EMDR Therapists in Wilder, VT

Photo of Amanda White, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wilder, VT 05088
Not accepting new clients
Based on client's presenting concerns, we co-create a treatment plan that could involve EMDR, Hypnotherapy, EFT tapping, DBT, CBT, and somatic experiencing.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults who are seeking therapy to support them on their path toward wellness. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, and symptoms related to trauma. As a psychodynamically trained clinical social worker my goal is to help clients gain insight that can be a catalyst for positive change. To learn more visit my website at www.wellnesslenstherapy.com
Based on client's presenting concerns, we co-create a treatment plan that could involve EMDR, Hypnotherapy, EFT tapping, DBT, CBT, and somatic experiencing.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults who are seeking therapy to support them on their path toward wellness. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, and symptoms related to trauma. As a psychodynamically trained clinical social worker my goal is to help clients gain insight that can be a catalyst for positive change. To learn more visit my website at www.wellnesslenstherapy.com
(802) 200-2602 View (802) 200-2602

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joanie Lemmon Bella, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Joanie Lemmon Bella
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White River Junction, VT 05001
I am certified in EMDR, an evidenced-based treatment designed to help alleviate symptoms caused by traumatic events.
I am only offering EMDR Intensives at this time. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? Maybe you’ve been living with emotional pain or experiencing intrusive thoughts and memories that are affecting your ability to live life fully? These feelings can make life even more challenging! I'll work with you to find what will best meet your needs. I integrate talk therapy with mindfulness, expressive arts, and an awareness of the body and mind connection. My approach is warm and accepting and I strive to assist clients in increasing self-understanding, acceptance, and compassion.
I am certified in EMDR, an evidenced-based treatment designed to help alleviate symptoms caused by traumatic events.
I am only offering EMDR Intensives at this time. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? Maybe you’ve been living with emotional pain or experiencing intrusive thoughts and memories that are affecting your ability to live life fully? These feelings can make life even more challenging! I'll work with you to find what will best meet your needs. I integrate talk therapy with mindfulness, expressive arts, and an awareness of the body and mind connection. My approach is warm and accepting and I strive to assist clients in increasing self-understanding, acceptance, and compassion.
(603) 865-1554 View (603) 865-1554
Photo of Wesley Wolter, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500, Counselor
Wesley Wolter
Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05009
Through an eclectic empowering approach in therapy, clients will be educated on mind/body health, EMDR, Mindfulness and Yoga.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
Through an eclectic empowering approach in therapy, clients will be educated on mind/body health, EMDR, Mindfulness and Yoga.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
(802) 613-0309 View (802) 613-0309
Photo of Maggie Hooker, MA, MSW, LCMHC, LADC
Maggie Hooker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MSW, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
I practice EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques and offer a safe space of respect, compassion, and occasional irreverence.
You are here because you are seeking support and a space to explore and unearth challenges. Whether it is anxiety, depression, relationship distress or addiction struggles, therapy can help. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to recognize areas of discord and strategize to interrupt unhealthy patterns in your life. Together we will work to identify and chart a path forward.
I practice EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques and offer a safe space of respect, compassion, and occasional irreverence.
You are here because you are seeking support and a space to explore and unearth challenges. Whether it is anxiety, depression, relationship distress or addiction struggles, therapy can help. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to recognize areas of discord and strategize to interrupt unhealthy patterns in your life. Together we will work to identify and chart a path forward.
(802) 368-1140 View (802) 368-1140
Photo of Alissa Dillon, LCMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Alissa Dillon
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
I have years of experience in providing individual therapy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am accepting new patients, ages 16 & older! I am licensed in Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut & Vermont for Telehealth! I have an office in NH. I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma & loss, whether it be a person, pet, job, a marriage, etc. All losses have a large impact on our lives. Let me help you cope with your grief, and heal the pain from a trauma. It's time you live the life that you deserve. Fees are $150 per session, 24 hr cancellation required to avoid a $75 fee To set up an appointment with me, please visit www.timetohealme.com and complete the forms. I look forward to working with you!
I have years of experience in providing individual therapy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am accepting new patients, ages 16 & older! I am licensed in Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut & Vermont for Telehealth! I have an office in NH. I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma & loss, whether it be a person, pet, job, a marriage, etc. All losses have a large impact on our lives. Let me help you cope with your grief, and heal the pain from a trauma. It's time you live the life that you deserve. Fees are $150 per session, 24 hr cancellation required to avoid a $75 fee To set up an appointment with me, please visit www.timetohealme.com and complete the forms. I look forward to working with you!
(978) 857-6549 View (978) 857-6549
Photo of Rachel Coster, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Coster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001  (Online Only)
I am a certified intuitive eating counselor and licensed clinical social worker, I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities such as, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and REBT.
I believe connection is at the root of healing. Attunement is an essential component of connection and represents the ability to accurately perceive and respond to the needs of self and others. Factors such as: trauma, distorted thinking, reliance on technology, cultural ideals, family of origin values and beliefs, and community messages interrupt our natural ability to attune and we often feel disconnected from others as a result. As a therapist, I work with individuals who are interested in nurturing attunement to improve their relationship to self, body, and food.
I am a certified intuitive eating counselor and licensed clinical social worker, I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities such as, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and REBT.
I believe connection is at the root of healing. Attunement is an essential component of connection and represents the ability to accurately perceive and respond to the needs of self and others. Factors such as: trauma, distorted thinking, reliance on technology, cultural ideals, family of origin values and beliefs, and community messages interrupt our natural ability to attune and we often feel disconnected from others as a result. As a therapist, I work with individuals who are interested in nurturing attunement to improve their relationship to self, body, and food.
(802) 328-9909 View (802) 328-9909
Photo of Liberty Star Velez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liberty Star Velez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hartford, VT 05047
I am an EMDR certified therapist with extensive training in attachment related trauma, significant life changes, addiction, relationships, and complex family upbringings.
Are you feeling stuck? I will ask the questions that lead you towards getting unstuck, whether it's anxiety, relationships, addiction, or trauma. Clients often tell me that my questions help them discover their deeper needs and fears, enabling them to start making a path towards the life they want to live. I find an artful balance between process and helping you take action. I am authentic, provide feedback, and consider myself an engaged thought partner in your process. I am not just a therapist who sits back and listens; I actively participate in your journey towards change.
I am an EMDR certified therapist with extensive training in attachment related trauma, significant life changes, addiction, relationships, and complex family upbringings.
Are you feeling stuck? I will ask the questions that lead you towards getting unstuck, whether it's anxiety, relationships, addiction, or trauma. Clients often tell me that my questions help them discover their deeper needs and fears, enabling them to start making a path towards the life they want to live. I find an artful balance between process and helping you take action. I am authentic, provide feedback, and consider myself an engaged thought partner in your process. I am not just a therapist who sits back and listens; I actively participate in your journey towards change.
(626) 466-3497 View (626) 466-3497
Photo of Kyla Suarez, MS, RYT-500, Y4C, Registered Psychotherapist
Kyla Suarez
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RYT-500, Y4C
Verified Verified
Hartland, VT 05048  (Online Only)
Through EMDR, IFS, Attachment Therapy, Somatic Releases, honor the Inner-Child(ren), Yoga and the 8 Foundations of Wellness we will focus on regulating your nervous system so that we can then do the cognitive work together.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts (IFS) of yourself.
Through EMDR, IFS, Attachment Therapy, Somatic Releases, honor the Inner-Child(ren), Yoga and the 8 Foundations of Wellness we will focus on regulating your nervous system so that we can then do the cognitive work together.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts (IFS) of yourself.
(802) 222-8938 View (802) 222-8938
Photo of Victoria Brooks, MSW, LICSW-S, APA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW-S, APA
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
I am not offering EMDR at this time .
I approach clients with a collaborative, strengths-based focus & direct style, informed by my training and experience working with individuals and families in the field of mental health for over 30 years. I help people identify stuck patterns and appreciate areas of personal resilience. We will work together to find insight, new learning and successful strategies to help you move in your desired direction. We will cultivate skills that allow you to approach and tolerate painful emotions and as a result decrease daily suffering. You will experience increased clarity of mind and cultivate more happiness & joy. LGBTQIA+ specialization.
I am not offering EMDR at this time .
I approach clients with a collaborative, strengths-based focus & direct style, informed by my training and experience working with individuals and families in the field of mental health for over 30 years. I help people identify stuck patterns and appreciate areas of personal resilience. We will work together to find insight, new learning and successful strategies to help you move in your desired direction. We will cultivate skills that allow you to approach and tolerate painful emotions and as a result decrease daily suffering. You will experience increased clarity of mind and cultivate more happiness & joy. LGBTQIA+ specialization.
(802) 327-7608 View (802) 327-7608
Photo of Hilary Coons, PhD, Psychologist
Hilary Coons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Some of the tools and strategies we might use include: CBT, EMDR, DBT, Polyvagal Awareness, Breath work, Mindfulness, and Clinical Hypnosis and Executive skills for attentional and motivational challenges.
Good psychological care offers people relief from acute pain and new ways of framing the challenges they face. We will work together using a variety of tools, strategies, and insights that support your recovery and growth. Seeing you through this process is my greatest honor. My approach is integrative and responsive, intelligent and professional.
Some of the tools and strategies we might use include: CBT, EMDR, DBT, Polyvagal Awareness, Breath work, Mindfulness, and Clinical Hypnosis and Executive skills for attentional and motivational challenges.
Good psychological care offers people relief from acute pain and new ways of framing the challenges they face. We will work together using a variety of tools, strategies, and insights that support your recovery and growth. Seeing you through this process is my greatest honor. My approach is integrative and responsive, intelligent and professional.
(603) 643-9717 View (603) 643-9717
Photo of Carolyn McAleavy, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn McAleavy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
I use a variety of approaches to create understanding and to bring about the changes you are seeking, including relational skill-building, EMDR and Internal Family Systems therapy.
I provide a safe, caring place to help you develop more satisfying ways of being in relationship with your partner, teen, yourself or your life. I believe we all have the capacity to be healthy and whole. Often, our upbringing or harmful experiences leave us with habits that no longer serve our growth and well-being. I bring a warm, compassionate presence to help you locate and heal the sources of suffering. I have worked with adults, couples, parents and teens over 40 years, assisting people to become more able to honor their heart's desires.
I use a variety of approaches to create understanding and to bring about the changes you are seeking, including relational skill-building, EMDR and Internal Family Systems therapy.
I provide a safe, caring place to help you develop more satisfying ways of being in relationship with your partner, teen, yourself or your life. I believe we all have the capacity to be healthy and whole. Often, our upbringing or harmful experiences leave us with habits that no longer serve our growth and well-being. I bring a warm, compassionate presence to help you locate and heal the sources of suffering. I have worked with adults, couples, parents and teens over 40 years, assisting people to become more able to honor their heart's desires.
(707) 709-9195 View (707) 709-9195
Photo of Courtney Bohen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Bohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
I am trained in Relational EMDR and Brainspotting.
At the core of my work as a therapist is the relationship we create between us. My style is empathic, strengths-based and direct. I will assist you in understanding your emotional patterns, help you find your way through life transitions, to strengthen and repair your boundaries and relationships, and learn new ways of coping and thinking about your life story.
I am trained in Relational EMDR and Brainspotting.
At the core of my work as a therapist is the relationship we create between us. My style is empathic, strengths-based and direct. I will assist you in understanding your emotional patterns, help you find your way through life transitions, to strengthen and repair your boundaries and relationships, and learn new ways of coping and thinking about your life story.
(802) 402-4454 View (802) 402-4454
Photo of Jacqueline Overstreet, LCMHC, Counselor
Jacqueline Overstreet
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Quechee, VT 05059
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I use the intervention best suited to address each client's needs, from EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts-based therapy, and mindfulness based practices.
I help children, teenagers, and adults to navigate the challenges of life through cultivating greater inner awareness, presence, and compassion. My clinical experience is in working with clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and interpersonal issues. My therapeutic approach treats you, the client, as the expert on your own inner experiences, and empowers you to create solutions for areas of your life that are not working.
In my practice, I use the intervention best suited to address each client's needs, from EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts-based therapy, and mindfulness based practices.
I help children, teenagers, and adults to navigate the challenges of life through cultivating greater inner awareness, presence, and compassion. My clinical experience is in working with clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and interpersonal issues. My therapeutic approach treats you, the client, as the expert on your own inner experiences, and empowers you to create solutions for areas of your life that are not working.
(802) 230-1762 View (802) 230-1762
Photo of Sandy Burke, LCMHC, MLADC, Counselor
Sandy Burke
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Is your life out of kilter? My goal is to help you grow and thrive from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you find balance and where you want to be in your life. This is achieved by listening to your experiences and concerns within a compassionate, non-judgmental and safe space. An individualized and integrative approach to your treatment is achieved by jointly creating a therapy focus. My objective for your therapy is o support you emotionally while you are achieving the growth and changes you are aspiring towards. I am a lifelong learner & believe that life is always changing and learning is ongoing.
Is your life out of kilter? My goal is to help you grow and thrive from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you find balance and where you want to be in your life. This is achieved by listening to your experiences and concerns within a compassionate, non-judgmental and safe space. An individualized and integrative approach to your treatment is achieved by jointly creating a therapy focus. My objective for your therapy is o support you emotionally while you are achieving the growth and changes you are aspiring towards. I am a lifelong learner & believe that life is always changing and learning is ongoing.
View
Photo of Hannah Carpenter, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Hannah Carpenter
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White River Junction, VT 05009  (Online Only)
Welcome! Sometimes we can find ourselves needing to reset and evaluate the inevitable ruts of life. As psychotherapy is a very personal experience, I strive to provide an empathetic and collaborative therapeutic environment for my clients to explore life’s challenges, increase better self-understanding, identify and make the changes that they seek, and invite bringing oneself back into alignment. Once in alignment with our authentic self, we know freedom.
Welcome! Sometimes we can find ourselves needing to reset and evaluate the inevitable ruts of life. As psychotherapy is a very personal experience, I strive to provide an empathetic and collaborative therapeutic environment for my clients to explore life’s challenges, increase better self-understanding, identify and make the changes that they seek, and invite bringing oneself back into alignment. Once in alignment with our authentic self, we know freedom.
(802) 397-9516 View (802) 397-9516
Photo of Ruth C Kenrick - Ruth Kenrick, M.A., L.I.C.S.W., B.C.D., MA, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Kenrick, M.A., L.I.C.S.W., B.C.D.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
An effective, compassionate therapist helps you connect to your own wisdom and harness the energy to thrive. Though life can be hard sometimes, extreme suffering need not persist. I will help you escape stuck patterns or traumas that stop you from enjoying life and doing what matters most to you. It's common to have to rediscover, or even learn for the first time, how to live well. During difficult times, we may just need a little assistance. I have twenty-five years of experience supporting clients as they eliminate obstacles, reach cherished goals & attain enduring satisfaction.
An effective, compassionate therapist helps you connect to your own wisdom and harness the energy to thrive. Though life can be hard sometimes, extreme suffering need not persist. I will help you escape stuck patterns or traumas that stop you from enjoying life and doing what matters most to you. It's common to have to rediscover, or even learn for the first time, how to live well. During difficult times, we may just need a little assistance. I have twenty-five years of experience supporting clients as they eliminate obstacles, reach cherished goals & attain enduring satisfaction.
(802) 466-4198 View (802) 466-4198
Photo of Ann LaRocque, LCMHC, Counselor
Ann LaRocque
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Quechee, VT 05059
I see the human person as made up of body, mind, and spirit, and each dimension affects the other, especially during times of crisis, stress, transition, and disharmony. Currently I am seeing clients who have been working at therapy for a while and have made significant progress in feeling focused and grounded in their life, but also feel there is something still missing, and are able to name spirituality as the area that needs attention.
I see the human person as made up of body, mind, and spirit, and each dimension affects the other, especially during times of crisis, stress, transition, and disharmony. Currently I am seeing clients who have been working at therapy for a while and have made significant progress in feeling focused and grounded in their life, but also feel there is something still missing, and are able to name spirituality as the area that needs attention.
(802) 245-3805 View (802) 245-3805
Photo of Hanover Center For Cognitive Behavioral Therapies - Hanover Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Psychologist
Hanover Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapies
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Are you looking for compassionate care to help you or a loved one address difficult emotions, experiences, or transitions? Hanover CBT is a group private practice with clinicians who specialize in working with individuals across the lifespan experiencing a wide range of mental health struggles. We seek to assist clients in cultivating awareness, wisdom, and courage in every aspect of their lives while meeting each client with compassion, integrity, and presence. We believe that it is brave to ask for support and we work with our patients to develop strength-based practices and approaches to coping with challenges.
Are you looking for compassionate care to help you or a loved one address difficult emotions, experiences, or transitions? Hanover CBT is a group private practice with clinicians who specialize in working with individuals across the lifespan experiencing a wide range of mental health struggles. We seek to assist clients in cultivating awareness, wisdom, and courage in every aspect of their lives while meeting each client with compassion, integrity, and presence. We believe that it is brave to ask for support and we work with our patients to develop strength-based practices and approaches to coping with challenges.
(603) 392-7241 View (603) 392-7241
Photo of Helen Svoboda-Barber, MA, DMin, LCMHCA, Counselor
Helen Svoboda-Barber
Counselor, MA, DMin, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norwich, VT 05055
Have you given so much of yourself in caregiving that you’ve lost your sense of self? Do you notice a dimming of your joy and passion because of the continual need to manage and juggle all the things right now? If you are struggling with the demands of life as a parent or caregiver, working with a therapist can help reduce stress, regain balance, and ground you in the values which give your life meaning. Together, we'll imagine your preferred future and give you tools and support to move into that more congruent way of being. Prioritizing your own well-being is both difficult and courageous. Keep reading to find out more.
Have you given so much of yourself in caregiving that you’ve lost your sense of self? Do you notice a dimming of your joy and passion because of the continual need to manage and juggle all the things right now? If you are struggling with the demands of life as a parent or caregiver, working with a therapist can help reduce stress, regain balance, and ground you in the values which give your life meaning. Together, we'll imagine your preferred future and give you tools and support to move into that more congruent way of being. Prioritizing your own well-being is both difficult and courageous. Keep reading to find out more.
(984) 538-7058 View (984) 538-7058
Photo of Rebekah Carter, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwich, VT 05055
There are many reasons to come to therapy. I specialize in issues with mood and trauma. Issues with mood can result in feelings of anxiety, depression, low mood or mood swings. There are different ways that this can play out in life. You may be trying to manage deep painful emotions, outbursts of anger, feelings of emptiness, low motivation, lethargy or restless energy. Mood issues may result in difficulty making decisions, issues relating to others, feeling dependent on others, having difficulty saying no or asking for help, perfectionism, rigidity or black and white thinking. I work with issues relating to high intellect as well.
There are many reasons to come to therapy. I specialize in issues with mood and trauma. Issues with mood can result in feelings of anxiety, depression, low mood or mood swings. There are different ways that this can play out in life. You may be trying to manage deep painful emotions, outbursts of anger, feelings of emptiness, low motivation, lethargy or restless energy. Mood issues may result in difficulty making decisions, issues relating to others, feeling dependent on others, having difficulty saying no or asking for help, perfectionism, rigidity or black and white thinking. I work with issues relating to high intellect as well.
(603) 874-1405 View (603) 874-1405

See more therapy options for Wilder

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.