EMDR Therapists in Desert View, Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Michelle Maggio, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Maggio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
I believe in taking an integrative approach that combines evidence-based treatments such as DBT and EMDR modalities with personalized techniques tailored according to each client's unique needs.
Welcome to a space where your mental health is valued. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This allows clients to feel comfortable opening up about their struggles without fear of being criticized or misunderstood. In my practice I provide therapy services to adults. My specialities range from Women's mental health, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Self Esteem, Marital Issues and Divorce.
I believe in taking an integrative approach that combines evidence-based treatments such as DBT and EMDR modalities with personalized techniques tailored according to each client's unique needs.
Welcome to a space where your mental health is valued. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This allows clients to feel comfortable opening up about their struggles without fear of being criticized or misunderstood. In my practice I provide therapy services to adults. My specialities range from Women's mental health, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Self Esteem, Marital Issues and Divorce.
(847) 553-4034 View (847) 553-4034
Photo of Dorothy Barnes, LPC, CST, Counselor
Dorothy Barnes
Counselor, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT and a Level II Trained EMDR therapist.
I always start with where a client is and move through a process of self awareness and discovery that brings about lasting change and newfound joy. While that is not an easy process it is a journey I have found worth taking in my own life and feel honored to take in another's. I do not believe in a "cookie cutter" approach to recovery or self actualization. Each person I work with brings a special "psychological fingerprint" that encompasses both their past and their present life experiences. I look forward to traveling the path with you.
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT and a Level II Trained EMDR therapist.
I always start with where a client is and move through a process of self awareness and discovery that brings about lasting change and newfound joy. While that is not an easy process it is a journey I have found worth taking in my own life and feel honored to take in another's. I do not believe in a "cookie cutter" approach to recovery or self actualization. Each person I work with brings a special "psychological fingerprint" that encompasses both their past and their present life experiences. I look forward to traveling the path with you.
(480) 818-4936 View (480) 818-4936
Photo of Courtney L. Mony, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney L. Mony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with youth and adults who experience symptoms of PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, low self-esteem, behavioral issues, and relationship issues while utilizing modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT, DBT, Animal Assisted Therapy, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. It’s my top priority to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to process any thoughts and feelings and experiences, as well as I strive to be empathetic and genuine when working with my clients!
I specialize in working with youth and adults who experience symptoms of PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, low self-esteem, behavioral issues, and relationship issues while utilizing modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT, DBT, Animal Assisted Therapy, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. It’s my top priority to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to process any thoughts and feelings and experiences, as well as I strive to be empathetic and genuine when working with my clients!
(623) 745-2628 View (623) 745-2628
Photo of Sandra O'Connell, MS, LPC, Counselor
Sandra O'Connell
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
EMDR therapy facilitates clearing the distorted messages, somatic responses, and emotional dysregulation that are a result of trauma or distress.
Are you struggling to function in the present or feeling paralyzed by events of the past? Are you experiencing the effects of debilitating grief and loss? Are you feeling stifled from reaching your full potential and connecting to how you are being led moment by moment? Whether your blocks are the result of PTSD, abuse, chronic pain or illness, or painful losses, there is hope for the future. It is possible to live a life freed from the symptoms that prevent you from engaging fully in life. Now you can live the life purpose for which you have been created. You can soar freed from the chains that bind.
EMDR therapy facilitates clearing the distorted messages, somatic responses, and emotional dysregulation that are a result of trauma or distress.
Are you struggling to function in the present or feeling paralyzed by events of the past? Are you experiencing the effects of debilitating grief and loss? Are you feeling stifled from reaching your full potential and connecting to how you are being led moment by moment? Whether your blocks are the result of PTSD, abuse, chronic pain or illness, or painful losses, there is hope for the future. It is possible to live a life freed from the symptoms that prevent you from engaging fully in life. Now you can live the life purpose for which you have been created. You can soar freed from the chains that bind.
(602) 428-9445 View (602) 428-9445
Photo of Jillian Caldwell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85085
My specialties include grief (including pet loss), trauma ( EMDR trained), depression, anxiety, aging and geriatric issues, and chronic health conditions (i.
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
My specialties include grief (including pet loss), trauma ( EMDR trained), depression, anxiety, aging and geriatric issues, and chronic health conditions (i.
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
(623) 745-8641 View (623) 745-8641
Photo of Ekaterina Musok, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ekaterina Musok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
Do you feel like life is slipping through your fingers? Are anxiety, depression, or self-doubt holding you back from experiencing life to the fullest? Maybe you find yourself feeling disconnected in your relationships or struggling to find meaning in a career that once excited you. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR-trained clinician. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of clients, including those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, infertility, self-esteem issues, and relationship challenges. If you're feeling lost about your direction, know that you don't have to navigate these challenges alone.
Do you feel like life is slipping through your fingers? Are anxiety, depression, or self-doubt holding you back from experiencing life to the fullest? Maybe you find yourself feeling disconnected in your relationships or struggling to find meaning in a career that once excited you. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR-trained clinician. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of clients, including those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, infertility, self-esteem issues, and relationship challenges. If you're feeling lost about your direction, know that you don't have to navigate these challenges alone.
(813) 214-6485 View (813) 214-6485
Photo of Catherine Jordeth, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Jordeth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
My treatment approaches include: EMDR, TFT, CBT.
Everyone has the ability within themselves to heal and to grow. My goal as a therapist is to help each individual realize their own innate healing potential. Once this realization occurs, the possibilities become limitless. My areas of specialization include helping others resolve social phobias, general stress and anxiety, depression, traumas, and relationship concerns. I work with many who are going through transitions. I see college age students who are adjusting to living on their own. There are others who are going through a divorce or have completed the process who call.
My treatment approaches include: EMDR, TFT, CBT.
Everyone has the ability within themselves to heal and to grow. My goal as a therapist is to help each individual realize their own innate healing potential. Once this realization occurs, the possibilities become limitless. My areas of specialization include helping others resolve social phobias, general stress and anxiety, depression, traumas, and relationship concerns. I work with many who are going through transitions. I see college age students who are adjusting to living on their own. There are others who are going through a divorce or have completed the process who call.
(480) 808-8928 View (480) 808-8928
Photo of Danielle Fragnito, LPC, Counselor
Danielle Fragnito
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
NOW Accepting adult clients for in-person and telehealth sessions. I have 25+ years of experience providing solution-focused short and long-term therapy. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's family traditions, lifestyle, work-life, cultural and spiritual beliefs. My goal, as a Counselor, is to work together with you to help you reach your desired goal. Please feel free to call me at 602-509-6974 or visit my website. I look forward to hearing from you.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
NOW Accepting adult clients for in-person and telehealth sessions. I have 25+ years of experience providing solution-focused short and long-term therapy. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's family traditions, lifestyle, work-life, cultural and spiritual beliefs. My goal, as a Counselor, is to work together with you to help you reach your desired goal. Please feel free to call me at 602-509-6974 or visit my website. I look forward to hearing from you.
(480) 409-2379 View (480) 409-2379
Photo of Lisa Fortino, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Fortino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85054
I came to this work as a result of the adoption of my daughter through the foster care system in California. From the day I began work, I have devoted my work to the well-being of others. I specialize in: EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, trauma therapy, Gottman Method of couples therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, strengths-base therapies and more. I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families through difficult times and assist people in finding their best selves. I truly have seen real growth and healing in people through positive guidance.
I came to this work as a result of the adoption of my daughter through the foster care system in California. From the day I began work, I have devoted my work to the well-being of others. I specialize in: EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, trauma therapy, Gottman Method of couples therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, strengths-base therapies and more. I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families through difficult times and assist people in finding their best selves. I truly have seen real growth and healing in people through positive guidance.
(480) 498-0848 View (480) 498-0848
Photo of Ira J Dressner, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ira J Dressner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85054  (Online Only)
EMDR therapy is an effective therapy for working through trauma and PTSD.
My focus is working with people who have been traumatized, molested, raped, bullied, have had domestic violence and complex trauma and PTDS. All of this work is done with advanced EMDR therapy work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker License in Arizona, New York , and Nevada and can take clients from each of these states.
EMDR therapy is an effective therapy for working through trauma and PTSD.
My focus is working with people who have been traumatized, molested, raped, bullied, have had domestic violence and complex trauma and PTDS. All of this work is done with advanced EMDR therapy work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker License in Arizona, New York , and Nevada and can take clients from each of these states.
(480) 771-8017 View (480) 771-8017
Photo of Dr. Catherine Lowrey, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Catherine Lowrey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm also trained in EMDR, a powerful therapy for healing trauma.
I strongly believe, and research supports, that there must be a good "fit" in a therapist-client relationship. I aim to create a safe environment with empathy, unconditional positive regard, and nonjudgment. I believe we all inherently have the capacity for growth, and my job is to provide the healthy environment needed to gain insight, challenge maladaptive behaviors, and support your positive change.
I'm also trained in EMDR, a powerful therapy for healing trauma.
I strongly believe, and research supports, that there must be a good "fit" in a therapist-client relationship. I aim to create a safe environment with empathy, unconditional positive regard, and nonjudgment. I believe we all inherently have the capacity for growth, and my job is to provide the healthy environment needed to gain insight, challenge maladaptive behaviors, and support your positive change.
(602) 706-8516 View (602) 706-8516
Photo of Gayla Lemley, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gayla Lemley
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
My certifications include EMDR, Anxiety, & Holistic Therapy, and work with clients to resolve trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and other symptoms which keep people stuck and unable to move forward. I am there with you as you process and resolve uncomfortable issues in your life. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you are just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. Evidence-based therapeutic modalities used include EMDR, CBT, Adlerian, Humanistic, Integrative and Holistic.
My certifications include EMDR, Anxiety, & Holistic Therapy, and work with clients to resolve trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and other symptoms which keep people stuck and unable to move forward. I am there with you as you process and resolve uncomfortable issues in your life. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you are just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. Evidence-based therapeutic modalities used include EMDR, CBT, Adlerian, Humanistic, Integrative and Holistic.
(520) 655-8445 View (520) 655-8445
Photo of Ann L. Wilson - Ignite Counseling & Equine Psychotherapy, LPC, NCC, MSc, Counselor
Ignite Counseling & Equine Psychotherapy
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSc
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
She specializes in trauma and is trained in EMDR by the EMDRIA institute, Equine Assisted EMDR by Equilateral, Equine Psychotherapy by the OK Coral series and Epona.
Ignite Counseling and Equine Psychotherapy provides clinical mental health counseling, Equine Assisted- EMDR, Equine Psychotherapy, and Equine Activities. We offer services for clinical diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, everyday struggles and relationship issues. Working with horses allows a deep connection with a magnificent animal that has the ability to reflect and teach life's lessons. We are dedicated to the wellness of our clients and horses.
She specializes in trauma and is trained in EMDR by the EMDRIA institute, Equine Assisted EMDR by Equilateral, Equine Psychotherapy by the OK Coral series and Epona.
Ignite Counseling and Equine Psychotherapy provides clinical mental health counseling, Equine Assisted- EMDR, Equine Psychotherapy, and Equine Activities. We offer services for clinical diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, everyday struggles and relationship issues. Working with horses allows a deep connection with a magnificent animal that has the ability to reflect and teach life's lessons. We are dedicated to the wellness of our clients and horses.
(480) 712-9538 View (480) 712-9538
Photo of Amanda Nomicos, MA, LPC, CCTS-I, PMH-C, Counselor
Amanda Nomicos
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTS-I, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Amanda uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Amanda’s specialty is working with individuals ages 13 and up who are experiencing life or life cycle transitions and need additional support through that transitioning time period. This might look like a mother experiencing perinatal mental health concerns or recovering from birth trauma. Or it might look like a teenager experiencing higher anxiety levels and needing a therapist who tailors coping skills to that specific teen and their circumstances. Perhaps you are struggling at work with anxiety or feeling overwhelmed and can’t quite articulate the “why” behind it yet.
Amanda uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Amanda’s specialty is working with individuals ages 13 and up who are experiencing life or life cycle transitions and need additional support through that transitioning time period. This might look like a mother experiencing perinatal mental health concerns or recovering from birth trauma. Or it might look like a teenager experiencing higher anxiety levels and needing a therapist who tailors coping skills to that specific teen and their circumstances. Perhaps you are struggling at work with anxiety or feeling overwhelmed and can’t quite articulate the “why” behind it yet.
(602) 671-0526 View (602) 671-0526
Photo of Lisa Johnson, LAC, MSc, Counselor
Lisa Johnson
Counselor, LAC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
I specialize in working with individuals aged 6 to adults using an approach that integrates effective therapies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you looking for a nonjudgmental, safe space to learn skills to feel better? Clients that seek me out are often looking for support in managing intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and mania. They often feel powerless over their feelings. For children and teens, sometimes this is observed through behaviors like isolation, acting out, or self-harming. Many times they wish there was a magic pill that could just solve all their problems so they could not feel like they are simply surviving. As we work together we will improve coping skills, connect with meaning and purpose, manage distress and create a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with individuals aged 6 to adults using an approach that integrates effective therapies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you looking for a nonjudgmental, safe space to learn skills to feel better? Clients that seek me out are often looking for support in managing intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and mania. They often feel powerless over their feelings. For children and teens, sometimes this is observed through behaviors like isolation, acting out, or self-harming. Many times they wish there was a magic pill that could just solve all their problems so they could not feel like they are simply surviving. As we work together we will improve coping skills, connect with meaning and purpose, manage distress and create a more fulfilling life.
(480) 508-8475 View (480) 508-8475
Photo of Erica Simmons, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
I specialize in working with clients and their families who experience symptoms of trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioral issues and relationship issues while using modalities such as Play Therapy and Sand Tray. I have 10 years of experience working with children and families to heal trauma. I provide individual and family therapy in person and telehealth. I am trained in and use an integrative approach of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Sand Tray, Theraplay, TraumaPlay, and other expressive/somatic approaches.
I specialize in working with clients and their families who experience symptoms of trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioral issues and relationship issues while using modalities such as Play Therapy and Sand Tray. I have 10 years of experience working with children and families to heal trauma. I provide individual and family therapy in person and telehealth. I am trained in and use an integrative approach of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Sand Tray, Theraplay, TraumaPlay, and other expressive/somatic approaches.
(928) 223-4713 View (928) 223-4713
Photo of Amanda Kaplan, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Kaplan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
She offers the following modalities: Family-Based Therapy (Maudsley), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Exposure With Response Prevention, CBT, ACT, RO-DBT, DBT and EMDR.
Dr. Kaplan specializes in treating adolescents and adults for eating disorders, anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). She has experience working with athletes experiencing anxiety and disordered eating. Dr. Kaplan also assists individuals in working through past traumatic events and other co-occurring mental health conditions. Dr. Kaplan also has the capacity to offer telehealth services to individuals and families in Arizona.
She offers the following modalities: Family-Based Therapy (Maudsley), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Exposure With Response Prevention, CBT, ACT, RO-DBT, DBT and EMDR.
Dr. Kaplan specializes in treating adolescents and adults for eating disorders, anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). She has experience working with athletes experiencing anxiety and disordered eating. Dr. Kaplan also assists individuals in working through past traumatic events and other co-occurring mental health conditions. Dr. Kaplan also has the capacity to offer telehealth services to individuals and families in Arizona.
(623) 257-5931 View (623) 257-5931
Photo of Dana Fischpan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Fischpan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85054
I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and EMDR to meet the unique needs and goals of each client.
Therapy should be a safe place to explore, learn, and develop the valuable insight that leads to meaningful change. I’m Dana, a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience providing therapy to individuals from many different walks of life. I have a particular interest in working with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, trauma, as well as those looking to improve their relationships and communication skills. I am passionate about working with individuals who are seeking to heal and move forward.
I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and EMDR to meet the unique needs and goals of each client.
Therapy should be a safe place to explore, learn, and develop the valuable insight that leads to meaningful change. I’m Dana, a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience providing therapy to individuals from many different walks of life. I have a particular interest in working with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, trauma, as well as those looking to improve their relationships and communication skills. I am passionate about working with individuals who are seeking to heal and move forward.
(602) 313-1927 View (602) 313-1927
Photo of Glenda Roberts Henman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glenda Roberts Henman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
I practice from modalities including play therapy, sand tray, EMDR, client-centered, somatic therapies, mindfulness and others.
We all face struggles in life that can throw us off balance. These experiences may range from early life adversity to recent life transitions and stressors. I believe you are the expert on your own life and seeking support through counseling can help you discover inner strengths that have helped you survive and explore new skills that can help you learn to thrive.
I practice from modalities including play therapy, sand tray, EMDR, client-centered, somatic therapies, mindfulness and others.
We all face struggles in life that can throw us off balance. These experiences may range from early life adversity to recent life transitions and stressors. I believe you are the expert on your own life and seeking support through counseling can help you discover inner strengths that have helped you survive and explore new skills that can help you learn to thrive.
(602) 932-6569 View (602) 932-6569
Photo of Tania Dow, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tania Dow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Desert View, Phoenix, AZ 85050
I became an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Institute Certified Therapist in 2019 and integrated EMDR with Attachment and Parts Work.
I believe every person is unique and has their own story. I feel honored that I have been selected to share their story and to be a part of their healing journey. With compassion, kindness, non-judgment, and support, I help my clients make sense of their major life events so they take the next steps in their lives. It is a great privilege to see my clients gain insight into their lives, manage their difficulties more effectively, make positive changes, increase awareness, and improve themselves. I look forward to meeting you and participating in your healing experience.
I became an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Institute Certified Therapist in 2019 and integrated EMDR with Attachment and Parts Work.
I believe every person is unique and has their own story. I feel honored that I have been selected to share their story and to be a part of their healing journey. With compassion, kindness, non-judgment, and support, I help my clients make sense of their major life events so they take the next steps in their lives. It is a great privilege to see my clients gain insight into their lives, manage their difficulties more effectively, make positive changes, increase awareness, and improve themselves. I look forward to meeting you and participating in your healing experience.
(480) 386-1741 View (480) 386-1741
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See more therapy options for Desert View, Phoenix

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.