EMDR Therapists in 97201
![Photo of Judy P Chang, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cf241d1-ee6b-450d-aa83-a00d31756913/2/320x400.jpeg)
I combine EMDR with Alchemy to effect rapid change.
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
I combine EMDR with Alchemy to effect rapid change.
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Amy Beitia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35ee1d98-be2e-448c-b3d6-44c502bf5fca/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in EMDR therapy for trauma.
Telehealth ONLY Provider serving Clients in AZ, ID, and OR - As a therapist my passion is to support you through whatever life event may have brought you to seek counseling. I will guide you through this time and help you continue on your journey. Whether you're struggling with symptoms from trauma, depression, anxiety, life stressors or transitions I will provide a safe space for you to work through your challenges. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults with a goal to help you find balance and wellness.
I specialize in EMDR therapy for trauma.
Telehealth ONLY Provider serving Clients in AZ, ID, and OR - As a therapist my passion is to support you through whatever life event may have brought you to seek counseling. I will guide you through this time and help you continue on your journey. Whether you're struggling with symptoms from trauma, depression, anxiety, life stressors or transitions I will provide a safe space for you to work through your challenges. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults with a goal to help you find balance and wellness.
![Photo of Emily Bryan, LPC, CADC I, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02fd1de7-483c-48a6-9783-98be8495c3e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are interested in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to process any type of trauma, please let me know.
My style of therapy emphasizes personal strength and finding meaning in daily life. My practice serves to help you if you have been through unexpected or upsetting times, you feel as if you need to change a longstanding challenge or pattern, or you simply need a confidential and safe space to explore new ways of existing in the world.
If you are interested in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to process any type of trauma, please let me know.
My style of therapy emphasizes personal strength and finding meaning in daily life. My practice serves to help you if you have been through unexpected or upsetting times, you feel as if you need to change a longstanding challenge or pattern, or you simply need a confidential and safe space to explore new ways of existing in the world.
![Photo of William Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f09d09-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
William Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
I provide a supportive and compassionate environment to give my clients space to process past trauma, current stress, and anxiety about the future. My practice integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, mindfulness training, and Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization (EMDR). Using these frameworks we will examine how past experiences impact your current functioning. We will identify traumatic experiences, dysfunctional thoughts and destructive behavior patterns. Then use EMDR and talk therapy to shift the beliefs that reinforce these habits to relieve psychological and emotional suffering.
I provide a supportive and compassionate environment to give my clients space to process past trauma, current stress, and anxiety about the future. My practice integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, mindfulness training, and Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization (EMDR). Using these frameworks we will examine how past experiences impact your current functioning. We will identify traumatic experiences, dysfunctional thoughts and destructive behavior patterns. Then use EMDR and talk therapy to shift the beliefs that reinforce these habits to relieve psychological and emotional suffering.
![Photo of Aaron Paul Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7442ff4-99f0-4c65-bf99-7083fd0eebed/5/320x400.jpeg)
I offer you my kindness, respect and years of my own dedicated self work. Listening, presence and experience is a big part of what I bring to our sessions. A lot of pain and trauma becomes unconscious. I work with you to understand the sources of the problem. We aim to understand the different parts of your self. We work to activate your highest or most authentic self. I also aim to heal the trauma in the body. I am Jungian based, using EMDR, mindfulness psychology, and somatic approaches, all to deepen your relationship to yourself.
I offer you my kindness, respect and years of my own dedicated self work. Listening, presence and experience is a big part of what I bring to our sessions. A lot of pain and trauma becomes unconscious. I work with you to understand the sources of the problem. We aim to understand the different parts of your self. We work to activate your highest or most authentic self. I also aim to heal the trauma in the body. I am Jungian based, using EMDR, mindfulness psychology, and somatic approaches, all to deepen your relationship to yourself.
![Photo of Linda Romig, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4799c3f8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that clients and counselors partner together to work towards optimum mental health for each client. I believe in client involvement in setting and working towards those goals through a variety of clinical interventions with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and DBT.
I believe that clients and counselors partner together to work towards optimum mental health for each client. I believe in client involvement in setting and working towards those goals through a variety of clinical interventions with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and DBT.
![Photo of Dr. Ebony V McClain, PhD, LPC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83396f2c-10f5-4282-aa47-2451e885cd71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ebony V McClain
Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
Waitlist for new clients
I also provide EMDR therapy and hypnotherapy.
It's not work when you love it and I am fortunate to have worked in and loved the mental health and behavioral health fields for over 25 years. I have provided therapy to women in abusive relationships, homeless populations, LGBTQIA individuals, individuals struggling with substance use disorders, and individuals suffering from chronic medical illness. I have also worked in residential treatment with children and adolescents and in outpatient with children, adolescents, couples, and families. I currently prefer those ages 12 to adult in my practice. I see clients via teletherapy who live in Alaska, Arizona, Texas, and Oregon.
I also provide EMDR therapy and hypnotherapy.
It's not work when you love it and I am fortunate to have worked in and loved the mental health and behavioral health fields for over 25 years. I have provided therapy to women in abusive relationships, homeless populations, LGBTQIA individuals, individuals struggling with substance use disorders, and individuals suffering from chronic medical illness. I have also worked in residential treatment with children and adolescents and in outpatient with children, adolescents, couples, and families. I currently prefer those ages 12 to adult in my practice. I see clients via teletherapy who live in Alaska, Arizona, Texas, and Oregon.
![Photo of Jenny Sites, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2074ea56-97c6-4d06-8671-dc52c7955d10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Sites
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma-informed treatment including EMDR is one of my specializations.
One of the beautiful things about counseling is having the privilege to hear individual's stories. Each therapeutic interaction presents with unique history, strengths, and concerns. I operate primarily from an Interpersonal orientation which looks at the counseling relationship as a "safe haven" to facilitate the change each client desires. I believe that relationship - with self and with others - heals. I strive to hold space and actively participate with each client desiring change, counseling and working toward congruence of body, mind and spirit.
Trauma-informed treatment including EMDR is one of my specializations.
One of the beautiful things about counseling is having the privilege to hear individual's stories. Each therapeutic interaction presents with unique history, strengths, and concerns. I operate primarily from an Interpersonal orientation which looks at the counseling relationship as a "safe haven" to facilitate the change each client desires. I believe that relationship - with self and with others - heals. I strive to hold space and actively participate with each client desiring change, counseling and working toward congruence of body, mind and spirit.
![Photo of Debra Blackwell-Schrag, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46372aa0-91e4-46d0-852e-701c9e834114/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Blackwell-Schrag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals of all orientations, face challenges, improve relationships and move through changes. I provide support, tools, increased self awareness, and communication skills, to help you on your path to a positive and fulfilling future. I believe you are doing the best you can with the resources you have available. My job is helping you identify, uncover and utilize more resources, so that you are more effective at creating the life you want to live, and then living it. I am trained in EMDR for trauma, and have completed trainings by the Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University.
I specialize in helping individuals of all orientations, face challenges, improve relationships and move through changes. I provide support, tools, increased self awareness, and communication skills, to help you on your path to a positive and fulfilling future. I believe you are doing the best you can with the resources you have available. My job is helping you identify, uncover and utilize more resources, so that you are more effective at creating the life you want to live, and then living it. I am trained in EMDR for trauma, and have completed trainings by the Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University.
![Photo of Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f72b92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
) combined with EMDR and the attachment-informed psychotherapy of AEDP.
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
) combined with EMDR and the attachment-informed psychotherapy of AEDP.
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
![Photo of Debbie Bensching, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4a4164-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
In addition to insight oriented psychotherapy I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR and hypnosis.
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
In addition to insight oriented psychotherapy I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR and hypnosis.
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
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![Photo of Marjorie Beck, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9ff6193-80cc-4252-a1e3-537bc3a15d8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marjorie Beck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I combine somatic awareness, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and a creative approach to trauma healing which allows for deep embodied change. I am passionate about offering integrative techniques that will illuminate the deeper underpinnings of the issues that you struggle with. I bring a soft, yet powerful, presence to my work, focusing on the relational container of therapy and offering attunement from my system to yours. Together, side by side, we will uncover ways to move toward your goals while maintaining a specific focus on returning to the Self. Without meeting you, I already believe in you and the changes you want to make!
I combine somatic awareness, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and a creative approach to trauma healing which allows for deep embodied change. I am passionate about offering integrative techniques that will illuminate the deeper underpinnings of the issues that you struggle with. I bring a soft, yet powerful, presence to my work, focusing on the relational container of therapy and offering attunement from my system to yours. Together, side by side, we will uncover ways to move toward your goals while maintaining a specific focus on returning to the Self. Without meeting you, I already believe in you and the changes you want to make!
![Photo of Dr. Michelle D Roberts, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/608c9a74-2392-44a0-bd4a-bae93103f44b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle D Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
My multi-dimensional approach is shaped by the latest research in neuroscience and relies on trauma-focused treatment specialties, including EMDR and Somatic Approaches, Attachment Therapy, DBT and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
I work with clients whose PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions were caused by relational trauma. This kind of trauma occurs when the actions of another violate the trust on which a relationship was built. The experience of profound and unexpected betrayal (as children or adults) can be deeply traumatic and cause lasting changes in the areas of the brain responsible for regulating emotion, thought, and memory.
My multi-dimensional approach is shaped by the latest research in neuroscience and relies on trauma-focused treatment specialties, including EMDR and Somatic Approaches, Attachment Therapy, DBT and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
I work with clients whose PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions were caused by relational trauma. This kind of trauma occurs when the actions of another violate the trust on which a relationship was built. The experience of profound and unexpected betrayal (as children or adults) can be deeply traumatic and cause lasting changes in the areas of the brain responsible for regulating emotion, thought, and memory.
![Photo of Nicole Podell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4123c52a-a224-48a9-8ae8-69755effb2fc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Podell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We may use modalities such as internal family systems, and EMDR to explore past narratives and traumas in a safe way, while taking into account systems of power and cultural context.
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am committed to building therapeutic relationships where people feel seen, challenged and supported. Therapy is an invaluable space where you can investigate all the parts of yourself and begin to heal and thrive.
We may use modalities such as internal family systems, and EMDR to explore past narratives and traumas in a safe way, while taking into account systems of power and cultural context.
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am committed to building therapeutic relationships where people feel seen, challenged and supported. Therapy is an invaluable space where you can investigate all the parts of yourself and begin to heal and thrive.
![Photo of Alexandra Miller, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15d79eb6-4dac-4bc1-8986-0701cef23f23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
I specialize in short-term, episodic counseling using primarily CBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness.
Are you at a turning point in your life and looking for change but not sure what to do? Frustrated with behavior that seems to be counterproductive? Haunted by past events, nightmares or anxiety? You can't get your ducks in a row if they are all in the closet; therapy is a good way to get them out and gives you someone to help herd them. “More Joy” is my motto, in life and in counseling, and I'd love to help you.
I specialize in short-term, episodic counseling using primarily CBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness.
Are you at a turning point in your life and looking for change but not sure what to do? Frustrated with behavior that seems to be counterproductive? Haunted by past events, nightmares or anxiety? You can't get your ducks in a row if they are all in the closet; therapy is a good way to get them out and gives you someone to help herd them. “More Joy” is my motto, in life and in counseling, and I'd love to help you.
![Photo of Rachel Iverson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7ffc2d6-9cb0-4f4b-becd-a3cd34d4a3ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Iverson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic mix of CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and ready to make a change, but unsure how or where to start? Let me guide you to your goal. Life presents us all with battles that become tiresome to fight over time. Whether you have been struggling to make big life decisions, experiencing stress from traumatic events, or are plagued by anxiety or depression that just won't ease up, you are welcomed here. In the many years of experience I have working with people of all walks of life, I have found that if we are willing and dedicated, we can achieve a life that brings us joy.
I utilize an eclectic mix of CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and ready to make a change, but unsure how or where to start? Let me guide you to your goal. Life presents us all with battles that become tiresome to fight over time. Whether you have been struggling to make big life decisions, experiencing stress from traumatic events, or are plagued by anxiety or depression that just won't ease up, you are welcomed here. In the many years of experience I have working with people of all walks of life, I have found that if we are willing and dedicated, we can achieve a life that brings us joy.
![Photo of Madeline Warnick, LPC, NCC, MCoun, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f216c4fa-3a31-487d-ab2f-b45ecfad1494/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madeline Warnick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MCoun
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
I’m trained in a variety of depth-oriented, holistic approaches to help you get to the root of your problems, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Brainspotting, attachment theory, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
New Group - See below! Your inner critic can make you see yourself through a cruel funhouse mirror, where all you can see are the parts of you that you don’t like. You may have had past experiences - in relationships, your family, school, or society - that left you feeling like there's something wrong with you. Maybe you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “too much,” and now you tell yourself those things on repeat. You may struggle with listening to and trusting your feelings, intuition, or body, and you long for more confidence & self-trust. My clients are people who want to go deep (even if a part of them is also afraid to!).
I’m trained in a variety of depth-oriented, holistic approaches to help you get to the root of your problems, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Brainspotting, attachment theory, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
New Group - See below! Your inner critic can make you see yourself through a cruel funhouse mirror, where all you can see are the parts of you that you don’t like. You may have had past experiences - in relationships, your family, school, or society - that left you feeling like there's something wrong with you. Maybe you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “too much,” and now you tell yourself those things on repeat. You may struggle with listening to and trusting your feelings, intuition, or body, and you long for more confidence & self-trust. My clients are people who want to go deep (even if a part of them is also afraid to!).
![Photo of Linda Johnson, MS, LMFT, LAADC, NPT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae0b1118-c4b0-4b56-87a5-d52893a4e8d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LAADC, NPT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201 (Online Only)
I'm an interactive therapist with over 20 years experience who provides telehealth services to California and Texas residents as a licensed LMFT in both states. I'm also a LAADC and an ICAADC, and a Certified Neuropsychotherapist. My style is client-centered and highly collaborative with a trauma- and developmentally-informed approach that includes a strong attachment focus. I'm trained in several evidence-based theories and interventions, including EMDR. I enjoy providing therapy services and am honored to work with adults and couples seeking to overcome personal and/or professional challenges to increase their life satisfaction.
I'm an interactive therapist with over 20 years experience who provides telehealth services to California and Texas residents as a licensed LMFT in both states. I'm also a LAADC and an ICAADC, and a Certified Neuropsychotherapist. My style is client-centered and highly collaborative with a trauma- and developmentally-informed approach that includes a strong attachment focus. I'm trained in several evidence-based theories and interventions, including EMDR. I enjoy providing therapy services and am honored to work with adults and couples seeking to overcome personal and/or professional challenges to increase their life satisfaction.
![Photo of Sierra Renham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fe9b26a-b2ca-467a-8628-b497d5dab347/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma and are struggling in certain areas of their lives due to the trauma. I utilize TF-CBT and EMDR as trauma interventions. Utilizing TF-CBT does encourage engagement from parent(s) and guardian(s). As a former athlete, I am also passionate about working with athletes on their overall mental health and well-being along with managing sport-related anxiety and other concerns.
I work with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma and are struggling in certain areas of their lives due to the trauma. I utilize TF-CBT and EMDR as trauma interventions. Utilizing TF-CBT does encourage engagement from parent(s) and guardian(s). As a former athlete, I am also passionate about working with athletes on their overall mental health and well-being along with managing sport-related anxiety and other concerns.
![Photo of Glenda Jasso-Porter, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e39955d-083e-4a50-b9b9-7275e88c59f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My approach utilizes integrative psychotherapy, coming from the perspective of addressing the “whole person”. Considering thoughts, feelings, behavior, and the way our life experiences have shaped the way we see and function in the world.
My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My approach utilizes integrative psychotherapy, coming from the perspective of addressing the “whole person”. Considering thoughts, feelings, behavior, and the way our life experiences have shaped the way we see and function in the world.
See more therapy options for 97201
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.