EMDR Therapists in Florence, CO
![Photo of Elizabeth Miller, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a97a870-d6ca-4281-809c-305ad6e5c5d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Florence, CO 81226
I incorporate modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness practices to meet the needs of each unique client.
I am passionate about providing compassionate counseling services. I strive to help clients to achieve their personal goals through a comprehensive and empathetic counseling approach. I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to achieve their full potential. As a former educator and now, counselor, I enjoy helping youth (12 and up) and adults identify their strengths and move onto their next chapter by addressing barriers and overcoming traumas. I love helping clients work to become the best version of themselves.
I incorporate modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness practices to meet the needs of each unique client.
I am passionate about providing compassionate counseling services. I strive to help clients to achieve their personal goals through a comprehensive and empathetic counseling approach. I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to achieve their full potential. As a former educator and now, counselor, I enjoy helping youth (12 and up) and adults identify their strengths and move onto their next chapter by addressing barriers and overcoming traumas. I love helping clients work to become the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Cindy Suzanne Geiger - Time For Me, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d6f37a5-8d19-4797-9172-2f0b9cd42600/3/320x400.jpeg)
When you are feeling overwhelmed, not yourself, and disconnected from your family and friends it is time to take time for yourself and your wellness. At Time for Me, I specialize in difficult family relationships, managing anxiety and depression, healing from trauma, and adjustment to changes. Each client brings their own strengths, experiences and needs and receives individualized care that supports their healthy future. I enjoy working with adults, infants, young children, families, and seniors. I offer EMDR. I do not provide couple's counseling but can help individuals better their relationships. I am accepting new clients.
When you are feeling overwhelmed, not yourself, and disconnected from your family and friends it is time to take time for yourself and your wellness. At Time for Me, I specialize in difficult family relationships, managing anxiety and depression, healing from trauma, and adjustment to changes. Each client brings their own strengths, experiences and needs and receives individualized care that supports their healthy future. I enjoy working with adults, infants, young children, families, and seniors. I offer EMDR. I do not provide couple's counseling but can help individuals better their relationships. I am accepting new clients.
![Photo of Verena Johanna Burger Schmid, LPC, CACII, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca7f2da-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have an MA in Community Counseling from Adams State College, CO and 20+ years of experience in treating individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults, adolescents, children (starting age 6) and their families and/or caregivers. I can help you with depression, anxiety, acute/chronic trauma, mood disorders, relational problems like couples and/or family conflict, adjustment issues etc. I will meet you where you are at and assist you in reaching the goals that you find important to achieve. I believe every person has strengths and aim to help you uncover yours to enhance your well-being.
I have an MA in Community Counseling from Adams State College, CO and 20+ years of experience in treating individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults, adolescents, children (starting age 6) and their families and/or caregivers. I can help you with depression, anxiety, acute/chronic trauma, mood disorders, relational problems like couples and/or family conflict, adjustment issues etc. I will meet you where you are at and assist you in reaching the goals that you find important to achieve. I believe every person has strengths and aim to help you uncover yours to enhance your well-being.
![Photo of Jennifer M Vanhove - Life Compass Counseling, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/457bf798-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life Compass Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Florence, CO 81226
I work with adults of all ages. I continue to use a strengths based approach with all of my clients. You will be able to see situations in a different light, which in turn helps with healing. With a great deal of knowledge and experience surrounding trauma, I can help you learn to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and much more.
I work with adults of all ages. I continue to use a strengths based approach with all of my clients. You will be able to see situations in a different light, which in turn helps with healing. With a great deal of knowledge and experience surrounding trauma, I can help you learn to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and much more.
![Photo of Alyssa Klugh - Sacred Self Counseling, LLC, LPC, CASIII, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d73975e-f9b9-435e-9721-fd2517eeac58/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sacred Self Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CASIII, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Florence, CO 81226
Now accepting practicum and internship students. Everything you need already exists within you. The most important relationship we have is with ourselves. Together we will work to rediscover your sacred relationship with you. I can help you reclaim your identity by empowering you to create a deep, loving relationship with yourself leading you to have empowered relationships with others. I am a direct, pragmatic therapist who will work to process with you and practice skills to manage relationships and life.
Now accepting practicum and internship students. Everything you need already exists within you. The most important relationship we have is with ourselves. Together we will work to rediscover your sacred relationship with you. I can help you reclaim your identity by empowering you to create a deep, loving relationship with yourself leading you to have empowered relationships with others. I am a direct, pragmatic therapist who will work to process with you and practice skills to manage relationships and life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kimberlee Balagat - Willow Tree Counseling, LCSW, ADS, KAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce0c6a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Willow Tree Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADS, KAP
Verified Verified
Canon City, CO 81212
We utilized CBT, EMDR, and as well as other Intergrative approaches.
Now accepting practicum and internship students. Our private practice has two locations, in Pueblo and Canon City Colorado. We are an intimate group of therapists striving to meet individuals where they are in the journey to better mental health. Life challenges can be big or small, our staff of 4 social-work driven therapists hope to empower individuals through unique approaches. In life we sometimes discover stuck patterns in relationships and in our understanding of the world around us. Let us help you explore ways to sort through patterns and move forward.
We utilized CBT, EMDR, and as well as other Intergrative approaches.
Now accepting practicum and internship students. Our private practice has two locations, in Pueblo and Canon City Colorado. We are an intimate group of therapists striving to meet individuals where they are in the journey to better mental health. Life challenges can be big or small, our staff of 4 social-work driven therapists hope to empower individuals through unique approaches. In life we sometimes discover stuck patterns in relationships and in our understanding of the world around us. Let us help you explore ways to sort through patterns and move forward.
![Photo of Jenni Guentcheva - Goodneighbor LLC, LPC, LAC, NCACII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/414b19cf-327a-4595-b19e-7e8d6a664b0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Goodneighbor LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCACII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canon City, CO 81212
We, at Goodneighbor LLC, believe that all of us sometimes go through unusually stressful times and need timely, competent and accessible help. We provide exceptional trauma-informed psychotherapy and coaching, to include a brief, extremely effective proprietary program Accel Psy. Our outstanding licensed clinicians in both Colorado Springs and Canon City are here for you! We welcome individuals and families as clients, as well as new colleagues who support the highest standards of care and would like to specialize in trauma-focused family services.
We, at Goodneighbor LLC, believe that all of us sometimes go through unusually stressful times and need timely, competent and accessible help. We provide exceptional trauma-informed psychotherapy and coaching, to include a brief, extremely effective proprietary program Accel Psy. Our outstanding licensed clinicians in both Colorado Springs and Canon City are here for you! We welcome individuals and families as clients, as well as new colleagues who support the highest standards of care and would like to specialize in trauma-focused family services.
![Photo of Aurelia N Erivynn, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df8869fa-2d81-4be4-b74e-1e931d873999/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aurelia N Erivynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Canon City, CO 81212
Are you a woman who struggles with huge knots of worry no matter what you do? Are you working at finding YOUR peace but between feeling bombarded with seemingly endless news of anguish and fear splashed across the media, and wanting to fix negative patterns in your relationships, you’re left questioning everything you do? I offer a safe space for women to process through stress & anxiety from an open spiritual forum for self growth while integrating healthy coping skills for today’s times. I use an holistic approach to support you on your journey to raising self awareness, and inviting in new thought processes for a stronger you.
Are you a woman who struggles with huge knots of worry no matter what you do? Are you working at finding YOUR peace but between feeling bombarded with seemingly endless news of anguish and fear splashed across the media, and wanting to fix negative patterns in your relationships, you’re left questioning everything you do? I offer a safe space for women to process through stress & anxiety from an open spiritual forum for self growth while integrating healthy coping skills for today’s times. I use an holistic approach to support you on your journey to raising self awareness, and inviting in new thought processes for a stronger you.
![Photo of Jamie Soucie, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/805fb6f8-de5f-44be-88f8-0e12637bf481/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Soucie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canon City, CO 81212
I work to create a safe space for clients to discuss, process and experience emotions that may be uncomfortable. My goal is to develop a rapport that allows clients to make personal changes with support. It is essential that clients feel empowered to choose treatment interventions and develop a lifestyle that supports management of illness and/or symptoms. I want clients to improve the quality of their lives and relationships as a result of working through therapeutic processes, which can include trauma work, cognitive restructuring, dialectical behavior skills and emotional regulation.
I work to create a safe space for clients to discuss, process and experience emotions that may be uncomfortable. My goal is to develop a rapport that allows clients to make personal changes with support. It is essential that clients feel empowered to choose treatment interventions and develop a lifestyle that supports management of illness and/or symptoms. I want clients to improve the quality of their lives and relationships as a result of working through therapeutic processes, which can include trauma work, cognitive restructuring, dialectical behavior skills and emotional regulation.
![Photo of Amber Moyo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1fc0a33-8de8-4a9a-a2c4-33489c6b6ff3/1/320x400.png)
My name is Amber Moyo. I am an LPC in Colorado and an LPC-MHSP-S in Tennessee. I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety-related disorders. My primary approach to therapy is one based in psychoeducation, compassion, and building tools for resilience. My goal is to create an environment where clients can be themselves and feel supported. I am authentic and encourage my clients to do the same. I communicate with compassion and support but back it up with psychoeducation and gentle thought challenging.
My name is Amber Moyo. I am an LPC in Colorado and an LPC-MHSP-S in Tennessee. I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety-related disorders. My primary approach to therapy is one based in psychoeducation, compassion, and building tools for resilience. My goal is to create an environment where clients can be themselves and feel supported. I am authentic and encourage my clients to do the same. I communicate with compassion and support but back it up with psychoeducation and gentle thought challenging.
![Photo of Melissa Watley, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4869e94f-e176-4168-ae88-ba9c78d2469a/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed Mental Health and Addiction Counselor, I'm deeply committed to helping you break down the barriers that trouble you, and live a brighter and more fulfilling life. My ideal client is open and honest. I want you to feel that you are getting the most out of your sessions!
As a licensed Mental Health and Addiction Counselor, I'm deeply committed to helping you break down the barriers that trouble you, and live a brighter and more fulfilling life. My ideal client is open and honest. I want you to feel that you are getting the most out of your sessions!
![Photo of Trinda Hosselkus, Trinda Hosselkus, LPC-S, LAC, RPT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/407fb0e6-50a0-4202-a6a6-474bf78547ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trinda Hosselkus
Licensed Professional Counselor, Trinda Hosselkus, LPC-S, LAC, RPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canon City, CO 81212
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my hope is to provide a safe space where you are able to be vulnerable without the fear of judgment. I come from a person-centered lens with an understanding of the impact adverse life events have on our overall well-being. Being able to gain a sense of internal safety, while gaining the confidence to know you are able to manage uncomfortable feelings in an adaptive manner not only reduces trauma responses but also boosts efficacy around who you are as a person.
As a therapist, my hope is to provide a safe space where you are able to be vulnerable without the fear of judgment. I come from a person-centered lens with an understanding of the impact adverse life events have on our overall well-being. Being able to gain a sense of internal safety, while gaining the confidence to know you are able to manage uncomfortable feelings in an adaptive manner not only reduces trauma responses but also boosts efficacy around who you are as a person.
![Photo of Ida Seiferd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44c1d112-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer individual and family therapy in a variety of settings; including an office in Canon City and a mountain ranch near Guffey, depending on your interest and comfort level. I am committed to providing quality therapy, with a unique and individualized treatment approach. Check out my website for more information http://rosamondtherapy.com/
I offer individual and family therapy in a variety of settings; including an office in Canon City and a mountain ranch near Guffey, depending on your interest and comfort level. I am committed to providing quality therapy, with a unique and individualized treatment approach. Check out my website for more information http://rosamondtherapy.com/
![Photo of Clive Hallam - My Therapy Matters, LLC, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53b05859-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My Therapy Matters, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
Canon City, CO 81212
Life is meant to be enjoyed not just endured. Clive and his team of skilled and compassionate therapists believe that people matter, what they do matters and that with the right support they can be powerful change agents in their own lives. Our philosophy is that people are stronger than the problems they face. We strive to create a collaborative and empowering therapeutic environment to help you become successful. Therapy is more than managing symptoms or tolerating distress; it's an opportunity create a life this is filled with joy, peace, strength and the ability to be the best version of yourself.
Life is meant to be enjoyed not just endured. Clive and his team of skilled and compassionate therapists believe that people matter, what they do matters and that with the right support they can be powerful change agents in their own lives. Our philosophy is that people are stronger than the problems they face. We strive to create a collaborative and empowering therapeutic environment to help you become successful. Therapy is more than managing symptoms or tolerating distress; it's an opportunity create a life this is filled with joy, peace, strength and the ability to be the best version of yourself.
![Photo of Eric Hutchinson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e43fd31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or feeling the stress of a traumatic experience/life situation? Do you have recurring relationship problems? Do you feel like your life sometimes becomes unmanageable? Let me help. I'm a licensed psychologist in Colorado, specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, Post Traumatic Stress, and other trauma-related disorders and adjustment problems. If you are suffering, there is no reason you can't make it better. We will work together toward improved thinking, feeling and overall well-being.
Are you overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or feeling the stress of a traumatic experience/life situation? Do you have recurring relationship problems? Do you feel like your life sometimes becomes unmanageable? Let me help. I'm a licensed psychologist in Colorado, specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, Post Traumatic Stress, and other trauma-related disorders and adjustment problems. If you are suffering, there is no reason you can't make it better. We will work together toward improved thinking, feeling and overall well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Michelle D Morrissey, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b50c0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle D Morrissey
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Canon City, CO 81212 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In 2022, EMDR Therapy: An A-To-Z Guide for Interweaves; In 2016, EMDR-IGTP for Secondary Traumatic Stress Among First Responders; and in 2013, EMDR as an Integrative Approach for the Treatment of Separation Anxiety Disorder.
Parents can be imperfect, children can be cruel, and life can be unfair. The resulting trauma can make us feel like we are living life without the directions or making choices without conscious control, doomed to repeat bad decisions and poor choices; believing that we are not worthy or deserving of anything better. Sometimes we do not know why we are doing what we are doing and for the life of us, we cannot let it go and reinvent ourselves or change our future. If you have been struggling with please call our team for help.
In 2022, EMDR Therapy: An A-To-Z Guide for Interweaves; In 2016, EMDR-IGTP for Secondary Traumatic Stress Among First Responders; and in 2013, EMDR as an Integrative Approach for the Treatment of Separation Anxiety Disorder.
Parents can be imperfect, children can be cruel, and life can be unfair. The resulting trauma can make us feel like we are living life without the directions or making choices without conscious control, doomed to repeat bad decisions and poor choices; believing that we are not worthy or deserving of anything better. Sometimes we do not know why we are doing what we are doing and for the life of us, we cannot let it go and reinvent ourselves or change our future. If you have been struggling with please call our team for help.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Katie Leiter, LCSW, EMDR, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/946c25be-a6aa-44b1-85af-b15c114b557b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Leiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204 (Online Only)
We are all a product of our stories; the good, the bad, and everything between. Many times, we aren’t aware of how rooted we are in past beliefs and relationship narratives or how deeply they’ve impacted our current choices and decisions. Therapy allows us to uncover the different sides of ourselves, to unlearn unhelpful beliefs and to emphasize positive ones. Together, we can create a collaborative environment that will help you gain a greater sense of self-awareness. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression and PTSD with a range of modalities including EMDR therapy, IFS and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
We are all a product of our stories; the good, the bad, and everything between. Many times, we aren’t aware of how rooted we are in past beliefs and relationship narratives or how deeply they’ve impacted our current choices and decisions. Therapy allows us to uncover the different sides of ourselves, to unlearn unhelpful beliefs and to emphasize positive ones. Together, we can create a collaborative environment that will help you gain a greater sense of self-awareness. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression and PTSD with a range of modalities including EMDR therapy, IFS and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
![Photo of Hannah Loftus, LMSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2da8ddc-2d74-4b75-9b34-8fb489e5817b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Loftus
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I use EMDR, IFS and somatic therapy to help you find long-lasting results and believe that trauma does not have to be in the driver’s seat of your life.
You often find yourself wondering, “what will it take for me to feel normal?” It feels like you’ve tried everything, including therapy, but you can’t seem to “get it together” like everyone else and feel constantly on edge. Being abandoned by your partner or friends is constantly on your mind. You might know in your head that you don’t need to be anxious about the things that keep you up at night, but your body tells a different story with the knots in your stomach and tightness in your chest. All of this leads you to feel like it’s impossible to break out of old patterns. You’re ready to dive in deep and find long-lasting relief.
I use EMDR, IFS and somatic therapy to help you find long-lasting results and believe that trauma does not have to be in the driver’s seat of your life.
You often find yourself wondering, “what will it take for me to feel normal?” It feels like you’ve tried everything, including therapy, but you can’t seem to “get it together” like everyone else and feel constantly on edge. Being abandoned by your partner or friends is constantly on your mind. You might know in your head that you don’t need to be anxious about the things that keep you up at night, but your body tells a different story with the knots in your stomach and tightness in your chest. All of this leads you to feel like it’s impossible to break out of old patterns. You’re ready to dive in deep and find long-lasting relief.
![Photo of Erin Boylan, LPC, ATR-P, EMDR, PAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/187146f9-4f70-4eff-b3f4-fa693c4a054d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Boylan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P, EMDR, PAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (Online Only)
My approach uses EMDR & integrating psychedelic medicine to help you move through & past the trauma.
Do you feel stuck in the trauma & feel broken? Are your symptoms not resolving through traditional talk therapy? Are you interested in the healing powers of plant & psychedelic medicine? When the ceremony closes the journey begins, transformational healing happens on a soul level, let’s integrate. Life certainly has a way of presenting what can feel like insurmountable challenges that distract us from our true nature. When we hit rock bottom it creates a crack for our greatness to flood through though often the pain of breaking distracts us in an unbearable way. Together we'll mend those cracks with gold.
My approach uses EMDR & integrating psychedelic medicine to help you move through & past the trauma.
Do you feel stuck in the trauma & feel broken? Are your symptoms not resolving through traditional talk therapy? Are you interested in the healing powers of plant & psychedelic medicine? When the ceremony closes the journey begins, transformational healing happens on a soul level, let’s integrate. Life certainly has a way of presenting what can feel like insurmountable challenges that distract us from our true nature. When we hit rock bottom it creates a crack for our greatness to flood through though often the pain of breaking distracts us in an unbearable way. Together we'll mend those cracks with gold.
![Photo of Erica Viggiano, LCSW, CACIII, RDN, E-RYT, C-IAYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c75e414-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Viggiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CACIII, RDN, E-RYT, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
When it's helpful I integrate mindfulness and body focused approaches such as yoga and EMDR to healing.
Modern life holds many challenges that can take us out of balance with ourselves and those that we care about. Sometimes life's challenges and transitions become difficult to overcome on our own. I offer support and a comfortable environment to help you navigate your way to a place that feels better. In practice for over 20 years, I help adults and adolescents with a variety of challenges including, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma , eating and body image issues, relationship challenges and addiction problems. Together, we can find the way to a path that will bring you more peace, confidence and satisfaction.
When it's helpful I integrate mindfulness and body focused approaches such as yoga and EMDR to healing.
Modern life holds many challenges that can take us out of balance with ourselves and those that we care about. Sometimes life's challenges and transitions become difficult to overcome on our own. I offer support and a comfortable environment to help you navigate your way to a place that feels better. In practice for over 20 years, I help adults and adolescents with a variety of challenges including, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma , eating and body image issues, relationship challenges and addiction problems. Together, we can find the way to a path that will bring you more peace, confidence and satisfaction.
See more therapy options for Florence
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Florence
- Canon City
- Colorado Springs
- Crestone
- Divide
- Fort Carson
- Fountain
- Manitou Springs
- Pueblo
- Pueblo West
- Woodland Park
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.