EMDR Therapists in Litchfield Park, AZ

Photo of Kenni Uribe - Emdr Intensive Provider, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenni Uribe - Emdr Intensive Provider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
As a skilled and experienced LCSW, Certified EMDR Therapist, Certified First Responder Counselor, and EMDR Consultant, I offer evidence-based therapy for clients and EMDR consultation for therapists. My passion is using the transformational benefits of EMDR Intensives with clients who are ready to live without troublesome clinical symptoms. I specialize in providing therapy to first responders, people who have experienced trauma and other distressing life events, and those with depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. In addition to Intensive Sessions, I provide therapy using the traditional weekly model.
As a skilled and experienced LCSW, Certified EMDR Therapist, Certified First Responder Counselor, and EMDR Consultant, I offer evidence-based therapy for clients and EMDR consultation for therapists. My passion is using the transformational benefits of EMDR Intensives with clients who are ready to live without troublesome clinical symptoms. I specialize in providing therapy to first responders, people who have experienced trauma and other distressing life events, and those with depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. In addition to Intensive Sessions, I provide therapy using the traditional weekly model.
(623) 257-7301 View (623) 257-7301
Photo of Angela M Pergola - Silver Lining Psychotherapy, MA, LPC, NCC, BHP, Counselor
Silver Lining Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Angela utilizes a multi-modal theoretical approach that is tailored to each individual client, which may include CBT, DBT, Motivational interviewing, Person Centered, Therapeutic Play techniques, EMDR, and Attachment Based Trauma therapy.
Have you ever considered the root causes behind your life difficulties? Many of these may have originated from past traumatic events. If you are a person experiencing these types of difficulties please call so we can talk. At Silver Lining Psychotherapy, Angela is a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoys providing treatment, assessment, counseling, and consulting services to a diverse population of individuals in the community.
Angela utilizes a multi-modal theoretical approach that is tailored to each individual client, which may include CBT, DBT, Motivational interviewing, Person Centered, Therapeutic Play techniques, EMDR, and Attachment Based Trauma therapy.
Have you ever considered the root causes behind your life difficulties? Many of these may have originated from past traumatic events. If you are a person experiencing these types of difficulties please call so we can talk. At Silver Lining Psychotherapy, Angela is a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoys providing treatment, assessment, counseling, and consulting services to a diverse population of individuals in the community.
(480) 405-7983 View (480) 405-7983
Photo of Alexzannah B Castro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexzannah B Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
I provide treatment based on modalities such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems with a person-centered and solution-focused approach.
There may be times when one might feel the weight of life’s twists and turns. With constant changes, we may feel uncomfortable or 'stuck'. Life is a journey in which some of these challenges need a form of support with the utmost compassion to recognize all that we are capable of; A source of motivation. Humans need connection and it is when finding a safe space where we can recognize the resiliency that brought us here and keeps us moving forward with confidence that we often thrive. With a therapeutic alliance, we can navigate and work through any blockage in an open and affirming way to allow for emotional process and balance.
I provide treatment based on modalities such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems with a person-centered and solution-focused approach.
There may be times when one might feel the weight of life’s twists and turns. With constant changes, we may feel uncomfortable or 'stuck'. Life is a journey in which some of these challenges need a form of support with the utmost compassion to recognize all that we are capable of; A source of motivation. Humans need connection and it is when finding a safe space where we can recognize the resiliency that brought us here and keeps us moving forward with confidence that we often thrive. With a therapeutic alliance, we can navigate and work through any blockage in an open and affirming way to allow for emotional process and balance.
(623) 471-8709 View (623) 471-8709
Photo of Micaela Wamboldt, LPC, CFRC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Micaela Wamboldt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CFRC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Do you struggle with accepting your identity, past trauma, relationships, mood, or self-esteem? There are many issues that individuals struggle with and it can be difficult to face these struggles on your own. I am here to help. Together, we can explore these issues in depth and work to meet your personal goals. I use a trauma focused, strengths-based, and cognitive behavioral approach in my work with clients and am dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals to create a healthier mindset and lifestyle. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified First Responder Counselor. I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Do you struggle with accepting your identity, past trauma, relationships, mood, or self-esteem? There are many issues that individuals struggle with and it can be difficult to face these struggles on your own. I am here to help. Together, we can explore these issues in depth and work to meet your personal goals. I use a trauma focused, strengths-based, and cognitive behavioral approach in my work with clients and am dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals to create a healthier mindset and lifestyle. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified First Responder Counselor. I am trained in EMDR therapy.
(623) 232-0450 View (623) 232-0450
Photo of Ria Flanagan, MA MFT, LISAC, CSAT, CMAT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Ria Flanagan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA MFT, LISAC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Modalities include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Post Induction Therapy, CPT, CBT and inner child work.
Have you experienced betrayal by a partner or found yourself acting out in addictive, risky behaviors and want help? Rise Up Recover, LLC provides online groups for recovery from trauma and addiction. Skilled therapists are here to help you walk toward the journey of recovery. We also offer in-person intensive workshops. Ria Flanagan is also a Clinical Supervisor and Doctoral student.
Modalities include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Post Induction Therapy, CPT, CBT and inner child work.
Have you experienced betrayal by a partner or found yourself acting out in addictive, risky behaviors and want help? Rise Up Recover, LLC provides online groups for recovery from trauma and addiction. Skilled therapists are here to help you walk toward the journey of recovery. We also offer in-person intensive workshops. Ria Flanagan is also a Clinical Supervisor and Doctoral student.
(602) 833-2796 View (602) 833-2796
Photo of Samantha White, LPC, RPT, Counselor
Samantha White
Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Certified EMDR Therapist. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults heal and reclaim joy that is often disrupted by trauma, abuse, neglect, or crime victimization. My approach is integrated, blending modalities from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sand Tray, and Play Therapy. My goal is to help individuals and families tap into their potential to make positive changes, with a commitment to support clients as they build capacity and resilience for a brighter future.
Certified EMDR Therapist. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults heal and reclaim joy that is often disrupted by trauma, abuse, neglect, or crime victimization. My approach is integrated, blending modalities from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sand Tray, and Play Therapy. My goal is to help individuals and families tap into their potential to make positive changes, with a commitment to support clients as they build capacity and resilience for a brighter future.
(623) 288-2662 View (623) 288-2662
Photo of Shawna Peters, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawna Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you at a crossroads in life and feel unsure which direction to turn? Do you find it difficult to manage worry and stress? Are you using all your energy to bear the pain of a deep rooted or recent trauma? Have you experienced a significant loss and struggle with emotional pain and aftermath? I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), with experience treating anxiety, trauma and grief, since 2013. My approach is to create a non-judgmental environment for you to share whatever challenges you are facing. The goal is to help you heal and move your life in the direction you desire.
I have specialized training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you at a crossroads in life and feel unsure which direction to turn? Do you find it difficult to manage worry and stress? Are you using all your energy to bear the pain of a deep rooted or recent trauma? Have you experienced a significant loss and struggle with emotional pain and aftermath? I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), with experience treating anxiety, trauma and grief, since 2013. My approach is to create a non-judgmental environment for you to share whatever challenges you are facing. The goal is to help you heal and move your life in the direction you desire.
(623) 235-8241 View (623) 235-8241
Photo of Stacy Morgan, LPC, Counselor
Stacy Morgan
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with a wide range of clientele and presenting concerns. I started my career working at a local non-profit agency with children ages 0-18 and their families, including biological, blended, foster, and adoptive. I have also worked in an inpatient hospital setting treating adolescents ages 11-17 in crisis and facing a variety of mental health-related challenges. In private practice, I work with children, teens, adults and couples to strengthen relationships and heal emotional wounds. I am also EMDR trained to help you process and heal trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with a wide range of clientele and presenting concerns. I started my career working at a local non-profit agency with children ages 0-18 and their families, including biological, blended, foster, and adoptive. I have also worked in an inpatient hospital setting treating adolescents ages 11-17 in crisis and facing a variety of mental health-related challenges. In private practice, I work with children, teens, adults and couples to strengthen relationships and heal emotional wounds. I am also EMDR trained to help you process and heal trauma.
(623) 288-5554 View (623) 288-5554
Photo of Dr. Sabit Bojaj, DBH, MA, LPC, C-EMDR, CISM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Sabit Bojaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, MA, LPC, C-EMDR, CISM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Ages 14 and up. BCBS, Cigna, Optum, & Self-Pay. Do you have trauma, thoughts, feelings, or individuals you want to be in peace with? Reach out. Dr. Sabit is compassionate, professional, empathetic, and non-judgmental. We will work together to give you a fresh start in life. Dr. Sabit's training is specifically focused in human development, personality theories, complex trauma, psychosexual development, generational trauma, depression, repression, social and emotional struggles, and behavioral and emotional impact of medical illnesses. Dr. Sabit is a Certified EMDR therapist (7+ years) & an EMDR Consultant.
Ages 14 and up. BCBS, Cigna, Optum, & Self-Pay. Do you have trauma, thoughts, feelings, or individuals you want to be in peace with? Reach out. Dr. Sabit is compassionate, professional, empathetic, and non-judgmental. We will work together to give you a fresh start in life. Dr. Sabit's training is specifically focused in human development, personality theories, complex trauma, psychosexual development, generational trauma, depression, repression, social and emotional struggles, and behavioral and emotional impact of medical illnesses. Dr. Sabit is a Certified EMDR therapist (7+ years) & an EMDR Consultant.
(623) 624-8288 View (623) 624-8288
Photo of Rhonda Lake, LPC, MPC, MAC, CCTP-ll, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Lake
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC, MAC, CCTP-ll
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Rhonda Lake and I have 14 yrs. experience and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and those overwhelming feelings in your life. Furthermore, I am a certified trauma and EMDR specialist. I focus on integrating neuroscience with evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapies, EMDR, somatic approaches. In addition, I have been a Christian for 38 years and do both Christian and non-Christian counseling. My style of counseling is to be interactive and present with you.
Hi, I'm Rhonda Lake and I have 14 yrs. experience and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and those overwhelming feelings in your life. Furthermore, I am a certified trauma and EMDR specialist. I focus on integrating neuroscience with evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapies, EMDR, somatic approaches. In addition, I have been a Christian for 38 years and do both Christian and non-Christian counseling. My style of counseling is to be interactive and present with you.
(623) 207-8901 View (623) 207-8901
Photo of Joanne Solari, LCSW, CCTS-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Solari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
EMDR trained by the EMDR Institute.
My mission is to provide quality mental health counseling services to adolescents and adults seeking healthier solutions and support. An important factor in effective psychotherapy is the client/therapist relationship. This means that you must have a strong therapeutic alliance. Trust, honesty, and a sense of unconditional support and attunement allow individuals in psychotherapy the ability to grow and change. You can be assured that you will not be alone in this process, as I will partner with you during your personal journey. Our partnership will be combined with client-centered and evidence-based interventions.
EMDR trained by the EMDR Institute.
My mission is to provide quality mental health counseling services to adolescents and adults seeking healthier solutions and support. An important factor in effective psychotherapy is the client/therapist relationship. This means that you must have a strong therapeutic alliance. Trust, honesty, and a sense of unconditional support and attunement allow individuals in psychotherapy the ability to grow and change. You can be assured that you will not be alone in this process, as I will partner with you during your personal journey. Our partnership will be combined with client-centered and evidence-based interventions.
(609) 952-5824 View (609) 952-5824
Photo of Tania Rojo, MAPC, LAC, Counselor
Tania Rojo
Counselor, MAPC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
As a trauma-informed clinician specializing in EMDR, I take a holistic approach to therapy, aiming to support individuals through their healing process.
Are you struggling with stress, ongoing sadness, anxiety, or relationship issues? If so, you've come to the right place! I've witnessed many clients undergo transformative journeys through therapy, and I'd be honored to be part of yours. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions. I believe everyone has a story to share, and I'm here to listen with an open heart.
As a trauma-informed clinician specializing in EMDR, I take a holistic approach to therapy, aiming to support individuals through their healing process.
Are you struggling with stress, ongoing sadness, anxiety, or relationship issues? If so, you've come to the right place! I've witnessed many clients undergo transformative journeys through therapy, and I'd be honored to be part of yours. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions. I believe everyone has a story to share, and I'm here to listen with an open heart.
(602) 834-1800 View (602) 834-1800
Photo of Lisa Mendoza, MAPC, LPC, Counselor
Lisa Mendoza
Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Now accepting Aetna and BCBS. Have you been feeling like you have reached or are about to reach your breaking point? Have you come to a point where your usual coping skills are no longer effective? Have you resorted to coping skills that you know are leading you down a dangerous, unproductive, or negative path? Are your relationships with your spouse, family, friends or co-workers strained? Do you feel like your purpose in life is unclear? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are in the right place!
Now accepting Aetna and BCBS. Have you been feeling like you have reached or are about to reach your breaking point? Have you come to a point where your usual coping skills are no longer effective? Have you resorted to coping skills that you know are leading you down a dangerous, unproductive, or negative path? Are your relationships with your spouse, family, friends or co-workers strained? Do you feel like your purpose in life is unclear? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are in the right place!
(623) 526-8517 View (623) 526-8517
Photo of Victor Alcantara - Bright Minds Counseling & Consulting LLC, MSc, LAC, Counselor
Bright Minds Counseling & Consulting LLC
Counselor, MSc, LAC
Verified Verified
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Online Counseling— Every wound has the potential to be a source of growth and transformation.
Online Counseling— Every wound has the potential to be a source of growth and transformation.
(623) 283-1516 View (623) 283-1516
Photo of Mireya Roe, MA, LPC, EMDR , Licensed Professional Counselor
Mireya Roe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy which are highly effective in treating symptoms secondary to trauma and PTSD.
My name is Mireya Roe and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I graduated with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2009 and have more than 20 years of experience working in the mental health field, to include providing psychotherapy. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and up. My practice style is dependent on the needs and strengths of the individual I am working with utilizing Goal Oriented, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered methods.
I specialize in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy which are highly effective in treating symptoms secondary to trauma and PTSD.
My name is Mireya Roe and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I graduated with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2009 and have more than 20 years of experience working in the mental health field, to include providing psychotherapy. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and up. My practice style is dependent on the needs and strengths of the individual I am working with utilizing Goal Oriented, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered methods.
(623) 250-7010 View (623) 250-7010
Photo of Amanda B McCarron, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda B McCarron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm also trained in EMDR.
I have experience working with many areas, including anxiety, depression, any of life's necessary adjustments, marriage and family concerns, and more. I appreciate when a client is willing to consider new ideas, to practice what we've worked on together, and to implement those new ideas into practice in day to day life. My ideal client is a collaborative individual, excited for new perspective and willing to meet those challenges head on. Tell me what you think! We are partners through this process together.
I'm also trained in EMDR.
I have experience working with many areas, including anxiety, depression, any of life's necessary adjustments, marriage and family concerns, and more. I appreciate when a client is willing to consider new ideas, to practice what we've worked on together, and to implement those new ideas into practice in day to day life. My ideal client is a collaborative individual, excited for new perspective and willing to meet those challenges head on. Tell me what you think! We are partners through this process together.
(623) 343-0272 View (623) 343-0272
Photo of Valerie A Reynolds, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie A Reynolds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My primary therapeutic orientations however, are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR,.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, relationship problems, or feel like you can’t get past the bad things that have happened to you? I believe that even in our darkest hours, we can still find beauty, peace, and joy. Fun too! My motto is "We are all a work in progress." This idea allows us to balance self-acceptance as we are now, while still striving to be our best self.  As a trauma-informed therapist, I will be your copilot on the road to wellness. Helping you to feel empowered and capable to make the changes you want. My warm and direct approach will help you feel understood yet challenged to get outside your comfort zone.
My primary therapeutic orientations however, are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR,.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, relationship problems, or feel like you can’t get past the bad things that have happened to you? I believe that even in our darkest hours, we can still find beauty, peace, and joy. Fun too! My motto is "We are all a work in progress." This idea allows us to balance self-acceptance as we are now, while still striving to be our best self.  As a trauma-informed therapist, I will be your copilot on the road to wellness. Helping you to feel empowered and capable to make the changes you want. My warm and direct approach will help you feel understood yet challenged to get outside your comfort zone.
(623) 292-4145 View (623) 292-4145

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Angela Terri Griffin, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Angela Terri Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85395
Griffin specializes in sports performance anxiety, cognitive & dialectical behavioral therapy, psychological skills, and EMDR.
4th Quarter Performance Consultants specializes in mental skills training and mental health counseling to athletes & non athletes by providing sport psychology and mental health services to Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school and youth/novice athletes. The goal is to help improve performance both on and off the field, mental health, and overall well-being. As a former collegiate & professional athlete, Dr. Griffin has specialized training and understands what it takes to maximize performance by offering in-person or virtual individual & team sessions, as well as workshops for parents, coaches, and sports organizations.
Griffin specializes in sports performance anxiety, cognitive & dialectical behavioral therapy, psychological skills, and EMDR.
4th Quarter Performance Consultants specializes in mental skills training and mental health counseling to athletes & non athletes by providing sport psychology and mental health services to Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school and youth/novice athletes. The goal is to help improve performance both on and off the field, mental health, and overall well-being. As a former collegiate & professional athlete, Dr. Griffin has specialized training and understands what it takes to maximize performance by offering in-person or virtual individual & team sessions, as well as workshops for parents, coaches, and sports organizations.
(623) 303-5148 View (623) 303-5148
Photo of Mears Amundson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mears Amundson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85395
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Master Accelerated Resolution Therapist and trained in EMDR.
Are you ready to let go of past hurts? Resolve fears? Restore relationships? Rediscover joy and have more energy? Whether you are facing something unexpected, feeling emotionally overwhelmed, or trying to make sense of your past, seeking help can be the first step in committing to healing. Everyone has unique strengths that can be used to overcome difficult situations leading to greater happiness and healthier relationships. With the right support, you can begin to improve your life one day at a time and feel more like yourself again.
I am a Certified Master Accelerated Resolution Therapist and trained in EMDR.
Are you ready to let go of past hurts? Resolve fears? Restore relationships? Rediscover joy and have more energy? Whether you are facing something unexpected, feeling emotionally overwhelmed, or trying to make sense of your past, seeking help can be the first step in committing to healing. Everyone has unique strengths that can be used to overcome difficult situations leading to greater happiness and healthier relationships. With the right support, you can begin to improve your life one day at a time and feel more like yourself again.
(602) 428-9435 View (602) 428-9435
Photo of Roslyn K Pursley - The Hope Holders Counseling Services, MS, LPCC, Counselor
The Hope Holders Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85395  (Online Only)
I am EMDR Certified.
Changes take place through healing relationships. My job as your counselor is to listen and understand what you are going through. I offer to hold hope for you when times are dark or you feel lost or confused and to share in your progress too! I work from a person-centered approach and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Based Perspective to help you learn and grow and make the changes you want to make. I also work with people who have been through a traumatic event and help them go from feeling like a victim and being afraid to learning how to live with it and experiencing
I am EMDR Certified.
Changes take place through healing relationships. My job as your counselor is to listen and understand what you are going through. I offer to hold hope for you when times are dark or you feel lost or confused and to share in your progress too! I work from a person-centered approach and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Based Perspective to help you learn and grow and make the changes you want to make. I also work with people who have been through a traumatic event and help them go from feeling like a victim and being afraid to learning how to live with it and experiencing
(575) 483-1689 View (575) 483-1689

See more therapy options for Litchfield Park

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.