EMDR Therapists in Eau Claire, WI

Photo of Leah Gray, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Leah Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Eau Claire, WI 54701
EMDR trained from the EMDRIA institute.
Hello! My name is Leah, my therapeutic approach is authentic, honest, curious, and empathic. Providing a safe and supportive space is offered to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
EMDR trained from the EMDRIA institute.
Hello! My name is Leah, my therapeutic approach is authentic, honest, curious, and empathic. Providing a safe and supportive space is offered to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(715) 354-0263 View (715) 354-0263
Photo of Kevin Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Kevin Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I am a provider of professional counseling services, utilizing EMDR therapy and traditional psychotherapy to help with whatever you choose to work on (trauma, PTSD, divorce, relationship issues, substance abuse/dependency, life changes/transitions, depression, anxiety, childhood issues, etc.).
Following this interest led me to study and train in EMDR therapy, which can be amazingly effective at resolving past issues, helping to leave the past in the past. I utilize traditional talk therapy as well, and use a variety of theoretical approaches, depending on client needs and desires.
I am a provider of professional counseling services, utilizing EMDR therapy and traditional psychotherapy to help with whatever you choose to work on (trauma, PTSD, divorce, relationship issues, substance abuse/dependency, life changes/transitions, depression, anxiety, childhood issues, etc.).
Following this interest led me to study and train in EMDR therapy, which can be amazingly effective at resolving past issues, helping to leave the past in the past. I utilize traditional talk therapy as well, and use a variety of theoretical approaches, depending on client needs and desires.
(715) 496-6380 View (715) 496-6380
Photo of Shelby Lynn Quilling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shelby Lynn Quilling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR certified as well as an Approved EMDRIA consultant.
Hello Everyone! My name is Shelby Quilling! I work primarily with children and teenagers, as well as any age adult that has experienced childhood or complex trauma. To me, trauma can mean any event that has caused disruption to your daily life/functioning. My goal is to help those who have been through challenging experiences and who have a desire to work through these experiences. This may be seen as but is not limited to relationship conflicts, spacing/zoning out, anxiety/depressive symptoms, at-risk behaviors, flashbacks/nightmares, difficulties managing emotions, or troubles with basic functioning such as eating/sleeping.
I am EMDR certified as well as an Approved EMDRIA consultant.
Hello Everyone! My name is Shelby Quilling! I work primarily with children and teenagers, as well as any age adult that has experienced childhood or complex trauma. To me, trauma can mean any event that has caused disruption to your daily life/functioning. My goal is to help those who have been through challenging experiences and who have a desire to work through these experiences. This may be seen as but is not limited to relationship conflicts, spacing/zoning out, anxiety/depressive symptoms, at-risk behaviors, flashbacks/nightmares, difficulties managing emotions, or troubles with basic functioning such as eating/sleeping.
(715) 602-1125 View (715) 602-1125
Photo of Diane Littel, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Diane Littel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Individuals and couples facing mental health challenges, trauma, and substance abuse will find my approach unique intergrating holistic, intuitive, and evidence-based, techniques like Motivational Interviewing, CBT, EMDR, BrainSpotting, Reiki and other complimentary services helping you achieve holistic wellness and fostering deep connections and healing.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking relief from past traumas, whether personal or intergenerational, wanting help with anxiety, depression or substance abuse and need a more holistic, compassionate, intuitive approach to therapy. Their goal is to break free from maladaptive patterns, heal deep-seated wounds, and cultivate self-love and resilience. They seek a therapist who integrates evidence-based practices with holistic modalities to guide them towards balanced mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, ultimately desiring a fulfilling and empowered life.
Individuals and couples facing mental health challenges, trauma, and substance abuse will find my approach unique intergrating holistic, intuitive, and evidence-based, techniques like Motivational Interviewing, CBT, EMDR, BrainSpotting, Reiki and other complimentary services helping you achieve holistic wellness and fostering deep connections and healing.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking relief from past traumas, whether personal or intergenerational, wanting help with anxiety, depression or substance abuse and need a more holistic, compassionate, intuitive approach to therapy. Their goal is to break free from maladaptive patterns, heal deep-seated wounds, and cultivate self-love and resilience. They seek a therapist who integrates evidence-based practices with holistic modalities to guide them towards balanced mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, ultimately desiring a fulfilling and empowered life.
(715) 506-5334 View (715) 506-5334
Photo of Elizabeth (Libby) Davison, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC
Elizabeth (Libby) Davison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I utilize EMDR and IFS as well as experiential techniques (e.g. sand tray) and mindfulness/meditation.
My trauma informed approach is relational and person-centered in nature. I honor the importance of meaning making in therapy and see the task of therapy as facilitating fuller movement into connection and relationship with self and others.
I utilize EMDR and IFS as well as experiential techniques (e.g. sand tray) and mindfulness/meditation.
My trauma informed approach is relational and person-centered in nature. I honor the importance of meaning making in therapy and see the task of therapy as facilitating fuller movement into connection and relationship with self and others.
(715) 226-6151 View (715) 226-6151
Photo of Kendra Dale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kendra Dale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Trained in various treatment modalities, such as IFS, EMDR, and DBT, I aim to treat you as your whole self.
I have a passion for working with adults of all ages struggling with life transitions, grief, loss, aging, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I believe we experience grief and pain in all situations in life. Whether you are struggling with a recent death of loved one, experiencing a life change, or have experienced trauma, we learn to adapt and cope with our pain. Often, the way we learned to cope with our pain no longer works for us, and we may feel struck, not knowing how to help ourselves change. I strive to offer clients a person-centered approach toward healing and their desired change.
Trained in various treatment modalities, such as IFS, EMDR, and DBT, I aim to treat you as your whole self.
I have a passion for working with adults of all ages struggling with life transitions, grief, loss, aging, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I believe we experience grief and pain in all situations in life. Whether you are struggling with a recent death of loved one, experiencing a life change, or have experienced trauma, we learn to adapt and cope with our pain. Often, the way we learned to cope with our pain no longer works for us, and we may feel struck, not knowing how to help ourselves change. I strive to offer clients a person-centered approach toward healing and their desired change.
(715) 496-6311 View (715) 496-6311
Photo of Brenda Rahn, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Brenda Rahn
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Eau Claire, WI 54703
I specialize in trauma and addiction treatment using primarily EMDR-based techniques.
Although I am trained in many treatment modalities, I am primarily an EMDR therapist treating trauma and addiction. By helping to heal past traumas that create our present distress and negative viewpoints of ourselves, we can function better, living happier and healthier lives.
I specialize in trauma and addiction treatment using primarily EMDR-based techniques.
Although I am trained in many treatment modalities, I am primarily an EMDR therapist treating trauma and addiction. By helping to heal past traumas that create our present distress and negative viewpoints of ourselves, we can function better, living happier and healthier lives.
(715) 382-9244 View (715) 382-9244
Photo of Jennifer Stone, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jennifer Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I am EMDR trained to address trauma and PTSD.
Over the course of my career, I have provided counseling services for people struggling with a variety of issues and have worked in the public and private sector. I focus on the relationship between thoughts and feelings and guiding my clients to find solutions for challenging life issues. I enjoy assisting my clients in learning and practicing healthy and effective coping strategies to improve their overall well-being.
I am EMDR trained to address trauma and PTSD.
Over the course of my career, I have provided counseling services for people struggling with a variety of issues and have worked in the public and private sector. I focus on the relationship between thoughts and feelings and guiding my clients to find solutions for challenging life issues. I enjoy assisting my clients in learning and practicing healthy and effective coping strategies to improve their overall well-being.
(715) 312-2546 View (715) 312-2546
Photo of Stephanie Hurlburt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Stephanie Hurlburt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I offer an integrated approach using body-centered therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS, while staying true to biblical applications that ultimately bring freedom and healing.
Do you find yourself dwelling on the past or worrying about the future? Are you feeling emotionally or mentally disconnected with yourself or in your relationships? Or maybe (if you're really being honest) there's a gap between what you know to be true about your Christian faith and what you actually believe in your heart? Stress and trauma can leave us feeling disconnected in so many ways. As a Christian therapist specializing in trauma, I help clients understand the deep impacts of trauma, while also supporting them in rebuilding a healthy connection with their body, soul, and spirit.
I offer an integrated approach using body-centered therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS, while staying true to biblical applications that ultimately bring freedom and healing.
Do you find yourself dwelling on the past or worrying about the future? Are you feeling emotionally or mentally disconnected with yourself or in your relationships? Or maybe (if you're really being honest) there's a gap between what you know to be true about your Christian faith and what you actually believe in your heart? Stress and trauma can leave us feeling disconnected in so many ways. As a Christian therapist specializing in trauma, I help clients understand the deep impacts of trauma, while also supporting them in rebuilding a healthy connection with their body, soul, and spirit.
(715) 500-4611 View (715) 500-4611
Photo of Gia Hepfler, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MFT
Gia Hepfler
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MFT
2 Endorsed
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I have been trained in Gottman method, emotionally focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
My specialties are working with trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders and couples. Offer group therapy for DBT, EMDR and eating disorders.
I have been trained in Gottman method, emotionally focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
My specialties are working with trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders and couples. Offer group therapy for DBT, EMDR and eating disorders.
(715) 265-2597 View (715) 265-2597
Photo of Timothy Foster - Northern Woods Wellness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Northern Woods Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
3 Endorsed
Eau Claire, WI 54703
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction.
Hi! I am Timothy R. Foster, MA, LPC in WI & MN. My style of therapy is unique. It is designed to engage the full person and to integrate our past, present, and future experiences into a congruent and comprehensive image of our true selves. Life is difficult. It just is. Learning to accept our emotional experiences honestly and non-judgementally can be hard. But this is where I truly believe healing is created. I work well with clients who like to ask tough questions and are willing to be open with their experiences with me. I will provide a direct and compassionate approach. You will get to know me just as much as I get to know you!
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction.
Hi! I am Timothy R. Foster, MA, LPC in WI & MN. My style of therapy is unique. It is designed to engage the full person and to integrate our past, present, and future experiences into a congruent and comprehensive image of our true selves. Life is difficult. It just is. Learning to accept our emotional experiences honestly and non-judgementally can be hard. But this is where I truly believe healing is created. I work well with clients who like to ask tough questions and are willing to be open with their experiences with me. I will provide a direct and compassionate approach. You will get to know me just as much as I get to know you!
(715) 200-8312 View (715) 200-8312
Photo of Brigid Wenzelow - Clearwater Health & Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Clearwater Health & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR).
My name is Brigid, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals build awareness and empower themselves in their mental health journey. I work virtually with clients aged 18 and older, specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, severe mental illness, emotional regulation, suicide prevention, and grief/loss. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can freely express themselves and explore their emotions. My counseling approach is collaborative, strength-based, and solution-focused.
I am also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR).
My name is Brigid, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals build awareness and empower themselves in their mental health journey. I work virtually with clients aged 18 and older, specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, severe mental illness, emotional regulation, suicide prevention, and grief/loss. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can freely express themselves and explore their emotions. My counseling approach is collaborative, strength-based, and solution-focused.
(715) 260-3702 View (715) 260-3702
Photo of Cora Reuter Looker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cora Reuter Looker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I have specialized training in EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness practices, which aim to assist you in treating your whole self.
Passionate about helping others, I offer a space that is safe and genuine to members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and offer services to adults, couples, and adolescents. I have extensive experience and a desire to work with individuals who have experienced the impacts of trauma in their lives. Trauma looks different for everyone and working through those memories, emotions, and body sensations can be both scary and painful. Meeting you where you are at in your journey to create personalized goals with intention is my highest priority.
I have specialized training in EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness practices, which aim to assist you in treating your whole self.
Passionate about helping others, I offer a space that is safe and genuine to members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and offer services to adults, couples, and adolescents. I have extensive experience and a desire to work with individuals who have experienced the impacts of trauma in their lives. Trauma looks different for everyone and working through those memories, emotions, and body sensations can be both scary and painful. Meeting you where you are at in your journey to create personalized goals with intention is my highest priority.
(715) 402-4115 View (715) 402-4115
Photo of Heather Heide, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Heather Heide
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Through speciality trainings in EMDR and sexual addictions, I offer comprehensive and evidence based practices to facilitate growth and healing.
Relationships are the guiding forces in our lives for connection and where we learn to create meaning. I have built my practice exploring the unique needs of people struggling with the complexities of trauma and addictions. I have learned to understand the nuances and struggles that couples and families face in the discovery process of addictions as well as the daily impacts of living with secrets. Moving beyond secrets can be a difficult, but I can help guide you through it in an efficient and thoughtful manner. I believe change is collaborative process where trust, laughter, and safety are essential to the therapeutic journey.
Through speciality trainings in EMDR and sexual addictions, I offer comprehensive and evidence based practices to facilitate growth and healing.
Relationships are the guiding forces in our lives for connection and where we learn to create meaning. I have built my practice exploring the unique needs of people struggling with the complexities of trauma and addictions. I have learned to understand the nuances and struggles that couples and families face in the discovery process of addictions as well as the daily impacts of living with secrets. Moving beyond secrets can be a difficult, but I can help guide you through it in an efficient and thoughtful manner. I believe change is collaborative process where trust, laughter, and safety are essential to the therapeutic journey.
(952) 260-9331 View (952) 260-9331
Photo of Dr. Jenna Nelson, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Jenna Nelson
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Through active listening, she helps create a personalized path forward using her expertise in trauma-informed care and therapies like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Facing life transitions, past trauma, or current stressors can lead to feelings of overwhelm, significant stress, persistent anxiety, or profound emotional distress. Are persistent worries, intense mood swings, or feelings of disconnection in your relationships hindering your emotional well-being? Know that you're not alone. Many adults and adolescents seek support to navigate these challenges, develop coping skills, and build a meaningful life filled with greater fulfillment and hope. If you value a collaborative therapy experience with flexible online therapy sessions, reaching out can start your journey toward overall well-being.
Through active listening, she helps create a personalized path forward using her expertise in trauma-informed care and therapies like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Facing life transitions, past trauma, or current stressors can lead to feelings of overwhelm, significant stress, persistent anxiety, or profound emotional distress. Are persistent worries, intense mood swings, or feelings of disconnection in your relationships hindering your emotional well-being? Know that you're not alone. Many adults and adolescents seek support to navigate these challenges, develop coping skills, and build a meaningful life filled with greater fulfillment and hope. If you value a collaborative therapy experience with flexible online therapy sessions, reaching out can start your journey toward overall well-being.
(920) 561-2646 View (920) 561-2646
Photo of Joe Lunsford, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Joe Lunsford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) which is helpful for those overcoming trauma and life barriers.
My journey to becoming a therapist started after returning home from a combat deployment, experiencing a devastating divorce and years of readjustment difficulties. During these deeply personal experiences, I became aware of the hurt and the brokenness we all face and now have a deep desire to help others to overcome as I did. I am passionate about helping couples find reconciliation and negotiating relationship pitfalls. As well as working with clients to heal from past trauma, manage their anxiety/depression, regulate anger or learn to value themselves again. You don't have to face it alone, there is hope.
I use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) which is helpful for those overcoming trauma and life barriers.
My journey to becoming a therapist started after returning home from a combat deployment, experiencing a devastating divorce and years of readjustment difficulties. During these deeply personal experiences, I became aware of the hurt and the brokenness we all face and now have a deep desire to help others to overcome as I did. I am passionate about helping couples find reconciliation and negotiating relationship pitfalls. As well as working with clients to heal from past trauma, manage their anxiety/depression, regulate anger or learn to value themselves again. You don't have to face it alone, there is hope.
(608) 413-3688 View (608) 413-3688
Photo of Lauren Bartelt, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Lauren Bartelt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am trained and practiced in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT,) dialectical behavior therapy (DBT,) attachment and commitment therapy (ACT,) written exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR
I am so heartened to see more people like you prioritizing their mental health and personal growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Wisconsin since 2018 and have been practicing since 2015. I provide a calm, compassionate, and collaborative space to help you develop and reach your mental health goals. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and older. I have a special interest in working with people through trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal stress. I love to witness and support individuals in gaining insight, building self-assuredness, and accessing self-compassion.
I am trained and practiced in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT,) dialectical behavior therapy (DBT,) attachment and commitment therapy (ACT,) written exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR
I am so heartened to see more people like you prioritizing their mental health and personal growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Wisconsin since 2018 and have been practicing since 2015. I provide a calm, compassionate, and collaborative space to help you develop and reach your mental health goals. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and older. I have a special interest in working with people through trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal stress. I love to witness and support individuals in gaining insight, building self-assuredness, and accessing self-compassion.
(920) 956-8631 View (920) 956-8631
Photo of Madison Riebe, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Madison Riebe
Counselor, MA, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am certified in EMDR, and Integrative Health and Nutrition for Mental Health (CIMHP).
Welcome! I have over a decade of a background in competitive powerlifting and involvement in the fitness community- health and wellness is a passion of mine to say the least! I take a holistic approach and combine mind and body as we walk through your healing journey. I also have experience including (but not limited to) mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, relationship issues (e.g. domestic violence, divorce), grief and loss, life transitions, and stress management. I am dually licensed in Minnesota (LPCC) and Wisconsin (LPC). I can see clients located in either state.
I am certified in EMDR, and Integrative Health and Nutrition for Mental Health (CIMHP).
Welcome! I have over a decade of a background in competitive powerlifting and involvement in the fitness community- health and wellness is a passion of mine to say the least! I take a holistic approach and combine mind and body as we walk through your healing journey. I also have experience including (but not limited to) mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, relationship issues (e.g. domestic violence, divorce), grief and loss, life transitions, and stress management. I am dually licensed in Minnesota (LPCC) and Wisconsin (LPC). I can see clients located in either state.
(651) 401-4916 View (651) 401-4916
Photo of Shawna Lisa Reiter - Shawna Lisa Reiter Headway Provider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAC, Superv
Shawna Lisa Reiter Headway Provider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAC, Superv
Online Only
I am also EMDR certified!
Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or impulse control, I’m here to help. I understand that recovery isn’t just about treating an illness—it’s about reclaiming the life, relationships, and happiness that may feel lost. With the right support, you can break free from destructive patterns and build a healthier, more fulfilling future. I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to my work. Having walked the path of recovery myself, I know the challenges firsthand. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, & solution-focused.
I am also EMDR certified!
Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or impulse control, I’m here to help. I understand that recovery isn’t just about treating an illness—it’s about reclaiming the life, relationships, and happiness that may feel lost. With the right support, you can break free from destructive patterns and build a healthier, more fulfilling future. I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to my work. Having walked the path of recovery myself, I know the challenges firsthand. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, & solution-focused.
(505) 628-0295 View (505) 628-0295
Photo of Kal Wogahn, Counselor, MA, LPC
Kal Wogahn
Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I incorporate EMDR, somatic, and attachment therapies in my work, and am grounded in an understanding of how trauma and oppression impact the nervous system and the body.
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions or physical symptoms, such as hopelessness, pain, or panic? Does the thought of being present with your body feel uncomfortable or even scary? In my work, I help folks of all backgrounds find a sense of safety in their body after experiences of trauma, chronic pain, and body-based oppression (transphobia, anti-fat bias, ableism, racism, etc.). We’ll work together to understand and befriend your nervous system and build upon experiences of safety and connection to promote healing and emotional well-being.
I incorporate EMDR, somatic, and attachment therapies in my work, and am grounded in an understanding of how trauma and oppression impact the nervous system and the body.
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions or physical symptoms, such as hopelessness, pain, or panic? Does the thought of being present with your body feel uncomfortable or even scary? In my work, I help folks of all backgrounds find a sense of safety in their body after experiences of trauma, chronic pain, and body-based oppression (transphobia, anti-fat bias, ableism, racism, etc.). We’ll work together to understand and befriend your nervous system and build upon experiences of safety and connection to promote healing and emotional well-being.
(608) 655-6778 View (608) 655-6778

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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.