychotherapy and EMDR are some of the modalities I am trained to offer clients with this process.
My work as a therapist with individuals and families is guided by two core values; people are the experts in their own lives and everyone has the capacity to be their best self. I use a strengths-based, holistic approach to therapy through a biopsychosocial and trauma-informed lens. Anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma can be stumbling blocks towards achieving one's goals and I am honored to be part of the recovery journey. Since there is no one right way to do therapy, collaboration is key for people to meet their goals.
Cognitive Behavioral techniques, mindfulness, Sensori-Motor psychotherapy and EMDR are some of the modalities I am trained to offer clients with this process.
My work as a therapist with individuals and families is guided by two core values; people are the experts in their own lives and everyone has the capacity to be their best self. I use a strengths-based, holistic approach to therapy through a biopsychosocial and trauma-informed lens. Anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma can be stumbling blocks towards achieving one's goals and I am honored to be part of the recovery journey. Since there is no one right way to do therapy, collaboration is key for people to meet their goals.
(484) 867-8156 View (484) 867-8156
Photo of Jonathan Egge, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Egge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106  (Online Only)
He is certified in EMDR, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Jonathan Egge is a Navy veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 13 years of experience in therapy with veterans while working at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. He works with a wide variety of clients: People suffering or struggling in their lives with their feelings, thoughts, and actions, resulting from their life experiences. People who have struggled to find help, support, and acceptance from family, friends, and even service providers. People, who want to live a normal life, achieve in life, see life through a different lens, and grow as a person.
He is certified in EMDR, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Jonathan Egge is a Navy veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 13 years of experience in therapy with veterans while working at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. He works with a wide variety of clients: People suffering or struggling in their lives with their feelings, thoughts, and actions, resulting from their life experiences. People who have struggled to find help, support, and acceptance from family, friends, and even service providers. People, who want to live a normal life, achieve in life, see life through a different lens, and grow as a person.
(610) 215-2690 View (610) 215-2690
Photo of Ann Friedenheim, MS, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Friedenheim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I offer traditional talk therapy techniques and also for those who are interested, LifeForce Yoga® for Depression and Anxiety, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, EMDR Therapy and sandtray therapy.
Over the last 35 years I have worked with adults, teens and children living through many difficult circumstances. I offer a safe and nurturing place to explore situations or problems that are causing you distress. Through therapy, you can connect with your inner strengths, identify your needs and priorities and take steps to greater peace and satisfaction. Many of my clients address depression, anxiety, life changes, unresolved issues of the past, relationships and trauma. Some people use therapy not to problem solve but to find ways to have more joy, greater well being or to gain a clear direction towards the future.
I offer traditional talk therapy techniques and also for those who are interested, LifeForce Yoga® for Depression and Anxiety, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, EMDR Therapy and sandtray therapy.
Over the last 35 years I have worked with adults, teens and children living through many difficult circumstances. I offer a safe and nurturing place to explore situations or problems that are causing you distress. Through therapy, you can connect with your inner strengths, identify your needs and priorities and take steps to greater peace and satisfaction. Many of my clients address depression, anxiety, life changes, unresolved issues of the past, relationships and trauma. Some people use therapy not to problem solve but to find ways to have more joy, greater well being or to gain a clear direction towards the future.
(484) 436-4459 View (484) 436-4459
Photo of Kaitlyn Farrell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Farrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Macungie, PA 18062
I offer a wide variety of therapies to assist you in your healing process including internal family systems, EMDR and inner-child work.
Therapy is a journey you and I take together. In times of pain and discomfort, we have the potential to grow into a stronger version of ourselves. My goal as your therapist will be to create a safe space where we can explore ways to decrease distress, so that you can live life feeling lighter and unburdened.
I offer a wide variety of therapies to assist you in your healing process including internal family systems, EMDR and inner-child work.
Therapy is a journey you and I take together. In times of pain and discomfort, we have the potential to grow into a stronger version of ourselves. My goal as your therapist will be to create a safe space where we can explore ways to decrease distress, so that you can live life feeling lighter and unburdened.
(215) 709-7957 View (215) 709-7957
Photo of Josie Albrecht, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josie Albrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
(484) 978-8208 View (484) 978-8208
Photo of Amy Weinsteiger, MA, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Weinsteiger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
Amy is also EMDR-trained to assist those with negative core beliefs& trauma.
I focus on helping individuals feel accepted and safe while supporting them in reaching their goals. I strive to help people find satisfaction in all aspects of their lives and to become the best friend, partner, parent, sibling, and SELF that they can be.
Amy is also EMDR-trained to assist those with negative core beliefs& trauma.
I focus on helping individuals feel accepted and safe while supporting them in reaching their goals. I strive to help people find satisfaction in all aspects of their lives and to become the best friend, partner, parent, sibling, and SELF that they can be.
(610) 822-9047 View (610) 822-9047
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.