EMDR Therapists in Jackson, WY

Photo of Lorraine Steinheimer Thompson - Teton Wellness Affiliates, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Teton Wellness Affiliates
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
Teton Wellness Affiliates now offers Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I work with children, teens and adults on a variety of issues. Using a strength-based approach, my goal is help you feel happy and whole. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism or having difficulty processing trauma, I can help you or your child learn ways to manage those feelings and feel like yourself again.
Teton Wellness Affiliates now offers Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I work with children, teens and adults on a variety of issues. Using a strength-based approach, my goal is help you feel happy and whole. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism or having difficulty processing trauma, I can help you or your child learn ways to manage those feelings and feel like yourself again.
(307) 213-4956 View (307) 213-4956
Photo of Elizabeth Koutrelakos, LCSW, NBCHWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Koutrelakos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NBCHWC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
I am trained in a variety of treatment techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), DBT, CBT and mindfulness.
Counseling for children, teens and adults who are seeking support to improve social and emotional wellbeing and alleviate distress. As an LCSW, I work with individuals in finding their own inner expert. I believe that people intrinsically have the strengths to lead happy and productive lives but are sometimes unable to leverage those internal resources when faced with adversities such as loss, trauma, depression or anxiety. I work with people as they understand their own struggles to help them address past issues that contribute to their present mindset and develop strategies using their internal resources.
I am trained in a variety of treatment techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), DBT, CBT and mindfulness.
Counseling for children, teens and adults who are seeking support to improve social and emotional wellbeing and alleviate distress. As an LCSW, I work with individuals in finding their own inner expert. I believe that people intrinsically have the strengths to lead happy and productive lives but are sometimes unable to leverage those internal resources when faced with adversities such as loss, trauma, depression or anxiety. I work with people as they understand their own struggles to help them address past issues that contribute to their present mindset and develop strategies using their internal resources.
(307) 522-1298 View (307) 522-1298
Photo of Amy Lyons, PhD, LPC, Counselor
Amy Lyons
Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83002
Specialization: Depression, Anxiety, Couples, Parenting, Grief, Work and Career, Stress Management, Biblical Counseling, Conflict Resolution, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
Specialization: Depression, Anxiety, Couples, Parenting, Grief, Work and Career, Stress Management, Biblical Counseling, Conflict Resolution, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
(307) 298-5899 View (307) 298-5899
Photo of Stephanie Kiser, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Kiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
I have specialized training in trauma work, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) among other modalities, and I have extensive experience working with adult, child, and adolescent survivors of trauma.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and mental health therapist who has served the Jackson community for over ten years. Choosing to seek out therapy can be a step toward healing, health, and growth, and I'd love to partner with you in working through your struggles. I specialize in focused trauma work with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition to trauma work, I have supported clients over the years in exploring life transitions, anxiety and depression, self-esteem, self-awareness, relationship issues, grief and loss, emotional and behavioral issues, divorce, health issues, and larger life questions.
I have specialized training in trauma work, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) among other modalities, and I have extensive experience working with adult, child, and adolescent survivors of trauma.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and mental health therapist who has served the Jackson community for over ten years. Choosing to seek out therapy can be a step toward healing, health, and growth, and I'd love to partner with you in working through your struggles. I specialize in focused trauma work with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition to trauma work, I have supported clients over the years in exploring life transitions, anxiety and depression, self-esteem, self-awareness, relationship issues, grief and loss, emotional and behavioral issues, divorce, health issues, and larger life questions.
(307) 312-2980 View (307) 312-2980
Photo of Frances Saalfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances Saalfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
I also use parts work and EMDR to help navigate the healing process.
I believe therapy is an opportunity that we can give ourselves in order to ultimately live a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.
I also use parts work and EMDR to help navigate the healing process.
I believe therapy is an opportunity that we can give ourselves in order to ultimately live a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.
(307) 207-5061 View (307) 207-5061
Photo of Jeff Decker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Decker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83002
Certified in EMDR.
Although it is often difficult to find, there is a path from where you are in your life now to where you want to be, who you want to be. Through the use of evidence-based therapies I help individuals who are motivated to find relief from psychiatric, emotional and behavioral disorders as well as those seeking to advance where they are in their lives. I am licensed in Wyoming and Idaho with offices in Jackson, WY and Driggs, ID. Specializing in adults suffering from depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic abuse and other psychiatric disorders.
Certified in EMDR.
Although it is often difficult to find, there is a path from where you are in your life now to where you want to be, who you want to be. Through the use of evidence-based therapies I help individuals who are motivated to find relief from psychiatric, emotional and behavioral disorders as well as those seeking to advance where they are in their lives. I am licensed in Wyoming and Idaho with offices in Jackson, WY and Driggs, ID. Specializing in adults suffering from depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic abuse and other psychiatric disorders.
(307) 317-0946 View (307) 317-0946
Photo of Lenka Cervenanova, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lenka Cervenanova
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Hypnotherapy.
Lenka's practice focuses on offering individual counseling for adolescent and adults. Lenka is an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) provider trained by the EMDR International Institute, helping clients with past traumatic experiences. Her personalized and individualized methods incorporate an empathic, practical, and relational approach to psychotherapy with clients and their families. Lenka makes sure to understand the client's background and cultural beliefs at the moment of implementing a treatment plan to address the client's needs and concerns.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Hypnotherapy.
Lenka's practice focuses on offering individual counseling for adolescent and adults. Lenka is an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) provider trained by the EMDR International Institute, helping clients with past traumatic experiences. Her personalized and individualized methods incorporate an empathic, practical, and relational approach to psychotherapy with clients and their families. Lenka makes sure to understand the client's background and cultural beliefs at the moment of implementing a treatment plan to address the client's needs and concerns.
(307) 227-4152 View (307) 227-4152
Photo of Paige Johnston, MS, PPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Johnston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
Paige Johnston grew up in Jackson, WY, and has a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wyoming. She has a deep love for our Teton County community and is very invested in the well-being of its residents. She uses a variety of therapeutic modalities in her sessions that are tailored to meet the needs and preferences of each individual. Paige’s modalities include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Somatic Therapy and mindfulness-based approaches.
Paige Johnston grew up in Jackson, WY, and has a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wyoming. She has a deep love for our Teton County community and is very invested in the well-being of its residents. She uses a variety of therapeutic modalities in her sessions that are tailored to meet the needs and preferences of each individual. Paige’s modalities include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Somatic Therapy and mindfulness-based approaches.
(307) 224-9549 View (307) 224-9549
Photo of Nancy Turley, MA, LPC, CAC, II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Turley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAC, II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
I am best suited to treating individuals and couples with relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I use EMDR as well as traditional talk therapy. I am comfortable working with a wide variety of issues. I enjoy helping my clients discover their inner strength and potential and working to make improvements in their lives. From adolescents to baby boomers and beyond, I feel suited for the diversity and uniqueness of my clients. My special interest in womens' mood disorders has led me to working with pre and postpartum issues with women and couples.
I am best suited to treating individuals and couples with relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I use EMDR as well as traditional talk therapy. I am comfortable working with a wide variety of issues. I enjoy helping my clients discover their inner strength and potential and working to make improvements in their lives. From adolescents to baby boomers and beyond, I feel suited for the diversity and uniqueness of my clients. My special interest in womens' mood disorders has led me to working with pre and postpartum issues with women and couples.
(303) 647-9261 View (303) 647-9261
Photo of Vista Counseling - Vista Counseling, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vista Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
Our team has six EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing), a hypnotherapist, and a Neurofeedback provider.
Daniela Peterson is the founder and clinical director of the group practice "Vista Counseling". Our practice has a skilled team of seven therapists and a case manager. We offer an integrative approach to healing the mind, making sure to select and implement a counseling approach determined by the needs, personality traits, cultural background, and therapeutic goals of our client. We incorporate cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, systemic perspectives, EMDR within a culturally sensitive approach. We work with children, adolescents, and adults focused on providing compassionate mental health care to clients and their families.
Our team has six EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing), a hypnotherapist, and a Neurofeedback provider.
Daniela Peterson is the founder and clinical director of the group practice "Vista Counseling". Our practice has a skilled team of seven therapists and a case manager. We offer an integrative approach to healing the mind, making sure to select and implement a counseling approach determined by the needs, personality traits, cultural background, and therapeutic goals of our client. We incorporate cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, systemic perspectives, EMDR within a culturally sensitive approach. We work with children, adolescents, and adults focused on providing compassionate mental health care to clients and their families.
(307) 522-1737 View (307) 522-1737
Photo of Jen McNaughton, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen McNaughton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
She often uses Brainspotting, EMDR and art therapy.
Jen is well-versed in treating depression, anxiety, complex trauma and co-occurring mental health diagnoses in adults and families. She works well with neurodiverse clients and those with emotional regulation issues. Jen uses many of common modalities including Internal Family Systems, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. She often incorporates art and creativity as additional support. Jen strives to help clients find what works for their goals and needs both in the short and long term.
She often uses Brainspotting, EMDR and art therapy.
Jen is well-versed in treating depression, anxiety, complex trauma and co-occurring mental health diagnoses in adults and families. She works well with neurodiverse clients and those with emotional regulation issues. Jen uses many of common modalities including Internal Family Systems, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. She often incorporates art and creativity as additional support. Jen strives to help clients find what works for their goals and needs both in the short and long term.
(720) 802-3016 View (720) 802-3016
Photo of Rachel Mackey, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Mackey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
Specializing in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Somatic Therapy), Internal Family Systems, Synergetic Play Therapy, and EMDR I use a mix of somatic and talk therapies because sometimes words are not enough.
Hi there! Are you struggling with identity, life transitions, anxiety, grief and loss, difficulty finding motivation, or trauma recovery? I’m so glad you're here and considering reaching out for support. I'm a Queer and Neurodiversity-affirming therapist and would love to support you on your path to feeling more whole and connected to yourself and those around you. I have a passion for working with children, teens, and adults who've experienced difficult or traumatic life events, struggle with feeling stuck or lost, caught in anxiety, and who wish for greater fulfillment in their relationships.
Specializing in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Somatic Therapy), Internal Family Systems, Synergetic Play Therapy, and EMDR I use a mix of somatic and talk therapies because sometimes words are not enough.
Hi there! Are you struggling with identity, life transitions, anxiety, grief and loss, difficulty finding motivation, or trauma recovery? I’m so glad you're here and considering reaching out for support. I'm a Queer and Neurodiversity-affirming therapist and would love to support you on your path to feeling more whole and connected to yourself and those around you. I have a passion for working with children, teens, and adults who've experienced difficult or traumatic life events, struggle with feeling stuck or lost, caught in anxiety, and who wish for greater fulfillment in their relationships.
(208) 795-8692 View (208) 795-8692
Photo of Andrea Swanson, MS, LPC, Counselor
Andrea Swanson
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83002
I offer tools, skills, and methods that can be used separately or together in an eclectic approach such as grounding skill, mindfulness, and somatic work, EMDR and RDI, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Auricular Acupuncture, and Trauma Informed Yoga Ryt-200.
Offered in a private practice setting, clients can expect a tailored and individualized counseling experience at Paintbrush Counseling. My areas of specialty are with trauma and trauma response, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and couples work. I offer free phone consultations to answer questions about my practice approaches and philosophies. My initial goal is to ensure prospective clients connect with a counselor/ therapist who is a good fit for needs; I am happy to provide referrals as needed.
I offer tools, skills, and methods that can be used separately or together in an eclectic approach such as grounding skill, mindfulness, and somatic work, EMDR and RDI, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Auricular Acupuncture, and Trauma Informed Yoga Ryt-200.
Offered in a private practice setting, clients can expect a tailored and individualized counseling experience at Paintbrush Counseling. My areas of specialty are with trauma and trauma response, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and couples work. I offer free phone consultations to answer questions about my practice approaches and philosophies. My initial goal is to ensure prospective clients connect with a counselor/ therapist who is a good fit for needs; I am happy to provide referrals as needed.
(307) 448-2386 View (307) 448-2386
Photo of Mary Ellen Sternitzke, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Ellen Sternitzke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
Sternitzke has completed training for the PSI/2020 Mom Professional Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training, EMDR Level II, Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics II (NMT brain mapping), HeartMath Certification and Advanced Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) to reduce trauma and chronic pain and to improve attention, memory and concentration.
Mary Ellen Sternitzke is a licensed psychologist in Wyoming and Colorado; she earned her doctorate from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. She served as Associate and Clinical Director at Catholic Charities of Wyoming for their outpatient mental health program. Her current work with adults emphasizes solution-focused interventions, targeted EMDR for trauma and anxiety, managing ADD/ADHD, post partum anxiety and depression and negotiating transitions like bereavement and divorce.
Sternitzke has completed training for the PSI/2020 Mom Professional Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training, EMDR Level II, Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics II (NMT brain mapping), HeartMath Certification and Advanced Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) to reduce trauma and chronic pain and to improve attention, memory and concentration.
Mary Ellen Sternitzke is a licensed psychologist in Wyoming and Colorado; she earned her doctorate from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. She served as Associate and Clinical Director at Catholic Charities of Wyoming for their outpatient mental health program. Her current work with adults emphasizes solution-focused interventions, targeted EMDR for trauma and anxiety, managing ADD/ADHD, post partum anxiety and depression and negotiating transitions like bereavement and divorce.
(307) 206-0615 View (307) 206-0615
Photo of Nancy Burns, JD, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Nancy Burns
Counselor, JD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001  (Online Only)
Using elements of EMDR, SE, CBT and others, we use the mind-body connection to reduce the impact of traumatic experiences, and work on modifying troubling thoughts and the emotions and behaviors that follow, so that you feel more stable and confident.
Do you often feel like your emotions are out-of-control? Do you experience mood swings, anger, depression or anxiety? Have your relationships felt unsatisfying? Perhaps you wonder if past experiences or how you were treated as a child are affecting how you feel now. If you feel hopeless or discouraged, please know that you don’t have to feel like that! We can work together to understand your thoughts, feelings and your past. Then, we'll focus on changing patterns that keep you feeling stuck and developing new ways to cope so that you experience more of what you desire in life. Healing is possible and life can feel more satisfying!
Using elements of EMDR, SE, CBT and others, we use the mind-body connection to reduce the impact of traumatic experiences, and work on modifying troubling thoughts and the emotions and behaviors that follow, so that you feel more stable and confident.
Do you often feel like your emotions are out-of-control? Do you experience mood swings, anger, depression or anxiety? Have your relationships felt unsatisfying? Perhaps you wonder if past experiences or how you were treated as a child are affecting how you feel now. If you feel hopeless or discouraged, please know that you don’t have to feel like that! We can work together to understand your thoughts, feelings and your past. Then, we'll focus on changing patterns that keep you feeling stuck and developing new ways to cope so that you experience more of what you desire in life. Healing is possible and life can feel more satisfying!
(347) 708-9319 View (347) 708-9319
Photo of John P. Thorn, PhD, Psychologist
John P. Thorn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
Self Hypnosis is a tool I teach; EMDR my treatment of choice for PTSD.
Forty years of practice have taught me that we humans pretty much learn to be who we are. With a tip of my hat to my alma mater, the University of Minnesota, for setting me on the right track, I practice what is now known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in which we identify and challenge old, dysfunctional habits by integrating our emotions, thoughts and behaviors while learning new ways of coping with our issues. It is exciting and fulfilling to share in my clients' / patients' journeys from guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma or dysfunction to living proactively, mindfully, and joyfully.
Self Hypnosis is a tool I teach; EMDR my treatment of choice for PTSD.
Forty years of practice have taught me that we humans pretty much learn to be who we are. With a tip of my hat to my alma mater, the University of Minnesota, for setting me on the right track, I practice what is now known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in which we identify and challenge old, dysfunctional habits by integrating our emotions, thoughts and behaviors while learning new ways of coping with our issues. It is exciting and fulfilling to share in my clients' / patients' journeys from guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma or dysfunction to living proactively, mindfully, and joyfully.
(307) 877-7029 View (307) 877-7029
Photo of Megan E Graves, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan E Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
Do you find yourself repeating the same cycles over and over? Do parts of your life feel overwhelming or unmanageable? Our lives exist in cycles and we often find ourselves repeating the same things over and over; unhealthy relationships, bad habits that impede our progress, and patterns of thinking that get in our way. I want to help you become the fullest version of yourself and to help you get ahead of the behaviors that keep you stuck. I help client's to heal their traumas and other emotional wounds, improve their relationships, enhance their self-esteem, and develop a sense of calm capability to bring into their daily lives.
Do you find yourself repeating the same cycles over and over? Do parts of your life feel overwhelming or unmanageable? Our lives exist in cycles and we often find ourselves repeating the same things over and over; unhealthy relationships, bad habits that impede our progress, and patterns of thinking that get in our way. I want to help you become the fullest version of yourself and to help you get ahead of the behaviors that keep you stuck. I help client's to heal their traumas and other emotional wounds, improve their relationships, enhance their self-esteem, and develop a sense of calm capability to bring into their daily lives.
(307) 312-2485 View (307) 312-2485
Photo of Audrey Duross, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Duross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
I provide therapy to individuals, families, and groups. I have treated a broad range of diagnoses and ages. My diverse experience allows me to work successfully with a large array of clients. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by life, family, a specific event, or have struggled to feel your best for a long time, we can work together to increase control, confidence, and peace. Currently I see clients virtually and will open up in person appointments in Jackson, WY only as needed.
I provide therapy to individuals, families, and groups. I have treated a broad range of diagnoses and ages. My diverse experience allows me to work successfully with a large array of clients. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by life, family, a specific event, or have struggled to feel your best for a long time, we can work together to increase control, confidence, and peace. Currently I see clients virtually and will open up in person appointments in Jackson, WY only as needed.
(801) 590-3208 View (801) 590-3208
Photo of Ivy Assenberg, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ivy Assenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, WY 83001
Life is both wonderful and complicated. Situations in life may become too much for us to handle. You don’t have to do it on your own. I partner with clients to work through these overwhelming times. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to be curious and nonjudgmental in order to facilitate conversations that open up choices to improve your life.
Life is both wonderful and complicated. Situations in life may become too much for us to handle. You don’t have to do it on your own. I partner with clients to work through these overwhelming times. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to be curious and nonjudgmental in order to facilitate conversations that open up choices to improve your life.
(307) 241-4573 View (307) 241-4573
Photo of Antuanett Lopez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Antuanett Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, WY 83001
Antuanett completed her master’s degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling at the University of Arizona. She worked in Arizona and New Jersey before coming to Wyoming. Antuanett works with teenagers, adults and children to help overcome feelings of depression, frustration, anger and anxiety.
Antuanett completed her master’s degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling at the University of Arizona. She worked in Arizona and New Jersey before coming to Wyoming. Antuanett works with teenagers, adults and children to help overcome feelings of depression, frustration, anger and anxiety.
(307) 284-5449 View (307) 284-5449
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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.