Photo of Marnie Chamblin - Animal Assisted Interventions, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Animal Assisted Interventions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80231
In addition to animal assisted CBT and EMDR, I also specialize in life coaching and skill building such as job searching and training, parenting, academic achievement, affordable housing/healthcare, etc.
I am accepting new patients! Animal Assisted Therapy is a goal-directed intervention in which an animal is an integral part of the treatment process. AAT is directed, delivered and documented by a licensed health/human service professional with a specific clinical goal for a particular individual in mind. An animal assisted therapist operates from a theoretical foundation and facilitates change in a client through the clients interactions with an animal. Animal Assisted Interventions operates from a cognitive behavioral approach utilizing canines to effectively assist in a clients journey through the stages of change.
In addition to animal assisted CBT and EMDR, I also specialize in life coaching and skill building such as job searching and training, parenting, academic achievement, affordable housing/healthcare, etc.
I am accepting new patients! Animal Assisted Therapy is a goal-directed intervention in which an animal is an integral part of the treatment process. AAT is directed, delivered and documented by a licensed health/human service professional with a specific clinical goal for a particular individual in mind. An animal assisted therapist operates from a theoretical foundation and facilitates change in a client through the clients interactions with an animal. Animal Assisted Interventions operates from a cognitive behavioral approach utilizing canines to effectively assist in a clients journey through the stages of change.
(720) 753-5785 View (720) 753-5785
Photo of Hannah Pitts, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Pitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Hannah has provided trauma-informed care to children, teens, and adults for nearly ten years. She is an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist who works through an attachment lens. She provides high quality care for clients of all ages in a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. Although Hannah is easy going and kind, she is unafraid to sit with you and/or your family through the challenging and emotionally charged work of therapy.
Hannah has provided trauma-informed care to children, teens, and adults for nearly ten years. She is an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist who works through an attachment lens. She provides high quality care for clients of all ages in a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. Although Hannah is easy going and kind, she is unafraid to sit with you and/or your family through the challenging and emotionally charged work of therapy.
(720) 463-1559 View (720) 463-1559
Photo of Johnna Vernon, LMFT , EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Johnna Vernon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I provide EMDR, pre and postnatal support, individual, marriage and family therapy.
I whole heartedly believe in the therapeutic process to create lasting change in people's lives. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, children and individuals in a variety of settings. I use many different techniques, including EMDR, to support clients through their healing, reduce symptoms and create happy, fulfilling lives. I believe that YOU have an innate ability to heal and thrive. My role, as your therapist, is to help you feel empowered by accessing your own mind/body wisdom to bring balance and peace into your life.
I provide EMDR, pre and postnatal support, individual, marriage and family therapy.
I whole heartedly believe in the therapeutic process to create lasting change in people's lives. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, children and individuals in a variety of settings. I use many different techniques, including EMDR, to support clients through their healing, reduce symptoms and create happy, fulfilling lives. I believe that YOU have an innate ability to heal and thrive. My role, as your therapist, is to help you feel empowered by accessing your own mind/body wisdom to bring balance and peace into your life.
(719) 215-5803 View (719) 215-5803
Photo of Esme F Yarnell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esme F Yarnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
I use Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness skills, and animal-assisted interventions with clients, while also focusing on individual and family strengths/supports.
As a queer counselor, I look to empower clients to love and embrace their authentic selves. I work collaboratively with clients to develop a plan to manage challenges, make changes, and build skills. I am trained in both CBT and EMDR and use these modalities in coordination with mind-body practices with individuals 12 years of age and up to make long-lasting changes. Additionally, I provide one-time evaluations for GAC (gender-affirming care) and ESA (emotional support animal) letters.
I use Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness skills, and animal-assisted interventions with clients, while also focusing on individual and family strengths/supports.
As a queer counselor, I look to empower clients to love and embrace their authentic selves. I work collaboratively with clients to develop a plan to manage challenges, make changes, and build skills. I am trained in both CBT and EMDR and use these modalities in coordination with mind-body practices with individuals 12 years of age and up to make long-lasting changes. Additionally, I provide one-time evaluations for GAC (gender-affirming care) and ESA (emotional support animal) letters.
(720) 330-3682 View (720) 330-3682
Photo of Kimberly A Margolis, LSW
Kimberly A Margolis
LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80224
My patients rave about EMDR and call it a quick fix because it helps to quickly dissipate negative emotion.
I bring 20 years of experience and have treated tens of thousands of patients! I am high energy and passionate about helping people embark on the journey to find their true selves and life path; whether it relates to behavior, family, relationships, addiction, career and any other issue that one may find adversity. I've been told I have a gift to quickly get the core of peoples struggles in order to help them find resolution. I use behavioral strategies to help people achieve immediate change, then dive deep into analytical work which helps the changes become permanent. CALL TODAY!
My patients rave about EMDR and call it a quick fix because it helps to quickly dissipate negative emotion.
I bring 20 years of experience and have treated tens of thousands of patients! I am high energy and passionate about helping people embark on the journey to find their true selves and life path; whether it relates to behavior, family, relationships, addiction, career and any other issue that one may find adversity. I've been told I have a gift to quickly get the core of peoples struggles in order to help them find resolution. I use behavioral strategies to help people achieve immediate change, then dive deep into analytical work which helps the changes become permanent. CALL TODAY!
(303) 622-5468 View (303) 622-5468
Photo of Higher Sights Counseling - Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management, MSW, MA, LCSW, LPC, LAC, Counselor
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management
Counselor, MSW, MA, LCSW, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
We use CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, and more!.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
We use CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, and more!.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 796-4704 View (720) 796-4704
Photo of Stephanie Heitkemper - Resilient Minds Counseling, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, FT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Resilient Minds Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, FT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80238
Stephanie is an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, an Approved Consultant, and a Registered Play Therapy- Supervisor (RPT-S) credential from the Association of Play Therapy (APT).
Resilient Minds Counseling believes that within each client is innate resilience and the capacity for healing within, to support that believe Resilient Minds Counseling utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) often in their therapeutic approach. EMDR is a transformative modality that places client's in control of their journey. In this safe, non-invasive, structured, yet flexible framework, EMDR helps address and resolve emotional wounds, which promotes healing and personal growth.
Stephanie is an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, an Approved Consultant, and a Registered Play Therapy- Supervisor (RPT-S) credential from the Association of Play Therapy (APT).
Resilient Minds Counseling believes that within each client is innate resilience and the capacity for healing within, to support that believe Resilient Minds Counseling utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) often in their therapeutic approach. EMDR is a transformative modality that places client's in control of their journey. In this safe, non-invasive, structured, yet flexible framework, EMDR helps address and resolve emotional wounds, which promotes healing and personal growth.
(720) 594-6686 View (720) 594-6686
Photo of Justin Malkin - Littleton Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Littleton Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80220
Malkin is a trauma trained therapist specializing in EMDR and DBT.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
Malkin is a trauma trained therapist specializing in EMDR and DBT.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
(720) 915-4850 View (720) 915-4850
Photo of Alexis Olson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80123  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, teens, and adults using a variety of practices that include Play Therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
I believe that children and adults alike have the potential for growth, healing, and living a happy successful life. I offer a compassionate, inviting atmosphere where you will feel safe, heard, and relaxed. Children and adults can feel welcome to be their complete, authentic selves. I aim to meet you exactly where you are in life and we can work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Whether that means talking, coloring, going for a walk, listening to music, or playing a game, etc. we can do it together as you embark on your journey of growth and healing.
I have worked with children, teens, and adults using a variety of practices that include Play Therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
I believe that children and adults alike have the potential for growth, healing, and living a happy successful life. I offer a compassionate, inviting atmosphere where you will feel safe, heard, and relaxed. Children and adults can feel welcome to be their complete, authentic selves. I aim to meet you exactly where you are in life and we can work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Whether that means talking, coloring, going for a walk, listening to music, or playing a game, etc. we can do it together as you embark on your journey of growth and healing.
(719) 745-4520 View (719) 745-4520
Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C., LPC, LCSW, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(719) 394-9745 View (719) 394-9745
Photo of Julie Hutson, LPC, CCPT-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Hutson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCPT-II
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80012
I am trained in complex grief therapy, clinical trauma therapy (CCTP-II), EMDR, IFS, and Neurobiological Therapy (nervous system).
Are you seeking to reconnect with yourself and discover a meaningful path in your life? Everyone wants freedom. Freedom from pain, doubt, shame, memories. Your healing journey is about being able to break free of negative beliefs about yourself, others, and the world. You are meant to be happy and to feel Love. I understand how early attachments and neurobiology can shape our experiences and affect how we interpret ourselves and the world around us. I can help you understand how experiences are stored in the nervous system and how self-awareness and self-compassion can guide healing. You are the expert on what is right for you.
I am trained in complex grief therapy, clinical trauma therapy (CCTP-II), EMDR, IFS, and Neurobiological Therapy (nervous system).
Are you seeking to reconnect with yourself and discover a meaningful path in your life? Everyone wants freedom. Freedom from pain, doubt, shame, memories. Your healing journey is about being able to break free of negative beliefs about yourself, others, and the world. You are meant to be happy and to feel Love. I understand how early attachments and neurobiology can shape our experiences and affect how we interpret ourselves and the world around us. I can help you understand how experiences are stored in the nervous system and how self-awareness and self-compassion can guide healing. You are the expert on what is right for you.
(970) 660-3671 View (970) 660-3671
Photo of Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual), MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80239
My systemic-focused approach includes Gestalt Therapy, Family Constellation, EMDR, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
My systemic-focused approach includes Gestalt Therapy, Family Constellation, EMDR, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
(205) 953-4747 View (205) 953-4747
Photo of Richard F Spiegle, PsyD, MEd, BS, Psychologist
Richard F Spiegle
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80217
My training for my doctorate was in child and family clinical practice and I obtained post-doctoral training in forensic psychology. I also received over 300 hour of training at the Neurosculpting Institute. In addition to my clinical and forensic practice, I have provided consultation services in such settings as Head Start, Federal Corrections, and Child Protection Services and for agencies serving the developmentally disabled. A large part of my practice has always included providing psychotherapy for children, adolescents, couples, and families. I have been married for over 30 years and have seven children.
My training for my doctorate was in child and family clinical practice and I obtained post-doctoral training in forensic psychology. I also received over 300 hour of training at the Neurosculpting Institute. In addition to my clinical and forensic practice, I have provided consultation services in such settings as Head Start, Federal Corrections, and Child Protection Services and for agencies serving the developmentally disabled. A large part of my practice has always included providing psychotherapy for children, adolescents, couples, and families. I have been married for over 30 years and have seven children.
(720) 538-9812 x1 View (720) 538-9812 x1
Photo of Kaitie Vader, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitie Vader
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
I am a trans and queer therapist and I greatly believe in the power of having a therapist that shares identities or experiences similar to your own! I work with trans and queer youth and adults. Living in a marginalized identity brings many challenges and I offer support, skills, and a systems perspective to navigate those barriers-while also celebrating joy, resilience, successes, and all parts of your identity. I specialize in gender affirming therapy, trauma therapy, and working with historically marginalized folx. My first priorities are safety and trust, so that we can move towards healing and taking up space!
I am a trans and queer therapist and I greatly believe in the power of having a therapist that shares identities or experiences similar to your own! I work with trans and queer youth and adults. Living in a marginalized identity brings many challenges and I offer support, skills, and a systems perspective to navigate those barriers-while also celebrating joy, resilience, successes, and all parts of your identity. I specialize in gender affirming therapy, trauma therapy, and working with historically marginalized folx. My first priorities are safety and trust, so that we can move towards healing and taking up space!
(720) 797-5358 View (720) 797-5358
Photo of Emily Schleich - All Minds Counseling, MS , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
All Minds Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
We are a group practice providing individual, family, and couples therapy to neurodiverse families. Our passion is providing mental health services to children and adults with neuodiversity to help them find a true authentic self while balancing stressors of every day life. It can be difficult to find the care you need to address the complexities of co-occuring diagnosis’, which can make finding the right provider feel overwhelming. Finding a therapist who understands how your brain works differently is beneficial to create the change you want in your life. We are a trauma informed and neurodiverse affirming therapeutic practice.
We are a group practice providing individual, family, and couples therapy to neurodiverse families. Our passion is providing mental health services to children and adults with neuodiversity to help them find a true authentic self while balancing stressors of every day life. It can be difficult to find the care you need to address the complexities of co-occuring diagnosis’, which can make finding the right provider feel overwhelming. Finding a therapist who understands how your brain works differently is beneficial to create the change you want in your life. We are a trauma informed and neurodiverse affirming therapeutic practice.
(720) 605-9699 View (720) 605-9699
Photo of Becca Elliston - Mindfully - Denver, CO, LPC, LPCC, LISW, LSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindfully - Denver, CO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LPCC, LISW, LSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
At Mindfully, we are dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success, faster.
At Mindfully, we are dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success, faster.
(720) 500-7091 View (720) 500-7091
Photo of Nancy Cason - Insights, Colorado Assessment & Therapy, Psychologist
Insights, Colorado Assessment & Therapy
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
We have immediate therapy openings for clients who have Health First Medicaid, Colorado Access, or CCHA, thanks to the addition of two new therapists to our team: Makyyah Dawkins MSW, and Samantha Gutherless, MA, LPCC. Makyyah Dawkins is passionate about working with youth, the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent clients, and expanding mental health services to diverse populations. Sam Gutherless is a has worked with young and middle aged adults and is passionate about social justice advocacy and identity work.
We have immediate therapy openings for clients who have Health First Medicaid, Colorado Access, or CCHA, thanks to the addition of two new therapists to our team: Makyyah Dawkins MSW, and Samantha Gutherless, MA, LPCC. Makyyah Dawkins is passionate about working with youth, the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent clients, and expanding mental health services to diverse populations. Sam Gutherless is a has worked with young and middle aged adults and is passionate about social justice advocacy and identity work.
(720) 706-4114 View (720) 706-4114
Photo of Tom Giles - Westside Behavioral Care, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Westside Behavioral Care
PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
(303) 647-4369 View (303) 647-4369
Photo of Alexis AP Ball, MAEdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis AP Ball
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
I named my business Life Journey Counseling because I believe that we are all on a journey. We typically have ideas about where we are headed and how we will get there, but life often deals us something different...something we didn't plan for. How we handle that is the key to our own personal growth. I am inspired by the power of people to help themselves, but also a firm believer in the importance of having support and help when we need it. I help people through the therapeutic relationship we form to realize their full potential.
I named my business Life Journey Counseling because I believe that we are all on a journey. We typically have ideas about where we are headed and how we will get there, but life often deals us something different...something we didn't plan for. How we handle that is the key to our own personal growth. I am inspired by the power of people to help themselves, but also a firm believer in the importance of having support and help when we need it. I help people through the therapeutic relationship we form to realize their full potential.
(720) 213-5504 View (720) 213-5504
Photo of Dr. Ashlie Bell - NeuroGrove Integrative Neurotherapy, PhD, MD, ND, LCSW, BCN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
NeuroGrove Integrative Neurotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MD, ND, LCSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219
At NeuroGrove, we offer integrative neurotherapy, psychotherapy, naturopathic, and somatic movement services that recognize the interconnectedness of the brain, mind, and body. Our approach aims to restore balance and harmony for complete well-being, addressing cognitive and emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, attention deficits, trauma and memory issues. Many of our clients seek our services when conventional medicine or psychotherapy alone haven't fully addressed their needs.
At NeuroGrove, we offer integrative neurotherapy, psychotherapy, naturopathic, and somatic movement services that recognize the interconnectedness of the brain, mind, and body. Our approach aims to restore balance and harmony for complete well-being, addressing cognitive and emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, attention deficits, trauma and memory issues. Many of our clients seek our services when conventional medicine or psychotherapy alone haven't fully addressed their needs.
(303) 828-7473 View (303) 828-7473
1
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.