EMDR Therapists in Paradise Valley, AZ
Jessica Lynn Levin Bozek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I utilize approaches from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and EMDR which are evidence based approaches to help the client perspective take, align and reach their goals.
I am a licensed professional counselor who has worked in the mental health field since 2007. I have worked with individuals and families from various cultures and backgrounds.
I utilize approaches from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and EMDR which are evidence based approaches to help the client perspective take, align and reach their goals.
I am a licensed professional counselor who has worked in the mental health field since 2007. I have worked with individuals and families from various cultures and backgrounds.
Although I am trained in insight oriented psychotherapy, and EMDR I use an eclectic approach tailored to whom I see including a cognitive or transpersonal approach.
As a psychologist I have extensive experience in providing both brief counseling, long term in depth psychotherapy as well as marriage and relationship counseling. I know what anxiety and depression feel like. I know how difficult relationships can be. I know the pain you feel when you have been betrayed, especially when there has been an affair. I also know how emotionally difficult and alone people feel when going through a divorce. With any situation I will help you gain greater clarity as to what steps to take next. For those interested in wanting to forgive, I can help you learn how to forgive and support spiritual journeys.
Although I am trained in insight oriented psychotherapy, and EMDR I use an eclectic approach tailored to whom I see including a cognitive or transpersonal approach.
As a psychologist I have extensive experience in providing both brief counseling, long term in depth psychotherapy as well as marriage and relationship counseling. I know what anxiety and depression feel like. I know how difficult relationships can be. I know the pain you feel when you have been betrayed, especially when there has been an affair. I also know how emotionally difficult and alone people feel when going through a divorce. With any situation I will help you gain greater clarity as to what steps to take next. For those interested in wanting to forgive, I can help you learn how to forgive and support spiritual journeys.
As an EMDR Certified and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, I provide EMDR consultation/certification to therapists seeking certification.
I enjoy working with clients who are seeking to reclaim their authentic selves. I strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment as clients seek to transform the "stuck" imprint of the past. My approach is honest and direct, but also, gentle and compassionate. Clients struggling with addictions, anxiety and depression, trauma, self-esteem issues and relationships issues are encouraged in their journeys to build lives free from addictive dysfunctional patterns. My holistic orientation may include traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, experiential and somatic therapies and spirituality.
As an EMDR Certified and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, I provide EMDR consultation/certification to therapists seeking certification.
I enjoy working with clients who are seeking to reclaim their authentic selves. I strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment as clients seek to transform the "stuck" imprint of the past. My approach is honest and direct, but also, gentle and compassionate. Clients struggling with addictions, anxiety and depression, trauma, self-esteem issues and relationships issues are encouraged in their journeys to build lives free from addictive dysfunctional patterns. My holistic orientation may include traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, experiential and somatic therapies and spirituality.
Amy Rehm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Nezhat M. Edalatian
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Best practices including EMDR is available.
In my practice, I provide the necessary emotional environment that is conducive to healing and use the most advanced proven therapeutic tools for my clients. I believe that any adverse life event can overwhelm the normal adaptive capacity of any person at any age. Untreated, it can lead to the development of dysfunctional behaviors, feelings, and thoughts, such as depression, anxiety, obsession, negative self-talk, low self esteem, procrastination, PTSD, anger & relationship issues, among others. I also believe that everyone has the innate healing capacity to overcome these issues with the help of an experienced professional.
Best practices including EMDR is available.
In my practice, I provide the necessary emotional environment that is conducive to healing and use the most advanced proven therapeutic tools for my clients. I believe that any adverse life event can overwhelm the normal adaptive capacity of any person at any age. Untreated, it can lead to the development of dysfunctional behaviors, feelings, and thoughts, such as depression, anxiety, obsession, negative self-talk, low self esteem, procrastination, PTSD, anger & relationship issues, among others. I also believe that everyone has the innate healing capacity to overcome these issues with the help of an experienced professional.
Jef Gazley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC, LISAC, DCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I have practiced counseling for over 50 years, specializing in ADD, Love addiction, Hypnotherapy, Relationships, Dysfunctional Families, Codependency, and Trauma Issues. I am a trained counselor in EMDR, NET, TFT, and Applied Kinesiology. I received my Counseling degree from the University of Oregon. I am State Licensed in General Counseling, Marriage/Family, & Chemical Dependency. I am the owner of www.asktheinternettherapist.com, & www.energypsychologytherapy.com where I offer a complete list of mental health videos, dvds, hypnotic tapes & cds, & self-help books. I also developed a patented natural supplement , ADD-care, for ADD.
I have practiced counseling for over 50 years, specializing in ADD, Love addiction, Hypnotherapy, Relationships, Dysfunctional Families, Codependency, and Trauma Issues. I am a trained counselor in EMDR, NET, TFT, and Applied Kinesiology. I received my Counseling degree from the University of Oregon. I am State Licensed in General Counseling, Marriage/Family, & Chemical Dependency. I am the owner of www.asktheinternettherapist.com, & www.energypsychologytherapy.com where I offer a complete list of mental health videos, dvds, hypnotic tapes & cds, & self-help books. I also developed a patented natural supplement , ADD-care, for ADD.
Deborah Stelzleni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I am Level II trained EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) and specialize in Attachment Focused EMDR.
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. My goal at Epiphany Counseling is to make that choice easier by creating the empathy, nurturance and safety that allows you to freely explore the life situation that brings you to therapy. In that environment, I aim to help you experience a healing process that will restore hope, health and vitality to your life. I believe that almost all of us have the organic capacity to heal and fulfill our potential, but that past experiences have taught us dysfunctional ways to cope. The goal of therapy is to learn new ways of being so that we attain greater health, peace of mind and joy.
I am Level II trained EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) and specialize in Attachment Focused EMDR.
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. My goal at Epiphany Counseling is to make that choice easier by creating the empathy, nurturance and safety that allows you to freely explore the life situation that brings you to therapy. In that environment, I aim to help you experience a healing process that will restore hope, health and vitality to your life. I believe that almost all of us have the organic capacity to heal and fulfill our potential, but that past experiences have taught us dysfunctional ways to cope. The goal of therapy is to learn new ways of being so that we attain greater health, peace of mind and joy.
Gary Breuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, ACHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I am certified in EMDR, Brainspotting and Clinical Hypnotherapy, powerful mind-body therapies which facilitate healing at a deep/core level (not just symptom management). I integrate these modalities with talk therapies, however, results typically occur in much less time than traditional talk therapy alone.
I am certified in EMDR, Brainspotting and Clinical Hypnotherapy, powerful mind-body therapies which facilitate healing at a deep/core level (not just symptom management). I integrate these modalities with talk therapies, however, results typically occur in much less time than traditional talk therapy alone.
Shoman Center for Stress Management, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. WEEKEND & EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. I was trained in New York and have over 20 years of counseling/therapy experience. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and predominantly utilize EMDR therapy and cognitive behavioral approaches in my practice. I believe that you are, and always will be, the foremost expert on you. My approach is very direct, honest, and specifically tailored to your needs. The most important part of the therapeutic experience is our working relationship. I will work as your partner through the entire therapeutic process. I also believe that humor can sometimes be an asset in our work.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. WEEKEND & EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. I was trained in New York and have over 20 years of counseling/therapy experience. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and predominantly utilize EMDR therapy and cognitive behavioral approaches in my practice. I believe that you are, and always will be, the foremost expert on you. My approach is very direct, honest, and specifically tailored to your needs. The most important part of the therapeutic experience is our working relationship. I will work as your partner through the entire therapeutic process. I also believe that humor can sometimes be an asset in our work.
Caileigh Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I use a unique approach that interweaves somatic techniques into EMDR therapy which offers both visceral & emotional healing.
I'm a licensed professional counselor originally from Dublin, Ireland. Two key components of my practice are the teachings of Pia Mellody and laughter. I believe therapy is a collaborative process whereby together we can find what issues are hindering you from being the best version of you and develop a skill set to help you overcome these blocks. I practice therapy through a trauma focused lens using the model of codependence, EMDR, SE & polyvagal theory. I aim to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you to embark on your journey, with a few laughs along the way.
I use a unique approach that interweaves somatic techniques into EMDR therapy which offers both visceral & emotional healing.
I'm a licensed professional counselor originally from Dublin, Ireland. Two key components of my practice are the teachings of Pia Mellody and laughter. I believe therapy is a collaborative process whereby together we can find what issues are hindering you from being the best version of you and develop a skill set to help you overcome these blocks. I practice therapy through a trauma focused lens using the model of codependence, EMDR, SE & polyvagal theory. I aim to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you to embark on your journey, with a few laughs along the way.
Laura Jesmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Waitlist for new clients
With the gentle approach of Internal Family Systems along with the reprocessing of distress with EMDR, alleviating current symptoms, triggers, and distress is possible.
I strive to create a trusting and collaborative experience that recognizes your unique self, the joys and challenges you have faced, and honors your resilience for your own healing. The therapy process can help increase awareness of your needs, beliefs, and actions, understand and change self-defeating patterns, and build confidence to create healthy situations and relationships. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship concerns, LGBT Issues, spirituality and personal growth. I specialize in healing the effects of trauma.
With the gentle approach of Internal Family Systems along with the reprocessing of distress with EMDR, alleviating current symptoms, triggers, and distress is possible.
I strive to create a trusting and collaborative experience that recognizes your unique self, the joys and challenges you have faced, and honors your resilience for your own healing. The therapy process can help increase awareness of your needs, beliefs, and actions, understand and change self-defeating patterns, and build confidence to create healthy situations and relationships. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship concerns, LGBT Issues, spirituality and personal growth. I specialize in healing the effects of trauma.
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Kimberly Anne Popkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I have had additional training in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, art and play therapy.
I have been in private practice in the Scottsdale area for 23 years. I attended Arizona State University as an undergrad and completed my graduate work at the University of San Francisco. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. Divorce, grief, addiction, sexually alternative lifestyles, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression & ADD/ADHD are just a few of my specialties. I have flexible morning and evening hours a couple days a week. I am a Board-Certified Telemental Health Provider & have flexibility for Telehealth counseling sessions. I am on numerous insurance plans as well as working on a sliding scale.
I have had additional training in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, art and play therapy.
I have been in private practice in the Scottsdale area for 23 years. I attended Arizona State University as an undergrad and completed my graduate work at the University of San Francisco. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. Divorce, grief, addiction, sexually alternative lifestyles, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression & ADD/ADHD are just a few of my specialties. I have flexible morning and evening hours a couple days a week. I am a Board-Certified Telemental Health Provider & have flexibility for Telehealth counseling sessions. I am on numerous insurance plans as well as working on a sliding scale.
Heartful Solutions for Families
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Waitlist for new clients
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
Bright Potential Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
We offer various methodologies based in trauma treatment, EMDR, perinatal, CBT, and a person-centered approach.
We are a group practice providing in person and online sessions and now accepting new clients. Providers include Sirene Lipschutz, LMSW; Jess Hedgepeth, LAC; Alicia Garner, LAC; and Lisa Shows, LPC. Let us help you change patterns of toxic relationships, effects of trauma, and negative beliefs about yourself. Are you ready to release what is not serving you, trust your worth and attract abundance, and up level into financial stability? We are passionate about supporting women to tap into their wisdom, confidence, and power.
We offer various methodologies based in trauma treatment, EMDR, perinatal, CBT, and a person-centered approach.
We are a group practice providing in person and online sessions and now accepting new clients. Providers include Sirene Lipschutz, LMSW; Jess Hedgepeth, LAC; Alicia Garner, LAC; and Lisa Shows, LPC. Let us help you change patterns of toxic relationships, effects of trauma, and negative beliefs about yourself. Are you ready to release what is not serving you, trust your worth and attract abundance, and up level into financial stability? We are passionate about supporting women to tap into their wisdom, confidence, and power.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but the therapeutic process can help you to understand the reason for your symptoms and behaviors, and assist you in making desired changes. My perspective is strength based and together we can work to identify obstacles, which may be getting in the way of achieving your goals. My approach is warm, respectful and empathetic. I am committed to best practices and am trained in EMDR and ERP. Incorporating various treatment modalities, I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults, and am trained in couples and family therapy.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but the therapeutic process can help you to understand the reason for your symptoms and behaviors, and assist you in making desired changes. My perspective is strength based and together we can work to identify obstacles, which may be getting in the way of achieving your goals. My approach is warm, respectful and empathetic. I am committed to best practices and am trained in EMDR and ERP. Incorporating various treatment modalities, I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults, and am trained in couples and family therapy.
Doug Malm
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I utilize treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) for coping with trauma or internal conflicts, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am truly sorry for any pain you may be feeling. As a compassionate and caring therapist, I understand the deep hurt and confusion that life can bring. My empathetic approach is designed to provide a safe and supportive space where you can heal and center yourself. I specialize in providing treatment for relationship problems, dating, divorce, loneliness, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, emotional overwhelm, being overweight, and coping with fear and avoidance. I also aid in healing the overwhelm and uncertainty of gaslighting or emotional abuse inflicted by narcissistic, domineering or controlling others.
I utilize treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) for coping with trauma or internal conflicts, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am truly sorry for any pain you may be feeling. As a compassionate and caring therapist, I understand the deep hurt and confusion that life can bring. My empathetic approach is designed to provide a safe and supportive space where you can heal and center yourself. I specialize in providing treatment for relationship problems, dating, divorce, loneliness, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, emotional overwhelm, being overweight, and coping with fear and avoidance. I also aid in healing the overwhelm and uncertainty of gaslighting or emotional abuse inflicted by narcissistic, domineering or controlling others.
Naomi Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I have training in EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT, SE, DBT and Solution Focused therapy.
I believe we all have the capacity to learn, grow, heal and create long-lasting change. We hold the innate ability to discover and realize our true potential and live an authentic life in line with our deepest values. I view therapy as a shared, supportive, compassionate journey that can help you tune into your authentic self, develop attainable goals and work toward sustainable, meaningful change. By holistically addressing and integrating mind, body and spirit, all kinds of challenges-depression, anxiety, divorce, stress, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, and trauma-can be better understood and overcome.
I have training in EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT, SE, DBT and Solution Focused therapy.
I believe we all have the capacity to learn, grow, heal and create long-lasting change. We hold the innate ability to discover and realize our true potential and live an authentic life in line with our deepest values. I view therapy as a shared, supportive, compassionate journey that can help you tune into your authentic self, develop attainable goals and work toward sustainable, meaningful change. By holistically addressing and integrating mind, body and spirit, all kinds of challenges-depression, anxiety, divorce, stress, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, and trauma-can be better understood and overcome.
I am EMDR certified.
I really enjoy doing all kinds of different types of therapy (individual, couples, family, EMDR) for all kinds of different issues (stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, blended families, grief, relationship stresses, infidelity, parenting challenges, teen issues) I help people get beyond the stuck points in their lives or their relationships, by identifying what is blocking them, discovering the source of this blockage and working together to remove it and/or lessen its effects on them. I aim to help people live more fulfilled lives, be better partners, better parents, and to learn to communicate more effectively.
I am EMDR certified.
I really enjoy doing all kinds of different types of therapy (individual, couples, family, EMDR) for all kinds of different issues (stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, blended families, grief, relationship stresses, infidelity, parenting challenges, teen issues) I help people get beyond the stuck points in their lives or their relationships, by identifying what is blocking them, discovering the source of this blockage and working together to remove it and/or lessen its effects on them. I aim to help people live more fulfilled lives, be better partners, better parents, and to learn to communicate more effectively.
Lynn Hoyland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 (Online Only)
I have the following certifications and advanced training in: EFT Emotional Freedom Technique, Certified Relapse Prevention Specialist , Safe Sound Protocol (a powerful listening therapy to calm the nervous system developed by Steven Porges, CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional), EMDR trained and the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy.
I'm delighted that you've found your way here and are considering therapy for yourself, your teenager, or your relationship. As a therapist specializing in working with teens, young adults, and couples, I am dedicated to providing a space where you can explore, heal, and grow. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and prioritize building a strong rapport with my clients based on trust, empathy, and understanding. I have worked in the field of mental health for 38 years, and have advanced training in couples therapy, addictions, teen and young adult issues, anxiety and depressive disorders.
I have the following certifications and advanced training in: EFT Emotional Freedom Technique, Certified Relapse Prevention Specialist , Safe Sound Protocol (a powerful listening therapy to calm the nervous system developed by Steven Porges, CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional), EMDR trained and the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy.
I'm delighted that you've found your way here and are considering therapy for yourself, your teenager, or your relationship. As a therapist specializing in working with teens, young adults, and couples, I am dedicated to providing a space where you can explore, heal, and grow. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and prioritize building a strong rapport with my clients based on trust, empathy, and understanding. I have worked in the field of mental health for 38 years, and have advanced training in couples therapy, addictions, teen and young adult issues, anxiety and depressive disorders.
Beverlee Laidlaw Chasse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I am a EMDRIA Approved Consultant, Certified EMDR therapist, EMDR Institute facilitator and an EMDR RTEP (Recent Traumatic Episode Protocol) & GTEP Trainer.
As a Integrative psychotherapist, over the last 34 years in practice, I have developed a fusion of state of the art treatment modalities that allow me to look at your current difficulties from a big picture vantage point. By considering affective, cognitive, behavioral, physiological and environmental factors that maybe contributing to your difficulties I am able to tailor make your individual treatment, utilizing the best of different psychotherapeutic techniques to fit your unique needs,circumstances and personality. My job is to help you tap into your natural healing mechanism, and assist you to explore, repair and transform into the Optimal You.
I am a EMDRIA Approved Consultant, Certified EMDR therapist, EMDR Institute facilitator and an EMDR RTEP (Recent Traumatic Episode Protocol) & GTEP Trainer.
As a Integrative psychotherapist, over the last 34 years in practice, I have developed a fusion of state of the art treatment modalities that allow me to look at your current difficulties from a big picture vantage point. By considering affective, cognitive, behavioral, physiological and environmental factors that maybe contributing to your difficulties I am able to tailor make your individual treatment, utilizing the best of different psychotherapeutic techniques to fit your unique needs,circumstances and personality. My job is to help you tap into your natural healing mechanism, and assist you to explore, repair and transform into the Optimal You.
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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.