EMDR Therapists in Williams, AZ

Photo of Melissa Dohse Cultivate Counseling, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Dohse Cultivate Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Williams, AZ 86046
I provide individual counseling in my office, walk-and-talk sessions in the community and EMDR counseling.
Your capacity for change, healing, and growth, is why I do this work. In the 10 years that I have been in the field, courage is what has always shown up at my door. Courage is always what leads us to change. Courage to believe that things could be different, that life doesn't have to feel this way, that I can feel whole. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey from courage to hope.
I provide individual counseling in my office, walk-and-talk sessions in the community and EMDR counseling.
Your capacity for change, healing, and growth, is why I do this work. In the 10 years that I have been in the field, courage is what has always shown up at my door. Courage is always what leads us to change. Courage to believe that things could be different, that life doesn't have to feel this way, that I can feel whole. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey from courage to hope.
(928) 323-3208 View (928) 323-3208
Photo of Alexandria Bangert, EMDR, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandria Bangert
Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Williams, AZ 86046
As an EMDR certified therapist I specialize in treating clients with complex trauma and dissociation.
My approach integrates EMDR and parts work to help clients access and heal from their past traumas. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach I assist clients in uncovering and processing their past wounds leading to a sense of wholeness and self discovery. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space for clients to process and integrate their experiences leading to lasting and healing growth. It is an honor to witness the transformation and growth of my clients through this powerful work.
As an EMDR certified therapist I specialize in treating clients with complex trauma and dissociation.
My approach integrates EMDR and parts work to help clients access and heal from their past traumas. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach I assist clients in uncovering and processing their past wounds leading to a sense of wholeness and self discovery. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space for clients to process and integrate their experiences leading to lasting and healing growth. It is an honor to witness the transformation and growth of my clients through this powerful work.
(928) 440-0320 View (928) 440-0320
Photo of Kris Dohse, MA, LAC, Counselor
Kris Dohse
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williams, AZ 86046
As a therapist I engage clients in cultivating their self compassionate voice and finding their strengths. I use tools such as EMDR, mindfulness, parts work and somatic awareness to support clients in building resilience and coping mechanisms. I use a culturally humble, trauma informed, harm-reduction, somatic minded approach. I offer support in person or outside with walk and talk sessions or remote sessions with a secure telehealth platform.
As a therapist I engage clients in cultivating their self compassionate voice and finding their strengths. I use tools such as EMDR, mindfulness, parts work and somatic awareness to support clients in building resilience and coping mechanisms. I use a culturally humble, trauma informed, harm-reduction, somatic minded approach. I offer support in person or outside with walk and talk sessions or remote sessions with a secure telehealth platform.
(928) 420-8392 View (928) 420-8392
Photo of Kc Rhon - Cultivate Counseling, MA, LAC, Counselor
Kc Rhon - Cultivate Counseling
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Williams, AZ 86046
As a therapist, I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they embark on a journey that encourages awareness, insight, and understanding. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental, curious space where clients feel seen, heard, and known.
As a therapist, I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they embark on a journey that encourages awareness, insight, and understanding. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental, curious space where clients feel seen, heard, and known.
(928) 248-1183 View (928) 248-1183
Photo of Keith Cross - Prescott Relationship Center, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Prescott Relationship Center, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williams, AZ 86046
Offices in Prescott, Flagstaff, and Online! As relationship experts, we understand the pain, anxiety, depression, and anger that can result from conflictual relationships. We specialize in helping couples stop the pain and conflict so they can feel connected, safe, and appreciated in their relationship. We also work with individuals working through past or current relationship injuries as well!
Offices in Prescott, Flagstaff, and Online! As relationship experts, we understand the pain, anxiety, depression, and anger that can result from conflictual relationships. We specialize in helping couples stop the pain and conflict so they can feel connected, safe, and appreciated in their relationship. We also work with individuals working through past or current relationship injuries as well!
(928) 420-8300 View (928) 420-8300
Photo of Christina Paschall - Paschall Counseling Services, MC, LPC, CCTP, C-DBT, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paschall Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, CCTP, C-DBT, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williams, AZ 86046
Not accepting new clients
I use an eclectic approach that combines Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapies to teach my clients the necessary skills to develop psychological flexibility with painful thoughts and emotions, and gain meaningful insight into what truly matters.
I provide individual therapy to people who struggle with destructive self-thoughts and limiting beliefs, and are looking for a shift of mindset to live a value-based life. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessions, and trauma can all lead to feeling trapped in one's own story. I believe with the right tools, you can pick up the pen and begin rewriting your story and enjoy a fulfilling life.
I use an eclectic approach that combines Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapies to teach my clients the necessary skills to develop psychological flexibility with painful thoughts and emotions, and gain meaningful insight into what truly matters.
I provide individual therapy to people who struggle with destructive self-thoughts and limiting beliefs, and are looking for a shift of mindset to live a value-based life. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessions, and trauma can all lead to feeling trapped in one's own story. I believe with the right tools, you can pick up the pen and begin rewriting your story and enjoy a fulfilling life.
(928) 267-6088 View (928) 267-6088
Photo of Ron Paul, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ron Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williams, AZ 86046
Not accepting new clients
I see the work that I do with my clients as a journey, an inner journey, to help clients discover why they sometimes think, feel, and act in unsatisfying ways. My objective is to encourage them to use their strengths and resources to rediscover the whole and complete person that is their authentic self. Through this journey, I strive to help clients achieve the change required to view things differently and to live a more joyful and peaceful existence with meaning and purpose.
I see the work that I do with my clients as a journey, an inner journey, to help clients discover why they sometimes think, feel, and act in unsatisfying ways. My objective is to encourage them to use their strengths and resources to rediscover the whole and complete person that is their authentic self. Through this journey, I strive to help clients achieve the change required to view things differently and to live a more joyful and peaceful existence with meaning and purpose.
(928) 379-6272 View (928) 379-6272
Photo of Claire Allan Camp, PsyD, Psychologist
Claire Allan Camp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Williams, AZ 86046
Not accepting new clients
As people we are faced with many different trials and challenges throughout our lives and if you are reading this, you are likely thinking about talking to someone about the things you are facing. I appreciate how much courage it can take to begin the search of finding the therapeutic relationship that best fits you. I have a diversity of experience in working with older adults, adults, adolescents and children with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phase of life difficulties, trauma, drug and alcohol issues, and relationship problems.
As people we are faced with many different trials and challenges throughout our lives and if you are reading this, you are likely thinking about talking to someone about the things you are facing. I appreciate how much courage it can take to begin the search of finding the therapeutic relationship that best fits you. I have a diversity of experience in working with older adults, adults, adolescents and children with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phase of life difficulties, trauma, drug and alcohol issues, and relationship problems.
(928) 550-7858 View (928) 550-7858

Online Therapists

Photo of Alexis Baca-Spry - Alexis Baca-Spry Majestic Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Baca-Spry Majestic Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR therapy as an EMDRIA-Certified EMDR therapist.
Accepting Telehealth only for AZ and CO clients. We have a group practice with therapists for AZ and CO clients. Thank you for taking a step toward healing. Whatever circumstances have led you to this website, please know that you are taking action to empower yourself. Are your emotions presenting a challenge for you to manage? Perhaps some of your behaviors are no longer helping you get the results you want. Are past experiences hindering your ability to thrive? Together we can explore solutions that will help you be free of thoughts or behaviors that are no longer useful.
I specialize in EMDR therapy as an EMDRIA-Certified EMDR therapist.
Accepting Telehealth only for AZ and CO clients. We have a group practice with therapists for AZ and CO clients. Thank you for taking a step toward healing. Whatever circumstances have led you to this website, please know that you are taking action to empower yourself. Are your emotions presenting a challenge for you to manage? Perhaps some of your behaviors are no longer helping you get the results you want. Are past experiences hindering your ability to thrive? Together we can explore solutions that will help you be free of thoughts or behaviors that are no longer useful.
(928) 440-1388 View (928) 440-1388
Photo of Robert B Williams Cultivate Counseling, LAC, Counselor
Robert B Williams Cultivate Counseling
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Having worked in the mental health field for close to fifteen years I have come to believe that it is important to utilize a variety of approaches and that we find the approach that works best for you, whether that is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR.
I believe that every person deserves a space where they are honestly seen, heard and valued for who they are. To that purpose, I help people live more meaningful and authentic lives, working through anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma and relationship issues. If there is something in your life that you would like to change or are simply thinking about addressing - having someone that you can talk to beyond friends and family, someone who really listens and is there to support you unconditionally can be a huge help for almost any issue.
Having worked in the mental health field for close to fifteen years I have come to believe that it is important to utilize a variety of approaches and that we find the approach that works best for you, whether that is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR.
I believe that every person deserves a space where they are honestly seen, heard and valued for who they are. To that purpose, I help people live more meaningful and authentic lives, working through anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma and relationship issues. If there is something in your life that you would like to change or are simply thinking about addressing - having someone that you can talk to beyond friends and family, someone who really listens and is there to support you unconditionally can be a huge help for almost any issue.
(928) 615-9395 View (928) 615-9395
Photo of Nevitta Mason - Mariposa Healing With Faith, LPC
Mariposa Healing With Faith
LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Animal Assisted Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Christian Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapy, Post Induction Therapy, Certified Partner Trauma Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy.
Our mission is to walk with children, families, adults and couples by providing them with a healing path and infusing Jesus into the therapy for those who desire it. We also offer secular counseling for those not wanting faith integration. Nevitta specializes in families with children 0-10 with trauma, foster/adopt, familial or behavioral issues using EMDR and play therapy techniques. Abigail specializes in adolescents, college students, women and children with addiction or wanting Christian counseling or EMDR. Courtney specializes in adolescents and adults with addiction, intimacy disorders, & eating disorders.
Animal Assisted Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Christian Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapy, Post Induction Therapy, Certified Partner Trauma Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy.
Our mission is to walk with children, families, adults and couples by providing them with a healing path and infusing Jesus into the therapy for those who desire it. We also offer secular counseling for those not wanting faith integration. Nevitta specializes in families with children 0-10 with trauma, foster/adopt, familial or behavioral issues using EMDR and play therapy techniques. Abigail specializes in adolescents, college students, women and children with addiction or wanting Christian counseling or EMDR. Courtney specializes in adolescents and adults with addiction, intimacy disorders, & eating disorders.
(928) 436-6617 View (928) 436-6617
Photo of Sarah G Munigle, MC,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah G Munigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
I've been a therapist in AZ for over 30 years and have worked with a diversity of clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues and many more. I'm certified in EMDR as well as DBT, and would love to get to know you and see how I can be of service.
I've been a therapist in AZ for over 30 years and have worked with a diversity of clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues and many more. I'm certified in EMDR as well as DBT, and would love to get to know you and see how I can be of service.
(928) 365-3768 View (928) 365-3768
Photo of Nooshin Adib - Solace counseling LLC,          Nooshin Adib, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Solace counseling LLC, Nooshin Adib
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86305
I use modalities such as CBT, and TA, and I am trained in EMDR and certified in ART.
Hello and Welcome! The fact that you are reading this page says a great deal about you. You have recognized that you have great potential, and you are also hopeful that through the counseling journey, you will find solace. I am not the expert on your life; you are. However, I will work to meet you where you are, and make you feel heard, seen, and cared for. Together, we will help you get to where you want to be and achieve your goals. I promote a holistic approach by recognizing each client’s social, emotional, physical, and cultural needs. Each person is unique, and I will treat each client in a unique way.
I use modalities such as CBT, and TA, and I am trained in EMDR and certified in ART.
Hello and Welcome! The fact that you are reading this page says a great deal about you. You have recognized that you have great potential, and you are also hopeful that through the counseling journey, you will find solace. I am not the expert on your life; you are. However, I will work to meet you where you are, and make you feel heard, seen, and cared for. Together, we will help you get to where you want to be and achieve your goals. I promote a holistic approach by recognizing each client’s social, emotional, physical, and cultural needs. Each person is unique, and I will treat each client in a unique way.
(928) 438-8680 View (928) 438-8680
Photo of Samantha Moss, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR and trauma, and build resources within you to manage the difficult emotional path therapy can be.
Hello! I'm Samantha, a holistic therapist dedicated to helping you achieve balance in mind, body, and spirit. With over 8 years of experience in mental health, I integrate traditional therapeutic practices with holistic modalities such as mindfulness, herbalism, and nutritional guidance. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, focusing on your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, seeking stress relief, or simply wanting to connect more deeply with yourself, I’m here to support you on your journey to wellness.
I specialize in EMDR and trauma, and build resources within you to manage the difficult emotional path therapy can be.
Hello! I'm Samantha, a holistic therapist dedicated to helping you achieve balance in mind, body, and spirit. With over 8 years of experience in mental health, I integrate traditional therapeutic practices with holistic modalities such as mindfulness, herbalism, and nutritional guidance. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, focusing on your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, seeking stress relief, or simply wanting to connect more deeply with yourself, I’m here to support you on your journey to wellness.
(623) 624-9338 View (623) 624-9338
Photo of Mark White, LPC, LMHC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MAC
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86351  (Online Only)
As a licensed practitioner providing therapy in Arizona and Hawaii, Mark is dedicated to supporting people recovering from anxiety and depression, as well as relationship problems and addiction. Mark utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches that include solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness. Additionally, Mark is a Level II trained practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and also provides parent coaching.
As a licensed practitioner providing therapy in Arizona and Hawaii, Mark is dedicated to supporting people recovering from anxiety and depression, as well as relationship problems and addiction. Mark utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches that include solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness. Additionally, Mark is a Level II trained practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and also provides parent coaching.
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Photo of Starr Denison, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Starr Denison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Prescott Valley, AZ 86315
I am and EMDR practitioner and invite you to this unique and life-changing experience to enhance your relationships.
My name is Starr Denison, MS, LPC, NCC and I'm here to help you with trauma related issues, depression, anxiety, grief, and even chronic pain. I am able to help you from the comfort of your own home using video conferencing, or in a quiet, private location at my place of business. I offer life coaching and wellness plan building in addition to clinical mental health counseling. Using indoor and outdoor therapy with or without animal assistants, you will experience healing and overall enhanced well being. On location, you will be served an amazing cup of organic tea of the highest quality for comfort during your session.
I am and EMDR practitioner and invite you to this unique and life-changing experience to enhance your relationships.
My name is Starr Denison, MS, LPC, NCC and I'm here to help you with trauma related issues, depression, anxiety, grief, and even chronic pain. I am able to help you from the comfort of your own home using video conferencing, or in a quiet, private location at my place of business. I offer life coaching and wellness plan building in addition to clinical mental health counseling. Using indoor and outdoor therapy with or without animal assistants, you will experience healing and overall enhanced well being. On location, you will be served an amazing cup of organic tea of the highest quality for comfort during your session.
(928) 237-2002 View (928) 237-2002
Photo of Toni Monreal - Monreal Family Services, LLC, LCSW, CCTP, CFTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monreal Family Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
Dewey, AZ 86327
Monreal Family Services has clinicians trained in EMDR, Trauma, Developmental Trauma, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Recovery, Play in Therapy, Attachment, and more.
Monreal Family Services provides you access to skilled Licensed Social Workers who have an array of specialties ranging from trauma, grief/loss, developmental needs/traumas, recovery, depression, anxiety, childhood needs including: school, blended families, behavioral dysregulation, parental divorce, etc., adjustment to life stages and many more. We value your motivation to enter this journey and are privileged to join alongside you to offer the support, encouragement and psychotherapy necessary to assist you in achieving the goals most important to you. Please call us to discuss your specific needs and learn how we can serve you.
Monreal Family Services has clinicians trained in EMDR, Trauma, Developmental Trauma, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Recovery, Play in Therapy, Attachment, and more.
Monreal Family Services provides you access to skilled Licensed Social Workers who have an array of specialties ranging from trauma, grief/loss, developmental needs/traumas, recovery, depression, anxiety, childhood needs including: school, blended families, behavioral dysregulation, parental divorce, etc., adjustment to life stages and many more. We value your motivation to enter this journey and are privileged to join alongside you to offer the support, encouragement and psychotherapy necessary to assist you in achieving the goals most important to you. Please call us to discuss your specific needs and learn how we can serve you.
(928) 851-8768 View (928) 851-8768
Photo of Martha LaRosa Scranton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martha LaRosa Scranton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Parks, AZ 86018  (Online Only)
DBT, EMDR, SOMATIC EXPERIENCING, SOLUTION FOCUSED BRIEF THERAPY,MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING,COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY, PET ASSITED THERAPY, PERINATAL MOOD DISORDERS.
I strive to provide a safe & sacred space for you to explore issues that may be troubling you. Together we will look at how your conscious & sub-conscious mind may be interfering or supporting you in living the life you want to live. I offer a variety of methods. Together we will find the method or combination of methods that work best for you. My counseling style is supportive and non-confrontational. I take an ecological approach and will work with you and those you would like involved in your treatment as desired or needed.
DBT, EMDR, SOMATIC EXPERIENCING, SOLUTION FOCUSED BRIEF THERAPY,MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING,COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY, PET ASSITED THERAPY, PERINATAL MOOD DISORDERS.
I strive to provide a safe & sacred space for you to explore issues that may be troubling you. Together we will look at how your conscious & sub-conscious mind may be interfering or supporting you in living the life you want to live. I offer a variety of methods. Together we will find the method or combination of methods that work best for you. My counseling style is supportive and non-confrontational. I take an ecological approach and will work with you and those you would like involved in your treatment as desired or needed.
(928) 248-8400 View (928) 248-8400
Photo of Katherine Miller, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86303
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone can heal and I strive to meet clients where they’re at. I believe in a client-centered approach of empowerment and self-determination for each person. We often find ourselves feeling unique and alone in our pain which perpetuates the shame that holds us hostage. If this is you, I want to help. I specialize in treating PTSD, complex trauma, addiction, mental illness, and codependent systems within relationships amongst many other issues. My skill set is trauma informed, with an emphasis on EMDR therapy, as well as CBT, family systems, and emotionally focused therapy. Please reach out for help.
I believe that everyone can heal and I strive to meet clients where they’re at. I believe in a client-centered approach of empowerment and self-determination for each person. We often find ourselves feeling unique and alone in our pain which perpetuates the shame that holds us hostage. If this is you, I want to help. I specialize in treating PTSD, complex trauma, addiction, mental illness, and codependent systems within relationships amongst many other issues. My skill set is trauma informed, with an emphasis on EMDR therapy, as well as CBT, family systems, and emotionally focused therapy. Please reach out for help.
(520) 436-2116 View (520) 436-2116
Photo of Stephanie Wiggins, MS, LAC, Counselor
Stephanie Wiggins
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Using evidence-based therapies like EMDR, DBT, and CBT, I'll work with you to develop personalized strategies that can help you manage stress, process trauma, and build healthier coping skills.
My ideal client is ready to explore their thoughts and feelings, even if they're overwhelmed or unsure where to start. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, or past trauma, but they're open to learning new ways to cope and grow.
Using evidence-based therapies like EMDR, DBT, and CBT, I'll work with you to develop personalized strategies that can help you manage stress, process trauma, and build healthier coping skills.
My ideal client is ready to explore their thoughts and feelings, even if they're overwhelmed or unsure where to start. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, or past trauma, but they're open to learning new ways to cope and grow.
(480) 716-8263 View (480) 716-8263
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.