Therapists in North Tonawanda, NY

Photo of Justin Higgins, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North Tonawanda, NY 14120
Current openings. www.jhigginscounseling.com/contact to request a free telephone consultation. Do you ever feel stuck? Find yourself worrying about the future? Or find yourself dwelling on or re-living events from the past? What about comparing yourself to others, or criticizing yourself or those around you? Maybe creating rules for yourself that feel limiting? You may have tried to solve these problems by getting rid of them, avoiding them, outsmarting them, or overpowering them. While natural, it's often unhelpful with thoughts, feelings, memories, sensations, and urges.
Current openings. www.jhigginscounseling.com/contact to request a free telephone consultation. Do you ever feel stuck? Find yourself worrying about the future? Or find yourself dwelling on or re-living events from the past? What about comparing yourself to others, or criticizing yourself or those around you? Maybe creating rules for yourself that feel limiting? You may have tried to solve these problems by getting rid of them, avoiding them, outsmarting them, or overpowering them. While natural, it's often unhelpful with thoughts, feelings, memories, sensations, and urges.
(716) 202-2900 View (716) 202-2900

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lindan Mark Jones, LMSW, JD, MA, Counselor
Lindan Mark Jones
Counselor, LMSW, JD, MA
Verified Verified
Tonawanda, NY 14150
I am able to provide assistance through various evidence-based interventions, including trauma informed counseling, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (Mindfulness), and ACT.
Are you feeling directionless and alone? Are you struggling with gender or sexual orientation? Are you feeling like an imposter in your life? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you experiencing trauma in your life? Have you arrived at a transformative moment but are unsure how to begin to make changes? I offer a safe place to explore the opportunities and challenges of this critical moment, identify a path forward that reflects your values, and begin experiencing a more integrated, congruent, and authentic life.
I am able to provide assistance through various evidence-based interventions, including trauma informed counseling, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (Mindfulness), and ACT.
Are you feeling directionless and alone? Are you struggling with gender or sexual orientation? Are you feeling like an imposter in your life? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you experiencing trauma in your life? Have you arrived at a transformative moment but are unsure how to begin to make changes? I offer a safe place to explore the opportunities and challenges of this critical moment, identify a path forward that reflects your values, and begin experiencing a more integrated, congruent, and authentic life.
(716) 272-0328 View (716) 272-0328
Photo of Michael Finnegan, LMHC, Counselor
Michael Finnegan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
I take an integrative approach to therapy and use interventions from CBT, ACT, Schema / Ego State, Existential and EMDR modalities.
Congratulations for taking this initial step on the path of growth and healing. The counseling services I provide are meant to aid in the psychological, emotional and spiritual growth of adults who are suffering beyond their present ability to cope and who desire to move beyond merely coping, but to living more authentically and wholeheartedly. ​As a mental health clinician, I provide mental health assessment and individual psychotherapy services to those suffering from an array of mental health conditions from chronic stress, anxiety and mood disorder to PTSD or those struggling through an existential crisis.
I take an integrative approach to therapy and use interventions from CBT, ACT, Schema / Ego State, Existential and EMDR modalities.
Congratulations for taking this initial step on the path of growth and healing. The counseling services I provide are meant to aid in the psychological, emotional and spiritual growth of adults who are suffering beyond their present ability to cope and who desire to move beyond merely coping, but to living more authentically and wholeheartedly. ​As a mental health clinician, I provide mental health assessment and individual psychotherapy services to those suffering from an array of mental health conditions from chronic stress, anxiety and mood disorder to PTSD or those struggling through an existential crisis.
(833) 926-0981 View (833) 926-0981
Photo of Bryan Schamberger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bryan Schamberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223
I have a person-centered approach and use a variety of evidence based treatment modalities to support the healing process, including EMDR, DBT, Mindfulness, Schema Therapy, Ego State Therapy, and CBT.
Trauma affects many, if not all of us, and recovery from the impact of these experiences is a journey. In therapy, my focus is to establish a strong therapeutic relationship where healing can take place. Once trust is developed, the goal is to empower individuals to increase their sense of safety and control, and to cope with traumatic experiences. My wish is for individuals to be able to reengage in their lives and pursue their greatest hopes for themselves, without the traumatic experiences hindering their ability to do so.
I have a person-centered approach and use a variety of evidence based treatment modalities to support the healing process, including EMDR, DBT, Mindfulness, Schema Therapy, Ego State Therapy, and CBT.
Trauma affects many, if not all of us, and recovery from the impact of these experiences is a journey. In therapy, my focus is to establish a strong therapeutic relationship where healing can take place. Once trust is developed, the goal is to empower individuals to increase their sense of safety and control, and to cope with traumatic experiences. My wish is for individuals to be able to reengage in their lives and pursue their greatest hopes for themselves, without the traumatic experiences hindering their ability to do so.
(716) 301-2670 View (716) 301-2670
Southtowns Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14222
Our therapies include (but are not limited to): Bilateral Stimulation (EMDR/ART), DBT, Neurofeedback, Alpha Stimulation, medication management and Virtual Reality Therapy.
Our practice listens to our clients and provides a variety of therapy and counseling approaches to meet our client's needs. We know that life can get difficult at times and we believe that counseling can help you to see the situation from a different point of view to facilitate change. Our focus is to help individuals and families heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and providing each client with a customer treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow.
Our therapies include (but are not limited to): Bilateral Stimulation (EMDR/ART), DBT, Neurofeedback, Alpha Stimulation, medication management and Virtual Reality Therapy.
Our practice listens to our clients and provides a variety of therapy and counseling approaches to meet our client's needs. We know that life can get difficult at times and we believe that counseling can help you to see the situation from a different point of view to facilitate change. Our focus is to help individuals and families heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and providing each client with a customer treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow.
(716) 687-0997 View (716) 687-0997
Photo of Ryan Phillips, LMHC, Counselor
Ryan Phillips
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic modalities include, but are not limited to: EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Throughout the course of life, one is bound to combat various obstacles. With support and guidance, anyone can overcome these difficulties. Beginning the journey of therapy is a monumental step towards wellness. It requires true vulnerability to allow someone to listen to your experiences. This is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy providing therapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving wellness through a collaborative approach designed specifically for you.
My therapeutic modalities include, but are not limited to: EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Throughout the course of life, one is bound to combat various obstacles. With support and guidance, anyone can overcome these difficulties. Beginning the journey of therapy is a monumental step towards wellness. It requires true vulnerability to allow someone to listen to your experiences. This is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy providing therapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving wellness through a collaborative approach designed specifically for you.
(716) 403-0996 View (716) 403-0996
Photo of Mike Starks, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Starks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
Waitlist for new clients
We can discuss using effective therapies (EMDR, IFS, DBT, and more) designed to cut through old patterns that no longer serve you so you can engage life with a newer, healthier outlook.
I am a licensed clinical therapist (masters degree in social work) specializing in helping people deal with unresolved trauma, childhood issues, current events that might be causing anxiety, relationship problems, and helping people to realize their fullest potential. I have over 10 years experience working with people who suffer from mental health issues/concerns, substance abuse, trauma, attachment issues, and I with work well with people who have an idea about what their goals for therapy are or with those who are open to figuring out what their goals might be.
We can discuss using effective therapies (EMDR, IFS, DBT, and more) designed to cut through old patterns that no longer serve you so you can engage life with a newer, healthier outlook.
I am a licensed clinical therapist (masters degree in social work) specializing in helping people deal with unresolved trauma, childhood issues, current events that might be causing anxiety, relationship problems, and helping people to realize their fullest potential. I have over 10 years experience working with people who suffer from mental health issues/concerns, substance abuse, trauma, attachment issues, and I with work well with people who have an idea about what their goals for therapy are or with those who are open to figuring out what their goals might be.
(716) 321-5925 View (716) 321-5925
Photo of Seaghan Coleman, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seaghan Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
Note: I am transitioning to ketamine assisted psychedelic (KAP) and MDMA once that becomes available. I am a master therapist and trainer. I love exploring how people have become distorted from their true nature and lose touch with what matters most to them. The work is to help us all clear the distortions so we can return to who we are: awake, kind, free. I often practice using EMDR, Buddhist Psychology, spiritual practice, exploring the nature of satisfaction/dissatisfaction and the nature of self, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Note: I am transitioning to ketamine assisted psychedelic (KAP) and MDMA once that becomes available. I am a master therapist and trainer. I love exploring how people have become distorted from their true nature and lose touch with what matters most to them. The work is to help us all clear the distortions so we can return to who we are: awake, kind, free. I often practice using EMDR, Buddhist Psychology, spiritual practice, exploring the nature of satisfaction/dissatisfaction and the nature of self, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(716) 710-8854 View (716) 710-8854
Photo of Nicholas Nolan, LMHC, Counselor
Nicholas Nolan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14228
The Two main pillars of my practice are Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
It's important for me to get to know you and understand your story. I strive to help everyone who comes into my office better understand their past, present and create hope for a better future. I enjoy working with people who have a history of trauma, struggle with mood regulation, anxiety, grief, relationships and chronic pain.
The Two main pillars of my practice are Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
It's important for me to get to know you and understand your story. I strive to help everyone who comes into my office better understand their past, present and create hope for a better future. I enjoy working with people who have a history of trauma, struggle with mood regulation, anxiety, grief, relationships and chronic pain.
(716) 321-0577 View (716) 321-0577
Photo of Ofer Ziv - Ketamine Assisted Therapy - Buffalo Ny, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ofer Ziv - Ketamine Assisted Therapy - Buffalo Ny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14228
Waitlist for new clients
My experience with Somatic therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family System helps clients deepen their understand of their internal processes.
Have you tried making changes in your life, only to find yourself back in the same old patterns? Making a meaningful change is challenging but necessary for moving forward. Your old beliefs will try to keep you safe in what you know. Ketamine is a legal, safe, and effective medicine that helps amplify psychotherapy, and facilitate change. KAP can help clients experience more frequent breakthroughs and sustained improvement in symptoms. Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that is also known to have psychedelic and neuroplasticity encouraging properties.
My experience with Somatic therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family System helps clients deepen their understand of their internal processes.
Have you tried making changes in your life, only to find yourself back in the same old patterns? Making a meaningful change is challenging but necessary for moving forward. Your old beliefs will try to keep you safe in what you know. Ketamine is a legal, safe, and effective medicine that helps amplify psychotherapy, and facilitate change. KAP can help clients experience more frequent breakthroughs and sustained improvement in symptoms. Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that is also known to have psychedelic and neuroplasticity encouraging properties.
(716) 324-2742 View (716) 324-2742
Photo of PJ Hennigan, LMSW
PJ Hennigan
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheektowaga, NY 14215
I am an EMDR practitioner that utilizes Schema therapy, IFS and DBT to address the unique challenges of each client.
Each client presents with their own unique set of needs and challenges relative to the environments they were raised in. What many identify as disorders or dysfunction I view as necessary adaptations to environmental stressors. Within the context of that thinking people need to be able to function and manage their lives in a way that provides space for healing, happiness and love. I believe that what people desire most is to be seen, to live autonomously with self determination, and to feel connected to something greater than themselves, be it a cause, a community, an organization or God.
I am an EMDR practitioner that utilizes Schema therapy, IFS and DBT to address the unique challenges of each client.
Each client presents with their own unique set of needs and challenges relative to the environments they were raised in. What many identify as disorders or dysfunction I view as necessary adaptations to environmental stressors. Within the context of that thinking people need to be able to function and manage their lives in a way that provides space for healing, happiness and love. I believe that what people desire most is to be seen, to live autonomously with self determination, and to feel connected to something greater than themselves, be it a cause, a community, an organization or God.
(716) 222-8979 View (716) 222-8979
Photo of Jacob Schwartz, LMHC, Counselor
Jacob Schwartz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
I love using EMDR to transform how beliefs and experiences sit within our bodies and minds.
Currently taking on new clients! Congratulations on taking the first step towards healing and inner peace. It's not easy to ask for help, but when you do it's a huge relief. Sometimes life brings intense trauma, tough relationships, and/or family who makes you feel bad about yourself. You don't need to handle this alone anymore and no human being deserves permanent suffering.
I love using EMDR to transform how beliefs and experiences sit within our bodies and minds.
Currently taking on new clients! Congratulations on taking the first step towards healing and inner peace. It's not easy to ask for help, but when you do it's a huge relief. Sometimes life brings intense trauma, tough relationships, and/or family who makes you feel bad about yourself. You don't need to handle this alone anymore and no human being deserves permanent suffering.
(716) 458-9116 View (716) 458-9116
Photo of Peter Mittiga, LMHC, Counselor
Peter Mittiga
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14214  (Online Only)
I have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and can use that to work with clients who are suffering from past trauma.
I work with clients who are struggling with overcoming past trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship distress or work stress. Many times it can be easy to stuff feelings associated with any of these stressors, only to have these issues come back and be more intense. I like to assist clients with finding ways to process through their stressors, trauma, anxiety and depression, while learning healthy coping skills to manage stressors in the future so that you can feel more at peace and a sense of calm. With relationship distress I work with clients on effective communication and processing through emotions.
I have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and can use that to work with clients who are suffering from past trauma.
I work with clients who are struggling with overcoming past trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship distress or work stress. Many times it can be easy to stuff feelings associated with any of these stressors, only to have these issues come back and be more intense. I like to assist clients with finding ways to process through their stressors, trauma, anxiety and depression, while learning healthy coping skills to manage stressors in the future so that you can feel more at peace and a sense of calm. With relationship distress I work with clients on effective communication and processing through emotions.
(585) 558-3075 View (585) 558-3075
Photo of Nathaniel Hallett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathaniel Hallett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14228
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR-trained and specialize in trauma treatment for adults.
Do you feel trapped by the past? Do you often find yourself feeling stressed or down? Or maybe you just feel like you're stuck and don't know what step to take next. Life is a journey with many detours and difficult choices to make - having someone along with you makes all the difference. Whether your destination is relief from emotional pain, improved self-esteem, or effective coping skills, we can work together to achieve your goals.
I am EMDR-trained and specialize in trauma treatment for adults.
Do you feel trapped by the past? Do you often find yourself feeling stressed or down? Or maybe you just feel like you're stuck and don't know what step to take next. Life is a journey with many detours and difficult choices to make - having someone along with you makes all the difference. Whether your destination is relief from emotional pain, improved self-esteem, or effective coping skills, we can work together to achieve your goals.
(716) 452-7186 View (716) 452-7186
Photo of Eric M Johnson, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric M Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223
I specialize in treating adults with depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, and addictions by utilizing a blend of therapies including acceptance and commitment, CBT, solution-focused, and EMDR.
I believe that people have an inherent capacity for growth, especially in our most challenging periods of life. One significant way that this growth can be discovered is through psychotherapy. Whether you feel stuck in your past, present, or anticipated future, therapy can not only build awareness, but also offer solutions to ease emotional strife, develop healthier behaviors, and build better connections with yourself and others.
I specialize in treating adults with depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, and addictions by utilizing a blend of therapies including acceptance and commitment, CBT, solution-focused, and EMDR.
I believe that people have an inherent capacity for growth, especially in our most challenging periods of life. One significant way that this growth can be discovered is through psychotherapy. Whether you feel stuck in your past, present, or anticipated future, therapy can not only build awareness, but also offer solutions to ease emotional strife, develop healthier behaviors, and build better connections with yourself and others.
(716) 317-4528 View (716) 317-4528
Photo of Matthew Ryan McCabe, LCSW, CISM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Ryan McCabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CISM
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR which has been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of PTSD.
Hello, my name is Matthew McCabe and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with patients that are struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and can treat trauma symptoms with EMDR. Sometimes I have patients that are at a crossroads and need help solving problems that are paralyzing them in the moment. I will work on helping you obtain more skills that can help you manage situations that your facing. No matter the case, I can ensure that I will do my best to work with you and identify what needs you have and work together with you to find a way forward.
I am trained in EMDR which has been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of PTSD.
Hello, my name is Matthew McCabe and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with patients that are struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and can treat trauma symptoms with EMDR. Sometimes I have patients that are at a crossroads and need help solving problems that are paralyzing them in the moment. I will work on helping you obtain more skills that can help you manage situations that your facing. No matter the case, I can ensure that I will do my best to work with you and identify what needs you have and work together with you to find a way forward.
(716) 670-5631 x101 View (716) 670-5631 x101
Photo of Adam Giancarlo - Adam Giancarlo, LCSW-R, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Giancarlo, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
I have received extensive addiction training and am EMDR certified.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing therapy to various client populations in several different settings for over 14 years. I have assisted clients in overcoming many obstacles and issues, including mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and trauma; substance abuse and chemical dependency; domestic violence; as well as relationship problems. I work with individuals and couples. My approach is person-centered/client-directed; strengths-based; outcome-informed, feedback-informed, and trauma-informed; as well as solution-focused. I am continuing professional development through training.
I have received extensive addiction training and am EMDR certified.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing therapy to various client populations in several different settings for over 14 years. I have assisted clients in overcoming many obstacles and issues, including mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and trauma; substance abuse and chemical dependency; domestic violence; as well as relationship problems. I work with individuals and couples. My approach is person-centered/client-directed; strengths-based; outcome-informed, feedback-informed, and trauma-informed; as well as solution-focused. I am continuing professional development through training.
(716) 229-5540 View (716) 229-5540
Photo of Chris Roche, LMHC, Counselor
Chris Roche
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
Unwanted thoughts, anxiety and depression can be very difficult to manage. Sometimes we feel all alone or lost and need someone to help get us on track. Please allow me to help you grow and develop into the person you want to be in a safe, supportive counseling environment. My goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in your abilities to manage the challenges in your life.
Unwanted thoughts, anxiety and depression can be very difficult to manage. Sometimes we feel all alone or lost and need someone to help get us on track. Please allow me to help you grow and develop into the person you want to be in a safe, supportive counseling environment. My goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in your abilities to manage the challenges in your life.
(716) 407-7506 View (716) 407-7506
Photo of Stephen Finn Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen Finn Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
Waitlist for new clients
In my work as a therapist, I have helped children, families, parents, and adults cope with and overcome a wide range of challenges such as PTSD, grief, depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, parenting and relationship challenges, and life transitions. In the process of doing so, I have learned that we all possess a tremendous capacity for healing and growth.
In my work as a therapist, I have helped children, families, parents, and adults cope with and overcome a wide range of challenges such as PTSD, grief, depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, parenting and relationship challenges, and life transitions. In the process of doing so, I have learned that we all possess a tremendous capacity for healing and growth.
(716) 265-4733 View (716) 265-4733
Photo of Michael Guerin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Guerin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14223
We view the world through a lens based on our experiences, circumstances, and expectations. Sometimes, this lens can become clouded or distorted by life’s many challenges. It is my belief that we have an innate ability to be resilient at times in which our lens may become scratched, foggy, or even cracked. I utilize a multi-faceted approach to therapy to take a look at ways in which you have navigated and are currently navigating your worldview. Together, we can work on finding, building, and establishing ways in which you find clarity and understanding as it relates to your holistic health.
We view the world through a lens based on our experiences, circumstances, and expectations. Sometimes, this lens can become clouded or distorted by life’s many challenges. It is my belief that we have an innate ability to be resilient at times in which our lens may become scratched, foggy, or even cracked. I utilize a multi-faceted approach to therapy to take a look at ways in which you have navigated and are currently navigating your worldview. Together, we can work on finding, building, and establishing ways in which you find clarity and understanding as it relates to your holistic health.
(716) 320-9240 View (716) 320-9240

See more therapy options for North Tonawanda

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.