EMDR Therapists in Central West Denver, Denver, CO

Photo of Maggie Vieweg, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Vieweg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained, and focus on trauma, depression/anxiety, and addiction.
Hi! My name is Maggie, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I recognize the courage it takes to seek help and embark on the path of self-discovery and healing. I take a client-centered approach, recognizing each individual is unique and deserves personalized care. I work collaboratively with clients to identify their goals, strengths, and challenges, and to develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with their values and preferences.
I am EMDR trained, and focus on trauma, depression/anxiety, and addiction.
Hi! My name is Maggie, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I recognize the courage it takes to seek help and embark on the path of self-discovery and healing. I take a client-centered approach, recognizing each individual is unique and deserves personalized care. I work collaboratively with clients to identify their goals, strengths, and challenges, and to develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with their values and preferences.
(720) 408-6937 View (720) 408-6937
Photo of Hannah Higgins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
I am also trained in EMDR.
Life's journey can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating personal stressors, societal barriers, and trauma. These experiences can take a toll on our minds and bodies, causing us to carry that stress with us. You are the expert of your own life and I am here to support you in this journey!
I am also trained in EMDR.
Life's journey can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating personal stressors, societal barriers, and trauma. These experiences can take a toll on our minds and bodies, causing us to carry that stress with us. You are the expert of your own life and I am here to support you in this journey!
(720) 740-6749 View (720) 740-6749
Photo of Rudy S Shrier, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rudy S Shrier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR therapist who uses an existential and humanistic approach to cultivate healing and growth within my clients lives.
Looking to gain more insight into self? Do you not feel that you fit into the mainstream? Are you tired of therapists asking you “How does that make you feel?” Let me help you find the space to explore your existing thoughts, deepen your connection to those around you or achieve the goals that have been at arm's length. Whether we are talking about severe mental health obstacles, healing traumatic wounds, or wanting to fulfill goals, I will guide you through the pathways to healing. I will support you in tapping into your existing power and insight to engage in the most fulfilling and meaningful life that you deserve.
I am an EMDR therapist who uses an existential and humanistic approach to cultivate healing and growth within my clients lives.
Looking to gain more insight into self? Do you not feel that you fit into the mainstream? Are you tired of therapists asking you “How does that make you feel?” Let me help you find the space to explore your existing thoughts, deepen your connection to those around you or achieve the goals that have been at arm's length. Whether we are talking about severe mental health obstacles, healing traumatic wounds, or wanting to fulfill goals, I will guide you through the pathways to healing. I will support you in tapping into your existing power and insight to engage in the most fulfilling and meaningful life that you deserve.
(720) 410-9101 View (720) 410-9101
Photo of Mariah Rossel, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariah Rossel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80219
EMDR-effective for individuals dealing with trauma-related issues.
My ideal client seeks to address trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They are motivated to explore their trauma while developing practical coping skills, communication techniques & mindfulness practices. They aspire to reduce stress, increase joy, and enhance productivity in their lives. They seek a welcoming & non-judgmental space to share their experiences, challenges, and emotions. They desire holistic growth and personal transformation to heal their past wounds, develop effective coping strategies, strengthen their relationships, & cultivate well-being in their lives.
EMDR-effective for individuals dealing with trauma-related issues.
My ideal client seeks to address trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They are motivated to explore their trauma while developing practical coping skills, communication techniques & mindfulness practices. They aspire to reduce stress, increase joy, and enhance productivity in their lives. They seek a welcoming & non-judgmental space to share their experiences, challenges, and emotions. They desire holistic growth and personal transformation to heal their past wounds, develop effective coping strategies, strengthen their relationships, & cultivate well-being in their lives.
(303) 586-6446 View (303) 586-6446
Photo of Sadie R Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sadie R Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80219
As a Certified EMDR clinician, consultant and trainer, I work to help clients move through treatment effectively and efficiently. I specialize in providing EMDR Intensives and have based my practice on solely offering EMDR Intensives. I do not offer traditional weekly therapy. Please call me or see my website for more information on Intensives. If you want to feel better, but you don't want it to take forever, give me a call or send me an email.
As a Certified EMDR clinician, consultant and trainer, I work to help clients move through treatment effectively and efficiently. I specialize in providing EMDR Intensives and have based my practice on solely offering EMDR Intensives. I do not offer traditional weekly therapy. Please call me or see my website for more information on Intensives. If you want to feel better, but you don't want it to take forever, give me a call or send me an email.
(720) 515-9765 View (720) 515-9765
Photo of Kathy Esarey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Esarey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I have specific training for using EMDR and TF CBT to help individuals find relief from trauma symptoms.
Are you looking for something different? Are you facing a difficult situation? Are you overwhelmed by circumstances? Has life thrown you a curveball? Are you seeking something greater? Counseling can support you through this, inspire you to find more and support you to find hope for change. There is help through difficult times and understanding from a trusted source. Experience a fresh perspective combined with knowledge and experience to help with any curveball.
I have specific training for using EMDR and TF CBT to help individuals find relief from trauma symptoms.
Are you looking for something different? Are you facing a difficult situation? Are you overwhelmed by circumstances? Has life thrown you a curveball? Are you seeking something greater? Counseling can support you through this, inspire you to find more and support you to find hope for change. There is help through difficult times and understanding from a trusted source. Experience a fresh perspective combined with knowledge and experience to help with any curveball.
(480) 470-7229 View (480) 470-7229
Photo of Sam Field - Sam Field | Field Therapy, MA, LPC, LAC, EMDR, Counselor
Sam Field | Field Therapy
Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
Sam Field is a licensed professional counselor(LPC), Licensed addiction counselor and trained extensively working with the LGBTQ community. Sam is trained in EMDR and IFS. Sam works towards providing a unique therapeutic approach blends talk therapy, wilderness and equine therapy, somatic trauma informed, mindfulness practices, and horticultural therapy. She offers a nurturing, accessible, and inclusive therapy experience.
Sam Field is a licensed professional counselor(LPC), Licensed addiction counselor and trained extensively working with the LGBTQ community. Sam is trained in EMDR and IFS. Sam works towards providing a unique therapeutic approach blends talk therapy, wilderness and equine therapy, somatic trauma informed, mindfulness practices, and horticultural therapy. She offers a nurturing, accessible, and inclusive therapy experience.
(720) 613-5424 View (720) 613-5424
Photo of Erin Flanigan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Flanigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
I have been working as a therapist for 13 years with teens and young adults. I've worked with youth who are struggling with homelessness, identity struggles and family stress. I have expertise in depressive and anxiety disorders, substance use and psychosis. I have extensive trauma training including EMDR and TF-CBT. My goal is always to help people feel better and I look forward to meeting you! I am offering online appointments only through IMatter, a free mental health service in Colorado for youth. I see youth ages 15 to 21 years old. You receive up to 6 free sessions through this program and we help to refer out as well!
I have been working as a therapist for 13 years with teens and young adults. I've worked with youth who are struggling with homelessness, identity struggles and family stress. I have expertise in depressive and anxiety disorders, substance use and psychosis. I have extensive trauma training including EMDR and TF-CBT. My goal is always to help people feel better and I look forward to meeting you! I am offering online appointments only through IMatter, a free mental health service in Colorado for youth. I see youth ages 15 to 21 years old. You receive up to 6 free sessions through this program and we help to refer out as well!
(720) 807-4063 View (720) 807-4063
Photo of Jamie Schlichenmayer, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Schlichenmayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80214
I am an EMDR Certified and this is my primary therapeutic mode.
Now offering EMDR Intensives - half or full day EMDR session to move through issues and reduce symptoms quickly while eliminating the need for weekly, long-term therapy. Because healing is possible. Your story matters. If you are feeling stuck in negative emotional patterns and behaviors? . I believe and support the body and brain’s natural capacity to heal and will work alongside you to develop and utilize through resources. My approach is individualized and collaborative to your experience and needs. I offer a non-judgmental, safe environment to explore these experiences and work towards growth and healing.
I am an EMDR Certified and this is my primary therapeutic mode.
Now offering EMDR Intensives - half or full day EMDR session to move through issues and reduce symptoms quickly while eliminating the need for weekly, long-term therapy. Because healing is possible. Your story matters. If you are feeling stuck in negative emotional patterns and behaviors? . I believe and support the body and brain’s natural capacity to heal and will work alongside you to develop and utilize through resources. My approach is individualized and collaborative to your experience and needs. I offer a non-judgmental, safe environment to explore these experiences and work towards growth and healing.
(720) 664-9487 View (720) 664-9487
Photo of Suzanne Pearson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
I use EMDR to help process any past trauma/distress, and hold a trauma-informed lens.
Therapy is a shared journey that requires trust and investment on both ends. I know that this kind of trust can take time to build. As such, I will always offer patience, understanding, and an open mind regarding anything that may be on your path. I will also always welcome your questions, curiosities, and critiques, and strive to respond in an open, honest, and direct manner. As a counselor, I recognize that our social locations and differing experiences affect our perspectives and approaches to the world, and I hold this in mind as I work with clients.
I use EMDR to help process any past trauma/distress, and hold a trauma-informed lens.
Therapy is a shared journey that requires trust and investment on both ends. I know that this kind of trust can take time to build. As such, I will always offer patience, understanding, and an open mind regarding anything that may be on your path. I will also always welcome your questions, curiosities, and critiques, and strive to respond in an open, honest, and direct manner. As a counselor, I recognize that our social locations and differing experiences affect our perspectives and approaches to the world, and I hold this in mind as I work with clients.
(720) 410-6056 View (720) 410-6056
Photo of Victoria (Tori) Callahan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria (Tori) Callahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I specialize in trauma-informed treatment using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! I am Tori and I am passionate about working with adults and teens struggling with various life transitions, difficulty adjusting with changes or losses, and those who have experienced trauma or abuse. I primarily work with people who have experienced complex trauma throughout their lives, anyone struggling in their relationships or with communicating their needs and desires, and those with self-esteem or self-image issues. Together, we can work through unpleasant memories, current triggers, and unhelpful thought patterns to improve your everyday functioning and regain your sense of control of your life.
I specialize in trauma-informed treatment using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! I am Tori and I am passionate about working with adults and teens struggling with various life transitions, difficulty adjusting with changes or losses, and those who have experienced trauma or abuse. I primarily work with people who have experienced complex trauma throughout their lives, anyone struggling in their relationships or with communicating their needs and desires, and those with self-esteem or self-image issues. Together, we can work through unpleasant memories, current triggers, and unhelpful thought patterns to improve your everyday functioning and regain your sense of control of your life.
(720) 770-5061 View (720) 770-5061
Photo of Rebecca Nowosielski, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Nowosielski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80211
My areas of focus are Couples & Individuals looking to work on Relationships, Increased Connectivity, Trauma, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Divorce, Separation, Substance Use, and EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing).
I am proud to offer Couples & Individual therapy that helps each client generate insight into what is working, what is not working, and how to collaboratively work towards your goals for change. I use an integrated and collaborative therapy approach that highlights exploration, introspection, insight, healing, and growth.
My areas of focus are Couples & Individuals looking to work on Relationships, Increased Connectivity, Trauma, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Divorce, Separation, Substance Use, and EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing).
I am proud to offer Couples & Individual therapy that helps each client generate insight into what is working, what is not working, and how to collaboratively work towards your goals for change. I use an integrated and collaborative therapy approach that highlights exploration, introspection, insight, healing, and growth.
(720) 571-7303 View (720) 571-7303
Photo of Jennifer Franklin, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80219  (Online Only)
I have over 14 years of experience & extensive training in EMDR, Relational Psychotherapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Attachment-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
On-line sessions only. No in person session available...Most likely, it took a lot of courage for you to arrive here. It requires bravery to open up to someone and be vulnerable. To say, “I need help,” is a tremendously vulnerable act. It might be hard to trust people or to risk opening up about your struggles. I get it. I'm here to make that process as seamless as possible. The more each of us reaches out for help, the more we normalize helping each other. I aim to create an atmosphere where you can be open about all your life experiences without judgment.
I have over 14 years of experience & extensive training in EMDR, Relational Psychotherapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Attachment-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
On-line sessions only. No in person session available...Most likely, it took a lot of courage for you to arrive here. It requires bravery to open up to someone and be vulnerable. To say, “I need help,” is a tremendously vulnerable act. It might be hard to trust people or to risk opening up about your struggles. I get it. I'm here to make that process as seamless as possible. The more each of us reaches out for help, the more we normalize helping each other. I aim to create an atmosphere where you can be open about all your life experiences without judgment.
(406) 284-0478 View (406) 284-0478
Photo of Dr. Olga M Vera, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Olga M Vera
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80212
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 26 years of experience. I provide couples, Individual, and Family Therapy. My modalities include EMDR, CBT, DBT, Hakomi, and PACT Level 3 for couples therapy. I am considered a Trauma expert and provide trauma-informed treatments. Many of my clients struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, medical trauma and relationship issues. My approach is collaborative, preventative, educational and inclusive.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 26 years of experience. I provide couples, Individual, and Family Therapy. My modalities include EMDR, CBT, DBT, Hakomi, and PACT Level 3 for couples therapy. I am considered a Trauma expert and provide trauma-informed treatments. Many of my clients struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, medical trauma and relationship issues. My approach is collaborative, preventative, educational and inclusive.
(720) 893-9806 View (720) 893-9806
Photo of Nichole D. Meshko, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole D. Meshko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I utilize psychoanalytic, psycho-dynamic, EMDR, trauma focused, integrative body psychotherapy, strength-based approaches and art therapy interventions to achieve healing and wellness.
I'm a seasoned therapist, having worked in the mental health the field for over 20 years. I provide quality therapeutic care to those in need. I believe that we all have an intrinsic desire to strive towards health, healing and harmony in our lives. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety and attachment issues with individuals and couples to help them optimize their life experience.
I utilize psychoanalytic, psycho-dynamic, EMDR, trauma focused, integrative body psychotherapy, strength-based approaches and art therapy interventions to achieve healing and wellness.
I'm a seasoned therapist, having worked in the mental health the field for over 20 years. I provide quality therapeutic care to those in need. I believe that we all have an intrinsic desire to strive towards health, healing and harmony in our lives. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety and attachment issues with individuals and couples to help them optimize their life experience.
(720) 358-5167 View (720) 358-5167
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of Coral Carosone-Link, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Coral Carosone-Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Do you wish you felt more confident and had better relationships? Does fear or anxiety hold you back? Most of us feel lonely, isolated, insecure, ashamed and misunderstood at times, which keeps us from enjoying peace of mind and accomplishing our goals. If you are tired of living this way, therapy can help you tackle the things that are keeping you from a satisfying life. I believe in empowering, validating, and offering therapeutic support to my clients so that they can move forward and see change.
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Do you wish you felt more confident and had better relationships? Does fear or anxiety hold you back? Most of us feel lonely, isolated, insecure, ashamed and misunderstood at times, which keeps us from enjoying peace of mind and accomplishing our goals. If you are tired of living this way, therapy can help you tackle the things that are keeping you from a satisfying life. I believe in empowering, validating, and offering therapeutic support to my clients so that they can move forward and see change.
(970) 660-5811 View (970) 660-5811
Photo of Libbi Palmer, PsyD, Psychologist
Libbi Palmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I have worked with victims of crime and trauma since 1989. I had a 15-year career in law enforcement and have worked in the mental health field since 2004. I have a private practice specializing in mental health treatment for victims of crimes and emergency service personnel. I provide EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I provide trainings around the country about the impact of trauma and how to help people heal. I am the author of The PTSD Workbook for Teens. I have a therapy dog named Hugo.
I have worked with victims of crime and trauma since 1989. I had a 15-year career in law enforcement and have worked in the mental health field since 2004. I have a private practice specializing in mental health treatment for victims of crimes and emergency service personnel. I provide EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I provide trainings around the country about the impact of trauma and how to help people heal. I am the author of The PTSD Workbook for Teens. I have a therapy dog named Hugo.
(303) 622-5714 View (303) 622-5714
Photo of Traci L Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Traci L Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I am trained in EMDR for use with trauma and victimization issues as well.
As life presents you with challenges, I believe sometimes we can all use guidance and encouragement. That has been my role for over 20 years in the counseling field. We can work as a team to begin your journey to your best life and help you learn new skills and coping mechanisms. I am passionate and encouraging with my approach to assisting you in this amazing experience.
I am trained in EMDR for use with trauma and victimization issues as well.
As life presents you with challenges, I believe sometimes we can all use guidance and encouragement. That has been my role for over 20 years in the counseling field. We can work as a team to begin your journey to your best life and help you learn new skills and coping mechanisms. I am passionate and encouraging with my approach to assisting you in this amazing experience.
(303) 919-9230 View (303) 919-9230
Photo of Jenny Bridges, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Bridges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central West Denver, Denver, CO 80204
I am EMDRIA Certified and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant in EMDR, am trained in Brainspotting, Energy Therapy strategies, and am Certified in the integration of Mindfulness and Meditation in Psychotherapy.
Overcome stress, improve relationships, and achieve your goals! Together we will build on your strengths and identify new, more effective strategies so that you can move past recent and/or past negative experiences and difficulties. In addition to more traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I offer cutting edge therapies such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and Energy Therapies, which can provide rapid relief from distress and can result in lasting change. Contact me if you would like to improve your life and get past struggles that are limiting you.
I am EMDRIA Certified and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant in EMDR, am trained in Brainspotting, Energy Therapy strategies, and am Certified in the integration of Mindfulness and Meditation in Psychotherapy.
Overcome stress, improve relationships, and achieve your goals! Together we will build on your strengths and identify new, more effective strategies so that you can move past recent and/or past negative experiences and difficulties. In addition to more traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I offer cutting edge therapies such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and Energy Therapies, which can provide rapid relief from distress and can result in lasting change. Contact me if you would like to improve your life and get past struggles that are limiting you.
(720) 288-0936 View (720) 288-0936
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See more therapy options for Central West Denver, Denver

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.