EMDR Therapists in New Jersey

Photo of Tara McSorley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Tara McSorley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
Madison, NJ 07940
I utilize EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Tapping when working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
Everyone faces challenges and obstacles in their lives. These times are often an opportunity for change, growth and healing. Seeking professional support and guidance can help you move through these difficult moments and experiences to a healthier place in your life. I believe in a holistic approach with each unique client. We will create a plan together to address your goals and purpose for therapy. I have specialized training in trauma treatment, CBT/ DBT, and family interventions.
I utilize EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Tapping when working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
Everyone faces challenges and obstacles in their lives. These times are often an opportunity for change, growth and healing. Seeking professional support and guidance can help you move through these difficult moments and experiences to a healthier place in your life. I believe in a holistic approach with each unique client. We will create a plan together to address your goals and purpose for therapy. I have specialized training in trauma treatment, CBT/ DBT, and family interventions.
(973) 718-9489 View (973) 718-9489
Photo of Sandra Shammas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Sandra Shammas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Florham Park, NJ 07932
I have a wide trauma background and am EMDR certified.
I am here to support your goals and help you during this time in your life. Therapy is a way to acknowledge one's inner strength, find healing and to tap into the empowerment you possess to face the challenges that may arise.
I have a wide trauma background and am EMDR certified.
I am here to support your goals and help you during this time in your life. Therapy is a way to acknowledge one's inner strength, find healing and to tap into the empowerment you possess to face the challenges that may arise.
(973) 506-2833 View (973) 506-2833
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08610
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(640) 224-9809 View (640) 224-9809
Photo of Center for Counseling and Education LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Center for Counseling and Education LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Medford, NJ 08055
Certifications: Approved Clinical Supervisor, Registered Play Therapy Supervisor, Certified Gestalt Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, Certified Attachment-Focused Family Therapist, Certificate in Adoption Studies.
We are a dedicated and compassionate group of exceptionally trained therapists working together to provide a wide range of services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. We are widely respected for our ability to offer state-of-the-art therapeutic services for all ages in a caring, friendly and confidential environment. A plan for each client is developed based on their unique personal history, strengths and needs.
Certifications: Approved Clinical Supervisor, Registered Play Therapy Supervisor, Certified Gestalt Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, Certified Attachment-Focused Family Therapist, Certificate in Adoption Studies.
We are a dedicated and compassionate group of exceptionally trained therapists working together to provide a wide range of services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. We are widely respected for our ability to offer state-of-the-art therapeutic services for all ages in a caring, friendly and confidential environment. A plan for each client is developed based on their unique personal history, strengths and needs.
(856) 362-4001 View (856) 362-4001
Photo of Lisa Weinberg, Psychologist in New Jersey
Lisa Weinberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Therefore, I integrate mindfulness, EMDR and parts work (IFS) with my clients so that they feel more connected to themselves and others.
As a psychologist I work collaboratively with my clients to address their concerns (both in-person and via teleheath). I have extensive experience working from an interpersonal perspective with adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, trauma, loss and adjustment to life changes (e.g. illness, divorce). I believe it is important to explore how a client's family background, culture and social environment play a role in the challenges my clients are experiencing. I view people as resilient and help clients to use their strengths and resources to make positive changes in their lives.
Therefore, I integrate mindfulness, EMDR and parts work (IFS) with my clients so that they feel more connected to themselves and others.
As a psychologist I work collaboratively with my clients to address their concerns (both in-person and via teleheath). I have extensive experience working from an interpersonal perspective with adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, trauma, loss and adjustment to life changes (e.g. illness, divorce). I believe it is important to explore how a client's family background, culture and social environment play a role in the challenges my clients are experiencing. I view people as resilient and help clients to use their strengths and resources to make positive changes in their lives.
(973) 947-8883 View (973) 947-8883
Photo of Elsie Jimenez-Center for Holistic Intervention, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Elsie Jimenez-Center for Holistic Intervention
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Guttenberg, NJ 07093
CHI utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in conjunction with Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques i.
The Center for Holistic Intervention utilizes holistic and innovative therapeutic approaches to foster an individual's self-awareness, self-empowerment, and self-determination. In nurturing your self-awareness, you can gain insight and identify your adaptive and maladaptive behavioral patterns. Hence, you can learn how to develop more adaptive automatic thoughts, core beliefs, and behavioral responses with a series of cognitive restructuring and behavioral activities. Ultimately, helping you acknowledge the possibility of accepting the things you can and cannot change in your life.
CHI utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in conjunction with Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques i.
The Center for Holistic Intervention utilizes holistic and innovative therapeutic approaches to foster an individual's self-awareness, self-empowerment, and self-determination. In nurturing your self-awareness, you can gain insight and identify your adaptive and maladaptive behavioral patterns. Hence, you can learn how to develop more adaptive automatic thoughts, core beliefs, and behavioral responses with a series of cognitive restructuring and behavioral activities. Ultimately, helping you acknowledge the possibility of accepting the things you can and cannot change in your life.
(201) 355-2433 View (201) 355-2433
Photo of Caitlin Alleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Caitlin Alleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, NJ 07928
I am a New Jersey licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a certificated school social worker and EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist.
At our core, we all seek to feel acceptance, love, and competence. When these basic needs are not being met in our life we often begin to feel lost, stuck, or alone. My compassionate, relationally informed practice allows me to join with you to understand what life looks and feels like through your lens. Together we will examine early attachments and relationships to discover learned core beliefs and how they impact the way you see yourself and relate to the world around you.
I am a New Jersey licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a certificated school social worker and EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist.
At our core, we all seek to feel acceptance, love, and competence. When these basic needs are not being met in our life we often begin to feel lost, stuck, or alone. My compassionate, relationally informed practice allows me to join with you to understand what life looks and feels like through your lens. Together we will examine early attachments and relationships to discover learned core beliefs and how they impact the way you see yourself and relate to the world around you.
(862) 212-3320 View (862) 212-3320
Photo of Juliana M Tozzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Juliana M Tozzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Juliana, and her colleagues at PUREPSYCH, specialize in EMDR therapy, and completed training though the EMDR Institute.
“Juliana possesses an innate, preternatural, and extraordinary ability to forge strong, successful, longstanding therapeutic alliances with individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Understanding the profound importance of trust and unconditional positive regard, Juliana utilizes the sanctity of the therapeutic relationship to emphasize each individual’s unique strengths, and foster healing, clarity, growth, self-actualization, and homeostasis.” Bryan Niederman, PhD Founder and CEO of purepsych, LLC
Juliana, and her colleagues at PUREPSYCH, specialize in EMDR therapy, and completed training though the EMDR Institute.
“Juliana possesses an innate, preternatural, and extraordinary ability to forge strong, successful, longstanding therapeutic alliances with individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Understanding the profound importance of trust and unconditional positive regard, Juliana utilizes the sanctity of the therapeutic relationship to emphasize each individual’s unique strengths, and foster healing, clarity, growth, self-actualization, and homeostasis.” Bryan Niederman, PhD Founder and CEO of purepsych, LLC
(551) 244-6331 View (551) 244-6331
Photo of Lily Freier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Lily Freier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
EMDR and DBT therapy for adults. In person in Westfield and Telehealth. Searching for a therapist can seem daunting. After all, the relationship with your therapist is the foundation for healing. Trust, acceptance, and compassion allow you to explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get out it. Whether you are trying to heal from past experiences, overcome anxiety and depression, or make important decisions, I can help you develop insight, clarity, and skills that will last you far beyond your time in therapy. Your experience in therapy should leave you feeling balanced and prepared to tackle future challenges.
EMDR and DBT therapy for adults. In person in Westfield and Telehealth. Searching for a therapist can seem daunting. After all, the relationship with your therapist is the foundation for healing. Trust, acceptance, and compassion allow you to explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get out it. Whether you are trying to heal from past experiences, overcome anxiety and depression, or make important decisions, I can help you develop insight, clarity, and skills that will last you far beyond your time in therapy. Your experience in therapy should leave you feeling balanced and prepared to tackle future challenges.
(908) 460-8535 View (908) 460-8535
Photo of Amanda Zimmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Amanda Zimmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ewing, NJ 08618
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in psychodynamic therapy and am trained in EMDR which I really enjoy implementing in my work.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has experience working with adolescents and adults on how to cope with the ups and downs of life. Anxiety is something we all experience so learning to lean into all emotions and live well with the discomfort is something that guides my approach. If you are ready to invest in yourself, I would be grateful to be a part of your journey. I am a huge believer in the importance of the therapist/client relationship and truly think that the thing that leads to success in therapy is the connection.
I have training in psychodynamic therapy and am trained in EMDR which I really enjoy implementing in my work.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has experience working with adolescents and adults on how to cope with the ups and downs of life. Anxiety is something we all experience so learning to lean into all emotions and live well with the discomfort is something that guides my approach. If you are ready to invest in yourself, I would be grateful to be a part of your journey. I am a huge believer in the importance of the therapist/client relationship and truly think that the thing that leads to success in therapy is the connection.
(609) 900-7078 View (609) 900-7078
Photo of Brijuan Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Brijuan Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Brijuan uses a client-centered perspective that involves use of interventions from various frameworks, such as: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Change can be intimidating, but it can also be liberating. Brijuan helps clients with getting reconnected with themselves through practice of implementing strong boundaries, mastering singlehood, and addressing history of trauma. Brijuan approaches therapy in a collaborative manner where the client leads the direction, while she supports from the sideline. She actively listens and creates a space of authenticity, openness, care, respect, and warmth. She assists clients with finding meaning in life stressors and pivoting in ways that make everyday life easier and enjoyable to help clients exude power, happiness, and resilience.
Brijuan uses a client-centered perspective that involves use of interventions from various frameworks, such as: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Change can be intimidating, but it can also be liberating. Brijuan helps clients with getting reconnected with themselves through practice of implementing strong boundaries, mastering singlehood, and addressing history of trauma. Brijuan approaches therapy in a collaborative manner where the client leads the direction, while she supports from the sideline. She actively listens and creates a space of authenticity, openness, care, respect, and warmth. She assists clients with finding meaning in life stressors and pivoting in ways that make everyday life easier and enjoyable to help clients exude power, happiness, and resilience.
(201) 371-1222 View (201) 371-1222
Photo of Katherine Lusky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Katherine Lusky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
I also offer eye movement desensitization (EMDR) therapy for certain individuals.
I specialize in helping patients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. Worry, fear and bad memories often interfere with a person’s daily life. These problems can be very stressful and can affect a person’s social relationships, work performance, and self esteem. These individuals often turn to maladaptive coping strategies such as drugs and/or alcohol to find relief. I work with these patients to help them manage life difficulties and heal from past trauma in order to learn new ways of thinking and coping.
I also offer eye movement desensitization (EMDR) therapy for certain individuals.
I specialize in helping patients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. Worry, fear and bad memories often interfere with a person’s daily life. These problems can be very stressful and can affect a person’s social relationships, work performance, and self esteem. These individuals often turn to maladaptive coping strategies such as drugs and/or alcohol to find relief. I work with these patients to help them manage life difficulties and heal from past trauma in order to learn new ways of thinking and coping.
(856) 367-6239 View (856) 367-6239
Photo of Dr. Sarah Muscolino, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Jersey
Dr. Sarah Muscolino
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08755
My approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy, but I believe in an integrated approach that draws from various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR.
In life we often find ourselves overcoming obstacles. Sometimes we can conquer these hardships ourselves and other times we require some additional support. It can be intimidating seeking professional help, but know that you are not alone. I'm here to accompany you on this path, providing support and guidance as you work towards your healing. As a clinical psychologist, I aim to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences together.
My approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy, but I believe in an integrated approach that draws from various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR.
In life we often find ourselves overcoming obstacles. Sometimes we can conquer these hardships ourselves and other times we require some additional support. It can be intimidating seeking professional help, but know that you are not alone. I'm here to accompany you on this path, providing support and guidance as you work towards your healing. As a clinical psychologist, I aim to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences together.
(732) 889-5188 View (732) 889-5188
Photo of Jouhaina Razzouk, Psychologist in New Jersey
Jouhaina Razzouk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530  (Online Only)
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address trauma.
We often move through life carrying wounds that prevent us from living life fully. I value providing you with a safe, judgment free zone, where you can embark on a personal journey to deeply explore and heal from the issues that have fueled your life struggles. I take special interest in treating trauma stemming from either childhood or adulthood as well as relationship difficulties including attachment patterns and relationship compatibility. I am also well versed in a wide array of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, sleep, and body image issues.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address trauma.
We often move through life carrying wounds that prevent us from living life fully. I value providing you with a safe, judgment free zone, where you can embark on a personal journey to deeply explore and heal from the issues that have fueled your life struggles. I take special interest in treating trauma stemming from either childhood or adulthood as well as relationship difficulties including attachment patterns and relationship compatibility. I am also well versed in a wide array of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, sleep, and body image issues.
(609) 236-7583 View (609) 236-7583
Photo of Jess Cronin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Jess Cronin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I am trauma-focused in my approach and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Welcome to my page. I first want to congratulate you on the initial step to achieving your goals! Taking this step can feel scary and uncomfortable, but I am here to help you work through this part of the process and beyond. I work collaboratively with my clients to address the root causes of their distress and to develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re dealing with childhood abuse, a traumatic event, or ongoing stress, I’m here to help you navigate the journey toward healing and empowerment. Together, we can unlock the resilience within you and create a path toward a brighter future.
I am trauma-focused in my approach and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Welcome to my page. I first want to congratulate you on the initial step to achieving your goals! Taking this step can feel scary and uncomfortable, but I am here to help you work through this part of the process and beyond. I work collaboratively with my clients to address the root causes of their distress and to develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re dealing with childhood abuse, a traumatic event, or ongoing stress, I’m here to help you navigate the journey toward healing and empowerment. Together, we can unlock the resilience within you and create a path toward a brighter future.
(732) 654-0975 View (732) 654-0975
Photo of Julie Bourgeois Counseling and Consulting LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Julie Bourgeois Counseling and Consulting LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDRPT, -II
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Compassionate and Experienced Therapist Specializing in EMDR for Trauma, Anxiety, and Grief
Compassionate and Experienced Therapist Specializing in EMDR for Trauma, Anxiety, and Grief
(732) 627-2494 View (732) 627-2494
Photo of Margaret Nichols, Psychologist in New Jersey
Margaret Nichols
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07304
My work is a vocation, not a job. I love being a therapist because it allows me to connect with diverse people in a deep, meaningful way and to have the privilege of trying to help them on their unique journeys. I'm a diplomate in sex therapy as well as a licensed psychologist, and I am trained in EMDR, hypnotherapy,and two methods of couples counseling as well. I pride myself on keeping up with the most current developments in my field because I owe it to the people I'm trying to help.
My work is a vocation, not a job. I love being a therapist because it allows me to connect with diverse people in a deep, meaningful way and to have the privilege of trying to help them on their unique journeys. I'm a diplomate in sex therapy as well as a licensed psychologist, and I am trained in EMDR, hypnotherapy,and two methods of couples counseling as well. I pride myself on keeping up with the most current developments in my field because I owe it to the people I'm trying to help.
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Photo of Institute for Personal Growth - LGBTQ Community, Psychologist in New Jersey
Institute for Personal Growth - LGBTQ Community
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Among the modalities we've trained in and adapted for the LGBTQ+ community: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Imago couples counseling, Emotionally Focused Therapy for relationships, and sex therapy.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free. IPG paved the way for other Queer-affirmative therapists. Founded in 1983 specifically to serve the LGBTQ+ community, back when most practitioners viewed it as a mental illness, we are still trailblazers, working with trans/GNC folks, bi/pansexuals, the kink/BDSM community, consensual nonmonogamists, and others who make up the "Q+" in LGBTQ+. You may not want therapy because you are gay, but you likely want a therapist who is not only affirming but knowledgeable. We understand the special issues of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and we provide sex therapy as well.
Among the modalities we've trained in and adapted for the LGBTQ+ community: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Imago couples counseling, Emotionally Focused Therapy for relationships, and sex therapy.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free. IPG paved the way for other Queer-affirmative therapists. Founded in 1983 specifically to serve the LGBTQ+ community, back when most practitioners viewed it as a mental illness, we are still trailblazers, working with trans/GNC folks, bi/pansexuals, the kink/BDSM community, consensual nonmonogamists, and others who make up the "Q+" in LGBTQ+. You may not want therapy because you are gay, but you likely want a therapist who is not only affirming but knowledgeable. We understand the special issues of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and we provide sex therapy as well.
(732) 978-4574 View (732) 978-4574
Photo of Luisa Spadafino, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Jersey
Luisa Spadafino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Belleville, NJ 07109  (Online Only)
As a EMDR and Systemic Therapist, I believe strongly that my clients are the real experts on their own lives.
I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples. My intentions are to empower my clients to create positive change in their lives in ways that create movement towards better health, stronger relationships, and greater overall life satisfaction.
As a EMDR and Systemic Therapist, I believe strongly that my clients are the real experts on their own lives.
I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples. My intentions are to empower my clients to create positive change in their lives in ways that create movement towards better health, stronger relationships, and greater overall life satisfaction.
(973) 577-5855 View (973) 577-5855
Lynn Corey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEDS-S, CETP
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I can provide individual and family therapy for you, if you find yourself having difficulties in your life, whether you are an adolescent or adult. I have a speciality in eating disorders and trauma. I am trained and certified in EMDR and hypnosis. I have received my CEDS, certified eating disorder therapist. I am also an approved supervisor. My training has been in a hospital and private practice setting.
I can provide individual and family therapy for you, if you find yourself having difficulties in your life, whether you are an adolescent or adult. I have a speciality in eating disorders and trauma. I am trained and certified in EMDR and hypnosis. I have received my CEDS, certified eating disorder therapist. I am also an approved supervisor. My training has been in a hospital and private practice setting.
(201) 654-3469 View (201) 654-3469
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.