EMDR Therapists in 43085

Photo of Sue Mocniak, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Mocniak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Feeling stuck? You will benefit from proven therapies like EMDR and Mindfulness Stress Reduction, to extinguish the power of negative thoughts & behaviors, giving you a renewed outlook on your life & relationships.
Finding a counselor can be a difficult and frustrating process but it's worth the effort if you find the right match. My goal is to create an environment that you feel safe to share your story and the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. I believe the counseling process is about YOU - at this point - on the timeline of your life's journey. My desire is to help you process and alleviate your emotional distress so you may discover a sense of clarity, freedom & renewed outlook on your life and relationships. www.restorecounsel.com
Feeling stuck? You will benefit from proven therapies like EMDR and Mindfulness Stress Reduction, to extinguish the power of negative thoughts & behaviors, giving you a renewed outlook on your life & relationships.
Finding a counselor can be a difficult and frustrating process but it's worth the effort if you find the right match. My goal is to create an environment that you feel safe to share your story and the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. I believe the counseling process is about YOU - at this point - on the timeline of your life's journey. My desire is to help you process and alleviate your emotional distress so you may discover a sense of clarity, freedom & renewed outlook on your life and relationships. www.restorecounsel.com
(614) 980-0046 View (614) 980-0046
Photo of Suzanne Bogren, MSEd, PCC, Counselor
Suzanne Bogren
Counselor, MSEd, PCC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
This includes EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Somatic Processing, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor who has been helping clients since 1998. I am clinically trained to assist those struggling with a variety of mental health situations but focus on assisting those struggling with trauma, anxiety, difficult life circumstances/transitions, and stress management.
This includes EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Somatic Processing, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor who has been helping clients since 1998. I am clinically trained to assist those struggling with a variety of mental health situations but focus on assisting those struggling with trauma, anxiety, difficult life circumstances/transitions, and stress management.
(614) 368-0023 View (614) 368-0023
Photo of Jill Marie Lam, PhD, LPCC-S, Counselor
Jill Marie Lam
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I specialize in a variety of therapies (Animal-Assisted, CBT, Nature, EMDR, Psychotherapy), life coaching, and psycho-educational assessments.
Are you experiencing challenges in your life? Have you ever thought that depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, or learning disabilities were preventing you from reaching your potential? Or maybe you have a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, behavior issues, ADHD, low self-esteem, or possibly a learning disability. If this sounds like you or your loved one, I can help. Many things can affect our ability to perform in our daily lives, yet often we don't know what is wrong.
I specialize in a variety of therapies (Animal-Assisted, CBT, Nature, EMDR, Psychotherapy), life coaching, and psycho-educational assessments.
Are you experiencing challenges in your life? Have you ever thought that depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, or learning disabilities were preventing you from reaching your potential? Or maybe you have a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, behavior issues, ADHD, low self-esteem, or possibly a learning disability. If this sounds like you or your loved one, I can help. Many things can affect our ability to perform in our daily lives, yet often we don't know what is wrong.
(614) 467-4111 View (614) 467-4111
Photo of Cynthia Clingan - Cynthia M. Clingan, MSEd, PCC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia M. Clingan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, PCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I help clients with many different things: relationship issues, spiritual questions, and finding greater meaning in their lives, as well as trauma of all kinds, and difficulty with managing emotions, anxiety, and depression. I integrate many approaches that can help you build the connection to and confidence in your own inner guidance, including but not limited to: mindfulness, Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Transforming Touch, EMDR, transpersonal psychology, Bodynamics, attachment repair, biodynamic cranio-sacral, and psychoeducation, as well as coaching and direct inquiry.
I help clients with many different things: relationship issues, spiritual questions, and finding greater meaning in their lives, as well as trauma of all kinds, and difficulty with managing emotions, anxiety, and depression. I integrate many approaches that can help you build the connection to and confidence in your own inner guidance, including but not limited to: mindfulness, Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Transforming Touch, EMDR, transpersonal psychology, Bodynamics, attachment repair, biodynamic cranio-sacral, and psychoeducation, as well as coaching and direct inquiry.
(614) 547-2187 View (614) 547-2187
Photo of Nissa Rinaldi, MA, LPCC, CIMHP
Nissa Rinaldi
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, trauma, or are simply on a journey of personal growth and self-discovery, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Here's what you can expect when working with me: Step 1: Building a foundation of trust and fostering a collaborative relationship. Step 2: Assessing your nervous system and equipping you with tools like somatic work, grounding techniques, tapping, and education on nutrients for regulation. Step 3: Processing further with methods such as EMDR, IFS, and Inner Child Work, now that your nervous system is calm and ready for lasting healing.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, trauma, or are simply on a journey of personal growth and self-discovery, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Here's what you can expect when working with me: Step 1: Building a foundation of trust and fostering a collaborative relationship. Step 2: Assessing your nervous system and equipping you with tools like somatic work, grounding techniques, tapping, and education on nutrients for regulation. Step 3: Processing further with methods such as EMDR, IFS, and Inner Child Work, now that your nervous system is calm and ready for lasting healing.
(614) 653-8189 View (614) 653-8189
Photo of David Root, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Root
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, and suicide prevention using the CAMS model.
I am a seasoned therapist and have experience working successfully with clients of all ages. I specialize in working with kids (10+), teens, and young adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma recovery, and behavioral challenges.
I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, and suicide prevention using the CAMS model.
I am a seasoned therapist and have experience working successfully with clients of all ages. I specialize in working with kids (10+), teens, and young adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma recovery, and behavioral challenges.
(614) 639-3063 View (614) 639-3063
Photo of Christina Gates, LPCC-S, Counselor
Christina Gates
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, and by the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP) as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
18 years of counseling experience has taught me that we must examine what is happening beneath your symptoms. Your body holds on to painful memories and the engine inside revs continually until it finally cannot withstand any longer. It emits uncomfortable body sensations and emotions until the pain becomes enough to get your full attention. I'll help you "turn off the engine" of trauma so you can engage a system of thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that help you feel more like yourself again.
I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, and by the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP) as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
18 years of counseling experience has taught me that we must examine what is happening beneath your symptoms. Your body holds on to painful memories and the engine inside revs continually until it finally cannot withstand any longer. It emits uncomfortable body sensations and emotions until the pain becomes enough to get your full attention. I'll help you "turn off the engine" of trauma so you can engage a system of thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that help you feel more like yourself again.
(614) 412-1426 View (614) 412-1426
Photo of Mandy Tata, LPCC-S, LICDC , NCC, Counselor
Mandy Tata
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
Hello and welcome to my profile, I assist individuals regarding a various topics, including, anxiety & stress, trauma, depression, marital issues, healthy coping skills, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief/loss, and communication issues. Some interventions I utilize are integrative, EMDR certified, CBT, eclectic, person-centered therapy, Jungarian, and trauma informed care. My approach consists of collaborating with each individual based on their goals/values, unconditional positive regard, and having a crucial rapport and trust as an effective and healing therapeutic alliance.
Hello and welcome to my profile, I assist individuals regarding a various topics, including, anxiety & stress, trauma, depression, marital issues, healthy coping skills, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief/loss, and communication issues. Some interventions I utilize are integrative, EMDR certified, CBT, eclectic, person-centered therapy, Jungarian, and trauma informed care. My approach consists of collaborating with each individual based on their goals/values, unconditional positive regard, and having a crucial rapport and trust as an effective and healing therapeutic alliance.
(614) 681-8552 View (614) 681-8552
Photo of Logan Fang, LPCC
Logan Fang
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also pull interventions from DBT, EMDR, IFS, CBT, MI, feminist, liberation-based, strengths-based and solution-focused theoretical orientations.
I'm Logan and I'm an East Asian person who has lived insight into what it’s like to exist outside the majority in a state like Ohio. I’ve lived in the Midwest my whole life, and I also come from a background of being raised by immigrant communities. I have experience working with BIPOC communities, systemic-based trauma, and religious trauma. I believe it's crucial right now to prioritize decolonizing identity-specific therapy spaces, especially for QTBIPOC with intersecting marginalized identities.
I also pull interventions from DBT, EMDR, IFS, CBT, MI, feminist, liberation-based, strengths-based and solution-focused theoretical orientations.
I'm Logan and I'm an East Asian person who has lived insight into what it’s like to exist outside the majority in a state like Ohio. I’ve lived in the Midwest my whole life, and I also come from a background of being raised by immigrant communities. I have experience working with BIPOC communities, systemic-based trauma, and religious trauma. I believe it's crucial right now to prioritize decolonizing identity-specific therapy spaces, especially for QTBIPOC with intersecting marginalized identities.
(614) 714-5650 View (614) 714-5650
Photo of Merrianna Holdeman, LPCC
Merrianna Holdeman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and EMDR therapy for people who want a personalized, in-depth roadmap toward feeling better—and staying that way.
Is it getting harder and harder to pretend everything is “fine”? The anxiety, worry, and dread keep piling on, and it feels like the pressure of all your responsibilities might just crush you. Despite the things you’ve achieved personally and professionally, you’ve never felt “good” enough, and you worry you’ve somehow managed to fool everyone around you. Maybe something has changed recently at work or at home, or maybe something from your past continues to come up, despite your best efforts to leave it behind. All you know for sure is that you’re exhausted, and you can’t keep living like this.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and EMDR therapy for people who want a personalized, in-depth roadmap toward feeling better—and staying that way.
Is it getting harder and harder to pretend everything is “fine”? The anxiety, worry, and dread keep piling on, and it feels like the pressure of all your responsibilities might just crush you. Despite the things you’ve achieved personally and professionally, you’ve never felt “good” enough, and you worry you’ve somehow managed to fool everyone around you. Maybe something has changed recently at work or at home, or maybe something from your past continues to come up, despite your best efforts to leave it behind. All you know for sure is that you’re exhausted, and you can’t keep living like this.
(614) 412-3699 View (614) 412-3699
Photo of Brigitte Green, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brigitte Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I utilize treatment modalities such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and I maintain a trauma-informed approach.
Immediate Openings! I believe individuals should drive their own therapy; I focus on a strengths-based approach centered on empowerment and self-determination. I am passionate about working with first responders, military personnel, and veterans. I am a registry member of Star Behavioral Health Providers, and I am a Certified First Responder Counselor.
I utilize treatment modalities such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and I maintain a trauma-informed approach.
Immediate Openings! I believe individuals should drive their own therapy; I focus on a strengths-based approach centered on empowerment and self-determination. I am passionate about working with first responders, military personnel, and veterans. I am a registry member of Star Behavioral Health Providers, and I am a Certified First Responder Counselor.
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Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(380) 333-4253 View (380) 333-4253
Photo of Pat Ahl, MSEd, LPCC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Pat Ahl
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Each client is unique and I’m trained in several orientations including EMDR.
ANXIETY! Even when things are normal anxiety is a painful condition that can rob you of a happy life. And in today’s uncertain and stressful climate things can seem worse than ever. If you're plagued by excessive worry, painful panic attacks, fear of social situations, phobias, a high stress lifestyle, or have experienced trauma in your life, this is my area of clinical focus. I’d like to help you feel calmer and able to manage your anxiety everyday through this challenging time.
Each client is unique and I’m trained in several orientations including EMDR.
ANXIETY! Even when things are normal anxiety is a painful condition that can rob you of a happy life. And in today’s uncertain and stressful climate things can seem worse than ever. If you're plagued by excessive worry, painful panic attacks, fear of social situations, phobias, a high stress lifestyle, or have experienced trauma in your life, this is my area of clinical focus. I’d like to help you feel calmer and able to manage your anxiety everyday through this challenging time.
(614) 568-9255 View (614) 568-9255
Photo of Joel T Hardin, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC, Counselor
Joel T Hardin
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
(614) 980-0460 View (614) 980-0460
Photo of Jonathan Miller, EdM, LPCC-S, Counselor
Jonathan Miller
Counselor, EdM, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I'm trained in therapies backed by years of research, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Cheer up? Relax? Put the past in the past? If it's easier said than done, you don't have to do it alone. I welcome people whose emotions sometimes seem stronger than they are. With over twenty-five years of experience in private practice and community mental health, I've helped people face the hardest life has to offer.
I'm trained in therapies backed by years of research, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Cheer up? Relax? Put the past in the past? If it's easier said than done, you don't have to do it alone. I welcome people whose emotions sometimes seem stronger than they are. With over twenty-five years of experience in private practice and community mental health, I've helped people face the hardest life has to offer.
(614) 877-6499 View (614) 877-6499
Photo of Leslie Hansen, MA, LPCC-S
Leslie Hansen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I commonly use EMDR to treat individuals who have experienced physical, psychological or emotional trauma.
Since 2005, I have been privileged to work with adults to help improve communication, heal past traumas, and overcome difficult situations that have created emotional upheaval. Whether you are entering counseling with hopes of restoring a relationship, experiencing a new found sense of confidence, or simply knowing you will be heard, I would be honored to work with you. Through counseling, we work together to develop a plan that will help you overcome your current situation and build a sense of strength and resilience so you know you can face other challenges with greater confidence.
I commonly use EMDR to treat individuals who have experienced physical, psychological or emotional trauma.
Since 2005, I have been privileged to work with adults to help improve communication, heal past traumas, and overcome difficult situations that have created emotional upheaval. Whether you are entering counseling with hopes of restoring a relationship, experiencing a new found sense of confidence, or simply knowing you will be heard, I would be honored to work with you. Through counseling, we work together to develop a plan that will help you overcome your current situation and build a sense of strength and resilience so you know you can face other challenges with greater confidence.
(614) 344-7596 View (614) 344-7596
Photo of Taylor Adams, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I'm also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), which is a proven therapy backed by research for treating PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, & Panic Disorders.
My dream client is someone who finds themselves in the midst of life's intricate maze, trying to balance the many demands of work, relationships, and self-care. They might be grappling with stress, anxiety, and the emotional ups and downs that come with it all. They're yearning for a warm, understanding companion to walk with them on their journey. Whether they're navigating a new life transition or facing a persistent inner struggle, my ideal client seeks relief and effective strategies to move forward towards a more fulfilling life.
I'm also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), which is a proven therapy backed by research for treating PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, & Panic Disorders.
My dream client is someone who finds themselves in the midst of life's intricate maze, trying to balance the many demands of work, relationships, and self-care. They might be grappling with stress, anxiety, and the emotional ups and downs that come with it all. They're yearning for a warm, understanding companion to walk with them on their journey. Whether they're navigating a new life transition or facing a persistent inner struggle, my ideal client seeks relief and effective strategies to move forward towards a more fulfilling life.
(234) 348-3046 View (234) 348-3046
Photo of Emily Pohorence, MEd, LPCC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Pohorence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am trained in EMDR for a variety of concerns.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee and Ohio! Will be credentialed with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee in August 2024! I’m Emily and I work with teens and adults, navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, gender exploration, neurodivergence, relationships, self-worth, sexuality, and trauma. As a queer identifying person, I am passionate about helping individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, with specialized experience in transgender and nonbinary care. I have specific experience writing letters of support for transgender and nonbinary clients seeking Hormone Replacement Therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
Additionally, I am trained in EMDR for a variety of concerns.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee and Ohio! Will be credentialed with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee in August 2024! I’m Emily and I work with teens and adults, navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, gender exploration, neurodivergence, relationships, self-worth, sexuality, and trauma. As a queer identifying person, I am passionate about helping individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, with specialized experience in transgender and nonbinary care. I have specific experience writing letters of support for transgender and nonbinary clients seeking Hormone Replacement Therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
(423) 556-8675 View (423) 556-8675
Photo of Dorothea G Hardrick - Soul Beautiful Counseling & Consulting, LLC, LPCC-S, Counselor
Soul Beautiful Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I am also an EMDR Therapist.
Self-worth. The common denominator is low self-concept and low self-esteem that was not established or through adversity, trauma, violence, and/or abuse was severely damaged. The client wants to end the emotional and psychological pain of existing. Connection, structure, and consistency are the tools that aid in healing. Living and thriving become possible when we add options and perspective.
I am also an EMDR Therapist.
Self-worth. The common denominator is low self-concept and low self-esteem that was not established or through adversity, trauma, violence, and/or abuse was severely damaged. The client wants to end the emotional and psychological pain of existing. Connection, structure, and consistency are the tools that aid in healing. Living and thriving become possible when we add options and perspective.
(330) 846-5903 View (330) 846-5903
Photo of Abigail Brewster, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Brewster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I have provided clinical counseling, advocacy, and case management services, with a specialization in trauma. I also have experience working with individuals and families, providing parenting strategies and support, as well as exploring healthy relationship skills. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (for children and adolescents), and EMDR. I focus on the existing strengths of my clients and encourage the use of those strengths to work toward identified goals. Empathy, compassion, integrity, and service drive my interactions with clients.
I have provided clinical counseling, advocacy, and case management services, with a specialization in trauma. I also have experience working with individuals and families, providing parenting strategies and support, as well as exploring healthy relationship skills. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (for children and adolescents), and EMDR. I focus on the existing strengths of my clients and encourage the use of those strengths to work toward identified goals. Empathy, compassion, integrity, and service drive my interactions with clients.
(380) 201-9097 View (380) 201-9097
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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.