Jonathan M Boudin
Counselor, LMHC, RCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
Welcome! Counseling begins with safety, support, empathy, and trust. Perhaps we seek a non-judgmental ear that will listen, connection to our personal strengths, or an approach such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, or coping skills. I draw from multiple approaches so that therapy is collaborative and customized to meet your unique needs, hopes, and goals. I am trained in EMDR, an effective approach in healing from trauma. Helping youth of all genders is one of my specialties and I dedicate part of my practice to kids, tweens, and teens. I happily work with adults too. I am a LGBTQIA+ ally and cultural awareness is important to me.
Welcome! Counseling begins with safety, support, empathy, and trust. Perhaps we seek a non-judgmental ear that will listen, connection to our personal strengths, or an approach such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, or coping skills. I draw from multiple approaches so that therapy is collaborative and customized to meet your unique needs, hopes, and goals. I am trained in EMDR, an effective approach in healing from trauma. Helping youth of all genders is one of my specialties and I dedicate part of my practice to kids, tweens, and teens. I happily work with adults too. I am a LGBTQIA+ ally and cultural awareness is important to me.
(360) 813-6134 View (360) 813-6134
Photo of Arinnaia Olson, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Arinnaia Olson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
As a licensed counselor in Washington state helping clients learn how to understand and bring more clarity to their mental, emotional, and physical, challenges. My work focuses on understanding more about how each persons unique life experiences have brought you where you are today. Working with transformative modalities such as EMDR I currently offer many ways to process and find greater relaxation, ease and deep lasting healing. Through my own personal life work, journey and engagement in the field of mind body, somatic and transformational practices, I offer a deep understanding of the depths of being human, here now.
As a licensed counselor in Washington state helping clients learn how to understand and bring more clarity to their mental, emotional, and physical, challenges. My work focuses on understanding more about how each persons unique life experiences have brought you where you are today. Working with transformative modalities such as EMDR I currently offer many ways to process and find greater relaxation, ease and deep lasting healing. Through my own personal life work, journey and engagement in the field of mind body, somatic and transformational practices, I offer a deep understanding of the depths of being human, here now.
(360) 919-0294 View (360) 919-0294
Photo of Hannah Thomas, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Hannah Thomas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I am trained in EMDR and TFCBT, evidence-based trauma treatments for children and adults.
I provide therapy for children and adults dealing with ongoing stress related to trauma, anxiety, life transitions (divorce/separation, grief/loss, job changes, family changes, etc.). It can be hard seeing your kiddo struggling- they might have trouble making friends, having increased outbursts, dealing with nightmares/sleep issues, or generally struggling after traumatic or stressful experiences. Adults, you might feel overwhelmed with your own stress, tough memories that keep popping up, worries that you just can't shake, or are seeing negative impacts on your various relationships due to how you're feeling. Therapy can help!
I am trained in EMDR and TFCBT, evidence-based trauma treatments for children and adults.
I provide therapy for children and adults dealing with ongoing stress related to trauma, anxiety, life transitions (divorce/separation, grief/loss, job changes, family changes, etc.). It can be hard seeing your kiddo struggling- they might have trouble making friends, having increased outbursts, dealing with nightmares/sleep issues, or generally struggling after traumatic or stressful experiences. Adults, you might feel overwhelmed with your own stress, tough memories that keep popping up, worries that you just can't shake, or are seeing negative impacts on your various relationships due to how you're feeling. Therapy can help!
(360) 549-8946 View (360) 549-8946
Photo of Marina Vile, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Marina Vile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Confusing therapist talk ahead: I have a training/utilize EMDR (fancy trauma therapy that works really well), EFT/Gottman (couples therapy approach that also is really effective for communication), IFS (I like talking about your inner child and how your feelings are serving you to help you manage them), sex therapy for anxiety/trauma (good sex is important).
Finding a therapist can feel a lot like swiping through dating apps trying to find the right fit. You want to work with someone who gets you and is thoughtful and easy to talk to. That's how I work. I work with individuals and couples in a warm, attachment based approach. I'm here to help you heal old patterns, vent, or whatever you need. We can figure out the traps you fall into, cry, and laugh for 50 minutes. I'm not here to judge you or tell you how to live your life, just to support you in living authentically.
Confusing therapist talk ahead: I have a training/utilize EMDR (fancy trauma therapy that works really well), EFT/Gottman (couples therapy approach that also is really effective for communication), IFS (I like talking about your inner child and how your feelings are serving you to help you manage them), sex therapy for anxiety/trauma (good sex is important).
Finding a therapist can feel a lot like swiping through dating apps trying to find the right fit. You want to work with someone who gets you and is thoughtful and easy to talk to. That's how I work. I work with individuals and couples in a warm, attachment based approach. I'm here to help you heal old patterns, vent, or whatever you need. We can figure out the traps you fall into, cry, and laugh for 50 minutes. I'm not here to judge you or tell you how to live your life, just to support you in living authentically.
(360) 519-5305 View (360) 519-5305
Photo of Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist
Counselor, DR, LMHCC, CFC, Forensi, Expert
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
(360) 927-1980 View (360) 927-1980
Photo of Maribel Aheran, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Maribel Aheran
Counselor, EdD, LCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(360) 968-6435 View (360) 968-6435
Photo of Wandering Pine Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Wandering Pine Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98227
You wake up in the mornings and you don’t feel rested. You’re feeling irritable and you’ve been arguing with your coworkers. You struggle to stay present, and you’re having a hard time focusing on your work. Anxiety and overwhelm weigh heavy on you, but you’re holding it all in so that you can prioritize everyone else’s needs. You’re struggling, and you feel burned out. It’s time to do something about it and put yourself first.
You wake up in the mornings and you don’t feel rested. You’re feeling irritable and you’ve been arguing with your coworkers. You struggle to stay present, and you’re having a hard time focusing on your work. Anxiety and overwhelm weigh heavy on you, but you’re holding it all in so that you can prioritize everyone else’s needs. You’re struggling, and you feel burned out. It’s time to do something about it and put yourself first.
(702) 935-1473 View (702) 935-1473
Photo of Sara Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Sara Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Not accepting new clients
I also love helping people process trauma and stuck emotions using EMDR therapy - ask me about this!.
I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re looking for a therapist for yourself, your child, or a friend, welcome. This can be a daunting process, and I’m so happy you’re reaching out. If you’re struggling with mental health or life transitions, everything can feel so heavy. Will I ever feel better? Is it normal to feel like this? How do I even begin? Considering therapy is a perfect first step. You’re in the right place.
I also love helping people process trauma and stuck emotions using EMDR therapy - ask me about this!.
I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re looking for a therapist for yourself, your child, or a friend, welcome. This can be a daunting process, and I’m so happy you’re reaching out. If you’re struggling with mental health or life transitions, everything can feel so heavy. Will I ever feel better? Is it normal to feel like this? How do I even begin? Considering therapy is a perfect first step. You’re in the right place.
(360) 516-2586 View (360) 516-2586
Photo of Servando Benjamin Patlan, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Servando Benjamin Patlan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Not accepting new clients
In my training and career, I specialized in treating children with behavioral difficulties and adults suffering from anxiety, depression and stress. In working with children, my approach includes collaboratively working with the child and their family through their presenting issues and helping institute sustainable changes to foster individual growth in the child and relational growth in the family. This often includes psycho-education and coaching for parents in addition to individual therapy for the child. In working with adults I utilize a range of methods from existential to behavioral depending on the specific needs of the individual.
In my training and career, I specialized in treating children with behavioral difficulties and adults suffering from anxiety, depression and stress. In working with children, my approach includes collaboratively working with the child and their family through their presenting issues and helping institute sustainable changes to foster individual growth in the child and relational growth in the family. This often includes psycho-education and coaching for parents in addition to individual therapy for the child. In working with adults I utilize a range of methods from existential to behavioral depending on the specific needs of the individual.
(206) 966-6998 View (206) 966-6998
Photo of Megan Stonelake, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Megan Stonelake
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Not accepting new clients
Hi there! I’m Megan, a fellow parent who knows how hard it can be. I’m also deeply committed to understanding what underlies the behavior in our children that hinders their growth into the resilient, confident, and kind adults they have the potential to be. I have 15 years of experience working with children and families in all sorts of capacities and settings. I know all too well how kids with challenging behaviors or high anxiety can slip through the cracks, get labeled “defiant,” or just start to internalize the belief that they’re a bad kid. The truth is there’s no such thing. Kids do well when they can – and so do parents!
Hi there! I’m Megan, a fellow parent who knows how hard it can be. I’m also deeply committed to understanding what underlies the behavior in our children that hinders their growth into the resilient, confident, and kind adults they have the potential to be. I have 15 years of experience working with children and families in all sorts of capacities and settings. I know all too well how kids with challenging behaviors or high anxiety can slip through the cracks, get labeled “defiant,” or just start to internalize the belief that they’re a bad kid. The truth is there’s no such thing. Kids do well when they can – and so do parents!
(360) 996-1706 View (360) 996-1706

Online Therapists

Photo of Judy P Chang, Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
Judy P Chang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I combine EMDR with Alchemy to effect rapid change.
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
I combine EMDR with Alchemy to effect rapid change.
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
(831) 238-0416 View (831) 238-0416
Photo of Anchor Light Therapy Collective, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Anchor Light Therapy Collective
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
We work with individuals, couples, families, teens, and children. Our therapists are trained in various psychotherapy modalities such as EMDR, The Gott man Method, EFT, Hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. We help clients address issues related to relationships, self-esteem/confidence, anxiety, depression, trauma, and improving overall mental health and well-being.
We work with individuals, couples, families, teens, and children. Our therapists are trained in various psychotherapy modalities such as EMDR, The Gott man Method, EFT, Hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. We help clients address issues related to relationships, self-esteem/confidence, anxiety, depression, trauma, and improving overall mental health and well-being.
(206) 207-5485 View (206) 207-5485
Photo of Mark Saran, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Mark Saran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
(360) 382-4287 View (360) 382-4287
Photo of Laura Stone, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Laura Stone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126
We may address attachment, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, infertility, identity, and life-transitions through use of IFS and EMDR, narrative therapies, nervous system calming, art therapy, innovative therapies including Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Offering clinical supervision. I support adults working on resolving traumatic stress, attachment in relationships, developing new core beliefs and sustainable ways of being and growing that are honoring of Self. I work with many artists and writers. Many of my clients are neurodivergent. My clients know what they need and are ready to do the work. IFS, EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integration work in partnership with Journey Clinical. I also see ADOPTED adults as well as some kids/families for issues of attachment, trauma, related emotional dysregulation, identity and separation issues.
We may address attachment, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, infertility, identity, and life-transitions through use of IFS and EMDR, narrative therapies, nervous system calming, art therapy, innovative therapies including Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Offering clinical supervision. I support adults working on resolving traumatic stress, attachment in relationships, developing new core beliefs and sustainable ways of being and growing that are honoring of Self. I work with many artists and writers. Many of my clients are neurodivergent. My clients know what they need and are ready to do the work. IFS, EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integration work in partnership with Journey Clinical. I also see ADOPTED adults as well as some kids/families for issues of attachment, trauma, related emotional dysregulation, identity and separation issues.
(206) 498-9895 View (206) 498-9895
Photo of Stephen P Chick, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Stephen P Chick
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
I've worked as a child, family, and adult therapist since 1999. I'm committed to helping people better understand and manage events in their lives which they find challenging. In addition to child, family, and adult therapy, I also specialize in the following areas: ADD/ADHD, enhancing parenting skills, anger management, attachment issues, mood disorders, grief issues, posttraumatic stress, self-esteem, drug/alcohol problems, self exploration, career issues, depression, anxiety, oppositional/defiant behavior, and others. I am also trained to use EMDR to help people work through traumas they have been through.
I've worked as a child, family, and adult therapist since 1999. I'm committed to helping people better understand and manage events in their lives which they find challenging. In addition to child, family, and adult therapy, I also specialize in the following areas: ADD/ADHD, enhancing parenting skills, anger management, attachment issues, mood disorders, grief issues, posttraumatic stress, self-esteem, drug/alcohol problems, self exploration, career issues, depression, anxiety, oppositional/defiant behavior, and others. I am also trained to use EMDR to help people work through traumas they have been through.
(425) 441-3072 View (425) 441-3072
Photo of Kim Newall, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Kim Newall
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
(206) 429-6243 View (206) 429-6243
Photo of LightHeart Associates - Federal Way, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
LightHeart Associates - Federal Way
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
Our therapists have unique training in techniques including EMDR, lifespan integration, somatic experiencing, meditation, and biofeedback.
LightHeart provides therapy, medication management & assessment for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
Our therapists have unique training in techniques including EMDR, lifespan integration, somatic experiencing, meditation, and biofeedback.
LightHeart provides therapy, medication management & assessment for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
(253) 367-4594 View (253) 367-4594
Photo of Raman Kaur, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Raman Kaur
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I am trained in EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT, and ACT and her work includes a focus on generational trauma and generational healing in marginalized communities.
I work with a wide range of clients across the life span with a specialty in trauma, generational trauma, generational healing, and identity. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach in therapy. I have experience doing evaluations and therapy with neurodivergent individuals. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, self-discovery, trauma processing, and healing. I use a holistic approach in my work and believe that healing requires integrating mind, body, and spirit.
I am trained in EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT, and ACT and her work includes a focus on generational trauma and generational healing in marginalized communities.
I work with a wide range of clients across the life span with a specialty in trauma, generational trauma, generational healing, and identity. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach in therapy. I have experience doing evaluations and therapy with neurodivergent individuals. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, self-discovery, trauma processing, and healing. I use a holistic approach in my work and believe that healing requires integrating mind, body, and spirit.
(425) 437-2190 View (425) 437-2190
Photo of Hannah Guggenheim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Hannah Guggenheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249
Healing is possible with CBT, ACT, EMDR.
Intuitive, culturally sensitive, solution-based therapy can help you cultivate gratitude, understand nuance and heal. Our focus: wellbeing, self acceptance and your quest for ongoing transformation. I am a trauma informed practitioner supporting life transitions for individuals, couples and families. I work with adjustment difficulties and disorders, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD, SPD, infertility and parent coaching. LGBTQ2SIA, gender affirming mental health therapy. I am a certified technology addiction specialist.
Healing is possible with CBT, ACT, EMDR.
Intuitive, culturally sensitive, solution-based therapy can help you cultivate gratitude, understand nuance and heal. Our focus: wellbeing, self acceptance and your quest for ongoing transformation. I am a trauma informed practitioner supporting life transitions for individuals, couples and families. I work with adjustment difficulties and disorders, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD, SPD, infertility and parent coaching. LGBTQ2SIA, gender affirming mental health therapy. I am a certified technology addiction specialist.
(360) 288-4772 View (360) 288-4772
Photo of Dov Wills, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Dov Wills
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Currently full but can help match Deaf people to therapists. My approach is integrative and primarily informed by EMDR therapy. I prioritize remaining person-centered and trauma informed, which basically just means that our sessions are about you and what you want and that I avoid pathologizing behaviors and feelings that could be the result of a traumatic experience. I look at therapy through a social justice and anti-oppression lens. I believe counseling should offer a safe, non-judgmental opportunity to explore and discover a path to your own place of peace. For Deaf people, my VP # is (206) 829-5104.
Currently full but can help match Deaf people to therapists. My approach is integrative and primarily informed by EMDR therapy. I prioritize remaining person-centered and trauma informed, which basically just means that our sessions are about you and what you want and that I avoid pathologizing behaviors and feelings that could be the result of a traumatic experience. I look at therapy through a social justice and anti-oppression lens. I believe counseling should offer a safe, non-judgmental opportunity to explore and discover a path to your own place of peace. For Deaf people, my VP # is (206) 829-5104.
(206) 453-2157 View (206) 453-2157
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.