EMDR Therapists in Reading, MA

Photo of Catherine Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(857) 375-5760 View (857) 375-5760
Photo of Maureen Kenny-Woodworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Maureen Kenny-Woodworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
Unfortunately, I am unable to accept new patients at this time. Welcome, my name is Maureen Kenny-Woodworth and I have been practicing psychotherapy for 25 years. It is my goal to assist you in reaching your goals! Congratulations on taking the first step, I know it can be intimidating to talk to someone about your concerns. It would be my pleasure to work with you in creating a comfortable safe place to reflect inward.
Unfortunately, I am unable to accept new patients at this time. Welcome, my name is Maureen Kenny-Woodworth and I have been practicing psychotherapy for 25 years. It is my goal to assist you in reaching your goals! Congratulations on taking the first step, I know it can be intimidating to talk to someone about your concerns. It would be my pleasure to work with you in creating a comfortable safe place to reflect inward.
(781) 361-9138 View (781) 361-9138
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reading, MA
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(857) 392-3141 View (857) 392-3141
Photo of Rose Marie Bowie-McKenna, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reading, MA
Rose Marie Bowie-McKenna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reading, MA 01867
Not accepting new clients
I provide an interactive and individualized approach to treatment while utilizing evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, Parts Work, and EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy.
During different chapters of our life we all need a little help, insight, or just a listening ear. What would you like the next chapter to look like? I work with Clients from an array of backgrounds, most with the simple goal of wanting to live a happier life. Less Anger, Less Anxiety, Less Depression. I specialize in Person Centered care with a Holistic Approach- Mind and Body.
I provide an interactive and individualized approach to treatment while utilizing evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, Parts Work, and EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy.
During different chapters of our life we all need a little help, insight, or just a listening ear. What would you like the next chapter to look like? I work with Clients from an array of backgrounds, most with the simple goal of wanting to live a happier life. Less Anger, Less Anxiety, Less Depression. I specialize in Person Centered care with a Holistic Approach- Mind and Body.
(339) 230-2684 View (339) 230-2684
Photo of Kelin Dickerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Reading, MA
Kelin Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
Not accepting new clients
I currently have limited daytime availability, email preferred when possible . Starting therapy can be intimidating and why it is vital to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and safe. I view each person or family I work with as individuals and incorporate how relationships and environment impact daily functioning. The priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing. As a LMFT I have had the opportunity to work with a myriad of mental health needs focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stage changes, and the LGBT+ community.
I currently have limited daytime availability, email preferred when possible . Starting therapy can be intimidating and why it is vital to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and safe. I view each person or family I work with as individuals and incorporate how relationships and environment impact daily functioning. The priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing. As a LMFT I have had the opportunity to work with a myriad of mental health needs focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stage changes, and the LGBT+ community.
(978) 396-1989 View (978) 396-1989
Photo of Rebekah Gibbons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Rebekah Gibbons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reading, MA 01867
Not accepting new clients
I work primarily with individuals (ages 15 and up) and families, specializing in trauma, mental illness, attachment and relationship issues, and the difficulty that comes with life transitions. I also have an interest in adults with parents who have personality disorders or mental illness, as well as caregivers of children with mental illness. Therapy can feel big and scary, however it doesn't have to be! Taking this step is about choosing to prioritize your own health and needs. My priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing.
I work primarily with individuals (ages 15 and up) and families, specializing in trauma, mental illness, attachment and relationship issues, and the difficulty that comes with life transitions. I also have an interest in adults with parents who have personality disorders or mental illness, as well as caregivers of children with mental illness. Therapy can feel big and scary, however it doesn't have to be! Taking this step is about choosing to prioritize your own health and needs. My priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing.
(978) 310-2973 View (978) 310-2973

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of Alison M Rhodes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Alison M Rhodes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140
My work is based primarily in internal family systems therapy (L1, L2, PA), narrative therapy, EMDR, and over twenty years of practicing, studying, and teaching yoga.
I bring compassion and a non-judgmental active approach to assist you in developing a greater understanding of yourself, overcoming challenges, and living your life to the fullest. I have experience treating a range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also enjoy working with clients who want to explore their identities, personal histories, and relationship issues.
My work is based primarily in internal family systems therapy (L1, L2, PA), narrative therapy, EMDR, and over twenty years of practicing, studying, and teaching yoga.
I bring compassion and a non-judgmental active approach to assist you in developing a greater understanding of yourself, overcoming challenges, and living your life to the fullest. I have experience treating a range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also enjoy working with clients who want to explore their identities, personal histories, and relationship issues.
(617) 206-3854 View (617) 206-3854
Photo of Nyla Mcculloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Nyla Mcculloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wakefield, MA 01880
My work with my clients is active and collaborative. I see adults, adolescents, and younger children in the context of family therapy. I provide individual, couples and family therapy. I have 30+ years experience working with people to enhance their lives and relationships, problem solve, and make decisions. I use a CBT approach; also, EMDR to treat trauma, anxiety, and fears. I am currently seeing clients in person as well as offering telehealth. Please visit www.nylamcculloch.com.
My work with my clients is active and collaborative. I see adults, adolescents, and younger children in the context of family therapy. I provide individual, couples and family therapy. I have 30+ years experience working with people to enhance their lives and relationships, problem solve, and make decisions. I use a CBT approach; also, EMDR to treat trauma, anxiety, and fears. I am currently seeing clients in person as well as offering telehealth. Please visit www.nylamcculloch.com.
(781) 549-7062 View (781) 549-7062
Photo of Sarah Gray, Psychologist in Reading, MA
Sarah Gray
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
Trained extensively in evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT-i, mindfulness-based therapies, Positive Psychology, behavioral medicine (biofeedback, clinical hypnosis, relaxation training), EMDR, & other mind-body techniques, we'll tailor individualized therapy approaches to help you learn coping tools and achieve your goals.
I am a Harvard Medical School and MGH-affiliated psychologist offering a compassionate, non-judgmental, strengths-based perspective with an active, collaborative therapeutic style. I draw from integrative, holistic, and evidence-based approaches to mental health and well-being, guided by the current research, and based on your unique background and needs. We will take into account multi-dimensional factors such as the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural aspects for a whole-person perspective within the context of your unique experiences. I offer many unique tools so we can use approaches that fit your needs.
Trained extensively in evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT-i, mindfulness-based therapies, Positive Psychology, behavioral medicine (biofeedback, clinical hypnosis, relaxation training), EMDR, & other mind-body techniques, we'll tailor individualized therapy approaches to help you learn coping tools and achieve your goals.
I am a Harvard Medical School and MGH-affiliated psychologist offering a compassionate, non-judgmental, strengths-based perspective with an active, collaborative therapeutic style. I draw from integrative, holistic, and evidence-based approaches to mental health and well-being, guided by the current research, and based on your unique background and needs. We will take into account multi-dimensional factors such as the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural aspects for a whole-person perspective within the context of your unique experiences. I offer many unique tools so we can use approaches that fit your needs.
(339) 707-5236 View (339) 707-5236
Photo of Judy Glick, Counselor in Reading, MA
Judy Glick
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I have expertise using EMDR,Hypnosis,Internal Family Systems, EFT,TFT, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness/Self-Compassion approaches with individuals and couples.
I create a safe,supportive and nurturing environment for change to take place.I guide you in making changes that allow you to feel more successful,satisfied and empowered in your life. Along with this comes fulfilling relationships and work, enhanced self-esteem, physical well-being and more connection to yourself.I assist you in learning to interrupt negative patterns and self-defeating behaviors and help you replace them with positive feelings,new beliefs and life affirming behaviors.In the process you discover inner resources and develop self-acceptance and self compassion.I bring warmth,humor,compassion and wisdom to the process.
I have expertise using EMDR,Hypnosis,Internal Family Systems, EFT,TFT, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness/Self-Compassion approaches with individuals and couples.
I create a safe,supportive and nurturing environment for change to take place.I guide you in making changes that allow you to feel more successful,satisfied and empowered in your life. Along with this comes fulfilling relationships and work, enhanced self-esteem, physical well-being and more connection to yourself.I assist you in learning to interrupt negative patterns and self-defeating behaviors and help you replace them with positive feelings,new beliefs and life affirming behaviors.In the process you discover inner resources and develop self-acceptance and self compassion.I bring warmth,humor,compassion and wisdom to the process.
(781) 443-8482 View (781) 443-8482
Photo of Ksenia Meshcheryakova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Ksenia Meshcheryakova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02420  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (internal family systems).
Searching for the support of a trusted therapist to guide you through life's challenges? Look no further. I am a warm, engaging and active therapist. I bring curiosity and years of professional experiences to assist you in your healing journey.
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (internal family systems).
Searching for the support of a trusted therapist to guide you through life's challenges? Look no further. I am a warm, engaging and active therapist. I bring curiosity and years of professional experiences to assist you in your healing journey.
(781) 614-6644 View (781) 614-6644
Photo of Barbara Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Barbara Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
I utilize the most contemporary Mind-Body talk therapies for the most effective treatment of trauma, such as Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, IFS, AEDP, & Havening Therapy.
"PEACE. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still BE CALM IN YOUR HEART" (author unknown). Has childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, or life circumstances created emotional pain, physical pain, confusion, or self-doubt? Each of us has the capacity and potential to live a peaceful, fulfilling, and satisfying life. We can work together to make this growth possible. I have extensive experience in transforming patterns that cause depression, anxiety, distress, and disconnection from one's self and others.
I utilize the most contemporary Mind-Body talk therapies for the most effective treatment of trauma, such as Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, IFS, AEDP, & Havening Therapy.
"PEACE. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still BE CALM IN YOUR HEART" (author unknown). Has childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, or life circumstances created emotional pain, physical pain, confusion, or self-doubt? Each of us has the capacity and potential to live a peaceful, fulfilling, and satisfying life. We can work together to make this growth possible. I have extensive experience in transforming patterns that cause depression, anxiety, distress, and disconnection from one's self and others.
(781) 728-0811 View (781) 728-0811
Photo of Meg Savin, Counselor in Reading, MA
Meg Savin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
Depending on your needs, I use variety of therapeutic modalities & approaches including EMDR, ACT, CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing & relational psychology while always considering the greater context of your current struggles and how oppression or discrimination may be contributing to those struggles.
In-person (Arlington) or telehealth sessions available! You may be experiencing challenges moving in a desired direction in your life or perhaps noticing patterns in your current behavior or relationships that you would like to change. I feel fortunate to work in a field where I witness healing change every day, and it is a privilege to hear your unique story. With experience working in a number of diverse settings including community mental health, offering group therapy, working with college counseling centers, as well as on a rape crisis hotline, I bring an active and warm approach to therapy.
Depending on your needs, I use variety of therapeutic modalities & approaches including EMDR, ACT, CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing & relational psychology while always considering the greater context of your current struggles and how oppression or discrimination may be contributing to those struggles.
In-person (Arlington) or telehealth sessions available! You may be experiencing challenges moving in a desired direction in your life or perhaps noticing patterns in your current behavior or relationships that you would like to change. I feel fortunate to work in a field where I witness healing change every day, and it is a privilege to hear your unique story. With experience working in a number of diverse settings including community mental health, offering group therapy, working with college counseling centers, as well as on a rape crisis hotline, I bring an active and warm approach to therapy.
(339) 209-2663 View (339) 209-2663
Photo of Mind Spruce Intensives, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Mind Spruce Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tewksbury, MA 01876
EMDR Therapy Intensives Therapy intensives are a great way to make significant progress in a shorter amount of time. Rather than going to counseling for an hour session once a week, you would set aside a specific chunk of time - 3 hours or 3 days - for intensive therapeutic work. Unlike traditional weekly sessions, which may extend over months or years, intensives offer a focused and immersive therapeutic experience. During these sessions, clients engage in ongoing EMDR processing sessions each day, allowing for rapid progress and deeper exploration of traumatic material.
EMDR Therapy Intensives Therapy intensives are a great way to make significant progress in a shorter amount of time. Rather than going to counseling for an hour session once a week, you would set aside a specific chunk of time - 3 hours or 3 days - for intensive therapeutic work. Unlike traditional weekly sessions, which may extend over months or years, intensives offer a focused and immersive therapeutic experience. During these sessions, clients engage in ongoing EMDR processing sessions each day, allowing for rapid progress and deeper exploration of traumatic material.
(978) 482-7666 View (978) 482-7666
Photo of Claudia A Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Claudia A Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
IFS, AEDP, and EMDR are therapies to combine to improve your communication and self-esteem, and alleviate repeating patterns of hurt for you individually and in relationships.
By interweaving different types of therapy, we collaborate towards your goals in a way that's effective and respectful of your time, energy and money. Each session can be useful - I track this carefully by asking for feedback and by giving choices on how we work together. The time in-between sessions also is used - through practice 'homework' we choose individually, as a couple or as a family, or through observation/thinking. This helps us to identify what helps you to change or restrains you from change - we can then work together from an attitude of curiosity rather than "shoulds".
IFS, AEDP, and EMDR are therapies to combine to improve your communication and self-esteem, and alleviate repeating patterns of hurt for you individually and in relationships.
By interweaving different types of therapy, we collaborate towards your goals in a way that's effective and respectful of your time, energy and money. Each session can be useful - I track this carefully by asking for feedback and by giving choices on how we work together. The time in-between sessions also is used - through practice 'homework' we choose individually, as a couple or as a family, or through observation/thinking. This helps us to identify what helps you to change or restrains you from change - we can then work together from an attitude of curiosity rather than "shoulds".
(617) 500-3838 View (617) 500-3838
Photo of Rebecca Boyko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Rebecca Boyko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Winchester, MA 01890
Welcome to Bridge to Healing Psychotherapy. My practice is centered around helping you heal from all forms of trauma, loss and life struggles. Healing is always possible...for you, for your relationships, and ultimately for your life. With 19 years of experience and extensive training in evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR, attachment therapy, and somatics, my approach utilizes curiosity, creativity, a sense of humor, self-disclosure and most importantly compassion to help you discover these same resources within yourself and reveal your own unique path to healing and life's purpose.
Welcome to Bridge to Healing Psychotherapy. My practice is centered around helping you heal from all forms of trauma, loss and life struggles. Healing is always possible...for you, for your relationships, and ultimately for your life. With 19 years of experience and extensive training in evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR, attachment therapy, and somatics, my approach utilizes curiosity, creativity, a sense of humor, self-disclosure and most importantly compassion to help you discover these same resources within yourself and reveal your own unique path to healing and life's purpose.
(781) 463-5030 View (781) 463-5030
Photo of Eric Knee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Eric Knee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I also offer EMDR.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. Be proud of yourself for taking this first step to creating positive changes in your life.
I also offer EMDR.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. Be proud of yourself for taking this first step to creating positive changes in your life.
(617) 431-3852 View (617) 431-3852
Photo of Ryan Peterson, Counselor in Reading, MA
Ryan Peterson
Counselor, LMHC, PhDEd, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
Malden, MA 02148
I use an individualized approach based on EMDR, Somatic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I am an IFS-informed and EMDRIA-certified therapist seeking to identify and move through the roots of learned patterns of behavior. I personalize sessions to cultivate an immersive visit and a deliberate learning environment. My hope is to find depth in our sessions to strengthen your relationship with yourself, your work, and others.
I use an individualized approach based on EMDR, Somatic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I am an IFS-informed and EMDRIA-certified therapist seeking to identify and move through the roots of learned patterns of behavior. I personalize sessions to cultivate an immersive visit and a deliberate learning environment. My hope is to find depth in our sessions to strengthen your relationship with yourself, your work, and others.
(617) 553-6871 View (617) 553-6871
Photo of Priyanka Subash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reading, MA
Priyanka Subash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Medford, MA 02155  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR trained and currently working towards EMDR Certification.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. My therapeutic style is centered around compassion and collaboration. I truly believe each individual has inner strength and resilience, but sometimes it can be difficult to access these on our own.  Together, you and I will explore issues, learn skills and challenge thoughts that hinder you from being your confident and whole self. I believe in a creative approach while offering constructive, real life solutions you can use outside of the office.
I am EMDR trained and currently working towards EMDR Certification.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. My therapeutic style is centered around compassion and collaboration. I truly believe each individual has inner strength and resilience, but sometimes it can be difficult to access these on our own.  Together, you and I will explore issues, learn skills and challenge thoughts that hinder you from being your confident and whole self. I believe in a creative approach while offering constructive, real life solutions you can use outside of the office.
(857) 320-3603 View (857) 320-3603
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.