EMDR Therapists in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Joalene Whitmer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joalene Whitmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022
I use EMDR to address past traumas; CBT to teach coping skills; Energy parenting to help parents have better relationships with children; Communications skills for couples as well as help in understanding differences between men and women; Dialectical Therapy to increase awareness and ability to cope; Help with OCD; Skills for adults, teens and children.
Life can be disrupted by anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, OCD, and trouble sleeping. Clients need new skills to deal with these issues and feel better about themselves and their ability to handle life. Their goals would be to deal with past traumas, learn coping skills to deal with anxiety and depression,learn skills to interact more effectively with others as well as getting better sleep.
I use EMDR to address past traumas; CBT to teach coping skills; Energy parenting to help parents have better relationships with children; Communications skills for couples as well as help in understanding differences between men and women; Dialectical Therapy to increase awareness and ability to cope; Help with OCD; Skills for adults, teens and children.
Life can be disrupted by anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, OCD, and trouble sleeping. Clients need new skills to deal with these issues and feel better about themselves and their ability to handle life. Their goals would be to deal with past traumas, learn coping skills to deal with anxiety and depression,learn skills to interact more effectively with others as well as getting better sleep.
(602) 833-0010 View (602) 833-0010
Photo of Dani Martz, MS, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dani Martz
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LISAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
I utilize evidenced-based practices, MI, CBT, DBT, EMDR, & CRAFT to treat substance abuse.
Stress? Anxiety? Withdrawal symptoms? Cravings? “I want to stop the cycle. I do. I don’t know where to begin, what to say. There’s just so much to figure out…and it’s all too much. I’ll just take another drink, pick up one more time.” Or, you’re the family member, partner, or friend who’s trying to help someone they care about with their addiction but living on the other side of it. “I’m not sleeping anymore. I have my own racing thoughts, heart palpitations, anxiety. I’m consumed by their addiction and I don’t even use! I’ve taken them to pick up before. What am I doing? I need someone to help me sort this out.”
I utilize evidenced-based practices, MI, CBT, DBT, EMDR, & CRAFT to treat substance abuse.
Stress? Anxiety? Withdrawal symptoms? Cravings? “I want to stop the cycle. I do. I don’t know where to begin, what to say. There’s just so much to figure out…and it’s all too much. I’ll just take another drink, pick up one more time.” Or, you’re the family member, partner, or friend who’s trying to help someone they care about with their addiction but living on the other side of it. “I’m not sleeping anymore. I have my own racing thoughts, heart palpitations, anxiety. I’m consumed by their addiction and I don’t even use! I’ve taken them to pick up before. What am I doing? I need someone to help me sort this out.”
(602) 691-6788 View (602) 691-6788
Photo of Sherrelle Thompsom - Healing Hearts Behavioral Health PLLC, LAC, Counselor
Healing Hearts Behavioral Health PLLC
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051
I have experience using EMDR, Inner Child, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy which are among the many modalities that I use.
I am passionate about helping individuals with disabilities, preteens, teens, couples, and anyone who is needing help on their journey to being healed. I have helped others work through Substance abuse, low self-esteem, negative self-image, suicidal behaviors, Anxiety, Depression, and families who are trying to develop the skills needed to help support their loved ones. I have also helped couples either dating or married in redefining their relationships and coming back together as a unit.
I have experience using EMDR, Inner Child, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy which are among the many modalities that I use.
I am passionate about helping individuals with disabilities, preteens, teens, couples, and anyone who is needing help on their journey to being healed. I have helped others work through Substance abuse, low self-esteem, negative self-image, suicidal behaviors, Anxiety, Depression, and families who are trying to develop the skills needed to help support their loved ones. I have also helped couples either dating or married in redefining their relationships and coming back together as a unit.
(623) 281-2768 View (623) 281-2768
Photo of Jordin Bourque, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordin Bourque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR trained therapist and also integrate attachment theory, cognitive therapy, mindfulness based techniques, and IFS informed parts work into my practice.
Welcome! I’m a holistic therapist who is passionate about supporting women and their mental health. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by the impact of trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. It is my goal to empower women to break out of unhealthy cycles and restore their sense of self.
I am an EMDR trained therapist and also integrate attachment theory, cognitive therapy, mindfulness based techniques, and IFS informed parts work into my practice.
Welcome! I’m a holistic therapist who is passionate about supporting women and their mental health. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by the impact of trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. It is my goal to empower women to break out of unhealthy cycles and restore their sense of self.
(602) 641-3990 View (602) 641-3990
Photo of Judith Heckenlaible-Habig, LPC, LISAC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judith Heckenlaible-Habig
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LISAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85023
Hello, I personally care for my clients. I specialize in individuals and couples who suffer from past trauma that has carried over into today's relationships, addictions and substance abuse. I integrate solution based therapy, CBT therapy with a Christian worldview. I am certified in EMDR and EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy). I work with first responders, professional leadership and other high profile people in my confidential office. I am excited to be Psychology Today Verified and active within the Focus on the Family Counselors network.
Hello, I personally care for my clients. I specialize in individuals and couples who suffer from past trauma that has carried over into today's relationships, addictions and substance abuse. I integrate solution based therapy, CBT therapy with a Christian worldview. I am certified in EMDR and EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy). I work with first responders, professional leadership and other high profile people in my confidential office. I am excited to be Psychology Today Verified and active within the Focus on the Family Counselors network.
(602) 223-1416 View (602) 223-1416
Photo of Laura Rambikur, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Rambikur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029  (Online Only)
I am trained in Advanced EMDR for Early Intervention and Ongoing Traumatic Stress, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and in Acute Stress Syndrome Stabilization.
Therapy is a process of accompaniment towards healing. It offers a space to explore how to manage the difficulties and challenges that life presents, to grow and cultivate resilience and to face the future while honoring our identity. Above all therapy is about the trusting relationship between client and therapist. I am licensed clinical social worker and specialize in providing therapy for adults 18 and older who experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
I am trained in Advanced EMDR for Early Intervention and Ongoing Traumatic Stress, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and in Acute Stress Syndrome Stabilization.
Therapy is a process of accompaniment towards healing. It offers a space to explore how to manage the difficulties and challenges that life presents, to grow and cultivate resilience and to face the future while honoring our identity. Above all therapy is about the trusting relationship between client and therapist. I am licensed clinical social worker and specialize in providing therapy for adults 18 and older who experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
(720) 782-1889 View (720) 782-1889
Photo of Christy Stewart - BetterWay Therapy Services, MA, LAC, Counselor
BetterWay Therapy Services
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022
I offer a wide range of techniques through individual counseling, including EMDR, CPT, CBT, IFS, DBT and more.
I believe that everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
I offer a wide range of techniques through individual counseling, including EMDR, CPT, CBT, IFS, DBT and more.
I believe that everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
(520) 675-6957 x405227 View (520) 675-6957 x405227
Photo of Dr. Dwan Reed, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Dwan Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
I am certified in anxiety and trauma ( EMDR). I am also a relationship expert with a PhD in marriage and family therapy and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-S, LICSW). I have over 19 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, groups, and families. Many of my clients choose alternative methods for dealing with anxiety and depression instead of prescription medication. I am also a certified herbalist and a practitioner of yoga. I'm not just EMDR "trained", but also certified with advanced hours in trauma. Best times to reach me for a free phone consultation - before 10 am, between 1-2:00 and after 6 pm.
I am certified in anxiety and trauma ( EMDR). I am also a relationship expert with a PhD in marriage and family therapy and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-S, LICSW). I have over 19 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, groups, and families. Many of my clients choose alternative methods for dealing with anxiety and depression instead of prescription medication. I am also a certified herbalist and a practitioner of yoga. I'm not just EMDR "trained", but also certified with advanced hours in trauma. Best times to reach me for a free phone consultation - before 10 am, between 1-2:00 and after 6 pm.
(520) 200-3830 View (520) 200-3830
Photo of Nicole Rizkallah, MALA, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Rizkallah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MALA, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist, offer parts and somatic interventions, and Clinical Supervisor.
Raised with values of honesty, hospitality, and humor, I recognize the importance of meeting you precisely where you are. Every person carries stories about their identity, shaped by their families and the world around them. I have personally navigated my own history and intergenerational trauma, reclaiming parts of myself that were lost and shedding the burdens that were never mine to carry. As a therapist, my path toward this profession has been deeply entwined with my own personal longing for meaning and purpose.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist, offer parts and somatic interventions, and Clinical Supervisor.
Raised with values of honesty, hospitality, and humor, I recognize the importance of meeting you precisely where you are. Every person carries stories about their identity, shaped by their families and the world around them. I have personally navigated my own history and intergenerational trauma, reclaiming parts of myself that were lost and shedding the burdens that were never mine to carry. As a therapist, my path toward this profession has been deeply entwined with my own personal longing for meaning and purpose.
(480) 571-1061 View (480) 571-1061
Photo of Tara Mullan, MACP, CCC
Tara Mullan
MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022
Tara offers personalized individual trauma therapy, specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). She offers a safe space for individuals to explore and understand the impact of their life experiences as well as process overwhelming and distressing emotions attached to those life experiences. Tara believes the goal of therapy goes beyond teaching individuals how to cope; her goal is to see individuals thrive.
Tara offers personalized individual trauma therapy, specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). She offers a safe space for individuals to explore and understand the impact of their life experiences as well as process overwhelming and distressing emotions attached to those life experiences. Tara believes the goal of therapy goes beyond teaching individuals how to cope; her goal is to see individuals thrive.
(623) 462-3744 View (623) 462-3744
Photo of Holly Inman, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Inman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022
It can be a difficult choice to visit a counselor. I appreciate the work it takes to get there. Through CBT, EMDR or other methods, my goal is to help the unique individual client sitting with me find their pathway to healing. My hope for each of my clients is to create a safe environment for whatever it is you need to explore, understand and heal. I would consider it a deep honor to take your journey with you. I offer telehealth options always, and in person as needed.
It can be a difficult choice to visit a counselor. I appreciate the work it takes to get there. Through CBT, EMDR or other methods, my goal is to help the unique individual client sitting with me find their pathway to healing. My hope for each of my clients is to create a safe environment for whatever it is you need to explore, understand and heal. I would consider it a deep honor to take your journey with you. I offer telehealth options always, and in person as needed.
(602) 428-9375 View (602) 428-9375
Photo of Jennifer C Cecil, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer C Cecil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
I train Licensed Associate Counselors, practicum students, and interns in integrating Christianity into the therapeutic process, utilizing EMDR/IFS.
I am a Christian, trauma-based therapist. I work quickly to discover the root issues of the symptoms with which you present, in counseling. While using a Christian world view, my approach to therapy is to utilize EMDR/IFS to heal past wounds, hurts, and traumas that may be impacting you today. We meet clients where they are and integrate spirituality as they feel comfortable.
I train Licensed Associate Counselors, practicum students, and interns in integrating Christianity into the therapeutic process, utilizing EMDR/IFS.
I am a Christian, trauma-based therapist. I work quickly to discover the root issues of the symptoms with which you present, in counseling. While using a Christian world view, my approach to therapy is to utilize EMDR/IFS to heal past wounds, hurts, and traumas that may be impacting you today. We meet clients where they are and integrate spirituality as they feel comfortable.
(602) 483-6565 View (602) 483-6565
Photo of Kathryn McClearn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn McClearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85021
I have experience working in many different settings including city social services, in education, an outpatient clinic and within a homeless shelter. I am trained to work with children, adolescents, parents, individuals, couples, and families on various issues that hinder growth and happiness. I specialize in the trauma therapy ( EMDR), ABA for working with individuals on the spectrum, mindfulness and relaxation methods, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My counseling style is centered around helping you complete the goals you set for yourself in a supportive and warm environment, free of judgment.
I have experience working in many different settings including city social services, in education, an outpatient clinic and within a homeless shelter. I am trained to work with children, adolescents, parents, individuals, couples, and families on various issues that hinder growth and happiness. I specialize in the trauma therapy ( EMDR), ABA for working with individuals on the spectrum, mindfulness and relaxation methods, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My counseling style is centered around helping you complete the goals you set for yourself in a supportive and warm environment, free of judgment.
(602) 610-0092 View (602) 610-0092
Photo of James Sapp, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051
My practice is client-centered using a variety of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing as well as EMDR and IFS skills.
Pathway to Peace Psychotherapy, PLLC has EVENING and WEEKEND appointments available both in office and telehealth! My experience includes working with adults and teens to work through trauma, establish recovery, help develop coping skills, resiliency, and balance in their lives. I use evidence-based CBT, DBT, IFS and EMDR techniques which accelerate the brain's response to learning how to change negative beliefs to positive beliefs.
My practice is client-centered using a variety of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing as well as EMDR and IFS skills.
Pathway to Peace Psychotherapy, PLLC has EVENING and WEEKEND appointments available both in office and telehealth! My experience includes working with adults and teens to work through trauma, establish recovery, help develop coping skills, resiliency, and balance in their lives. I use evidence-based CBT, DBT, IFS and EMDR techniques which accelerate the brain's response to learning how to change negative beliefs to positive beliefs.
(602) 483-6833 View (602) 483-6833
Photo of Nancy R Hay, MA, LPC, Counselor
Nancy R Hay
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
I have been trained in and using EMDR since 1994 and have found it to be very helpful for people who have experienced traumatic events or even more common conditions such as phobias, anxiety, and depression, and self esteem.
I have been helping individuals and couples for over thirty years make positive changes in their lives. Counseling is about changing what is not working in your life, feeling better, and creating new levels of satisfaction, happiness, and peace. If you are experiencing stress or unhappiness and know it's time to do something about it, let my experience and practical approach help you grow in a positive direction. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and develop a plan to uniquely fit your needs, personality, and goals. My goal is to help you as quickly as possible improve your life.
I have been trained in and using EMDR since 1994 and have found it to be very helpful for people who have experienced traumatic events or even more common conditions such as phobias, anxiety, and depression, and self esteem.
I have been helping individuals and couples for over thirty years make positive changes in their lives. Counseling is about changing what is not working in your life, feeling better, and creating new levels of satisfaction, happiness, and peace. If you are experiencing stress or unhappiness and know it's time to do something about it, let my experience and practical approach help you grow in a positive direction. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and develop a plan to uniquely fit your needs, personality, and goals. My goal is to help you as quickly as possible improve your life.
(480) 568-4007 View (480) 568-4007
Photo of Candice Isaacson, MS, LAC, LASAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Candice Isaacson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAC, LASAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
Candice uses Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Harm Reduction, CBT and DBT.
Candice Isaacson is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor through the AZ Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. Candice feels that you have the power inside you to stop addiction, heal from trauma, build self-confidence and break old patterns and habits that are no longer serving you in your current lifestyle. There comes a point in everyone’s life where they are ready to move forward with purpose and become their authentic self. Candice is here to help. She believes you can make the kind of changes in your life that will help you reach your goals.
Candice uses Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Harm Reduction, CBT and DBT.
Candice Isaacson is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor through the AZ Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. Candice feels that you have the power inside you to stop addiction, heal from trauma, build self-confidence and break old patterns and habits that are no longer serving you in your current lifestyle. There comes a point in everyone’s life where they are ready to move forward with purpose and become their authentic self. Candice is here to help. She believes you can make the kind of changes in your life that will help you reach your goals.
(602) 780-2560 View (602) 780-2560
Photo of Deanna Moor, MAS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deanna Moor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Welcome! I am excited to join you on your path to healing and personal growth! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in work with teens and EMDR in adults. I often see children experiencing anxiety or difficulty managing big feelings, teens struggling to understand themselves and getting ready for adulthood, and adults that feel caught in repetitive life or relational patterns, those facing major life changes like divorce or loss, or who may wish to heal from troubling past experiences that still may be affecting them. If you see yourself in any of these scenarios, I am here to offer support and guidance!
Welcome! I am excited to join you on your path to healing and personal growth! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in work with teens and EMDR in adults. I often see children experiencing anxiety or difficulty managing big feelings, teens struggling to understand themselves and getting ready for adulthood, and adults that feel caught in repetitive life or relational patterns, those facing major life changes like divorce or loss, or who may wish to heal from troubling past experiences that still may be affecting them. If you see yourself in any of these scenarios, I am here to offer support and guidance!
(602) 497-0579 View (602) 497-0579
Photo of Joseph E Woodruff - Healing and Strengthening Families and Individuals, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing and Strengthening Families and Individuals
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
I'm currently trained in level 2 EMDR, cognitive therapy, certified in DBT, motivational interviewing, and substance abuse prevention treatment programs including Wellbriety.
I want to make sure that the client and I are a fit when it comes to rapport. That looks like feeling comfortable sharing content that might cause uncomfortableness due to fearing judgment. If established in the first meeting, I feel confident in working with those with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, family conflicts, grief, and performance issues in school, sports, or career (to name a few). I believe the treatment models that I use can build their resilience to deal with past, current, and future challenges.
I'm currently trained in level 2 EMDR, cognitive therapy, certified in DBT, motivational interviewing, and substance abuse prevention treatment programs including Wellbriety.
I want to make sure that the client and I are a fit when it comes to rapport. That looks like feeling comfortable sharing content that might cause uncomfortableness due to fearing judgment. If established in the first meeting, I feel confident in working with those with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, family conflicts, grief, and performance issues in school, sports, or career (to name a few). I believe the treatment models that I use can build their resilience to deal with past, current, and future challenges.
(928) 769-3651 View (928) 769-3651
Photo of Lindsay Stewart, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022
I am a trained in EMDR and experienced in Internal Family Systems.
This is not a "simple thing," finding someone you can connect with to help in your journey can change your life. I know that sentence can be both terrifying and hopeful and I welcome all those parts. I show up with compassion, challenge, warmth, and honesty. Helping you show up to yourself and others is an important part of growth and connection, and we all need it. I offer a holistic approach to therapy, which takes into consideration body, mind/soul, and spirit. I am also trained in Internal Family Systems, an integrative model of realigning ourselves in wholeness.
I am a trained in EMDR and experienced in Internal Family Systems.
This is not a "simple thing," finding someone you can connect with to help in your journey can change your life. I know that sentence can be both terrifying and hopeful and I welcome all those parts. I show up with compassion, challenge, warmth, and honesty. Helping you show up to yourself and others is an important part of growth and connection, and we all need it. I offer a holistic approach to therapy, which takes into consideration body, mind/soul, and spirit. I am also trained in Internal Family Systems, an integrative model of realigning ourselves in wholeness.
(623) 400-5813 View (623) 400-5813
Photo of Sierra Carroll, LPC, Counselor
Sierra Carroll
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and it is a modality I use often as well.
I know taking the first step to addressing your mental and emotional health can be overwhelming in of itself. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have regarding any aspect of starting therapy. I am happy to help, and if I can't I will guide you in the right direction.
I am trained in EMDR and it is a modality I use often as well.
I know taking the first step to addressing your mental and emotional health can be overwhelming in of itself. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have regarding any aspect of starting therapy. I am happy to help, and if I can't I will guide you in the right direction.
(623) 267-9658 View (623) 267-9658
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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.