EMDR Therapists in 97206
![Photo of Daniel Stinea - Daniel G Stinea LLC, LPC, NCC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c51dc4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel G Stinea LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
My main modalities of treatment are EMDR and Lifespan Integration (LI), which are brain-changing therapy methods that focus on both the mind and the body.
As a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Oregon and Washington, I work with individuals who have been through trauma and abuse and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety or depression, as well as substance abuse that are affecting their well-being and causing relationship issues. I believe that mind, body and spirit issues contribute to anxiety, depression, mood, addictions and relationship issues. My modalities of treatment include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), LI (Lifespan Integration), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and Motivational Interviewing.
My main modalities of treatment are EMDR and Lifespan Integration (LI), which are brain-changing therapy methods that focus on both the mind and the body.
As a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Oregon and Washington, I work with individuals who have been through trauma and abuse and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety or depression, as well as substance abuse that are affecting their well-being and causing relationship issues. I believe that mind, body and spirit issues contribute to anxiety, depression, mood, addictions and relationship issues. My modalities of treatment include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), LI (Lifespan Integration), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and Motivational Interviewing.
![Photo of Miranda York, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9197d2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who reside in California or Oregon. I offer clinical supervision to associates residing and working in the state of California. As a psychotherapist, I am flexible and tailor my approach to the need of each client. I have been trained in many modalities that offer various benefits, depending on your needs and preferences (EMDR, AEDP, Sensorimotor, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic, Somatic). As a clinical supervisor, I supervise from a primarily psychodynamic orientation. My practice is anti oppression and trauma informed.
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who reside in California or Oregon. I offer clinical supervision to associates residing and working in the state of California. As a psychotherapist, I am flexible and tailor my approach to the need of each client. I have been trained in many modalities that offer various benefits, depending on your needs and preferences (EMDR, AEDP, Sensorimotor, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic, Somatic). As a clinical supervisor, I supervise from a primarily psychodynamic orientation. My practice is anti oppression and trauma informed.
![Photo of Monica Drewer-Tabacchi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c716d2f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Drewer-Tabacchi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
I use EMDR for trauma and anxiety.
I believe that therapy can be social justice; self care can be a rebellion. I prioritize Queer, BIPOC and female identified care. All people are creative, resourceful and capable of growth. Change is difficult and we are all deserving of support. I am honored to work with folks through all of life’s transitions. If we decide to work together, we will identify goals and work through the barriers to becoming more healthy, happy and fulfilled. Email and I'll respond quickly. Phone calls may take longer.
I use EMDR for trauma and anxiety.
I believe that therapy can be social justice; self care can be a rebellion. I prioritize Queer, BIPOC and female identified care. All people are creative, resourceful and capable of growth. Change is difficult and we are all deserving of support. I am honored to work with folks through all of life’s transitions. If we decide to work together, we will identify goals and work through the barriers to becoming more healthy, happy and fulfilled. Email and I'll respond quickly. Phone calls may take longer.
![Photo of Timothy A Connor, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469de512-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a certified practitioner of Coherence Therapy, and I use other experiential methods in my work, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
I am a certified practitioner of Coherence Therapy, and I use other experiential methods in my work, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
![Photo of Laura C Chase, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4ddb2a7-f2f0-462e-8ee0-3c007849dabb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura C Chase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Laura Chase has over 20 years of experience working with clients with attachment styles that make adulthood difficult. I enjoy working with victims of sexual abuse and substance abuse using tapping and EMDR. Life can be more fulfilling with self-reflection and action, with understanding and compassion. You can heal. The best time to start is now.
Laura Chase has over 20 years of experience working with clients with attachment styles that make adulthood difficult. I enjoy working with victims of sexual abuse and substance abuse using tapping and EMDR. Life can be more fulfilling with self-reflection and action, with understanding and compassion. You can heal. The best time to start is now.
![Photo of Dianna K Bowlen - A Season for Change Counseling & Hypnosis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3410c27-185f-4c5a-b5ff-eb83b758c4c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Season for Change Counseling & Hypnosis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Trauma therapy, (general mental health), crisis, EMDR, hypnosis, addiction issues, couples/family therapy, LGBYTQ, working with first responders and populations from around the world.
With compassion and listening, I will work with you to identify your underlying issues, help you to clarify your core beliefs, and help you to release limiting beliefs and behavioral patterns. My goal is to support you, to deepen your capacity for self-reflection, acceptance, and life purpose. I will honor your strengths while helping you to work through life transitions. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I can integrate whatever style of therapy you are interested in (e.g. talk, education, interactive, area specific). I use John Gottman's therapy for couples counseling. I offer sliding scale or insurance billing.
Trauma therapy, (general mental health), crisis, EMDR, hypnosis, addiction issues, couples/family therapy, LGBYTQ, working with first responders and populations from around the world.
With compassion and listening, I will work with you to identify your underlying issues, help you to clarify your core beliefs, and help you to release limiting beliefs and behavioral patterns. My goal is to support you, to deepen your capacity for self-reflection, acceptance, and life purpose. I will honor your strengths while helping you to work through life transitions. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I can integrate whatever style of therapy you are interested in (e.g. talk, education, interactive, area specific). I use John Gottman's therapy for couples counseling. I offer sliding scale or insurance billing.
![Photo of Kara Busse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a341d69f-2426-4675-a17d-c81ca09a91ef/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy using evidence-based approaches including internal family systems, EMDR, and mindfulness based CBT.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
I enjoy using evidence-based approaches including internal family systems, EMDR, and mindfulness based CBT.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
![Photo of Marieke Renner, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4470cb05-3a86-4e50-b90b-125e7108de9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR and licensed in OR and WA.
Accepting New Clients! Are you wondering how past experiences are affecting you today? Do you want to break the cycle and do things differently with your children than what you experienced growing up? Or maybe you are just curious about counseling and not sure what to expect? I am experienced working with clients with all types of trauma/(C-) PTSD, emotional neglect, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, grief, and anger issues, and I can support you navigate these types of challenges and potentially help you find healing and a sense of belonging in your life. I see individual adults of all ages.
I am trained in EMDR and licensed in OR and WA.
Accepting New Clients! Are you wondering how past experiences are affecting you today? Do you want to break the cycle and do things differently with your children than what you experienced growing up? Or maybe you are just curious about counseling and not sure what to expect? I am experienced working with clients with all types of trauma/(C-) PTSD, emotional neglect, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, grief, and anger issues, and I can support you navigate these types of challenges and potentially help you find healing and a sense of belonging in your life. I see individual adults of all ages.
![Photo of Emalie Coplan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1bb31d-c442-4386-8883-c3689eb3eeea/1/320x400.png)
Emalie Coplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
I tailor interventions for each client, drawing on somatic practices, parts work, and experiential techniques like EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing.
I enjoy working with adults who want to process past trauma and relearn how to feel safe in the present. I frequently work with people who grew up in dysfunctional families, and have experienced neglect and abuse in close relationships. These experiences often lead to secondary challenges such as depression, anxiety, co-dependency, and relational concerns. I work with clients to reconnect to their authentic selves. As of 2024, I am licensed in Oregon as well as Minnesota.
I tailor interventions for each client, drawing on somatic practices, parts work, and experiential techniques like EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing.
I enjoy working with adults who want to process past trauma and relearn how to feel safe in the present. I frequently work with people who grew up in dysfunctional families, and have experienced neglect and abuse in close relationships. These experiences often lead to secondary challenges such as depression, anxiety, co-dependency, and relational concerns. I work with clients to reconnect to their authentic selves. As of 2024, I am licensed in Oregon as well as Minnesota.
![Photo of James O McNulty, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f934029-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
James O McNulty
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
I provide mental health services to people dealing with depression, anxiety and practice EMDR to help patients work through PTSD symptoms due to their past trauma.
I believe in a practical, researched, but empathetic and compassionate approached to therapy that helps patients gain greater awareness of themselves and their relationships, in addition to finding meaning and purpose in life. Together we will examine your options, expand your perspective, and arrive at solutions that are in your best interest.
I provide mental health services to people dealing with depression, anxiety and practice EMDR to help patients work through PTSD symptoms due to their past trauma.
I believe in a practical, researched, but empathetic and compassionate approached to therapy that helps patients gain greater awareness of themselves and their relationships, in addition to finding meaning and purpose in life. Together we will examine your options, expand your perspective, and arrive at solutions that are in your best interest.
![Photo of Rachael Sutta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35e742db-66f8-4477-ad20-8c93fba76c4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Sutta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you so much for your interest in connecting with me! Hopefully my experience and communication style may be what you are looking for. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families and have facilitated groups within the therapeutic setting. My practice utilizes integrative modalities of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, self compassion and solution-oriented psychotherapy. I use collaboration and the client-centered biopsychosocial model to focus my treatment, while paying close attention to your goals for personal growth. I believe in the capacity for individuals to affect positive change!
Welcome and thank you so much for your interest in connecting with me! Hopefully my experience and communication style may be what you are looking for. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families and have facilitated groups within the therapeutic setting. My practice utilizes integrative modalities of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, self compassion and solution-oriented psychotherapy. I use collaboration and the client-centered biopsychosocial model to focus my treatment, while paying close attention to your goals for personal growth. I believe in the capacity for individuals to affect positive change!
![Photo of Elsa Tzintzun, MSW, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11c5b298-1ce1-4233-a5e3-c907814973ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
¡Hablo Español! I specialize in working with Latinx, immigrants, and BIPOC clients, but I am open to anyone! I work with adults and children with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial identity, and life transitions. I use a holistic approach to healing using theory based and intuition along with EMDR. I work with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I understand the Latino culture and beliefs. Understanding these beliefs can be part of the healing process. Healing is a journey which can be achieved with professional help and support. I help my client develop copping skills to reduce stress and achieve their goals.
¡Hablo Español! I specialize in working with Latinx, immigrants, and BIPOC clients, but I am open to anyone! I work with adults and children with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial identity, and life transitions. I use a holistic approach to healing using theory based and intuition along with EMDR. I work with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I understand the Latino culture and beliefs. Understanding these beliefs can be part of the healing process. Healing is a journey which can be achieved with professional help and support. I help my client develop copping skills to reduce stress and achieve their goals.
![Photo of Megan Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c90e90d2-d3e8-4ae9-8156-08c5eca1d262/2/320x400.jpeg)
I integrate AEDP with EMDR and Internal Family Systems and teach Mindfulness based practices.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
I integrate AEDP with EMDR and Internal Family Systems and teach Mindfulness based practices.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
![Photo of J.C. Stewart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c471b71-514f-4feb-9bd9-3a285035bb10/1/320x400.jpeg)
J.C. Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
Some common methods include EMDR, DBT, emotionally focused therapy, IFT, and brainspotting.
I have done some of my best work therapeutically with clients who have a hard time being kind to themselves. I've found that patterns of self-criticism or even self-harm often, though not always, originate in dynamics that were present at home growing up. Challenges from childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can continue to affect your daily life, including your functioning and relationships, and I'm here to help. I'm proud to work with members of the LGBTQ+ communities.
Some common methods include EMDR, DBT, emotionally focused therapy, IFT, and brainspotting.
I have done some of my best work therapeutically with clients who have a hard time being kind to themselves. I've found that patterns of self-criticism or even self-harm often, though not always, originate in dynamics that were present at home growing up. Challenges from childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can continue to affect your daily life, including your functioning and relationships, and I'm here to help. I'm proud to work with members of the LGBTQ+ communities.
![Photo of Wendy Jeanette Knowles, LMCH, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3210542-5bc8-450b-8a66-620361f59aa5/2/320x400.png)
Wendy Jeanette Knowles
Mental Health Counselor, LMCH, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I utilize principles of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, EMDR, and integrative healing, and we decide together what is best for you.
What is most important to you in your life today? What is working for you and what would you like to change? We will work collaboratively to identify and achieve the goals that are most meaningful to you, using an individualized and integrative approach that treats the whole person. You are an individual and there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach!
I utilize principles of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, EMDR, and integrative healing, and we decide together what is best for you.
What is most important to you in your life today? What is working for you and what would you like to change? We will work collaboratively to identify and achieve the goals that are most meaningful to you, using an individualized and integrative approach that treats the whole person. You are an individual and there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach!
![Photo of Jennifer Andrews, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e715c537-68a3-4c84-93c1-d3f056be9fa4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
I offer Safety and Attachment Focused EMDR therapy and an eclectic, client-centered approach focusing on trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression.
Healing is available to you. Deep down, we all have the power to heal. Starting therapy takes courage, and it's not always easy to stick with it. But the changes it can bring to your life are huge. In our work together I strive to invite you to discover things about yourself you never knew, find parts of yourself you thought were lost, and learn how to bounce back stronger when life gets tough. I'm here to walk with you through this journey, gently helping you tap into your own inner wisdom where healing, growth, and a new you are waiting.
I offer Safety and Attachment Focused EMDR therapy and an eclectic, client-centered approach focusing on trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression.
Healing is available to you. Deep down, we all have the power to heal. Starting therapy takes courage, and it's not always easy to stick with it. But the changes it can bring to your life are huge. In our work together I strive to invite you to discover things about yourself you never knew, find parts of yourself you thought were lost, and learn how to bounce back stronger when life gets tough. I'm here to walk with you through this journey, gently helping you tap into your own inner wisdom where healing, growth, and a new you are waiting.
![Photo of Melissa Wijetunga, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5529d674-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Wijetunga
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma-informed approaches such as ACT, EMDR, & MBCT.
Whether you are new to seeking therapy or are well-versed with the process, I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth. I work with individuals including children, teens, and adults. Do you find it difficult to cope with the challenges of family, work, or school? Has a recent circumstance caused you to feel lost or uncertain? Have your past traumas distorted your self-view as someone who is broken or unworthy? You can heal and I’m here to help. Together, we’ll build upon the talents and skills you already have to reach your future goals.
I am trained in trauma-informed approaches such as ACT, EMDR, & MBCT.
Whether you are new to seeking therapy or are well-versed with the process, I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth. I work with individuals including children, teens, and adults. Do you find it difficult to cope with the challenges of family, work, or school? Has a recent circumstance caused you to feel lost or uncertain? Have your past traumas distorted your self-view as someone who is broken or unworthy? You can heal and I’m here to help. Together, we’ll build upon the talents and skills you already have to reach your future goals.
![Photo of Jennifer L. Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0c3ef52-91b8-49dc-988c-7ad91d18c6f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer L. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
I use EMDR and DBT for more hands-on approaches when indicated.
People often seek out therapy when they are in relief of mental and emotional pain. I believe much of this pain is rooted in attachment failures in childhood which then branch out into how you see yourself, relate to others, etc. Ways you may have managed this pain no longer seem to be working. This crisis of sorts is an opportunity for deeper understanding, acceptance and transformation. Therapy can be a vehicle for achieving this. My areas of focus are: mood disorders, trauma, self-esteem, anxiety and relational difficulties. I tend to work well with clients who are open, curious and motivated for change.
I use EMDR and DBT for more hands-on approaches when indicated.
People often seek out therapy when they are in relief of mental and emotional pain. I believe much of this pain is rooted in attachment failures in childhood which then branch out into how you see yourself, relate to others, etc. Ways you may have managed this pain no longer seem to be working. This crisis of sorts is an opportunity for deeper understanding, acceptance and transformation. Therapy can be a vehicle for achieving this. My areas of focus are: mood disorders, trauma, self-esteem, anxiety and relational difficulties. I tend to work well with clients who are open, curious and motivated for change.
![Photo of Jessica Garbutt-Burden, LCSW, CTMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49331684-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Garbutt-Burden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTMH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Philosophy and Approach: I believe that at various times in our lives all individuals, couples, and families need support adjusting to traumas, life changes and the daily stressors we all face. I desire to create a safe relationship where individuals feel that their experiences are understood and accepted. When the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, compassion, understanding, and acceptance, individuals are able to feel supported to make positive changes in their lives.
Philosophy and Approach: I believe that at various times in our lives all individuals, couples, and families need support adjusting to traumas, life changes and the daily stressors we all face. I desire to create a safe relationship where individuals feel that their experiences are understood and accepted. When the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, compassion, understanding, and acceptance, individuals are able to feel supported to make positive changes in their lives.
![Photo of Nathan Bryson - Roots Therapy NW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1aac0f6a-d997-4041-8fbd-337de7c97249/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! We're glad you're here. We are a group of therapists with a diverse set of skills and experiences. Please see our website for therapist bios to see if we have a therapist who might feel like a good fit.
Welcome! We're glad you're here. We are a group of therapists with a diverse set of skills and experiences. Please see our website for therapist bios to see if we have a therapist who might feel like a good fit.
See more therapy options for 97206
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.