EMDR Therapists in Key Biscayne, FL

Photo of Santiago Maldonado, Counselor, LMHC
Santiago Maldonado
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy, with a level 2 certification in Gottman Therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing trauma-focused, anxiety reduction, empowerment-focused therapy since 2019 for teen and adult patients with trauma, depression, anxiety, and ADHD. It’s about your story, how it has come to be, and where it will lead you next. I integrate multiple psychotherapeutic approaches depending on your needs and preferences to give you the insights and tools to feel good about your choices. I am a member of Alma, a collective of practitioners and am available for teletherapy. I offer one consultation free of charge so that you may ask your questions and learn more about me and my style.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy, with a level 2 certification in Gottman Therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing trauma-focused, anxiety reduction, empowerment-focused therapy since 2019 for teen and adult patients with trauma, depression, anxiety, and ADHD. It’s about your story, how it has come to be, and where it will lead you next. I integrate multiple psychotherapeutic approaches depending on your needs and preferences to give you the insights and tools to feel good about your choices. I am a member of Alma, a collective of practitioners and am available for teletherapy. I offer one consultation free of charge so that you may ask your questions and learn more about me and my style.
(786) 705-8330 View (786) 705-8330
Photo of Amy Elizabeth Greene, Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Amy Elizabeth Greene
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in somatic/ mind-body techniques like EMDR, Hypnotherapy and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Here we go again, another day of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, tense in your stomach, aches & pains in your body with intrusive, racing thoughts that feel like they have hijacked your brain. Are you frustrated that you can't seem to reach your goals and dreams in career or relationships despite your best efforts & intentions, like something is blocking you? Feel like you don't fit in, "too sensitive or overly emotional"? Do you absorb the energy around you? Do you want to help others with their pain, yet you neglect your own problems? You are at war with an invisible enemy, tired of watching life go by while you are missing out.
I specialize in somatic/ mind-body techniques like EMDR, Hypnotherapy and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Here we go again, another day of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, tense in your stomach, aches & pains in your body with intrusive, racing thoughts that feel like they have hijacked your brain. Are you frustrated that you can't seem to reach your goals and dreams in career or relationships despite your best efforts & intentions, like something is blocking you? Feel like you don't fit in, "too sensitive or overly emotional"? Do you absorb the energy around you? Do you want to help others with their pain, yet you neglect your own problems? You are at war with an invisible enemy, tired of watching life go by while you are missing out.
(786) 686-1062 View (786) 686-1062
Photo of Paulo Lazaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CBT, EMDR, NLP
Paulo Lazaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CBT, EMDR, NLP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Bioenergetic, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and EMDR approaches.
I work with couples and adult individuals experiencing relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and the impact of past trauma on their personal and/or professional lives. My approach is collaborative, constructive, and tailored to each person’s unique circumstances. Together, we will focus on the goals that matter most to you—whether that means feeling better emotionally, improving your relationships, or developing a stronger sense of purpose and direction in your life. These goals will guide the course of our work together. I am fully committed to helping you move toward the changes and growth you are seeking
I integrate Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Bioenergetic, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and EMDR approaches.
I work with couples and adult individuals experiencing relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and the impact of past trauma on their personal and/or professional lives. My approach is collaborative, constructive, and tailored to each person’s unique circumstances. Together, we will focus on the goals that matter most to you—whether that means feeling better emotionally, improving your relationships, or developing a stronger sense of purpose and direction in your life. These goals will guide the course of our work together. I am fully committed to helping you move toward the changes and growth you are seeking
(305) 290-3772 View (305) 290-3772
Photo of Valentina Penalba, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Valentina Penalba
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Online Only
Sometimes, even when we know that something is wrong, we still need guidance in order to disentangle the problems that cause us suffering. Every problem has a solution and every difficult period can have a peaceful resolution. My therapeutic approach primarily stems from Family Systems Theory. I focus on emotional independence through individuation and help individuals, couples and families gain additional growth, strengths, and insights into their lives. I work on reducing negative communication patterns and installing love as an attachment bond.
Sometimes, even when we know that something is wrong, we still need guidance in order to disentangle the problems that cause us suffering. Every problem has a solution and every difficult period can have a peaceful resolution. My therapeutic approach primarily stems from Family Systems Theory. I focus on emotional independence through individuation and help individuals, couples and families gain additional growth, strengths, and insights into their lives. I work on reducing negative communication patterns and installing love as an attachment bond.
(314) 310-6923 View (314) 310-6923
Photo of Vanessa Molina - Vanessa Molina - EMDR Trauma & Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Vanessa Molina - EMDR Trauma & Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in EMDR therapy, trauma, couples therapy, attachment wounds, narcissistic abuse recovery, and helping individuals, couples, teens, and families create healthier relationship patterns.
Anxiety, relationship stress, and past experiences are leaving you feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns you cannot seem to break. Your relationships feel harder than they should. You overthink everything, struggle with boundaries, replay conversations in your head, and feel like you are carrying the emotional weight of everyone around you. Maybe you are healing from heartbreak, betrayal, family conflict, a toxic relationship, narcissistic abuse, or years of feeling emotionally unseen.
I specialize in EMDR therapy, trauma, couples therapy, attachment wounds, narcissistic abuse recovery, and helping individuals, couples, teens, and families create healthier relationship patterns.
Anxiety, relationship stress, and past experiences are leaving you feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns you cannot seem to break. Your relationships feel harder than they should. You overthink everything, struggle with boundaries, replay conversations in your head, and feel like you are carrying the emotional weight of everyone around you. Maybe you are healing from heartbreak, betrayal, family conflict, a toxic relationship, narcissistic abuse, or years of feeling emotionally unseen.
(786) 952-7940 View (786) 952-7940
Photo of Robyn Sheiniuk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Robyn Sheiniuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
9 Endorsed
Online Only
My lived experience gives my training in insight-oriented therapies and EMDR a unique perspective.
You present a face to the world that tells everyone you’re handling your stressors with ease. You're usually the go-to person in your closest relationships, but now you're wondering why no one checks in on you, and you realize that you've never given them a reason to. You appear fine on the outside, but when you get in touch with how you feel deep down, you notice sadness, numbness, disconnection, or overwhelm. You don’t have to stay disconnected from your relationships or feelings. Nor do you need to get consumed by them. They don't have to continue to overwhelm you. And you don't need to go through them alone.
My lived experience gives my training in insight-oriented therapies and EMDR a unique perspective.
You present a face to the world that tells everyone you’re handling your stressors with ease. You're usually the go-to person in your closest relationships, but now you're wondering why no one checks in on you, and you realize that you've never given them a reason to. You appear fine on the outside, but when you get in touch with how you feel deep down, you notice sadness, numbness, disconnection, or overwhelm. You don’t have to stay disconnected from your relationships or feelings. Nor do you need to get consumed by them. They don't have to continue to overwhelm you. And you don't need to go through them alone.
(323) 834-9025 View (323) 834-9025
Photo of Alexandra Vavoulis, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Alexandra Vavoulis
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Serves Area
I'm trained in EMDR to help you process those lingering past experiences and in Gottman couples therapy to guide you through the ups and downs of relationships.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re constantly questioning yourself? Maybe you’re navigating a tough breakup, feeling anxious about the future, or wondering why your relationships feel so hard. You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I specialize in helping people in their 20s and 30s who feel like they’re at a crossroads. Life transitions, relationship struggles, and self-doubt can feel heavy, but you don’t have to carry that weight alone.
I'm trained in EMDR to help you process those lingering past experiences and in Gottman couples therapy to guide you through the ups and downs of relationships.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re constantly questioning yourself? Maybe you’re navigating a tough breakup, feeling anxious about the future, or wondering why your relationships feel so hard. You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I specialize in helping people in their 20s and 30s who feel like they’re at a crossroads. Life transitions, relationship struggles, and self-doubt can feel heavy, but you don’t have to carry that weight alone.
(786) 751-5179 View (786) 751-5179

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Briana Saavedra, MS, EdS, LMHC, NCC
Briana Saavedra
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
In my practice, I integrate trauma-informed approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients process and heal from difficult experiences.
I’m here for you. Life can be challenging, and sometimes it feels like you're facing obstacles that are too big to overcome. But you don’t have to face those challenges alone, and it doesn’t have to feel this way forever. I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey, offering guidance and support every step of the way. Together, we'll create a therapy plan that’s unique to you; one that aligns with your needs, goals, and vision for your life.
In my practice, I integrate trauma-informed approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients process and heal from difficult experiences.
I’m here for you. Life can be challenging, and sometimes it feels like you're facing obstacles that are too big to overcome. But you don’t have to face those challenges alone, and it doesn’t have to feel this way forever. I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey, offering guidance and support every step of the way. Together, we'll create a therapy plan that’s unique to you; one that aligns with your needs, goals, and vision for your life.
(850) 753-0959 View (850) 753-0959
Photo of Valerie Libutti, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Valerie Libutti
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a mix of relational therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
Hi! I am a pre-licensed mental health counselor with a passion for working with folks navigating complex trauma, ADHD, body image struggles, and disordered eating. My approach is body-neutral, queer-affirming, and informed by Health at Every Size. I understand the weight of generational patterns, family expectations, and the ways we learn to carry our emotional experiences. I also bring a deep respect for the unique identity and experiences of each of my clients.
I use a mix of relational therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
Hi! I am a pre-licensed mental health counselor with a passion for working with folks navigating complex trauma, ADHD, body image struggles, and disordered eating. My approach is body-neutral, queer-affirming, and informed by Health at Every Size. I understand the weight of generational patterns, family expectations, and the ways we learn to carry our emotional experiences. I also bring a deep respect for the unique identity and experiences of each of my clients.
(786) 772-3283 View (786) 772-3283
Photo of Amanda Parmley, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LCMHC
Amanda Parmley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use EMDR therapy, CBT-I (the gold-standard treatment for insomnia), and ERP to help clients change the patterns underneath anxiety, quiet the inner critic, and restore healthy sleep.
You're exhausted in every sense of the word but somehow your brain still finds a way to come alive the second your head hits the pillow. You’re doing everything “right,” but no matter how hard you try, your brain won’t shut off, your body won’t stay asleep, and every night feels like a battle you’re losing. You know how important sleep is for your health, but no matter what you try, nothing seems to work. Nights are restless, mornings are heavy, and the frustration just keeps building.
I use EMDR therapy, CBT-I (the gold-standard treatment for insomnia), and ERP to help clients change the patterns underneath anxiety, quiet the inner critic, and restore healthy sleep.
You're exhausted in every sense of the word but somehow your brain still finds a way to come alive the second your head hits the pillow. You’re doing everything “right,” but no matter how hard you try, your brain won’t shut off, your body won’t stay asleep, and every night feels like a battle you’re losing. You know how important sleep is for your health, but no matter what you try, nothing seems to work. Nights are restless, mornings are heavy, and the frustration just keeps building.
(727) 607-8067 View (727) 607-8067
Photo of Dr. Dave Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Dr. Dave Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, disconnected from yourself in relationships or struggling with sexuality or intimacy, you’re not alone. You don’t need to have it figured out or know how to explain it. You may find yourself caught in patterns of overthinking, overgiving, or losing your sense of self. You may also find yourself struggling with emotional or sexual experiences that feel difficult to understand, talk about, or manage.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, disconnected from yourself in relationships or struggling with sexuality or intimacy, you’re not alone. You don’t need to have it figured out or know how to explain it. You may find yourself caught in patterns of overthinking, overgiving, or losing your sense of self. You may also find yourself struggling with emotional or sexual experiences that feel difficult to understand, talk about, or manage.
(215) 995-0054 View (215) 995-0054
Photo of Dalie Dominguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dalie Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additional training include EMDR, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, Imago and psychodynamic theory.
In life we go through many changes such as divorce, grief & loss, trauma, chronic illness, childhood neglect, abusive relationships and many others. These difficult times leave us feeling off balance, depressed, anxious or just stuck and feeling broken. Allow me to walk with you and see you through your struggle and pain to a place of contentment. Start by making an appointment www.Kintsugitherapyservices.com ​-Se Habla Espanol. Currently working with individuals that are struggling with making the decision about transitioning and detransitioning trauma.
Additional training include EMDR, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, Imago and psychodynamic theory.
In life we go through many changes such as divorce, grief & loss, trauma, chronic illness, childhood neglect, abusive relationships and many others. These difficult times leave us feeling off balance, depressed, anxious or just stuck and feeling broken. Allow me to walk with you and see you through your struggle and pain to a place of contentment. Start by making an appointment www.Kintsugitherapyservices.com ​-Se Habla Espanol. Currently working with individuals that are struggling with making the decision about transitioning and detransitioning trauma.
(844) 735-5996 View (844) 735-5996
Photo of Jacob R Price, Counselor, LMHC
Jacob R Price
Counselor, LMHC
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
To live a rich and meaningful life means to experience a wide variety of emotions, some of which are more desirable than others. Sometimes our life experiences can be so overwhelming that we find ourselves struggling just to get through the day. For some of us, mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD or substance abuse problems can make life difficult or even unmanageable. I believe that therapy is a place where people experiencing mental distress can process emotions, learn coping skills and work toward goals in a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment.
To live a rich and meaningful life means to experience a wide variety of emotions, some of which are more desirable than others. Sometimes our life experiences can be so overwhelming that we find ourselves struggling just to get through the day. For some of us, mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD or substance abuse problems can make life difficult or even unmanageable. I believe that therapy is a place where people experiencing mental distress can process emotions, learn coping skills and work toward goals in a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment.
(850) 378-4069 View (850) 378-4069
Photo of Travis Chazon, Counselor, LMHC
Travis Chazon
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I am a licensed mental health therapist with over 4 years of experience. My primary focus is on supporting individuals struggling with addiction and mood disorders. However, I also have extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns that can impact overall well-being. My passion lies in collaborating with clients to develop healthy coping mechanisms and achieve a greater sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. Our first session will be dedicated to getting to know each other. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy and explore the challenges you're facing in more detail.
I am a licensed mental health therapist with over 4 years of experience. My primary focus is on supporting individuals struggling with addiction and mood disorders. However, I also have extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns that can impact overall well-being. My passion lies in collaborating with clients to develop healthy coping mechanisms and achieve a greater sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. Our first session will be dedicated to getting to know each other. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy and explore the challenges you're facing in more detail.
(561) 693-1728 View (561) 693-1728
Photo of Allyson Chen, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Allyson Chen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
By utilizing solution focused therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing and EMDR therapy, I help my clients to be more insightful, balanced and embrace their life.
I am very cultural competitive that I am the first generation of immigrant and I am originally from Taiwan. As bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese, I have great knowledge of Asian culture and my diverse life experiences have provided great knowledge and insight of cultural differences.
By utilizing solution focused therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing and EMDR therapy, I help my clients to be more insightful, balanced and embrace their life.
I am very cultural competitive that I am the first generation of immigrant and I am originally from Taiwan. As bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese, I have great knowledge of Asian culture and my diverse life experiences have provided great knowledge and insight of cultural differences.
(321) 221-5188 View (321) 221-5188
Photo of Alyssa Labat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alyssa Labat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am fully trained in EMDR, which helps heal from trauma and other distressing experiences, as well as ERP, which is the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Have you experienced something traumatic? Are you grieving? Hurting? Is life feeling overwhelming right now? Sometimes life has mountains, and sometimes it has valleys. Sometimes when you are in the valley, it feels like you will never get out. Maybe you or your child are struggling with intense emotions that feel impossible to manage. Maybe you feel that you will never get out of that valley. And it may seem that way! But there is HOPE. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and its role in producing change. And I am absolutely a believer that there is always hope.
I am fully trained in EMDR, which helps heal from trauma and other distressing experiences, as well as ERP, which is the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Have you experienced something traumatic? Are you grieving? Hurting? Is life feeling overwhelming right now? Sometimes life has mountains, and sometimes it has valleys. Sometimes when you are in the valley, it feels like you will never get out. Maybe you or your child are struggling with intense emotions that feel impossible to manage. Maybe you feel that you will never get out of that valley. And it may seem that way! But there is HOPE. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and its role in producing change. And I am absolutely a believer that there is always hope.
(904) 593-2921 View (904) 593-2921
Photo of Julieta Rodriguez - Julieta Rodriguez PhD PA, Psychologist, PhD
Julieta Rodriguez PhD PA
Psychologist, PhD
Miami, FL 33157
I use evidence based techniques including CBT, EMDR and schema therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Miami. Individuals seeking therapy should feel that they "click" with their therapist and that they have established a connection. The therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in a successful therapy outcome.
I use evidence based techniques including CBT, EMDR and schema therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Miami. Individuals seeking therapy should feel that they "click" with their therapist and that they have established a connection. The therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in a successful therapy outcome.
(305) 982-7918 View (305) 982-7918
Photo of Karie Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Karie Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like you’re constantly "on," managing the world around you while feeling disconnected from yourself? Or do you struggle with letting go of the past and moving forward? What is holding you back from having the life you want? Perhaps you’ve tried talk therapy before, but you’re still carrying the weight of old patterns, stress, or memories that won't let go. You aren't looking for just another person to vent to—you’re looking for a way to actually feel better, move faster, and regain your peace. I have over 26 years of clinical experience and am ready to help you resolve those questions!
Do you feel like you’re constantly "on," managing the world around you while feeling disconnected from yourself? Or do you struggle with letting go of the past and moving forward? What is holding you back from having the life you want? Perhaps you’ve tried talk therapy before, but you’re still carrying the weight of old patterns, stress, or memories that won't let go. You aren't looking for just another person to vent to—you’re looking for a way to actually feel better, move faster, and regain your peace. I have over 26 years of clinical experience and am ready to help you resolve those questions!
(689) 302-3483 View (689) 302-3483
Photo of John S Auerbach, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
John S Auerbach
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational. I believe that most of our distress in life, often in the form of anxiety, depression, or uncontrolled anger, arises from unresolved conflicts in our important relationships, past and present, and that psychotherapy works by providing a new relationship-a supportive, empathic one in a which person can explore these important interpersonal connections, come to understand them in new ways, and change them. I focus the dialogue on a person's significant relationships, past and current, and on the feelings that one has about oneself and the important people in one's life.
My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational. I believe that most of our distress in life, often in the form of anxiety, depression, or uncontrolled anger, arises from unresolved conflicts in our important relationships, past and present, and that psychotherapy works by providing a new relationship-a supportive, empathic one in a which person can explore these important interpersonal connections, come to understand them in new ways, and change them. I focus the dialogue on a person's significant relationships, past and current, and on the feelings that one has about oneself and the important people in one's life.
(352) 504-3771 View (352) 504-3771
Photo of Stephanie Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW, JD
Stephanie Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW, JD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My theoretical orientation is eclectic and integrative incorporating interpersonal process therapy (IPT) (here and now), psychodynamic, relational and CBT models. I approach therapy from a strengths based approach, focusing on client’s inherent strengths and resiliencies rather than their weaknesses. I also utilize CBT to focus on changing negative core beliefs and cognitive distortions and DBT to teach distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal assertiveness skills. Lastly, I am very relational in my approach in order to provide clients with a corrective emotional experience and holding environment for them to feel safe, secure, empowered and validated.
My theoretical orientation is eclectic and integrative incorporating interpersonal process therapy (IPT) (here and now), psychodynamic, relational and CBT models. I approach therapy from a strengths based approach, focusing on client’s inherent strengths and resiliencies rather than their weaknesses. I also utilize CBT to focus on changing negative core beliefs and cognitive distortions and DBT to teach distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal assertiveness skills. Lastly, I am very relational in my approach in order to provide clients with a corrective emotional experience and holding environment for them to feel safe, secure, empowered and validated.
(614) 656-1840 View (614) 656-1840

See more therapy options for Key Biscayne

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.