EMDR Therapists in Oregon

Photo of Jennifer A Crawford, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Jennifer A Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I prioritize people who are ready to reclaim their whole authentic selves. Self-care is a radical act, and healing and change are complex. We all deserve compassionate, strategic support as we face barriers and become our whole selves. If you are ready to center yourself in your life, reach out for a free consultation. If we decide to work together, we will reconnect you to your body and intuition, help you navigate current barriers, and learn new skills so that you can live your life with joy and intention. Leave a voicemail and I’ll reach out to schedule a consult.
I prioritize people who are ready to reclaim their whole authentic selves. Self-care is a radical act, and healing and change are complex. We all deserve compassionate, strategic support as we face barriers and become our whole selves. If you are ready to center yourself in your life, reach out for a free consultation. If we decide to work together, we will reconnect you to your body and intuition, help you navigate current barriers, and learn new skills so that you can live your life with joy and intention. Leave a voicemail and I’ll reach out to schedule a consult.
(971) 299-2752 View (971) 299-2752
Photo of Carolyn Powell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Carolyn Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Now offering EMDR
At times, we may reach a point where we are unable to bear the load any longer. Seeking counseling can offer liberation from the heavy burdens that oppress us. Whether it be past or current trauma, problems in relationships, life transitions, or unfulfilled expectations, we can collaborate toward recovering from the injuries inflicted by life's unpredictable challenges. Embarking on the path to healing may seem daunting, but I am eager to create a secure and nurturing environment, fostering a dependable connection where we can embark on this journey together and discover optimism for what lies ahead
Now offering EMDR
At times, we may reach a point where we are unable to bear the load any longer. Seeking counseling can offer liberation from the heavy burdens that oppress us. Whether it be past or current trauma, problems in relationships, life transitions, or unfulfilled expectations, we can collaborate toward recovering from the injuries inflicted by life's unpredictable challenges. Embarking on the path to healing may seem daunting, but I am eager to create a secure and nurturing environment, fostering a dependable connection where we can embark on this journey together and discover optimism for what lies ahead
(503) 461-7300 View (503) 461-7300
Photo of Chantia Sturman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Chantia Sturman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m EMDR-trained and trauma-informed, and my work is grounded in evidence-based therapy that supports lasting change, not just short-term coping.
You may look like you’re functioning well on the outside, but internally feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, self-criticism, or ongoing tension around food, body image, or control. You might be tired of managing everything on your own and want a space where you can slow down, be honest, and work toward real change.
I’m EMDR-trained and trauma-informed, and my work is grounded in evidence-based therapy that supports lasting change, not just short-term coping.
You may look like you’re functioning well on the outside, but internally feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, self-criticism, or ongoing tension around food, body image, or control. You might be tired of managing everything on your own and want a space where you can slow down, be honest, and work toward real change.
(541) 275-2259 View (541) 275-2259
Photo of Jasper Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jasper Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am trained in using EMDR and pain reprocessing therapy.
Feeling like things could be better or wishing they would get better? I'm here to tell you healing and growth is possible and that is a big part of things getting better. If you are wanting to get help in reaching your highest quality of life then the time is now to start. Change takes time and everyone's journey to a healthier version of themselves is a very individualized process. Lets find a path that works for your induvial needs together.
I am trained in using EMDR and pain reprocessing therapy.
Feeling like things could be better or wishing they would get better? I'm here to tell you healing and growth is possible and that is a big part of things getting better. If you are wanting to get help in reaching your highest quality of life then the time is now to start. Change takes time and everyone's journey to a healthier version of themselves is a very individualized process. Lets find a path that works for your induvial needs together.
(971) 318-5455 View (971) 318-5455
Photo of Matthew O'Leary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Matthew O'Leary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I utilize various modalities including CBT, Solution Focused and EMDR, all framed in a person-centered approach that recognizes the unique strengths of the individual.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive and collaborative environment in which individuals can work toward developing insight and finding solutions that draw on their unique strengths and ultimately lead to positive change.
I utilize various modalities including CBT, Solution Focused and EMDR, all framed in a person-centered approach that recognizes the unique strengths of the individual.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive and collaborative environment in which individuals can work toward developing insight and finding solutions that draw on their unique strengths and ultimately lead to positive change.
(458) 224-3817 View (458) 224-3817
Photo of Sarah M. Felsted, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, QMHP-R, MFTA
Sarah M. Felsted
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, QMHP-R, MFTA
5 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
When using EMDR, I will help you uncover the negative core beliefs that keep you feeling stuck, unhappy, and anxious.
Do you feel "stuck" in your relationship despite your best efforts? You are likely curious about why you feel this way and are desperate for real change. If you're navigating relationship or parenting distress, you and your loved one needs a space where you feel truly seen and understood—not just analyzed. Using emotionally focused therapy (with warmth and some humor), we’ll move beyond surface-level talk to heal the root of your "heaviness." As your therapist, I will help you trade "walking on eggshells" for stability.
When using EMDR, I will help you uncover the negative core beliefs that keep you feeling stuck, unhappy, and anxious.
Do you feel "stuck" in your relationship despite your best efforts? You are likely curious about why you feel this way and are desperate for real change. If you're navigating relationship or parenting distress, you and your loved one needs a space where you feel truly seen and understood—not just analyzed. Using emotionally focused therapy (with warmth and some humor), we’ll move beyond surface-level talk to heal the root of your "heaviness." As your therapist, I will help you trade "walking on eggshells" for stability.
(971) 299-7228 View (971) 299-7228
Photo of Elaine Kathryn Dinwiddie, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Elaine Kathryn Dinwiddie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am trained in EMDR Level 2, EFT Professional, Gottman Couples therapy, CBT, DBT, CPT, ET, Certified Clinical Trauma Profession
With compassion, I assist individuals and couples in achieving meaningful, significant change and core healing. As our journey on earth has intrapersonal and interpersonal difficulties and unexpected life events, one needs a fellow traveler to assist them. I enjoy being that fellow traveler. Coming from a trauma-informed, resilience-oriented framework, I help with trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), PTSD, borderline personality disorder, Attachment issues, Childhood Abuse, and communication skills.
I am trained in EMDR Level 2, EFT Professional, Gottman Couples therapy, CBT, DBT, CPT, ET, Certified Clinical Trauma Profession
With compassion, I assist individuals and couples in achieving meaningful, significant change and core healing. As our journey on earth has intrapersonal and interpersonal difficulties and unexpected life events, one needs a fellow traveler to assist them. I enjoy being that fellow traveler. Coming from a trauma-informed, resilience-oriented framework, I help with trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), PTSD, borderline personality disorder, Attachment issues, Childhood Abuse, and communication skills.
(541) 871-3665 View (541) 871-3665
Photo of Michelle Sargenti - Homebody Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Homebody Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach incorporates elements of psychodynamic theory, acceptance and commitment, EMDR, and mindfulness.
Hi, I'm Michelle Sargenti and my therapy practice is Homebody Counseling, LLC. I firmly believe that we are all deserving of peace, and my intention is to support you in claiming yours. As a therapist, I aim to show up as my authentic self - someone who will laugh with you, grieve with you, celebrate you, and support you in navigating life’s challenges while providing insight into tools that ease the process.
My approach incorporates elements of psychodynamic theory, acceptance and commitment, EMDR, and mindfulness.
Hi, I'm Michelle Sargenti and my therapy practice is Homebody Counseling, LLC. I firmly believe that we are all deserving of peace, and my intention is to support you in claiming yours. As a therapist, I aim to show up as my authentic self - someone who will laugh with you, grieve with you, celebrate you, and support you in navigating life’s challenges while providing insight into tools that ease the process.
(503) 994-5643 View (503) 994-5643
Photo of Valerie Garst, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Valerie Garst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained clinician.
Are you overwhelmed? Feeling stuck? Losing hope? I'd like to help. I specialize in working with people struggling due to past or recent traumatic experiences.
I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained clinician.
Are you overwhelmed? Feeling stuck? Losing hope? I'd like to help. I specialize in working with people struggling due to past or recent traumatic experiences.
(971) 315-9541 View (971) 315-9541
Photo of Sarah Bord, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC I
Sarah Bord
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC I
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize as needed CBT, EMDR, ERP, Geek Therapy, and ecotherapy walk and talk model.
Geek Therapy encompasses many different paradigms of thought, intellectual curiosities, and specialized interests outside of "normal" social conformity. This can range from relating to characters or finding a video game to play together or relate to. Ecotherapy, also known as nature based therapy, utilizes nature to benefit from its healing capabilities.
I utilize as needed CBT, EMDR, ERP, Geek Therapy, and ecotherapy walk and talk model.
Geek Therapy encompasses many different paradigms of thought, intellectual curiosities, and specialized interests outside of "normal" social conformity. This can range from relating to characters or finding a video game to play together or relate to. Ecotherapy, also known as nature based therapy, utilizes nature to benefit from its healing capabilities.
View
Photo of Kallie Cothern, Licensed Professional Counselor, M.Ed, LPC
Kallie Cothern
Licensed Professional Counselor, M.Ed, LPC
Online Only
I draw from evidenced-based therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, mindfulness-based stress reduction, CBT, internal Family Systems (IFS), and other somatic interventions to provide a compassionate and personalized approach.
Accepting New Clients. You’ve taken a step toward greater wellness, happiness, and healing by starting this search. I understand choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming, so I am happy to answer any questions that you may have, beyond this profile. I am a licensed professional counselor and certified yoga teacher using an integrative and collaborative approach in my work with clients. I strive to provide a safe environment for exploration, healing, and transformation by fostering a supportive and non-judgmental space where clients can comfortably discuss sensitive topics, and address underlying issues to foster healing and growth.
I draw from evidenced-based therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, mindfulness-based stress reduction, CBT, internal Family Systems (IFS), and other somatic interventions to provide a compassionate and personalized approach.
Accepting New Clients. You’ve taken a step toward greater wellness, happiness, and healing by starting this search. I understand choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming, so I am happy to answer any questions that you may have, beyond this profile. I am a licensed professional counselor and certified yoga teacher using an integrative and collaborative approach in my work with clients. I strive to provide a safe environment for exploration, healing, and transformation by fostering a supportive and non-judgmental space where clients can comfortably discuss sensitive topics, and address underlying issues to foster healing and growth.
(971) 399-3159 View (971) 399-3159
Photo of Tina Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Tina Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Eugene, OR 97401
My advanced trainings include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness and Mindful Self Compassion.
I provide individual therapy for adults from all walks and stages of life who may be struggling to manage anxiety, depressive and mood disorders, ADHD, distressing or traumatic events, childhood adversity, life transitions, relational difficulties and problems that you may be encountering at work, home or school.
My advanced trainings include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness and Mindful Self Compassion.
I provide individual therapy for adults from all walks and stages of life who may be struggling to manage anxiety, depressive and mood disorders, ADHD, distressing or traumatic events, childhood adversity, life transitions, relational difficulties and problems that you may be encountering at work, home or school.
(541) 896-5390 View (541) 896-5390
Photo of Alexandria Strait, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCC
Alexandria Strait
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities, with extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method, and Motivational Interviewing—evidence-based treatments that are effective for various issues.
If you've made it this far, there’s likely something in your life that feels too big to manage or change on your own. You’re not alone; we all face seasons that challenge us. Let me provide the support, guidance, and encouragement you need to move forward. Whether you want to learn to manage your emotions in healthier ways, process difficult life events, or simply become a better version of yourself, I’m here to help. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and use a blend of therapeutic techniques to tailor your experience for the best possible outcomes. My approach is both straightforward and compassionate.
I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities, with extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method, and Motivational Interviewing—evidence-based treatments that are effective for various issues.
If you've made it this far, there’s likely something in your life that feels too big to manage or change on your own. You’re not alone; we all face seasons that challenge us. Let me provide the support, guidance, and encouragement you need to move forward. Whether you want to learn to manage your emotions in healthier ways, process difficult life events, or simply become a better version of yourself, I’m here to help. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and use a blend of therapeutic techniques to tailor your experience for the best possible outcomes. My approach is both straightforward and compassionate.
(971) 451-3332 View (971) 451-3332
Photo of Coriann Matthews - Rogue Holistic Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rogue Holistic Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501
We specialize in treating Complex PTSD blending interventions like Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive/Behavior Therapy, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy, and psychedelic medicine prep/integration; all while encompassing your spiritual and personal belief systems, to create a holistic plan that fits you.
Tambien tenemos servicios en espanol. Rogue Holistic Therapy is a group counseling agency that offers holistic and alternative modalities. We truly believe we're not healers, just tools to support/guide your system towards its own unique way of healing. We're here to walk alongside you on your personal journey towards your fullest potential with care and compassion. Our mission is to provide a welcoming environment to people from all walks of life where we focus on the mind-body-spirit relationship by using a unique approach for each individual. It's our belief that you're the healer and our job is to shine a light on it.
We specialize in treating Complex PTSD blending interventions like Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive/Behavior Therapy, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy, and psychedelic medicine prep/integration; all while encompassing your spiritual and personal belief systems, to create a holistic plan that fits you.
Tambien tenemos servicios en espanol. Rogue Holistic Therapy is a group counseling agency that offers holistic and alternative modalities. We truly believe we're not healers, just tools to support/guide your system towards its own unique way of healing. We're here to walk alongside you on your personal journey towards your fullest potential with care and compassion. Our mission is to provide a welcoming environment to people from all walks of life where we focus on the mind-body-spirit relationship by using a unique approach for each individual. It's our belief that you're the healer and our job is to shine a light on it.
(541) 625-1507 View (541) 625-1507
Photo of Mandee Ray Awmiller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC I
Mandee Ray Awmiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC I
Redmond, OR 97756
Waitlist for new clients
I approach client care from a space where you are the expert in your own life and I’m here to support you, where you are. Only you have walked your path and had your unique set of experiences. When times are difficult, it is reassuring to know that you can have someone to be in that experience with you, by your side- non-judgmentally and empathetically listening. Using a collaborative client-centered framework, as well as various approaches, I assist clients in creating client-driven goals that are important to them and their overall wellness to promote growth, healing, skill building, and self-acceptance.
I approach client care from a space where you are the expert in your own life and I’m here to support you, where you are. Only you have walked your path and had your unique set of experiences. When times are difficult, it is reassuring to know that you can have someone to be in that experience with you, by your side- non-judgmentally and empathetically listening. Using a collaborative client-centered framework, as well as various approaches, I assist clients in creating client-driven goals that are important to them and their overall wellness to promote growth, healing, skill building, and self-acceptance.
(458) 243-4642 View (458) 243-4642
Photo of Steve Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Steve Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
1 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330
I use a trauma-informed approach in all my work, and I’m trained in EMDR therapy, a powerful method that supports healing by helping the brain process and release distressing memories.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent 17 years as a first responder. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how stress and trauma affect the body and mind. It also taught me the importance of having support that is both grounded and compassionate.
I use a trauma-informed approach in all my work, and I’m trained in EMDR therapy, a powerful method that supports healing by helping the brain process and release distressing memories.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent 17 years as a first responder. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how stress and trauma affect the body and mind. It also taught me the importance of having support that is both grounded and compassionate.
(541) 845-3478 View (541) 845-3478
Photo of Sandra Caroompas, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LLC
Sandra Caroompas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LLC
Boring, OR 97009
I use a variety of treatment modalities that I develop with my client, however, most often we will be enjoying Emotion Focused Therapy, EMDR, parts work, trauma informed CBT, Creative Practices, Mindfulness.
Life is a journey! Do you feel overwhelmed, distressed, disconnected or lost, is your life hard to navigate. I believe that compassionate, reflective therapy can help restore vitality and renew hope. Individuals, and children/families, experience emotional struggles and challenging behaviors because of the impact of a variety of past and present variables, not because of weakness. Symptoms/Behaviors are simply indicators of need, and actually illuminate innate strength that guides healing. I'mabout collaborating with you to build strengths, explore barriers to enjoyment of life, and create a joyful resilience.
I use a variety of treatment modalities that I develop with my client, however, most often we will be enjoying Emotion Focused Therapy, EMDR, parts work, trauma informed CBT, Creative Practices, Mindfulness.
Life is a journey! Do you feel overwhelmed, distressed, disconnected or lost, is your life hard to navigate. I believe that compassionate, reflective therapy can help restore vitality and renew hope. Individuals, and children/families, experience emotional struggles and challenging behaviors because of the impact of a variety of past and present variables, not because of weakness. Symptoms/Behaviors are simply indicators of need, and actually illuminate innate strength that guides healing. I'mabout collaborating with you to build strengths, explore barriers to enjoyment of life, and create a joyful resilience.
(541) 216-6743 View (541) 216-6743
Photo of Carol Janette Vallejo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Carol Janette Vallejo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Cave Junction, OR 97523
My work is grounded in evidence-based techniques and also informed by ACT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and trauma-focused care to support healing, growth, and meaningful change.
I, Carol J. Vallejo, LCSW, founder of Butterfly Wellness LLC, have over 20 years of experience specializing in individuals on the autism spectrum, those affected by trauma, ADHD and clients with other mental health or life stress challenges. My journey began at 20, working with diverse populations, including victims of crime or domestic violence, asylees and those with schizophrenia. I am fluent in Spanish, providing culturally competent therapy and understanding of the diverse challenges many face. I’m committed to helping you build resilience, heal, and achieve lasting, meaningful change in a safe and supportive space.
My work is grounded in evidence-based techniques and also informed by ACT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and trauma-focused care to support healing, growth, and meaningful change.
I, Carol J. Vallejo, LCSW, founder of Butterfly Wellness LLC, have over 20 years of experience specializing in individuals on the autism spectrum, those affected by trauma, ADHD and clients with other mental health or life stress challenges. My journey began at 20, working with diverse populations, including victims of crime or domestic violence, asylees and those with schizophrenia. I am fluent in Spanish, providing culturally competent therapy and understanding of the diverse challenges many face. I’m committed to helping you build resilience, heal, and achieve lasting, meaningful change in a safe and supportive space.
(541) 658-3591 View (541) 658-3591
Photo of Eileen Aguon Martinez, MSW, CSWA
Eileen Aguon Martinez
Verified Verified
Online Only
Because no two nervous systems are the same, I take an integrative approach—blending EMDR, Brainspotting, ERP, ACT, CBT, DBT, somatic processing, parts work, EFT tapping, and more!
Welcome! I’m a first-gen, biracial psychotherapist of Indigenous Chamorro/Pacific Islander and Mexican heritage, with roots in Anaheim, California. I’m passionate about creating therapy spaces that feel safe, affirming, and genuinely human. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Cal State East Bay and my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. My work is grounded in cultural empathy, ancestral and intergenerational healing, and a decolonized lens. I believe healing happens when we honor where you come from and where you’re going—and I’m committed to showing up as a true ally to human rights.
Because no two nervous systems are the same, I take an integrative approach—blending EMDR, Brainspotting, ERP, ACT, CBT, DBT, somatic processing, parts work, EFT tapping, and more!
Welcome! I’m a first-gen, biracial psychotherapist of Indigenous Chamorro/Pacific Islander and Mexican heritage, with roots in Anaheim, California. I’m passionate about creating therapy spaces that feel safe, affirming, and genuinely human. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Cal State East Bay and my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. My work is grounded in cultural empathy, ancestral and intergenerational healing, and a decolonized lens. I believe healing happens when we honor where you come from and where you’re going—and I’m committed to showing up as a true ally to human rights.
(971) 287-5231 View (971) 287-5231
Photo of Jaclyn Braziel - Hope for Change Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hope for Change Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
McMinnville, OR 97128
I have training in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), which is an evidenced based modality to help process through someone's trauma.
For me an ideal client would be someone that is seeking support to make an honest change for themselves and in doing so, utilize the tools and supports that they are receiving to build up their own confidence to make these changes. Often it is difficult and uncomfortable to make changes, however, with skills put in place, it can lessen the struggle and increase the person's independence and self-esteem.
I have training in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), which is an evidenced based modality to help process through someone's trauma.
For me an ideal client would be someone that is seeking support to make an honest change for themselves and in doing so, utilize the tools and supports that they are receiving to build up their own confidence to make these changes. Often it is difficult and uncomfortable to make changes, however, with skills put in place, it can lessen the struggle and increase the person's independence and self-esteem.
(503) 749-9132 View (503) 749-9132

See more therapy options for Oregon

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.