Photo of Clarice Boone in Kirkland, WA
Clarice Boone
MAEd, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I am trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy Level 1, and Gottman Couples Method Level 1.
As you enter counseling, I want to applaud you for having the courage to embrace growth and vulnerability. You may be feeling stuck, withdrawn, or emotionally overwhelmed. It can be cathartic and healing to address wounds that leave us feeling disconnected. Therapy can help build a deeper connection to yourself and others, gain awareness, and develop a stronger foundation to live a life you desire. I currently have immediate openings and enjoy working with individuals ages 15+ and dyadic relationships of all structures.
I am trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy Level 1, and Gottman Couples Method Level 1.
As you enter counseling, I want to applaud you for having the courage to embrace growth and vulnerability. You may be feeling stuck, withdrawn, or emotionally overwhelmed. It can be cathartic and healing to address wounds that leave us feeling disconnected. Therapy can help build a deeper connection to yourself and others, gain awareness, and develop a stronger foundation to live a life you desire. I currently have immediate openings and enjoy working with individuals ages 15+ and dyadic relationships of all structures.
(425) 961-9395 View (425) 961-9395
Photo of Lisa Delaplace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Lisa Delaplace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
I provide EMDR and sex therapy to individuals and couples with diverse sexuality concerns.
Recognize this scenario? Lingering negative experiences from your past are impacting your present, evoking feelings of shame, anxiety, and distrust. You are feeling disconnected from your partner and your sex life is not what you would like for it to be. Maybe you’ve stopped having sex altogether. Every attempt at communication about the issues in your relationship becomes an argument and you don’t know how you got into this cycle or how to get out of it. You’re wondering if these problems are beyond repair and you feel so alone. It doesn't have to stay this way.
I provide EMDR and sex therapy to individuals and couples with diverse sexuality concerns.
Recognize this scenario? Lingering negative experiences from your past are impacting your present, evoking feelings of shame, anxiety, and distrust. You are feeling disconnected from your partner and your sex life is not what you would like for it to be. Maybe you’ve stopped having sex altogether. Every attempt at communication about the issues in your relationship becomes an argument and you don’t know how you got into this cycle or how to get out of it. You’re wondering if these problems are beyond repair and you feel so alone. It doesn't have to stay this way.
(469) 373-9705 View (469) 373-9705
Photo of Anne Auerbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Anne Auerbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, CST, CMHS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
OCD & high anxiety patients along with utilization of EMDR for Trauma.
Thank you for taking time to review my psychotherapy profile. I am committed to offering guidance for those on a path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working mindfully & compassionately to help you achieve your goals.
OCD & high anxiety patients along with utilization of EMDR for Trauma.
Thank you for taking time to review my psychotherapy profile. I am committed to offering guidance for those on a path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working mindfully & compassionately to help you achieve your goals.
(425) 406-3390 View (425) 406-3390
Photo of Kelly Granite Enck in Kirkland, WA
Kelly Granite Enck
CHT, BA, RRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
(Trained in NLP, EMDR, EFT).
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that offers a wide range of benefits. It can help individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, improve insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. If you are seeking assistance in any of these areas, Kelly Granite Enck, B.A. CHt., a highly skilled hypnotherapist and advanced RRT practitioner, is available to provide a free consultation. You can reach Kelly at 206-507-3203 or book an online session www.DoylestownHypnosis.com
(Trained in NLP, EMDR, EFT).
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that offers a wide range of benefits. It can help individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, improve insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. If you are seeking assistance in any of these areas, Kelly Granite Enck, B.A. CHt., a highly skilled hypnotherapist and advanced RRT practitioner, is available to provide a free consultation. You can reach Kelly at 206-507-3203 or book an online session www.DoylestownHypnosis.com
(206) 875-2613 View (206) 875-2613
Photo of Eastside Counseling Center in Kirkland, WA
Eastside Counseling Center
LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
(425) 405-7857 View (425) 405-7857
Photo of Dr. Britt Lindon, Psychologist in Kirkland, WA
Dr. Britt Lindon
Psychologist, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
(206) 759-8955 View (206) 759-8955
Photo of Marlon Familton, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Marlon Familton
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Are you in a relationship and still feel alone? Do you find yourself feeling angry all the time? Have you started to lose hope in your relationship? It doesn't have to be that way. Most couples learn that it isn't their partner they are tired of, rather the problem is the negative cycle that takes over every time they try to talk or connect. Individually, we can focus on easing anxiety and depression, boosting your self-esteem and setting boundaries where necessary.
Are you in a relationship and still feel alone? Do you find yourself feeling angry all the time? Have you started to lose hope in your relationship? It doesn't have to be that way. Most couples learn that it isn't their partner they are tired of, rather the problem is the negative cycle that takes over every time they try to talk or connect. Individually, we can focus on easing anxiety and depression, boosting your self-esteem and setting boundaries where necessary.
(425) 650-0041 View (425) 650-0041
Photo of Tina Marie Corbaley, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Tina Marie Corbaley
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Waitlist for new clients
I'm not currently taking new clients. I have worked extensively with individuals who have experienced trauma throughout their lives. I work with clients to begin the healing process, and eventually work towards integrating these experiences so that the person feels whole and complete. There are many different stages of the healing process, from developing skills to handle the trauma and crisis through acceptance and processing. Through my own hardships, I have found lights that can guide the way through the darkness, and my goal is to blend my training and life experience to provide highly effective counseling.
I'm not currently taking new clients. I have worked extensively with individuals who have experienced trauma throughout their lives. I work with clients to begin the healing process, and eventually work towards integrating these experiences so that the person feels whole and complete. There are many different stages of the healing process, from developing skills to handle the trauma and crisis through acceptance and processing. Through my own hardships, I have found lights that can guide the way through the darkness, and my goal is to blend my training and life experience to provide highly effective counseling.
(425) 358-3303 View (425) 358-3303
Photo of Meadowbrook Counseling of Washington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Meadowbrook Counseling of Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
I hope this message finds you in good health and spirits. Navigating through life's unpredictable nature can lead to feelings of disarray, anxiety, and uncertainty. If you are experiencing such feelings, please know that you are not alone. I am here to accompany you on this journey, offering a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and professional expertise to guide you through these trying times.
I hope this message finds you in good health and spirits. Navigating through life's unpredictable nature can lead to feelings of disarray, anxiety, and uncertainty. If you are experiencing such feelings, please know that you are not alone. I am here to accompany you on this journey, offering a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and professional expertise to guide you through these trying times.
(425) 584-5967 View (425) 584-5967
Photo of Melanie Vallee, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Melanie Vallee
Counselor, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with teens, adults, couples and families, and I believe in the healing power of relationships: no matter the wounds, if all parties are willing to heal, I will help. In today’s changing environment, we are often disconnected and fragmented; this can be seen and felt on both micro and macro levels, contributing to high levels of stress and anxiety. I am fiercely committed to restoring essential connections in our relationships with one another, our environment and mother earth. One of my primary goals is helping others achieve optimal performance in personal, relational, and professional areas of one’s life.
I enjoy working with teens, adults, couples and families, and I believe in the healing power of relationships: no matter the wounds, if all parties are willing to heal, I will help. In today’s changing environment, we are often disconnected and fragmented; this can be seen and felt on both micro and macro levels, contributing to high levels of stress and anxiety. I am fiercely committed to restoring essential connections in our relationships with one another, our environment and mother earth. One of my primary goals is helping others achieve optimal performance in personal, relational, and professional areas of one’s life.
(425) 998-9243 View (425) 998-9243

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Wai Wong-Miller, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Wai Wong-Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
I see clients who are interested in trauma work, sex education and therapy, mood disorders, racial/cultural identity issues, and relationship problems. I am a certified EMDR therapist and a sex therapist. I provide a non-judgment safe space for you to work on issues that may often be difficult and scary to talk about. My style is to be interactive and engage in providing emotional support, active listening, insight, clinical recommendations and alternative perspectives which challenge old patterns. My strengths are being intuitive, empathetic, focused, creative, and having a good sense of humor.
I see clients who are interested in trauma work, sex education and therapy, mood disorders, racial/cultural identity issues, and relationship problems. I am a certified EMDR therapist and a sex therapist. I provide a non-judgment safe space for you to work on issues that may often be difficult and scary to talk about. My style is to be interactive and engage in providing emotional support, active listening, insight, clinical recommendations and alternative perspectives which challenge old patterns. My strengths are being intuitive, empathetic, focused, creative, and having a good sense of humor.
(206) 569-8904 View (206) 569-8904
Photo of Jen Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Jen Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Waitlist for new clients
I offer traditional CBT and solution-focused talk therapy as well as trauma-responsive, body-integrative approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), mindfulness, and sex therapy.
It’s hard to be a person. Even when life is at its most joyful, our relationships, our pasts, and the constant presence of change can be overwhelming, confusing, or defeating. I’m here to help with that. Therapy is my second career. I chose this work because I believe everybody deserves nonjudgmental support, whether they are in crisis, preparing for change, or simply stuck. I have seen what can happen when pain has no witness. I have also experienced the transformations that can take place when hurt and struggle are seen, heard, and met with compassion, understanding, and perspective.
I offer traditional CBT and solution-focused talk therapy as well as trauma-responsive, body-integrative approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), mindfulness, and sex therapy.
It’s hard to be a person. Even when life is at its most joyful, our relationships, our pasts, and the constant presence of change can be overwhelming, confusing, or defeating. I’m here to help with that. Therapy is my second career. I chose this work because I believe everybody deserves nonjudgmental support, whether they are in crisis, preparing for change, or simply stuck. I have seen what can happen when pain has no witness. I have also experienced the transformations that can take place when hurt and struggle are seen, heard, and met with compassion, understanding, and perspective.
(206) 888-6251 View (206) 888-6251
Photo of Blair Morgan-Livingston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Blair Morgan-Livingston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I believe in the importance of helping individuals seeking to show up authentically in all parts of their lives. Through compassion, non-judgmental guidance, and by challenging patterns where you find yourself stuck, we are able to promote personal growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to better understand their boundaries and how to strengthen their ability to communicate them. My approach to counseling is informed by CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and EMDR. EMDR therapy is an effective therapy method that supports healing from trauma, ingrained negative core beliefs, and other distressing life experiences.
I believe in the importance of helping individuals seeking to show up authentically in all parts of their lives. Through compassion, non-judgmental guidance, and by challenging patterns where you find yourself stuck, we are able to promote personal growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to better understand their boundaries and how to strengthen their ability to communicate them. My approach to counseling is informed by CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and EMDR. EMDR therapy is an effective therapy method that supports healing from trauma, ingrained negative core beliefs, and other distressing life experiences.
(206) 823-3277 View (206) 823-3277
Photo of Regan Rowell Therapy, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Kirkland, WA
Regan Rowell Therapy, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
With specialized training in Trauma, Sex Therapy, and EMDR, I work with clients to help uncover past experiences and connect them to current distress showing up in their life.
As an individual and couples therapist, with a focus on sex therapy and trauma, I work to support clients in stepping into their lives in a more embodied and authentic way. What you are experiencing is valid and as humans, connection and support can be monumental during difficult times. I bring warmth into my work and value helping my clients improve connection to themselves, their relationships with others, and their sexuality. I will work alongside you to reflect in a meaningful and validating way, beginning to heal the trauma holistically both in your mind and body.
With specialized training in Trauma, Sex Therapy, and EMDR, I work with clients to help uncover past experiences and connect them to current distress showing up in their life.
As an individual and couples therapist, with a focus on sex therapy and trauma, I work to support clients in stepping into their lives in a more embodied and authentic way. What you are experiencing is valid and as humans, connection and support can be monumental during difficult times. I bring warmth into my work and value helping my clients improve connection to themselves, their relationships with others, and their sexuality. I will work alongside you to reflect in a meaningful and validating way, beginning to heal the trauma holistically both in your mind and body.
(206) 984-1947 View (206) 984-1947
Photo of Lynn Fitz-Hugh, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Lynn Fitz-Hugh
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
In practice since 1994, as a therapist I have learned many ways of approaching issues with clients and can really tailor to your needs and what works best for you. The agenda for therapy is set by you. I also have a wide array of experience working with various issues. I often use EMDR which is considered the treatment of choice for PTSD and also very effective with panic attacks, phobias, performance issues, etc. I believe that no one has to be stuck with the ways they were injured in life.
In practice since 1994, as a therapist I have learned many ways of approaching issues with clients and can really tailor to your needs and what works best for you. The agenda for therapy is set by you. I also have a wide array of experience working with various issues. I often use EMDR which is considered the treatment of choice for PTSD and also very effective with panic attacks, phobias, performance issues, etc. I believe that no one has to be stuck with the ways they were injured in life.
(206) 539-0651 View (206) 539-0651
Photo of Laura Merritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Laura Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing chronic stress or the effects of trauma? With over 20 years of experience, I've helped folks just like you heal from mental health concerns like anxiety, mood disorders and trauma. Together, we'll work towards lasting healing by getting to the root cause of your concerns, cultivating a calm body and develop skills to handle difficult emotions. We'll use modalities like EMDR, cognitive and somatic therapies, to facilitate sustainable change. Specializing in Anxiety, PTSD and life after trauma, I create a safe place for building a strong therapeutic relationship an open space to explore your most vulnerable parts.
Are you experiencing chronic stress or the effects of trauma? With over 20 years of experience, I've helped folks just like you heal from mental health concerns like anxiety, mood disorders and trauma. Together, we'll work towards lasting healing by getting to the root cause of your concerns, cultivating a calm body and develop skills to handle difficult emotions. We'll use modalities like EMDR, cognitive and somatic therapies, to facilitate sustainable change. Specializing in Anxiety, PTSD and life after trauma, I create a safe place for building a strong therapeutic relationship an open space to explore your most vulnerable parts.
(425) 522-8229 View (425) 522-8229
Photo of Erika Baxter, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Erika Baxter
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am certified as a Domestic Violence Advocate and specialize in treating trauma using several modalities, including EMDR/Flash Technique and Neurobiological Therapy.
Therapies that focus on brain change, heal symptoms more rapidly and get to the deepest part of the issue. I work from a positive perspective that is both challenging and supportive simultaneously. Some people come to me to grow in areas of peak performance and others come to break free from the gridlock they experience in their significant relationships. Many people are stuck in a depressive or anxious cycle that doesn't allow them to be authentic in how they engage the world. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I love it.
I am certified as a Domestic Violence Advocate and specialize in treating trauma using several modalities, including EMDR/Flash Technique and Neurobiological Therapy.
Therapies that focus on brain change, heal symptoms more rapidly and get to the deepest part of the issue. I work from a positive perspective that is both challenging and supportive simultaneously. Some people come to me to grow in areas of peak performance and others come to break free from the gridlock they experience in their significant relationships. Many people are stuck in a depressive or anxious cycle that doesn't allow them to be authentic in how they engage the world. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I love it.
(425) 249-3548 View (425) 249-3548
Photo of Karlie Markendorf, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Karlie Markendorf
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
During times of stress and transition, seeking therapy can be a source of support, comfort, and even inspiration. My experience has focused on creative and body-centered approaches to growth and healing, including art therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, dreamwork, and EMDR. This includes grief work and issues that accompany trauma-related treatment, such as anxiety, depression, and existential/spiritual issues. Additional themes in clients' healing work include explorations of relationships, sexuality, and identity. I love working co-creatively with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
During times of stress and transition, seeking therapy can be a source of support, comfort, and even inspiration. My experience has focused on creative and body-centered approaches to growth and healing, including art therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, dreamwork, and EMDR. This includes grief work and issues that accompany trauma-related treatment, such as anxiety, depression, and existential/spiritual issues. Additional themes in clients' healing work include explorations of relationships, sexuality, and identity. I love working co-creatively with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(206) 557-6657 View (206) 557-6657
Photo of Marina Vile, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Marina Vile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
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 Alaina McManus, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Alaina McManus
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
I’m also trained in EMDR and Gottman Level 1.
I work with people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like their emotions are out of control… they feel like they're on a treadmill, trying so hard but getting nowhere, relationships aren’t what they want them to be, maybe they don’t have enough energy to do things and rest isn’t restful. Or maybe it’s that they're not making progress on meaningful things and instead seem caught up in surviving day-to-day.
I’m also trained in EMDR and Gottman Level 1.
I work with people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like their emotions are out of control… they feel like they're on a treadmill, trying so hard but getting nowhere, relationships aren’t what they want them to be, maybe they don’t have enough energy to do things and rest isn’t restful. Or maybe it’s that they're not making progress on meaningful things and instead seem caught up in surviving day-to-day.
(425) 537-6058 View (425) 537-6058
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.