EMDR Therapists in King Of Prussia, PA

Photo of Ryan McMillian, Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Ryan McMillian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling like a hamster on a wheel? You’re not alone! The relentless grind of work and life can leave you feeling like you’re drowning in a sea of tasks, expectations, and responsibilities. It’s like being the superhero of your own story, but without the cape or the recognition. Your partner might not get it, and that’s okay—let’s face it, they’re not the ones juggling a million things while trying to keep a smile on their face! You're overworked because quite frankly you're good at your job. Yet, you feel taken advantage of because of your strengths, and the love for it is slowly fading.
Feeling like a hamster on a wheel? You’re not alone! The relentless grind of work and life can leave you feeling like you’re drowning in a sea of tasks, expectations, and responsibilities. It’s like being the superhero of your own story, but without the cape or the recognition. Your partner might not get it, and that’s okay—let’s face it, they’re not the ones juggling a million things while trying to keep a smile on their face! You're overworked because quite frankly you're good at your job. Yet, you feel taken advantage of because of your strengths, and the love for it is slowly fading.
(215) 653-8853 View (215) 653-8853
Photo of Charlie Folks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlie Folks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Thanks for taking the time to check out my profile. I have worked in the field of substance use disorder for over 40 years. I have a Masters in Social Work and have had many management positions at addiction treatment facilities throughout the years. My passion is working with patients on an individual basis to help process their issues using evidenced-based treatment modalities while also building strong support networks of recovery.
Thanks for taking the time to check out my profile. I have worked in the field of substance use disorder for over 40 years. I have a Masters in Social Work and have had many management positions at addiction treatment facilities throughout the years. My passion is working with patients on an individual basis to help process their issues using evidenced-based treatment modalities while also building strong support networks of recovery.
(267) 214-5027 View (267) 214-5027
Photo of Judy Turner-Dunphy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Judy Turner-Dunphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I am level 2 trained in EMDR and enjoy incorporating IFS, cognitive strategies, and other modalities into my practice.
I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques to help enhance individual strengths and provide support through challenges including life stressors, anxiety, depression, PTSD, challenging relationship dynamics, social or emotional issues, and difficult transitions. I believe there is power in a collaborative, warm, and empathic therapeutic relationship, and use this as the basis of my therapeutic approach.
I am level 2 trained in EMDR and enjoy incorporating IFS, cognitive strategies, and other modalities into my practice.
I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques to help enhance individual strengths and provide support through challenges including life stressors, anxiety, depression, PTSD, challenging relationship dynamics, social or emotional issues, and difficult transitions. I believe there is power in a collaborative, warm, and empathic therapeutic relationship, and use this as the basis of my therapeutic approach.
(484) 279-4590 View (484) 279-4590
Photo of Avery Connolly - Avery Connolly, Integrative Minds LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Avery Connolly, Integrative Minds LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Additionally, I am a trained EMDR therapist and certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
My clinical philosophy can be captured by the following words… It’s not just in your head, it’s in your brain. My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that much of the ongoing emotional and psychological distress we carry throughout life is rooted in traumatic underpinnings, which directly affects the central nervous system. In helping clients understand the neurological reasons behind their distress, and integrating techniques to support rewiring for well-being, individuals become more empowered and confident to creatively assume control for how they want to live their lives.
Additionally, I am a trained EMDR therapist and certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
My clinical philosophy can be captured by the following words… It’s not just in your head, it’s in your brain. My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that much of the ongoing emotional and psychological distress we carry throughout life is rooted in traumatic underpinnings, which directly affects the central nervous system. In helping clients understand the neurological reasons behind their distress, and integrating techniques to support rewiring for well-being, individuals become more empowered and confident to creatively assume control for how they want to live their lives.
(484) 424-0033 View (484) 424-0033
Photo of Kayla Billger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kayla Billger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), similar to EMDR, which can treat trauma rapidly, in as little as 1-5 sessions.
I help clients who are looking to dig deeper to understand themselves, process and unpack the “why" behind their patterns,& find healing from the past. Maybe you feel trapped in anxious spirals or stuck in difficult emotions, patterns, and self-judgement. You feel disconnected from yourself, your needs, and others. I know that life rarely goes according to plan and can be filled with hurt and challenges. I believe that you are the expert on your story & my job is to provide you with the tools and guidance to feel empowered and support in your healing journey. You are not defined by your challenges; there is hope for healing!
I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), similar to EMDR, which can treat trauma rapidly, in as little as 1-5 sessions.
I help clients who are looking to dig deeper to understand themselves, process and unpack the “why" behind their patterns,& find healing from the past. Maybe you feel trapped in anxious spirals or stuck in difficult emotions, patterns, and self-judgement. You feel disconnected from yourself, your needs, and others. I know that life rarely goes according to plan and can be filled with hurt and challenges. I believe that you are the expert on your story & my job is to provide you with the tools and guidance to feel empowered and support in your healing journey. You are not defined by your challenges; there is hope for healing!
View
Photo of Lesa Drake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lesa Drake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I use EFT, Cognitive- Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness and several other modalities to assist in the healing process.
If you are here, you are ready to heal. Depression and anxiety have made you question your worth. Childhood trauma has made you believe you are not lovable. Your familial and romantic relationships expose the emotional storms you weather that move you to put up walls to keep out pain. You and your partner are constantly fighting, and you no longer feel like a couple. I can help. As a Certified Natural Health Professional, I take a holistic approach to healing as I help people examine their Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual selves. I also assist in teaching others how food choices, herbs, exercise and thoughts influence overall mood.
I use EFT, Cognitive- Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness and several other modalities to assist in the healing process.
If you are here, you are ready to heal. Depression and anxiety have made you question your worth. Childhood trauma has made you believe you are not lovable. Your familial and romantic relationships expose the emotional storms you weather that move you to put up walls to keep out pain. You and your partner are constantly fighting, and you no longer feel like a couple. I can help. As a Certified Natural Health Professional, I take a holistic approach to healing as I help people examine their Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual selves. I also assist in teaching others how food choices, herbs, exercise and thoughts influence overall mood.
(484) 214-2535 View (484) 214-2535
Photo of Ruth Han, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ruth Han
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
It is not possible to build a good home on a shaky foundation. This same principle applies to the life we build for ourselves. I work with people going through quarter-life or mid-life crises. We work together to help you heal and rebuild your foundation so that you can continue to build a thriving life. You could be a young adult who is struggling in relationships with parents, or a partner, or in your career. Or you could be a mid-life person struggling with marriage conflict, parenting clashes, or career trajectory. Or maybe you have addictions or habits that are poisoning your life that you want to get rid of.
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
It is not possible to build a good home on a shaky foundation. This same principle applies to the life we build for ourselves. I work with people going through quarter-life or mid-life crises. We work together to help you heal and rebuild your foundation so that you can continue to build a thriving life. You could be a young adult who is struggling in relationships with parents, or a partner, or in your career. Or you could be a mid-life person struggling with marriage conflict, parenting clashes, or career trajectory. Or maybe you have addictions or habits that are poisoning your life that you want to get rid of.
(484) 430-3484 View (484) 430-3484
Photo of Catherine Frank - CM Counsel King of Prussia, Psychologist, PhD
CM Counsel King of Prussia
Psychologist, PhD
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
CM Counsel is a behavioral health practice of licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, clinical social workers and counselors providing compassionate and comprehensive care for adults, children, adolescents, families & couples. To meet your scheduling needs, we are committed to providing timely appointments by offering virtual and evening, weekend and daytime hours at our offices in Plymouth Meeting, Exton, and King of Prussia. CM Counsel accepts most insurance plans. Our staff is highly qualified to help you and your family effectively resolve any obstacles to your emotional well-being and peace of mind.
CM Counsel is a behavioral health practice of licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, clinical social workers and counselors providing compassionate and comprehensive care for adults, children, adolescents, families & couples. To meet your scheduling needs, we are committed to providing timely appointments by offering virtual and evening, weekend and daytime hours at our offices in Plymouth Meeting, Exton, and King of Prussia. CM Counsel accepts most insurance plans. Our staff is highly qualified to help you and your family effectively resolve any obstacles to your emotional well-being and peace of mind.
(484) 906-6933 View (484) 906-6933
Photo of Jill Verofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Jill Verofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I have 12 years of experience in working with individuals with substance use disorder covering a wide range of concerns such as addiction, alcoholism, depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis issues. I have also worked with patients whom have struggled with trauma and abuse of all forms. These issues can be seriously debilitating and it is important to be proactive in developing individualized treatment plans.
I have 12 years of experience in working with individuals with substance use disorder covering a wide range of concerns such as addiction, alcoholism, depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis issues. I have also worked with patients whom have struggled with trauma and abuse of all forms. These issues can be seriously debilitating and it is important to be proactive in developing individualized treatment plans.
(267) 763-3485 View (267) 763-3485
Photo of Intissar Ben Halim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Intissar Ben Halim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
2 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Waitlist for new clients
I use the Geno-Charting process which provides me with an ability to map out family systems, and I am trauma informed, and trained in EMDR.
I approach the therapeutic relationship with a deep conviction and trust in the process. I deeply engage and connect with clients on a heart, mind, and body level, rather than through the lens of a diagnosis or label they may have acquired along the way. I believe that each person is their own expert. Cultivating better contact with oneself, and learning to be more compassionate and supportive towards self is foundational for the therapeutic process I hold and facilitate. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clientele, especially those with anxiety, depression, and relational disruptions.
I use the Geno-Charting process which provides me with an ability to map out family systems, and I am trauma informed, and trained in EMDR.
I approach the therapeutic relationship with a deep conviction and trust in the process. I deeply engage and connect with clients on a heart, mind, and body level, rather than through the lens of a diagnosis or label they may have acquired along the way. I believe that each person is their own expert. Cultivating better contact with oneself, and learning to be more compassionate and supportive towards self is foundational for the therapeutic process I hold and facilitate. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clientele, especially those with anxiety, depression, and relational disruptions.
(484) 986-2166 View (484) 986-2166
Photo of Kylie Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kylie Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I work with teens, young adults, and adults struggling with strong emotions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm, and relationship challenges. I provide individual therapy, parent coaching, couples, and family therapy, focusing on practical DBT skills to improve coping, communication, and balance at home and in daily life. My goal is to create a supportive space where you and your family feel understood and empowered.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I work with teens, young adults, and adults struggling with strong emotions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm, and relationship challenges. I provide individual therapy, parent coaching, couples, and family therapy, focusing on practical DBT skills to improve coping, communication, and balance at home and in daily life. My goal is to create a supportive space where you and your family feel understood and empowered.
(484) 255-4371 View (484) 255-4371
Photo of Maggie Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Maggie Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I would say that parts work/IFS, somatic/body work, and EMDR are my most utilized modalities.
With a belief that our inner obstacles create our outer obstacles, the goal of my practice is to help you to understand and remove those obstacles from your life. I will be there to support you as we work together to understand the relationship that you have with yourself as well as the relationship patterns that you have with other people. It is my hope that I can help you with self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-love.
I would say that parts work/IFS, somatic/body work, and EMDR are my most utilized modalities.
With a belief that our inner obstacles create our outer obstacles, the goal of my practice is to help you to understand and remove those obstacles from your life. I will be there to support you as we work together to understand the relationship that you have with yourself as well as the relationship patterns that you have with other people. It is my hope that I can help you with self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-love.
(484) 218-5322 View (484) 218-5322
Photo of Michael Drag, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Michael Drag
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use a psychodynamic approach pulling from multiple disciplines from CBT, DBT, EMDR, Rogerian, Mindfulness, and Gestalt principles.
Sometimes it feels like the world just isn't made for us and no matter what we try, we can't seem to find a way around those things that prevent us from getting our needs met. I meet people where they are and attempt to take an outside perspective in helping them meet their goals as we define together. I also try to fully understand a person as it includes where they came from, decisions made through life, and influences outside of their control. I want to help you build the life you want with your own strength.
I use a psychodynamic approach pulling from multiple disciplines from CBT, DBT, EMDR, Rogerian, Mindfulness, and Gestalt principles.
Sometimes it feels like the world just isn't made for us and no matter what we try, we can't seem to find a way around those things that prevent us from getting our needs met. I meet people where they are and attempt to take an outside perspective in helping them meet their goals as we define together. I also try to fully understand a person as it includes where they came from, decisions made through life, and influences outside of their control. I want to help you build the life you want with your own strength.
(610) 753-4733 View (610) 753-4733
Photo of Jocelyn Moye - Myriad Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Myriad Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
At Myriad Counseling, multiple approaches are offered for trauma therapy (CBT, Parts Work, expressive arts, EMDR).
I bring a calm, stable presence to my work and a heart for helping others. Understanding your story and how it affects you is where we will start. Using my creativity, I help clients find ways to increase their wellbeing that are individual to them and fit into their lifestyle. I believe in a whole-person approach, where the body and mind are both used to gain insight and relieve distress. Whether you are anxious or depressed, feeling stuck, or realize that the past is affecting you now, a compassionate approach can help you gain clarity and heal.
At Myriad Counseling, multiple approaches are offered for trauma therapy (CBT, Parts Work, expressive arts, EMDR).
I bring a calm, stable presence to my work and a heart for helping others. Understanding your story and how it affects you is where we will start. Using my creativity, I help clients find ways to increase their wellbeing that are individual to them and fit into their lifestyle. I believe in a whole-person approach, where the body and mind are both used to gain insight and relieve distress. Whether you are anxious or depressed, feeling stuck, or realize that the past is affecting you now, a compassionate approach can help you gain clarity and heal.
(484) 989-9271 View (484) 989-9271
Photo of Lauren Calise, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lauren Calise
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Attachment based, person-centered counseling and EMDR are my top modalities.
I am an LPC, who is here to help you discover the best version of yourself! Whether you are dealing with feelings of stress, burnout, anxiety or depression, I am here to help. Together we can establish goals that will help you reach your fullest potential. Seeking help is a brave move, it is my responsibility to help you feel safe and protected on your healing journey. Through evidence-based techniques, we can design a healthy relationship with your mind. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Attachment based, person-centered counseling and EMDR are my top modalities.
I am an LPC, who is here to help you discover the best version of yourself! Whether you are dealing with feelings of stress, burnout, anxiety or depression, I am here to help. Together we can establish goals that will help you reach your fullest potential. Seeking help is a brave move, it is my responsibility to help you feel safe and protected on your healing journey. Through evidence-based techniques, we can design a healthy relationship with your mind. Looking forward to hearing from you!
(484) 537-8232 View (484) 537-8232
Photo of Charles Tyson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charles Tyson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, my name is Charles Tyson (they/them), and I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to the temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a Black, non-binary, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of wide-ranging clinical and field experience, I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, my name is Charles Tyson (they/them), and I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to the temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a Black, non-binary, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of wide-ranging clinical and field experience, I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
(717) 694-6573 View (717) 694-6573
Photo of Catherine Frank - CM Counsel Plymouth Meeting, Psychologist, PhD
CM Counsel Plymouth Meeting
Psychologist, PhD
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Our psychologists, psychotherapists, licensed social workers, therapists, and counselors are experienced in a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and EMDR.
CM Counsel is a behavioral health practice of licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, clinical social workers and counselors providing compassionate and comprehensive care for adults, children, adolescents, families and couples. To meet your scheduling needs, we are committed to providing timely appointments by offering virtual and evening, weekend and daytime hours at our offices in Plymouth Meeting, Exton, and King of Prussia. CM Counsel accepts most insurance plans. Our staff is highly qualified to help you and your family effectively resolve any obstacles to your emotional well-being and peace of mind.
Our psychologists, psychotherapists, licensed social workers, therapists, and counselors are experienced in a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and EMDR.
CM Counsel is a behavioral health practice of licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, clinical social workers and counselors providing compassionate and comprehensive care for adults, children, adolescents, families and couples. To meet your scheduling needs, we are committed to providing timely appointments by offering virtual and evening, weekend and daytime hours at our offices in Plymouth Meeting, Exton, and King of Prussia. CM Counsel accepts most insurance plans. Our staff is highly qualified to help you and your family effectively resolve any obstacles to your emotional well-being and peace of mind.
(610) 850-9530 View (610) 850-9530
Photo of Katy Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Katy Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I’m trained in EMDR and IFS-Informed EMDR.
You’re here because you are accomplished and capable, yet inside something feels unsettled. Maybe you’ve done therapy before but still feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, perfectionism, or taking care of everyone else. You want more than coping skills — you want real change: to feel safe in your body, connected in your relationships, and at peace with yourself. You want to work with someone who takes the time to get to know all the parts of you. I help women heal from trauma, anxiety, and family dynamics. Together, we’ll create space for deep healing so you can move from surviving to living with authenticity, ease, and self-trust.
I’m trained in EMDR and IFS-Informed EMDR.
You’re here because you are accomplished and capable, yet inside something feels unsettled. Maybe you’ve done therapy before but still feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, perfectionism, or taking care of everyone else. You want more than coping skills — you want real change: to feel safe in your body, connected in your relationships, and at peace with yourself. You want to work with someone who takes the time to get to know all the parts of you. I help women heal from trauma, anxiety, and family dynamics. Together, we’ll create space for deep healing so you can move from surviving to living with authenticity, ease, and self-trust.
(610) 890-3625 View (610) 890-3625
Photo of Catherine Frank - CM Counsel Exton, Psychologist
CM Counsel Exton
Psychologist
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
CM Counsel is a behavioral health practice of licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, clinical social workers and counselors providing compassionate and comprehensive care for adults, children, adolescents, families & couples. To meet your scheduling needs, we are committed to providing timely appointments by offering virtual and evening, weekend and daytime hours at our offices in Plymouth Meeting, Exton, and King of Prussia. CM Counsel accepts most insurance plans. Our staff is highly qualified to help you and your family effectively resolve any obstacles to your emotional well-being and peace of mind.
CM Counsel is a behavioral health practice of licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, clinical social workers and counselors providing compassionate and comprehensive care for adults, children, adolescents, families & couples. To meet your scheduling needs, we are committed to providing timely appointments by offering virtual and evening, weekend and daytime hours at our offices in Plymouth Meeting, Exton, and King of Prussia. CM Counsel accepts most insurance plans. Our staff is highly qualified to help you and your family effectively resolve any obstacles to your emotional well-being and peace of mind.
(484) 247-3750 View (484) 247-3750
Photo of Angela Facchinei, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Angela Facchinei
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a psychotherapy that, unlike traditional talk-therapy, enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.
With over 4 years in the field of Mental Health, I am a trained School Counselor with a Masters in Education. I provide mental health counseling services in the school setting and to adults and couples virtually. Visit my website for more information.
I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a psychotherapy that, unlike traditional talk-therapy, enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.
With over 4 years in the field of Mental Health, I am a trained School Counselor with a Masters in Education. I provide mental health counseling services in the school setting and to adults and couples virtually. Visit my website for more information.
(717) 952-9911 View (717) 952-9911

See more therapy options for King Of Prussia

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.