EMDR Therapists in Frederick, CO

Photo of Courtney McCall, MA, LPC, EAP/EAL, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney McCall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EAP/EAL, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, CO 80530
Now offering Clinical Supervision for LPCC's! Through my holistic approach to therapy, I see you as a whole person on a path toward healing in a compassionate, collaborative, respectful, and non-judgmental manner - you can learn that success is possible! I primarily offer integrative therapies, including equine-assisted psychotherapy (horses as co-facilitators), ecotherapy (nature-based), expressive arts, somatic (mind-body), mindfulness (being in the present), EMDR, and relational therapy (improving relationship functioning). I specialize in working with clients ages 8 - 85 who would like to live a life free of pain and struggle.
Now offering Clinical Supervision for LPCC's! Through my holistic approach to therapy, I see you as a whole person on a path toward healing in a compassionate, collaborative, respectful, and non-judgmental manner - you can learn that success is possible! I primarily offer integrative therapies, including equine-assisted psychotherapy (horses as co-facilitators), ecotherapy (nature-based), expressive arts, somatic (mind-body), mindfulness (being in the present), EMDR, and relational therapy (improving relationship functioning). I specialize in working with clients ages 8 - 85 who would like to live a life free of pain and struggle.
(720) 897-5631 View (720) 897-5631
Photo of René White, MA, LPC, CAClll, Licensed Professional Counselor
René White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAClll
Verified Verified
Frederick, CO 80504
CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focus Therapy, EMDR/Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Imago Relationship Therapy, DBT/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Body/Mind Centering, Feldenkrais Awareness, Mindfulness and Awareness Practice, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in Individual and Couples Therapies. I maintain a private practice in Boulder, Colorado and am a graduate of Naropa University. With over 21yrs of experience the therapeutic approach I use is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. As needed, I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focus Therapy, EMDR/Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Imago Relationship Therapy, DBT/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Body/Mind Centering, Feldenkrais Awareness, Mindfulness and Awareness Practice, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in Individual and Couples Therapies. I maintain a private practice in Boulder, Colorado and am a graduate of Naropa University. With over 21yrs of experience the therapeutic approach I use is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. As needed, I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(720) 513-2643 View (720) 513-2643
Photo of Erica Faulhaber - New Directions Colorado, MA, NCC, CEDS, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Directions Colorado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CEDS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, CO 80504
EMDR + Traditional Talk Therapy Options available.
Pressure to be perfect with food, people, job, achievements, sports, communication & appearance? The struggle with food is trickling into your other relationships, social life, finances, job, personal life. I want to hear your story, find the best possible solutions together to remove obstacle of struggling with food and your body. Let's create an overall improved view of food that will in turn benefit you in all areas of life! It is not uncommon to experience both trauma along with food and body struggles. Restoration IS possible - mind, body, heart and soul. Feel whole again...not holes in you, your relationships and your life.
EMDR + Traditional Talk Therapy Options available.
Pressure to be perfect with food, people, job, achievements, sports, communication & appearance? The struggle with food is trickling into your other relationships, social life, finances, job, personal life. I want to hear your story, find the best possible solutions together to remove obstacle of struggling with food and your body. Let's create an overall improved view of food that will in turn benefit you in all areas of life! It is not uncommon to experience both trauma along with food and body struggles. Restoration IS possible - mind, body, heart and soul. Feel whole again...not holes in you, your relationships and your life.
(720) 306-1631 View (720) 306-1631
Photo of Gaby Ortiz, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Gaby Ortiz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, CO 80516
Feeling lost? Feeling hopeless? Life is hard at times. We are all fighting our own unique battles. But your story is significant, and so is your journey toward healing. Whether you are navigating the complexities of relationships, coping with anxiety, depression, other mental health issues, or simply seeking personal growth, together we will find the path toward positive change. My goal is to empower you to embrace your narrative, rewrite the chapters that no longer serve you, and cultivate a life of authenticity and resilience.
Feeling lost? Feeling hopeless? Life is hard at times. We are all fighting our own unique battles. But your story is significant, and so is your journey toward healing. Whether you are navigating the complexities of relationships, coping with anxiety, depression, other mental health issues, or simply seeking personal growth, together we will find the path toward positive change. My goal is to empower you to embrace your narrative, rewrite the chapters that no longer serve you, and cultivate a life of authenticity and resilience.
(720) 753-4416 View (720) 753-4416
Photo of Caitlin Gray, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, CO 80504
If you've been contemplating counseling, now is the time! As a Christian Therapist, I believe that God desires so much more for us than we are currently experiencing. If you're feeling heavy, life can be lighter. If you're struggling to see change in your life, a new more peaceful life is possible. Your desires, goals and dreams for life are not selfish, and I believe that Christ calls us to live life to the full. If your life does not feel "full", change is possible. You were meant for more.
If you've been contemplating counseling, now is the time! As a Christian Therapist, I believe that God desires so much more for us than we are currently experiencing. If you're feeling heavy, life can be lighter. If you're struggling to see change in your life, a new more peaceful life is possible. Your desires, goals and dreams for life are not selfish, and I believe that Christ calls us to live life to the full. If your life does not feel "full", change is possible. You were meant for more.
(720) 597-8028 View (720) 597-8028

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bonnie Goetz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Goetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Firestone, CO 80504
I use practices such as EMDR, mindfulness, archetypal theory, communication skills, emotion regulation techniques, tools for increasing self-awareness, dreamwork, and working with inner parts.
I work with sensitive clients who are experiencing struggles with anxiety, depression and relationships. This includes “people pleasing”, difficulties with self-compassion, navigating relationships that may be clouded by the tendency to highly value harmonious relationships, struggling with issues related to Narcissistic abuse, trying to “fit in” to a world that often feels draining and overstimulating, having difficulty speaking up in their relationships because they’d rather avoid conflict, and who are wanting to explore what the invitation of their symptom(s) or problem might be.
I use practices such as EMDR, mindfulness, archetypal theory, communication skills, emotion regulation techniques, tools for increasing self-awareness, dreamwork, and working with inner parts.
I work with sensitive clients who are experiencing struggles with anxiety, depression and relationships. This includes “people pleasing”, difficulties with self-compassion, navigating relationships that may be clouded by the tendency to highly value harmonious relationships, struggling with issues related to Narcissistic abuse, trying to “fit in” to a world that often feels draining and overstimulating, having difficulty speaking up in their relationships because they’d rather avoid conflict, and who are wanting to explore what the invitation of their symptom(s) or problem might be.
(720) 740-8054 View (720) 740-8054
Photo of Sam Field - Sam Field | Field Therapy, MA, LPC, LAC, EMDR, Counselor
Sam Field | Field Therapy
Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80504
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 Lisa G. Nelson, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa G. Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, CIMHP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Firestone, CO 80504
I am a certified EMDR therapist- to help clients with chronic pain and trauma.
These are difficult times. It's hard to find a place where you are seen and important! You matter. Your thoughts and perspectives are valuable. In thinking about your needs and your way of viewing the world, we will work together to define and clarify a path for your future. This new path will be a constant part of how we approach therapy together. By focusing on your needs and values we can find ways to heal your heart and mind with a sense of hope and health. I look forward to hearing from you and learning about your concerns as well as assisting you to make life fulfilling and meaningful.
I am a certified EMDR therapist- to help clients with chronic pain and trauma.
These are difficult times. It's hard to find a place where you are seen and important! You matter. Your thoughts and perspectives are valuable. In thinking about your needs and your way of viewing the world, we will work together to define and clarify a path for your future. This new path will be a constant part of how we approach therapy together. By focusing on your needs and values we can find ways to heal your heart and mind with a sense of hope and health. I look forward to hearing from you and learning about your concerns as well as assisting you to make life fulfilling and meaningful.
(720) 613-5872 View (720) 613-5872
Photo of Anthony James Cataldi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony James Cataldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80504
I am currently offering Individual, Family, and Group Therapy. My Individual Therapy work focuses on issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Trauma, Mood Issues, and others. I offer EMDR treatment which is very effective in treating PTSD symptoms and treatment-resistant mood issues. My Group Therapy programs include Wilderness Therapy Programs and, newly introduced groups which focus on RPG (role-playing game)/Game Therapy. My RPG Groups focus on social skills, impulse control, and collaborative story-telling. I am currently accepting new clients for Teen and Adult groups.
I am currently offering Individual, Family, and Group Therapy. My Individual Therapy work focuses on issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Trauma, Mood Issues, and others. I offer EMDR treatment which is very effective in treating PTSD symptoms and treatment-resistant mood issues. My Group Therapy programs include Wilderness Therapy Programs and, newly introduced groups which focus on RPG (role-playing game)/Game Therapy. My RPG Groups focus on social skills, impulse control, and collaborative story-telling. I am currently accepting new clients for Teen and Adult groups.
(720) 784-5341 View (720) 784-5341
Photo of Mica Arnett, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mica Arnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80504  (Online Only)
Using EMDR and tailored approaches, we'll address dissociation, anxiety, and trauma, helping you maintain your edge while finding inner peace.
Are you excelling in your life but feeling disconnected from yourself? Do you find yourself going through the motions, efficiently handling tasks, yet feeling oddly detached? You've mastered the art of pushing through, but at what cost? For high-achievers like you, the relentless pursuit of excellence can lead to a paradox: outward success coupled with inner emptiness. You've climbed the ladder, but something feels missing. The coping mechanisms that propelled you forward – perfectionism, hyper-focus, emotional detachment – may now be holding you back from a truly fulfilling life.
Using EMDR and tailored approaches, we'll address dissociation, anxiety, and trauma, helping you maintain your edge while finding inner peace.
Are you excelling in your life but feeling disconnected from yourself? Do you find yourself going through the motions, efficiently handling tasks, yet feeling oddly detached? You've mastered the art of pushing through, but at what cost? For high-achievers like you, the relentless pursuit of excellence can lead to a paradox: outward success coupled with inner emptiness. You've climbed the ladder, but something feels missing. The coping mechanisms that propelled you forward – perfectionism, hyper-focus, emotional detachment – may now be holding you back from a truly fulfilling life.
(970) 512-0802 View (970) 512-0802
Photo of Gail Margolis - Gail Margolis, Wholistic Psychotherapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail Margolis, Wholistic Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80504
I weave together many different modalities based on the need: Hakomi, EMDR, psychedelic assisted therapy, Ayurveda, astrology, yoga, energy medicine, etc.
My passion and gift is supporting others in the healing, growth, and awakening process. I create a safe, loving, and nonjudgemental space​ to work together. I offer wholistic psychotherapy, focusing on supporting your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. I work with adults who are interested in healing unresolved emotions or trauma, developing self-awareness and self-compassion, and cultivating a thriving, authentic, and fulfilling life. I facilitate deep inner work in session and offer tools for you to practice in your daily life.
I weave together many different modalities based on the need: Hakomi, EMDR, psychedelic assisted therapy, Ayurveda, astrology, yoga, energy medicine, etc.
My passion and gift is supporting others in the healing, growth, and awakening process. I create a safe, loving, and nonjudgemental space​ to work together. I offer wholistic psychotherapy, focusing on supporting your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. I work with adults who are interested in healing unresolved emotions or trauma, developing self-awareness and self-compassion, and cultivating a thriving, authentic, and fulfilling life. I facilitate deep inner work in session and offer tools for you to practice in your daily life.
(203) 533-4639 View (203) 533-4639
Photo of Brynn Miller Håkon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brynn Miller Håkon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80504
In addition to having extensive training in body-based psychotherapy, I am also trained in Ketamine Assisted Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy, CBT, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
I am passionate about offering individuals the opportunity to reconnect, strengthen the gifts they have, and to Thrive. I established Thrive, my group practice, in 2012. I work with clients of all ages from diverse backgrounds - those who are striving to bring their lives and dreams together - to help them achieve happy and healthy relationships. I specializes in body focused effective treatment for trauma, and evidenced based treatment for OCD, phobias, and anxiety.
In addition to having extensive training in body-based psychotherapy, I am also trained in Ketamine Assisted Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy, CBT, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
I am passionate about offering individuals the opportunity to reconnect, strengthen the gifts they have, and to Thrive. I established Thrive, my group practice, in 2012. I work with clients of all ages from diverse backgrounds - those who are striving to bring their lives and dreams together - to help them achieve happy and healthy relationships. I specializes in body focused effective treatment for trauma, and evidenced based treatment for OCD, phobias, and anxiety.
(303) 732-6813 View (303) 732-6813
Photo of Lisa Hassin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Hassin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Niwot, CO 80504
I have 30 years of experience treating adults and families. I use an authentic and compassionate approach, celebrating diversity and differences. My modalities include EMDR, CBT, DBT, nonviolent communication, nature, spirituality, art, play and mindfulness. I specialize in trauma, family change, depression, personal growth, addiction recovery and anxiety.
I have 30 years of experience treating adults and families. I use an authentic and compassionate approach, celebrating diversity and differences. My modalities include EMDR, CBT, DBT, nonviolent communication, nature, spirituality, art, play and mindfulness. I specialize in trauma, family change, depression, personal growth, addiction recovery and anxiety.
(720) 619-2931 View (720) 619-2931
Photo of Mileah Koudele Harrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mileah Koudele Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Firestone, CO 80504
Please know that if you are struggling with mood, work, family, relationship, and/or parenting issues, you do NOT have to struggle alone. I have found that people often suffer "in silence" and that this can greatly reduce your ability to see viable options to problems. Likewise, sometimes people continue their life feeling chronically distressed and think this is "normal." Know that you are not alone and that counseling can help you create a better life by helping you create options and opportunities for solving life problems.
Please know that if you are struggling with mood, work, family, relationship, and/or parenting issues, you do NOT have to struggle alone. I have found that people often suffer "in silence" and that this can greatly reduce your ability to see viable options to problems. Likewise, sometimes people continue their life feeling chronically distressed and think this is "normal." Know that you are not alone and that counseling can help you create a better life by helping you create options and opportunities for solving life problems.
(303) 720-7986 View (303) 720-7986
Photo of Dr. Janelle V O'Boyle, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Janelle V O'Boyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, CO 80514
My expertise comes from over 26 years of experience as a licensed professional helping individuals navigate changes in their lives, deal with traumatic events, and cope with the difficulties of day-to-day life. Sometimes our worries and sadness can feel consuming. In my practice the goal of treatment is to help manage feelings of anxiety, depression and pain so that you can work towards a more satisfying and productive life. I enjoy working with children and teens as well as adults, catering my approach to the individual needs of the client.
My expertise comes from over 26 years of experience as a licensed professional helping individuals navigate changes in their lives, deal with traumatic events, and cope with the difficulties of day-to-day life. Sometimes our worries and sadness can feel consuming. In my practice the goal of treatment is to help manage feelings of anxiety, depression and pain so that you can work towards a more satisfying and productive life. I enjoy working with children and teens as well as adults, catering my approach to the individual needs of the client.
(970) 300-5087 View (970) 300-5087
Photo of Becky Paskind, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Paskind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80504  (Online Only)
Your eldering can and should be vibrant and happy. For a long time, we believed development stopped when an individual entered adulthood. This is far from true. Not all the transitions of middle and later life are easy or welcome. No one has to feel depressed, alone, bored, isolated and forgotten. I support individuals, couples, families and caregivers as they navigate the important transitions of later life. Later life is a time of dynamic personal change and growth.
Your eldering can and should be vibrant and happy. For a long time, we believed development stopped when an individual entered adulthood. This is far from true. Not all the transitions of middle and later life are easy or welcome. No one has to feel depressed, alone, bored, isolated and forgotten. I support individuals, couples, families and caregivers as they navigate the important transitions of later life. Later life is a time of dynamic personal change and growth.
(505) 726-4930 View (505) 726-4930
Photo of Stephanie Dorcas, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Dorcas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erie, CO 80514  (Online Only)
I'm so glad you're here! Life has this crazy habit of throwing us curve balls that can leave us feeling powerless, anxious, depressed, or like we are trapped in some strange version of ourselves that can't seem to manage the challenges in front of us. I believe that we develop habits and beliefs about ourselves based on what has happened to us and that those things can keep us disconnected from who we truly are, ultimately preventing us from fulfilling our deepest desires. I believe that you have answers within yourself, if you can only clear away all the fog of years and years of negative beliefs about yourself and the world.
I'm so glad you're here! Life has this crazy habit of throwing us curve balls that can leave us feeling powerless, anxious, depressed, or like we are trapped in some strange version of ourselves that can't seem to manage the challenges in front of us. I believe that we develop habits and beliefs about ourselves based on what has happened to us and that those things can keep us disconnected from who we truly are, ultimately preventing us from fulfilling our deepest desires. I believe that you have answers within yourself, if you can only clear away all the fog of years and years of negative beliefs about yourself and the world.
(719) 789-7973 View (719) 789-7973
Photo of Kellee Myers, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kellee Myers
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Erie, CO 80514
Not afraid of humor as well as difficult feelings, I work with people who want to get back in touch with what's most important to them to feel more connected to themselves and others. I love helping people identify their "Why bother?" such as "Why bother with trying to work less, exercise more, drink less, or feel feelings more?" Negative thinking, anxiety, and increased drinking and other behaviors can be invitations to re-evaluate if you're pursuing the kind of life you desire. I'm here to help you get to the root of symptoms, understand and get past avoidance, clarify values, and celebrate progress!
Not afraid of humor as well as difficult feelings, I work with people who want to get back in touch with what's most important to them to feel more connected to themselves and others. I love helping people identify their "Why bother?" such as "Why bother with trying to work less, exercise more, drink less, or feel feelings more?" Negative thinking, anxiety, and increased drinking and other behaviors can be invitations to re-evaluate if you're pursuing the kind of life you desire. I'm here to help you get to the root of symptoms, understand and get past avoidance, clarify values, and celebrate progress!
(720) 477-6362 View (720) 477-6362
Photo of Stacy Boston, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Boston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Firestone, CO 80504
I believe in your positive potential. There's an inherent good in each of us, and with the right approaches and techniques, this core can be cultivated no matter how challenging or painful life may sometimes be. I provide keen emotional awareness, consistency, stability and competence in a trustworthy environment. You'll have access to years of practice and personal understanding. We'll meet your challenges and struggles together and you will discover new choices, solutions and experiences.
I believe in your positive potential. There's an inherent good in each of us, and with the right approaches and techniques, this core can be cultivated no matter how challenging or painful life may sometimes be. I provide keen emotional awareness, consistency, stability and competence in a trustworthy environment. You'll have access to years of practice and personal understanding. We'll meet your challenges and struggles together and you will discover new choices, solutions and experiences.
(720) 790-5603 View (720) 790-5603
Photo of April Pojman, MA, MS, LPC, CHT, Counselor
April Pojman
Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80504
Does this sound like you: “Even though I’ve worked towards change, I keep finding myself back in similar experiences and relationships. I'm tired of this knot in my stomach with the thoughts that don't stop, Although I can usually figure things out on my own, that isn't working this time. Sometimes I worry that maybe there's something wrong with me. I see some patterns in myself and over the years I’ve gained tools that help, but they don’t seem to reach the underlying issues. I want to take advantage of my clarity to make lasting changes; I know that I could feel more alive, connected and joyful."
Does this sound like you: “Even though I’ve worked towards change, I keep finding myself back in similar experiences and relationships. I'm tired of this knot in my stomach with the thoughts that don't stop, Although I can usually figure things out on my own, that isn't working this time. Sometimes I worry that maybe there's something wrong with me. I see some patterns in myself and over the years I’ve gained tools that help, but they don’t seem to reach the underlying issues. I want to take advantage of my clarity to make lasting changes; I know that I could feel more alive, connected and joyful."
(303) 502-9407 View (303) 502-9407
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.