EMDR Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Deidre Bliss, Counselor in Arizona
Deidre Bliss
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I also offer EMDR therapy which helps with trauma and dysregulated memories.
Offering tele-therapy/virtual sessions via zoom and telephone in California. Offering in-person and tele-therapy sessions in Arizona. The most important part of psychotherapy is the client relationship. It is my ongoing focus to provide a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I look forward to changing thought and behavior patterns that are contributing to your daily challenges. I will also help you explore the deep rooted issues that are underlying the suffering.
I also offer EMDR therapy which helps with trauma and dysregulated memories.
Offering tele-therapy/virtual sessions via zoom and telephone in California. Offering in-person and tele-therapy sessions in Arizona. The most important part of psychotherapy is the client relationship. It is my ongoing focus to provide a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I look forward to changing thought and behavior patterns that are contributing to your daily challenges. I will also help you explore the deep rooted issues that are underlying the suffering.
(480) 405-0306 View (480) 405-0306
Photo of Courtney Carver Cultivate Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Courtney Carver Cultivate Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained and I use a strengths-based approach in practice along with utilizing aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Each one of us has a unique and important story to tell. I am honored to give my clients a safe, accepting, and comfortable environment to share theirs. Although our personal narratives inevitably include difficulty, loss, and grief, it is my privilege to help clients discover the truth, resilience, and healing at the center of their story. It is my goal to help support clients on the path to healing.
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained and I use a strengths-based approach in practice along with utilizing aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Each one of us has a unique and important story to tell. I am honored to give my clients a safe, accepting, and comfortable environment to share theirs. Although our personal narratives inevitably include difficulty, loss, and grief, it is my privilege to help clients discover the truth, resilience, and healing at the center of their story. It is my goal to help support clients on the path to healing.
(928) 770-8654 View (928) 770-8654
Photo of JoAnn Richi, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
JoAnn Richi, MC, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Hello, I am a Certified Trauma Specialist and I specialize in treating anxiety disorders. My practice encompasses all age groups; children as young as 3, and veterans suffering PTSD into their 80's. My goal is to rapidly reduce your anxiety with brief, highly effective, therapies including EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Systematic Desensitization and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). trying to talk yourself out of anxiety doesn't tend to work, talking and working with me does. I look forward to speaking with you.
Hello, I am a Certified Trauma Specialist and I specialize in treating anxiety disorders. My practice encompasses all age groups; children as young as 3, and veterans suffering PTSD into their 80's. My goal is to rapidly reduce your anxiety with brief, highly effective, therapies including EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Systematic Desensitization and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). trying to talk yourself out of anxiety doesn't tend to work, talking and working with me does. I look forward to speaking with you.
(520) 666-9836 View (520) 666-9836
Photo of Adam Petty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Adam Petty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CET, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Expression, EMDR, and mindfulness are the pillars of my process.
I know how hard it is to find an ally or someone to trust. As a therapist, my biggest asset is that I've been there, and I can lead people through the process that has transformed me. Whether it's feeling capable at school or at work, having confidence with friends and partners, or realizing that not everyone has had to dodge the same number of curve balls that you have, developing new patterns is both simple and one of the hardest things we can try to do. My method is designed to support the brain in bringing our inner wisdom to the things you, your family, or children really want to change.
Expression, EMDR, and mindfulness are the pillars of my process.
I know how hard it is to find an ally or someone to trust. As a therapist, my biggest asset is that I've been there, and I can lead people through the process that has transformed me. Whether it's feeling capable at school or at work, having confidence with friends and partners, or realizing that not everyone has had to dodge the same number of curve balls that you have, developing new patterns is both simple and one of the hardest things we can try to do. My method is designed to support the brain in bringing our inner wisdom to the things you, your family, or children really want to change.
(480) 630-0117 View (480) 630-0117
Photo of Elizabeth J Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Elizabeth J Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
I have extensive training and experience in these areas including EMDR, Guided Imagery, and Mindfulness-based practices.
We all get to places in our lives where we could use some support. Someone to come along side us who really listens, helps us to figure things out, and then rediscover our vision for our journey. I strive to be that person for my clients, providing a safe and welcoming space along with three decades of experience and dedication to walking this path with people.
I have extensive training and experience in these areas including EMDR, Guided Imagery, and Mindfulness-based practices.
We all get to places in our lives where we could use some support. Someone to come along side us who really listens, helps us to figure things out, and then rediscover our vision for our journey. I strive to be that person for my clients, providing a safe and welcoming space along with three decades of experience and dedication to walking this path with people.
(623) 263-9841 View (623) 263-9841
Photo of Jocelyn Hamsher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jocelyn Hamsher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85326  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Post Induction Therapy (PIT), am certified in Traumatic Stress Studies (TSS) and a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) through IITAP.
Have you ever felt alone in your struggles? Well you don't have to be. I would love to walk along side you and assist you in navigating your issues, whether it be childhood trauma, adult trauma, depression, anxiety or general adjustment and every day struggles. With over a decade of experience, I have assisted countless individuals grow, heal and develop into the person they desire to be. I specialize in treating trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety. I have been trained by some of the biggest leaders in trauma and have extensive experience working with trauma survivors.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Post Induction Therapy (PIT), am certified in Traumatic Stress Studies (TSS) and a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) through IITAP.
Have you ever felt alone in your struggles? Well you don't have to be. I would love to walk along side you and assist you in navigating your issues, whether it be childhood trauma, adult trauma, depression, anxiety or general adjustment and every day struggles. With over a decade of experience, I have assisted countless individuals grow, heal and develop into the person they desire to be. I specialize in treating trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety. I have been trained by some of the biggest leaders in trauma and have extensive experience working with trauma survivors.
(623) 225-8079 View (623) 225-8079
Photo of Constance McFarlin, Counselor in Arizona
Constance McFarlin
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, MI, Internal Family Systems, Art Expressive Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step in order to heal and improve your quality of life. My deepest passion is to utilize my experience and education to assist others with healing so that they can move from existing to living. We all suffer from different forms of trauma, and if left unaddressed it could negatively impact the quality of our lives and relationships. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families of all different races and ethnicities. In order to assist my clients with the healing process; I provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and supportive environment so that the healing process can truly begin.
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, MI, Internal Family Systems, Art Expressive Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step in order to heal and improve your quality of life. My deepest passion is to utilize my experience and education to assist others with healing so that they can move from existing to living. We all suffer from different forms of trauma, and if left unaddressed it could negatively impact the quality of our lives and relationships. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families of all different races and ethnicities. In order to assist my clients with the healing process; I provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and supportive environment so that the healing process can truly begin.
(928) 212-5238 View (928) 212-5238
Photo of Sherri Mikels-Romero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Sherri Mikels-Romero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
I have a commitment to work that furthers the growth and wholeness of individuals and facilitates individuals and families in identifying strengths and increasing levels of functioning. I treat adults, children, and families and I prefer to involve parents when treating their children.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
I have a commitment to work that furthers the growth and wholeness of individuals and facilitates individuals and families in identifying strengths and increasing levels of functioning. I treat adults, children, and families and I prefer to involve parents when treating their children.
(520) 837-1283 View (520) 837-1283
Photo of Dr. Doris Schraner, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Arizona
Dr. Doris Schraner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, PhD, LCPC, LPC, CCHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85226
I am a Psychologist from Austria, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, certified in Brainspotting and Clinical Hypnotherapy, and an EMDR Therapist with a vast background in Psychology and has been successfully helping clients find greater peace and success in their lives. I possess over 15 years of experience working in the field of psychology and offer bilingual therapy in English and German. I use therapy approaches that address the emotional, spiritual and physical aspects of the individual. I am specialized in the treatment of trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse and addiction.
I am a Psychologist from Austria, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, certified in Brainspotting and Clinical Hypnotherapy, and an EMDR Therapist with a vast background in Psychology and has been successfully helping clients find greater peace and success in their lives. I possess over 15 years of experience working in the field of psychology and offer bilingual therapy in English and German. I use therapy approaches that address the emotional, spiritual and physical aspects of the individual. I am specialized in the treatment of trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse and addiction.
(702) 745-4327 View (702) 745-4327
Photo of Lisa Galper, Psychologist in Arizona
Lisa Galper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
The types of therapy I utilize include CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Attachment based techniques.
My passion is to collaborate with clients to improve their lives, gain insight and new perspectives, and assist them in removing unwanted barriers so they can confidently make desired life changes. I provide treatment and counseling for emotional eating and binge eating, anxiety, trauma resolution, borderline personality disorder, psychology of weight loss, improving self esteem, depression, healing shame, relationship issues, stress management, and health enhancement.
The types of therapy I utilize include CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Attachment based techniques.
My passion is to collaborate with clients to improve their lives, gain insight and new perspectives, and assist them in removing unwanted barriers so they can confidently make desired life changes. I provide treatment and counseling for emotional eating and binge eating, anxiety, trauma resolution, borderline personality disorder, psychology of weight loss, improving self esteem, depression, healing shame, relationship issues, stress management, and health enhancement.
(480) 264-6546 View (480) 264-6546
Photo of Celeste Benesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Celeste Benesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Celeste is a state licensed therapist with a master's degree in clinical mental health. She takes an integrated approach to counseling by utilizing the client's strengths to foster growth and move into a place of thriving. Celeste has advanced training in DBT, which helps develop emotional regulation, enhance relationships, and learn skills to tolerate distress. When working with couples, Celeste implements Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to address interpersonal issues by changing negative patterns and developing secure bonds. Celeste's training in EMDR helps clients heal from traumatic events more effectively.
Celeste is a state licensed therapist with a master's degree in clinical mental health. She takes an integrated approach to counseling by utilizing the client's strengths to foster growth and move into a place of thriving. Celeste has advanced training in DBT, which helps develop emotional regulation, enhance relationships, and learn skills to tolerate distress. When working with couples, Celeste implements Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to address interpersonal issues by changing negative patterns and developing secure bonds. Celeste's training in EMDR helps clients heal from traumatic events more effectively.
(480) 962-4357 View (480) 962-4357
Photo of Stephanie Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arizona
Stephanie Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226
I use a variety of models to accomplish this including Gottman, Structural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Sensorimotor and psychodrama/psychodynamic therapies.
Relationships never start off difficult. Disappointment, pain, betrayal, distance, emotional shut-off are all among the myriad reasons they become difficult. Often times the distance between two people can feel insurmountable. A trained and effective therapist is able to bridge that gap and provide guidance and support on the journey back to relational health. Research shows most people wait 6 years to seek therapy. By this time, the sparks of discontent have become a fiery inferno and the help of a professional is invaluable in the process of healing and reconciliation.
I use a variety of models to accomplish this including Gottman, Structural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Sensorimotor and psychodrama/psychodynamic therapies.
Relationships never start off difficult. Disappointment, pain, betrayal, distance, emotional shut-off are all among the myriad reasons they become difficult. Often times the distance between two people can feel insurmountable. A trained and effective therapist is able to bridge that gap and provide guidance and support on the journey back to relational health. Research shows most people wait 6 years to seek therapy. By this time, the sparks of discontent have become a fiery inferno and the help of a professional is invaluable in the process of healing and reconciliation.
(602) 497-0241 View (602) 497-0241
Photo of Tania Lopez-Cepero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Tania Lopez-Cepero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I have been trained in techniques like: cognitive-behavioral techniques, emotional freedom techniques, EMDR, family systems, mindfulness, motivational interviewing & solution focused brief therapy.
Is your child or teen struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression or substance use? Is your child struggling with any life changes? Are you unsure how to help your child with his/her behavioral issues? My passion is to accompany children and families through their journey in life. For me it is a privilege and honor to be able to help your child or teen through life's difficulties.
I have been trained in techniques like: cognitive-behavioral techniques, emotional freedom techniques, EMDR, family systems, mindfulness, motivational interviewing & solution focused brief therapy.
Is your child or teen struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression or substance use? Is your child struggling with any life changes? Are you unsure how to help your child with his/her behavioral issues? My passion is to accompany children and families through their journey in life. For me it is a privilege and honor to be able to help your child or teen through life's difficulties.
(602) 832-7596 View (602) 832-7596
Photo of Doreen Ellis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Doreen Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86336
As a marriage and family therapist since 1986, I continue to work for increasing health and well being of my clients and help them find their strengths and resiliency. I am trained in EMDR Therapy and complex trauma. I also work with couples and relationship issues, focusing on family patterns and helping my clients discover how the past can contaminate the present. I work to maintain the acceptance of meeting my clients where they are, honestly and non-judgmentally. Whether you come to me as an individual or a couple, I can help you better understand yourself in relationship to yourself and others.
As a marriage and family therapist since 1986, I continue to work for increasing health and well being of my clients and help them find their strengths and resiliency. I am trained in EMDR Therapy and complex trauma. I also work with couples and relationship issues, focusing on family patterns and helping my clients discover how the past can contaminate the present. I work to maintain the acceptance of meeting my clients where they are, honestly and non-judgmentally. Whether you come to me as an individual or a couple, I can help you better understand yourself in relationship to yourself and others.
(928) 235-9980 View (928) 235-9980
Photo of Alexandra Trusty, Counselor in Arizona
Alexandra Trusty
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85041
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, child-parent psychotherapy, sand-tray, play therapy, TFCBT, expressive arts, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, child-parent psychotherapy, sand-tray, play therapy, TFCBT, expressive arts, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
(480) 637-3413 View (480) 637-3413
Photo of Caitlin Flaum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Caitlin Flaum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86305
I am also EMDR trained and utilize this approach to treat a variety of concerns.
Welcome! I believe we all have the capacity for healthy growth toward being our best selves, however we define that to be. Sometimes old patterns, past traumas, unhealthy relationships, or unexpected life changes make that process difficult and can obstruct the path forward. My goal as your therapist is to help you decide what change looks like for you and to walk that path with you.
I am also EMDR trained and utilize this approach to treat a variety of concerns.
Welcome! I believe we all have the capacity for healthy growth toward being our best selves, however we define that to be. Sometimes old patterns, past traumas, unhealthy relationships, or unexpected life changes make that process difficult and can obstruct the path forward. My goal as your therapist is to help you decide what change looks like for you and to walk that path with you.
(928) 227-8733 View (928) 227-8733
Photo of Mackenzie A. Cortese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Mackenzie A. Cortese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
Specialties include: DBT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, Motivational Interviewing, and Sandplay.
Accepting new clients (12/2023). Agave Counseling Services has Administrative Assistants to return your call within 24-48 hours. Mackenzie A. Cortese, LPC, is a Master's level Professional Counselor licensed with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health. She has worked with teens and adults in the field assisting trauma survivors utilizing Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS and DBT to better provide services for clients with serious mental health concerns.
Specialties include: DBT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, Motivational Interviewing, and Sandplay.
Accepting new clients (12/2023). Agave Counseling Services has Administrative Assistants to return your call within 24-48 hours. Mackenzie A. Cortese, LPC, is a Master's level Professional Counselor licensed with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health. She has worked with teens and adults in the field assisting trauma survivors utilizing Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS and DBT to better provide services for clients with serious mental health concerns.
(623) 300-1292 View (623) 300-1292
Photo of Jasmine Carpio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jasmine Carpio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
Together, we can help target the root of the issues you are facing and find relief from some of the pain you might be experiencing, using EMDR and other approaches based on your personal needs.
Are you noticing that life has been difficult to cope with issues related to anxiety, panic attacks, or major life transitions? Has there been a past or recent trauma that has you feeling stuck? Are you having a difficult time with self critical thoughts and low self-esteem? I specialize in helping you navigate these particular struggles and I am committed to walking side by side with you on your journey. I aim to help you to feel more empowered and equipped to manage your struggles and to help you heal and grow in your relationship with yourself and others.
Together, we can help target the root of the issues you are facing and find relief from some of the pain you might be experiencing, using EMDR and other approaches based on your personal needs.
Are you noticing that life has been difficult to cope with issues related to anxiety, panic attacks, or major life transitions? Has there been a past or recent trauma that has you feeling stuck? Are you having a difficult time with self critical thoughts and low self-esteem? I specialize in helping you navigate these particular struggles and I am committed to walking side by side with you on your journey. I aim to help you to feel more empowered and equipped to manage your struggles and to help you heal and grow in your relationship with yourself and others.
(480) 788-6169 View (480) 788-6169
Photo of The Empowerment Group,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
The Empowerment Group,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
I specialize in EMDR, play therapy, grief and loss, and sandtray.
STARTING NEW GROUP ON SHAME RESILIENCY CALL 602-525-5783 TO JOIN. What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Let's get started! I work with individuals and families from birth to 100+! I have literally worked with families from birth to the end of life, focusing on working through those matters or events in life that hold each of us back from our full potential. Isn't it time for your optimal life? Life can be heavy and I will work with you and your family or friends to help you locate and access your inner strength to guide your life's journey.
I specialize in EMDR, play therapy, grief and loss, and sandtray.
STARTING NEW GROUP ON SHAME RESILIENCY CALL 602-525-5783 TO JOIN. What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Let's get started! I work with individuals and families from birth to 100+! I have literally worked with families from birth to the end of life, focusing on working through those matters or events in life that hold each of us back from our full potential. Isn't it time for your optimal life? Life can be heavy and I will work with you and your family or friends to help you locate and access your inner strength to guide your life's journey.
(602) 663-9111 View (602) 663-9111
Photo of Adriana Jaramillo Butler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Adriana Jaramillo Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
I have received advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) a highly effective therapeutic technique that enables me to help clients resolve core issues, relieve distressing emotional symptoms, and gain new insights into past life experiences that are having a residual effect on clients moods and relationships with others.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and hold a Masters degree in Professional Counseling (MS). I work with adults suffering with mood challenges, grief, relationship challenges, trauma, and life adjustments. I use a variety of different treatment modalities that best suit my clients needs and my clients play an active role in their own recovery and wellness.
I have received advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) a highly effective therapeutic technique that enables me to help clients resolve core issues, relieve distressing emotional symptoms, and gain new insights into past life experiences that are having a residual effect on clients moods and relationships with others.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and hold a Masters degree in Professional Counseling (MS). I work with adults suffering with mood challenges, grief, relationship challenges, trauma, and life adjustments. I use a variety of different treatment modalities that best suit my clients needs and my clients play an active role in their own recovery and wellness.
(844) 668-6561 View (844) 668-6561
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.