EMDR Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Madison Dobas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Madison Dobas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
(412) 912-4796 View (412) 912-4796
Photo of Psychological Perspectives LLC, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Psychological Perspectives LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Our clinicians are trained in ACT, AF-CBT, CBT, Choice Theory, DBT, EMDR, ERP, IBHS Evaluations, TF-CBT, PCIT, and Play Therapy.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
Our clinicians are trained in ACT, AF-CBT, CBT, Choice Theory, DBT, EMDR, ERP, IBHS Evaluations, TF-CBT, PCIT, and Play Therapy.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
(412) 275-6939 View (412) 275-6939
Photo of Amanda Talak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Amanda Talak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques when working with clients, and I am formally trained in EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
Trauma-informed. Compassionate. Real. <— If I had to describe my therapeutic approach in three words or phrases, those three would be the most fitting. Whether this is your first time in therapy, or you are coming in with extensive therapy experience, I am here to meet you where you are at and show up authentically. If you are interested in KAP, please reach out for a free consult.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques when working with clients, and I am formally trained in EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
Trauma-informed. Compassionate. Real. <— If I had to describe my therapeutic approach in three words or phrases, those three would be the most fitting. Whether this is your first time in therapy, or you are coming in with extensive therapy experience, I am here to meet you where you are at and show up authentically. If you are interested in KAP, please reach out for a free consult.
(412) 912-1668 View (412) 912-1668
Photo of Jennie Geisler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Jennie Geisler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Jennie's specialties include the following:Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in EMDR, Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Certified Rational Living Therapist.
Wondering where to turn? Need a listening ear that will validate your pain and support you as you move forward? As an experienced therapist, Jennie has worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addictions, marriage, relationships, job difficulties, loss, disabilities, ADHD, & those living with personality disorders, addictions or difficult children. She also works in trauma as a certified EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)therapist. It's an evidenced based therapy that allows the individual to let go of the anxiety/pain that stays in the body after a trauma. An option is providing spiritually based therapy.
Jennie's specialties include the following:Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in EMDR, Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Certified Rational Living Therapist.
Wondering where to turn? Need a listening ear that will validate your pain and support you as you move forward? As an experienced therapist, Jennie has worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addictions, marriage, relationships, job difficulties, loss, disabilities, ADHD, & those living with personality disorders, addictions or difficult children. She also works in trauma as a certified EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)therapist. It's an evidenced based therapy that allows the individual to let go of the anxiety/pain that stays in the body after a trauma. An option is providing spiritually based therapy.
(412) 467-0204 View (412) 467-0204
Photo of Jackie Harrison, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Jackie Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I am being trained in EMDR to address trauma and stress.
As a part of therapy, I work with clients to understand themselves and their awareness of their internal world, which can strengthen their relationships with others. We are told a lot of things growing up about who we are. I like to challenge these expectations to explore what values authentically fit for you. What have you outgrown for the person you want to become? Often, we take for granted aspects about our experience, which can be resources of strength in overcoming hardships. I use an integrative approach that takes into account your values, cultural practices, and beliefs in how you view the world and sources of distresses.
I am being trained in EMDR to address trauma and stress.
As a part of therapy, I work with clients to understand themselves and their awareness of their internal world, which can strengthen their relationships with others. We are told a lot of things growing up about who we are. I like to challenge these expectations to explore what values authentically fit for you. What have you outgrown for the person you want to become? Often, we take for granted aspects about our experience, which can be resources of strength in overcoming hardships. I use an integrative approach that takes into account your values, cultural practices, and beliefs in how you view the world and sources of distresses.
(412) 981-2420 View (412) 981-2420
Photo of Saving Sanity, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Saving Sanity, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
We take pride in the diverse expertise offered including: EMDR, Culturally sensitive and supportive counseling, LGBT+ competent counseling, eating disorders, couple/family, consensual non-monogamy and BDSM competency and Mental Health Evaluations.
Saving Sanity, LLC is a private practice of Professional Counselors with a vision of inspiring individuals to achieve their greatest human potential. We have a mission to empower individuals by creating a supportive space in which personal growth and healing can occur. Please visit savingsanity.org to view our available therapists.
We take pride in the diverse expertise offered including: EMDR, Culturally sensitive and supportive counseling, LGBT+ competent counseling, eating disorders, couple/family, consensual non-monogamy and BDSM competency and Mental Health Evaluations.
Saving Sanity, LLC is a private practice of Professional Counselors with a vision of inspiring individuals to achieve their greatest human potential. We have a mission to empower individuals by creating a supportive space in which personal growth and healing can occur. Please visit savingsanity.org to view our available therapists.
(412) 991-1620 View (412) 991-1620
Photo of Tracey S. McCarthy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Tracey S. McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, BCC, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
EMDR can help to resolve emotions about distressing past experiences.
Happy 2024! New Year, New You? I propose New Year, Real You. It’s time to come out and enjoy the freedom of living authentically. I limit my practice to trans/non-binary folks. I help people to transition, accept themselves, navigate life's journey, and thrive. I give feedback and use my life experiences to connect with them— to view situations in new ways, clarify ideas, and invite them to try new things.
EMDR can help to resolve emotions about distressing past experiences.
Happy 2024! New Year, New You? I propose New Year, Real You. It’s time to come out and enjoy the freedom of living authentically. I limit my practice to trans/non-binary folks. I help people to transition, accept themselves, navigate life's journey, and thrive. I give feedback and use my life experiences to connect with them— to view situations in new ways, clarify ideas, and invite them to try new things.
(724) 908-0060 View (724) 908-0060
Photo of Shannon Berncic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Shannon Berncic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and EMDR trained therapist.
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and EMDR trained therapist.
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
(412) 775-2901 View (412) 775-2901
Photo of Sharissa Shatten, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Sharissa Shatten
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I am formally trained in modalities such as EMDR, Somatics, Exposure/Response Prevention, among other modalities & I continue to seek training to further help me help you.
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
I am formally trained in modalities such as EMDR, Somatics, Exposure/Response Prevention, among other modalities & I continue to seek training to further help me help you.
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
(878) 216-7434 View (878) 216-7434
Photo of Ann Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Ann Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I am trained in EMDR, CPT, TF-CBT and other evidence-based modalities.
As a psychodynamic, trauma-focused therapist, I can help you process past experiences in a safe environment - working with you to calm the unwanted noise that is anxiety. I can also help you address and resolve the depression that too often obscures our truest selves. Perhaps you’ve experienced a major upheaval or maybe you’re grappling with more subtle, disruptive changes to your day-to-day functioning. Either way, such shifts can be destabilizing, causing us to question core beliefs and ask: Am I even on the right path? New traumas may unfold, and older ones may awaken but we still have a very real need to feel grounded.
I am trained in EMDR, CPT, TF-CBT and other evidence-based modalities.
As a psychodynamic, trauma-focused therapist, I can help you process past experiences in a safe environment - working with you to calm the unwanted noise that is anxiety. I can also help you address and resolve the depression that too often obscures our truest selves. Perhaps you’ve experienced a major upheaval or maybe you’re grappling with more subtle, disruptive changes to your day-to-day functioning. Either way, such shifts can be destabilizing, causing us to question core beliefs and ask: Am I even on the right path? New traumas may unfold, and older ones may awaken but we still have a very real need to feel grounded.
(412) 754-7890 View (412) 754-7890
Photo of Megan Zurasky, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Megan Zurasky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I am an EMDR therapist and certified sexual assault counselor in the state of PA.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
I am an EMDR therapist and certified sexual assault counselor in the state of PA.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Teresa I. Otoya-Mcadams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Teresa I. Otoya-Mcadams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I am certified in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and TFCBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy for children/teenagers).
Hello! Welcome to your healing Journey. My name is Teresa and I have been in practice for almost 20 years. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance where clients feel safe and free to explore and learn about themselves without fear of judgment. I understand that at times it can be difficult to take the first step and look for professional help, my personal stance is to empower my clients and guide them so they can find their own answers. I have worked with individuals and families from multiple backgrounds and age groups. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
I am certified in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and TFCBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy for children/teenagers).
Hello! Welcome to your healing Journey. My name is Teresa and I have been in practice for almost 20 years. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance where clients feel safe and free to explore and learn about themselves without fear of judgment. I understand that at times it can be difficult to take the first step and look for professional help, my personal stance is to empower my clients and guide them so they can find their own answers. I have worked with individuals and families from multiple backgrounds and age groups. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
(412) 899-2714 View (412) 899-2714
Photo of Michael McCormick Quirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Michael McCormick Quirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
In my practice, you can explore through EMDR, IFS, DBT, ACT, and Music Therapy what it would be like to accept all parts of yourself.
Are you your biggest critic? I believe that we can learn to be compassionate towards ourselves.  I have over 20 years experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression and trauma to cultivate more self-compassion.
In my practice, you can explore through EMDR, IFS, DBT, ACT, and Music Therapy what it would be like to accept all parts of yourself.
Are you your biggest critic? I believe that we can learn to be compassionate towards ourselves.  I have over 20 years experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression and trauma to cultivate more self-compassion.
(412) 547-5791 View (412) 547-5791
Photo of Ron Schulz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Ron Schulz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
Waitlist for new clients
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional I use various brain-based Developmental/Relational approaches including Parts work, Mindfulness, Somatics and (possibly, when warranted) EMDR to explore issues related to stress and trauma, loss and grief, sexual/gender identity (sex-positivity perspective), relationships/attachment concerns.
Hello! Often, life can seem tough, leaving us stuck in worries related to the past or anxious about the future. A huge part of healing is first understanding everything has a beginning, a middle, and an end, and that it may help to have an objective collaborator to assist in processing the situation, who can listen and not judge while exploring questions related to your concerns. (If curious to know more, contact me directly first, then we'll arrange with the Counseling & Wellness Center to register for services.)
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional I use various brain-based Developmental/Relational approaches including Parts work, Mindfulness, Somatics and (possibly, when warranted) EMDR to explore issues related to stress and trauma, loss and grief, sexual/gender identity (sex-positivity perspective), relationships/attachment concerns.
Hello! Often, life can seem tough, leaving us stuck in worries related to the past or anxious about the future. A huge part of healing is first understanding everything has a beginning, a middle, and an end, and that it may help to have an objective collaborator to assist in processing the situation, who can listen and not judge while exploring questions related to your concerns. (If curious to know more, contact me directly first, then we'll arrange with the Counseling & Wellness Center to register for services.)
(412) 532-1431 View (412) 532-1431
Photo of Kate Rudd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Kate Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
While I use a mix of protocols, I find EMDR is most effective for a variety of people and the issues they experience.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life events and transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help moving forward. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity and courage.
While I use a mix of protocols, I find EMDR is most effective for a variety of people and the issues they experience.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life events and transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help moving forward. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity and courage.
(412) 385-6744 View (412) 385-6744
Photo of Bella Peduzzi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Bella Peduzzi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I am trained as an Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, it's my goal to help you feel respected and create a safe environment for you to share whatever you need to during therapy. It is my intention to empower you, strengthen your individuality, help to strengthen your belief that you have great worth, and that you can overcome traumatic events and memories. We are more than the thoughts we have that we're ashamed of, we're more than the worst moments of our lives, much more than our mistakes, and in my practice, I respect the courage it takes to be vulnerable, honest, and open to new ways of thinking.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I am trained as an Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, it's my goal to help you feel respected and create a safe environment for you to share whatever you need to during therapy. It is my intention to empower you, strengthen your individuality, help to strengthen your belief that you have great worth, and that you can overcome traumatic events and memories. We are more than the thoughts we have that we're ashamed of, we're more than the worst moments of our lives, much more than our mistakes, and in my practice, I respect the courage it takes to be vulnerable, honest, and open to new ways of thinking.
(412) 214-7031 View (412) 214-7031
Photo of Damien Gabis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, 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
Photo of Kate Rudd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Kate Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I use evidence-informed practices and integrate cognitive behavioral therapy to heal trauma (EMDR), manage chronic disease like depression and anxiety (Stanford University certified), and create healthy routines, including better sleep habits.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
I use evidence-informed practices and integrate cognitive behavioral therapy to heal trauma (EMDR), manage chronic disease like depression and anxiety (Stanford University certified), and create healthy routines, including better sleep habits.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
(412) 900-8251 View (412) 900-8251
Photo of Jennifer Black, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jennifer Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Waitlist for new clients
While I work closely with each individual person to develop a customized treatment plan, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as (not limited to) cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed treatment modalities including EMDR.
Life presents us with a variety of stressors and demands that at times may feel difficult to manage. Experiencing loss, depression, anxiety, or memories of disturbing past events may feel overwhelming and prevent us from fully living in the present. Or, we may feel stuck and unsure of what to do next. If you are experiencing similar challenges, I want to help you to process them, identify strengths, and utilize those strengths to heal. I will provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free space for you to share your story, help you to be present focused, and cope with difficult emotions and situations.
While I work closely with each individual person to develop a customized treatment plan, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as (not limited to) cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed treatment modalities including EMDR.
Life presents us with a variety of stressors and demands that at times may feel difficult to manage. Experiencing loss, depression, anxiety, or memories of disturbing past events may feel overwhelming and prevent us from fully living in the present. Or, we may feel stuck and unsure of what to do next. If you are experiencing similar challenges, I want to help you to process them, identify strengths, and utilize those strengths to heal. I will provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free space for you to share your story, help you to be present focused, and cope with difficult emotions and situations.
(878) 217-8245 View (878) 217-8245
Photo of Taffie Bucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Taffie Bucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15226  (Online Only)
One of my specialties is addressing trauma/PTSD with EMDR therapy which engages your physical, cognitive and emotional self to process trauma.
Are you looking for a safe welcoming place where you can just be? Be heard, be valued, be accepted exactly where you are? I Invite you into my space to experience these thoughts and emotions. As a therapist, I incorporate different approaches which address a variety of mental health issues. I empower you to move forward in life in a way that is dynamic and nurturing. I have an unwavering belief that you can experience change based on your needs and goals. We can walk through challenge and fear together to help you create a fulfilling life.
One of my specialties is addressing trauma/PTSD with EMDR therapy which engages your physical, cognitive and emotional self to process trauma.
Are you looking for a safe welcoming place where you can just be? Be heard, be valued, be accepted exactly where you are? I Invite you into my space to experience these thoughts and emotions. As a therapist, I incorporate different approaches which address a variety of mental health issues. I empower you to move forward in life in a way that is dynamic and nurturing. I have an unwavering belief that you can experience change based on your needs and goals. We can walk through challenge and fear together to help you create a fulfilling life.
(412) 453-3127 View (412) 453-3127
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.