EMDR Therapists in Essex, CT

Photo of Julia L Israelski, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia L Israelski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Essex, CT 06426
While many people benefit from ongoing therapeutic support, some people have already been down the talk therapy route and are looking to focus in on one specific limiting belief, painful experience or pattern and in these situations EMDR intensives can be a welcome alternative to traditional care.
Currently not accepting ongoing therapy clients but do have limited availability for EMDR intensives if appropriate- Life is filled with moments of great joy, profound sorrow, and everything in between; at times navigating the ups and downs can be challenging. Often people get stuck in familiar patterns that aren't productive. One of the benefits of therapy is having an objective, non-judgmental ally to assist you through the change process. Therapy is interactive and collaborative. As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients recognize and utilize the strengths they already possess to create the change they seek in their lives.
While many people benefit from ongoing therapeutic support, some people have already been down the talk therapy route and are looking to focus in on one specific limiting belief, painful experience or pattern and in these situations EMDR intensives can be a welcome alternative to traditional care.
Currently not accepting ongoing therapy clients but do have limited availability for EMDR intensives if appropriate- Life is filled with moments of great joy, profound sorrow, and everything in between; at times navigating the ups and downs can be challenging. Often people get stuck in familiar patterns that aren't productive. One of the benefits of therapy is having an objective, non-judgmental ally to assist you through the change process. Therapy is interactive and collaborative. As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients recognize and utilize the strengths they already possess to create the change they seek in their lives.
(860) 799-4905 View (860) 799-4905
Photo of David Kenefick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Kenefick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer a therapeutic place for people interested in exploring how the challenges or “symptoms” you are experiencing are preventing you from being your best self. My foundational training as a Clinical Social Worker has been enhanced with advanced trauma training including EMDR, relational / attachment work as a Circle of Security Parent Facilitator, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness. Several modalities inform my practice including somatic healing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a relational approach leading to a greater sense of feeling grounded and whole.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer a therapeutic place for people interested in exploring how the challenges or “symptoms” you are experiencing are preventing you from being your best self. My foundational training as a Clinical Social Worker has been enhanced with advanced trauma training including EMDR, relational / attachment work as a Circle of Security Parent Facilitator, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness. Several modalities inform my practice including somatic healing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a relational approach leading to a greater sense of feeling grounded and whole.
(860) 846-4999 View (860) 846-4999
Photo of Samantha Friedrich Steinmacher, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Friedrich Steinmacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
During difficult times, we can feel overwhelmed and stuck, unable to break ineffective or even destructive cycles. Getting “unstuck” involves incorporating new skills and concepts, such as psychological flexibility, self-awareness, assertive communication skills, mindfulness, effective coping strategies, insight, decision making skills, and values clarity.
During difficult times, we can feel overwhelmed and stuck, unable to break ineffective or even destructive cycles. Getting “unstuck” involves incorporating new skills and concepts, such as psychological flexibility, self-awareness, assertive communication skills, mindfulness, effective coping strategies, insight, decision making skills, and values clarity.
(860) 245-1282 View (860) 245-1282
Photo of Michelle A. Kenefick, LICSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle A. Kenefick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
My journey as a Clinical Social Worker has encompassed 30+ years of practice. I have had the privilege to work with children and families as well as with adults in a variety of different settings. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expertise working with trauma survivors and with those who have experienced vicarious traumatization. My approach can best be described as integrative and holistic. This means that I rely upon various psycho-therapeutic methods and evidence-based models that are combined to create a personalized approach to our work together.
My journey as a Clinical Social Worker has encompassed 30+ years of practice. I have had the privilege to work with children and families as well as with adults in a variety of different settings. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expertise working with trauma survivors and with those who have experienced vicarious traumatization. My approach can best be described as integrative and holistic. This means that I rely upon various psycho-therapeutic methods and evidence-based models that are combined to create a personalized approach to our work together.
(860) 560-8861 View (860) 560-8861
Photo of Keri Marcovici, PhD, Psychologist
Keri Marcovici
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
The choice to begin therapy is often laden with emotions and many questions. From this initial decision process to later stages, I bring warmth and a strong skill set to every person and couple I treat. Together, we focus on connecting current problems to old patterns, finding meaning in symptoms and identifying realistic approaches to change. The approach I use is highly collaborative and will be tailored to suit your needs.
The choice to begin therapy is often laden with emotions and many questions. From this initial decision process to later stages, I bring warmth and a strong skill set to every person and couple I treat. Together, we focus on connecting current problems to old patterns, finding meaning in symptoms and identifying realistic approaches to change. The approach I use is highly collaborative and will be tailored to suit your needs.
(914) 935-7823 View (914) 935-7823
Photo of Dr. Alessandra Bryant, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Alessandra Bryant
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
Do you feel under appreciated? Do you wish he could break the cycle of negative behavior? Does she constantly keep criticizing? Do you experience anxiety and distrust? Lack of intimacy and sexual desire? I am a marriage and family therapist with specialized training and experience in couple therapy. Nothing you say will surprise or shock me. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to help couples maintain healthy relationships.   Together, We repair your relationship by introducing new communication methods and understanding that promote empathy and flexibility.
Do you feel under appreciated? Do you wish he could break the cycle of negative behavior? Does she constantly keep criticizing? Do you experience anxiety and distrust? Lack of intimacy and sexual desire? I am a marriage and family therapist with specialized training and experience in couple therapy. Nothing you say will surprise or shock me. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to help couples maintain healthy relationships.   Together, We repair your relationship by introducing new communication methods and understanding that promote empathy and flexibility.
(475) 231-3455 View (475) 231-3455
Photo of Dr. Sonia Jimenez, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Sonia Jimenez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
I am a clinical psychologist post doctoral fellow with expertise in treating children and young adults in a variety of life difficulties, including anxiety, depression, academic and career struggles, and self-esteem issues. I work well with a variety of clients, from children, adolescents, college and graduate students to parents and executives. Whether your child is experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, or procrastinating and feeling stuck, I can help your child get their life back on track and reach their full potential. My clients often see reduction in symptoms and improvement early on in treatment.
I am a clinical psychologist post doctoral fellow with expertise in treating children and young adults in a variety of life difficulties, including anxiety, depression, academic and career struggles, and self-esteem issues. I work well with a variety of clients, from children, adolescents, college and graduate students to parents and executives. Whether your child is experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, or procrastinating and feeling stuck, I can help your child get their life back on track and reach their full potential. My clients often see reduction in symptoms and improvement early on in treatment.
(475) 267-5417 View (475) 267-5417

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carleigh Hannah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carleigh Hannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a seasoned therapist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) with a trauma and solution focused, goal oriented approach.
I’m Carleigh Hannah, LCSW and I’m here to help. My goal is to provide a safe place to explore current life challenges. I am here to root you on when things are going well, encourage you to look deeper into underlining meanings, support you through difficult life decisions and transitions. I treat ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Autism, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD. I am an ally to our LGBTQ+ community and have experience with educating and advocating for LGBTQ+ misconceptions.
I am a seasoned therapist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) with a trauma and solution focused, goal oriented approach.
I’m Carleigh Hannah, LCSW and I’m here to help. My goal is to provide a safe place to explore current life challenges. I am here to root you on when things are going well, encourage you to look deeper into underlining meanings, support you through difficult life decisions and transitions. I treat ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Autism, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD. I am an ally to our LGBTQ+ community and have experience with educating and advocating for LGBTQ+ misconceptions.
(860) 362-2409 View (860) 362-2409
Photo of Keith Murphey, MAAT, LPC, ATR, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keith Murphey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, CT 06413
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified EMDR provider (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), trauma focused therapies as well as other techniques.
I am an LPC with over 24 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I enjoy working with clients of all ages who experience a variety of symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment difficulties. I provide a relaxing and judgement free environment allowing my clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I use an integrative approach with an emphasis on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. It is an evidence based model proven highly effective for treating symptoms of trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, intense feelings, and mood changes.
I am a Board Certified EMDR provider (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), trauma focused therapies as well as other techniques.
I am an LPC with over 24 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I enjoy working with clients of all ages who experience a variety of symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment difficulties. I provide a relaxing and judgement free environment allowing my clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I use an integrative approach with an emphasis on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. It is an evidence based model proven highly effective for treating symptoms of trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, intense feelings, and mood changes.
(860) 786-4032 View (860) 786-4032
Photo of Kristine Fornaby, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Fornaby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westbrook, CT 06498
As we explore, we will supplement traditional therapy with techniques such as mindfulness, imagery, aromatherapy, breath work, sound, and various yoga practices, as well as EMDR.
I am passionate about helping clients discover their truest selves, beneath the layers of life’s experiences, traumas, and negative beliefs. Through talking, we discover the problem… then we need to do something about it. Utilizing specific trauma release techniques such as somatic experiencing, EMDR, and mindfulness and therapeutic yoga, I have seen amazing shifts in a fairly short amount of time. Whatever your goal, we can work together to achieve balance and lasting change.
As we explore, we will supplement traditional therapy with techniques such as mindfulness, imagery, aromatherapy, breath work, sound, and various yoga practices, as well as EMDR.
I am passionate about helping clients discover their truest selves, beneath the layers of life’s experiences, traumas, and negative beliefs. Through talking, we discover the problem… then we need to do something about it. Utilizing specific trauma release techniques such as somatic experiencing, EMDR, and mindfulness and therapeutic yoga, I have seen amazing shifts in a fairly short amount of time. Whatever your goal, we can work together to achieve balance and lasting change.
(203) 202-3147 View (203) 202-3147
Photo of Janel Lynch Bacon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janel Lynch Bacon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clinton, CT 06413
In addition, I specialize in Gestalt Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and my specialty is figuring out what needs to be done to affect change. I use a variety of techniques to help my clients identify the patterns that are disrupting the quality of their lives. I will work with you to form a therapeutic relationship and will "meet you where you are" emotionally and psychologically. I will help you learn to shift behaviors that are not serving you well, and assist you in achieving your full personal potential.
In addition, I specialize in Gestalt Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and my specialty is figuring out what needs to be done to affect change. I use a variety of techniques to help my clients identify the patterns that are disrupting the quality of their lives. I will work with you to form a therapeutic relationship and will "meet you where you are" emotionally and psychologically. I will help you learn to shift behaviors that are not serving you well, and assist you in achieving your full personal potential.
(860) 254-6099 View (860) 254-6099
Photo of Rebecca Slevin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Slevin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Deep River, CT 06417  (Online Only)
EMDR and CBT are very effective.
Accepting new patients! Email now! Immediate evening/weekend appointments via telehealth. Since 2015, I have worked in behavioral health settings where I have become proficient treating trauma, mood disorders, substance use, and personality disorders. I work directly with individuals, families, children/adolescents. There is a lot of stigmas regarding seeking services, but also attending therapy. Talking to a therapist may provide you self-awareness/insight on your current situation. I will assist you with multiple evidence-based interventions and help focus on your strengths to cope.
EMDR and CBT are very effective.
Accepting new patients! Email now! Immediate evening/weekend appointments via telehealth. Since 2015, I have worked in behavioral health settings where I have become proficient treating trauma, mood disorders, substance use, and personality disorders. I work directly with individuals, families, children/adolescents. There is a lot of stigmas regarding seeking services, but also attending therapy. Talking to a therapist may provide you self-awareness/insight on your current situation. I will assist you with multiple evidence-based interventions and help focus on your strengths to cope.
(475) 255-0698 View (475) 255-0698
Photo of Madeline (Maddie) Teixeira, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline (Maddie) Teixeira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I have almost four years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages in a variety of settings. I have experience working with issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, grief/loss, relationship stress, life transitions, and substance use. I am trained in EMDR and CBT therapies and utilize a strengths-based perspective. I strongly believe in empowering my clients to find and build upon the strengths they already possess. I look forward to working with you to better manage stress and to help you reach your full potential!
I have almost four years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages in a variety of settings. I have experience working with issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, grief/loss, relationship stress, life transitions, and substance use. I am trained in EMDR and CBT therapies and utilize a strengths-based perspective. I strongly believe in empowering my clients to find and build upon the strengths they already possess. I look forward to working with you to better manage stress and to help you reach your full potential!
(855) 417-2486 View (855) 417-2486
Photo of Melanie Meyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Waitlist for new clients
I’m familiar with various forms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, and am trained through EMDRIA’s HAP program for EMDR therapy.
Are you struggling through a difficult life transition? Are you in need of a safe space to process and explore your feelings? During those times it can be helpful to talk to someone who is encouraging, but also accepting of life's challenges. Most of us find ourselves overwhelmed or struggling at some point in our lives. Therapy can be the start, or a continuation of your journey. I believe in creating a therapy experience tailored to your individual needs, and that choosing a therapist that is the right fit for you is crucial to getting the most out of your experience.
I’m familiar with various forms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, and am trained through EMDRIA’s HAP program for EMDR therapy.
Are you struggling through a difficult life transition? Are you in need of a safe space to process and explore your feelings? During those times it can be helpful to talk to someone who is encouraging, but also accepting of life's challenges. Most of us find ourselves overwhelmed or struggling at some point in our lives. Therapy can be the start, or a continuation of your journey. I believe in creating a therapy experience tailored to your individual needs, and that choosing a therapist that is the right fit for you is crucial to getting the most out of your experience.
(860) 590-7498 View (860) 590-7498
Photo of Macdara MacColl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Macdara MacColl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I'm a Certified EFT Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist with an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy and advanced training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I specialize in helping couples reclaim loving connection using a proven, evidence-based therapeutic approach called Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). If you and your partner are stuck in a pattern of conflict, withdrawal, and disconnection, be reassured: There is hope. Even if you have experienced betrayal, therapy can guide you back to joyful connection. I am also a certified Sex Therapist, and help couples discover the joys of erotic pleasure. I am kink- and CNM-friendly. For individuals, my attachment, trauma-informed approach addresses relational traumas and sexual shame to help you journey toward health and wholeness.
I'm a Certified EFT Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist with an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy and advanced training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I specialize in helping couples reclaim loving connection using a proven, evidence-based therapeutic approach called Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). If you and your partner are stuck in a pattern of conflict, withdrawal, and disconnection, be reassured: There is hope. Even if you have experienced betrayal, therapy can guide you back to joyful connection. I am also a certified Sex Therapist, and help couples discover the joys of erotic pleasure. I am kink- and CNM-friendly. For individuals, my attachment, trauma-informed approach addresses relational traumas and sexual shame to help you journey toward health and wholeness.
(203) 896-0030 View (203) 896-0030
Photo of Samantha Parsons, LCSW, RSMT, CLMA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Parsons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RSMT, CLMA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deep River, CT 06417
I am specially trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hi, I’m Samantha Parsons, a Licensed Master Social Worker. I empower individuals to navigate their life’s challenges, heal trauma, and achieve emotional wellness. I provide compassionate, culturally informed, and integrative care through Somatic Movement and Mental Health Therapy, which aid in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, and physical issues.
I am specially trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hi, I’m Samantha Parsons, a Licensed Master Social Worker. I empower individuals to navigate their life’s challenges, heal trauma, and achieve emotional wellness. I provide compassionate, culturally informed, and integrative care through Somatic Movement and Mental Health Therapy, which aid in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, and physical issues.
(203) 204-9914 View (203) 204-9914
Photo of Melissa Symonds, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Symonds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Deep River, CT 06417  (Online Only)
Virtual sessions only - limited evening available. I am a LPC out of Deep River, CT practicing trauma in formed and brain based approach meeting you, the client, where you are and providing the interventions that meet your needs in the moment. My techniques as eclectic and what I like to call as treating the whole person as defined by you - exploring the here and now or taking a walk back to your past to work out unfinished business. We work together. I am a certified Trauma professional and working with Bessel Van Der Kolk continuing my training in Stress and Trauma. I am also trained in EMDR and other brain based therapies.
Virtual sessions only - limited evening available. I am a LPC out of Deep River, CT practicing trauma in formed and brain based approach meeting you, the client, where you are and providing the interventions that meet your needs in the moment. My techniques as eclectic and what I like to call as treating the whole person as defined by you - exploring the here and now or taking a walk back to your past to work out unfinished business. We work together. I am a certified Trauma professional and working with Bessel Van Der Kolk continuing my training in Stress and Trauma. I am also trained in EMDR and other brain based therapies.
(959) 666-6230 View (959) 666-6230
Photo of Neil Becker, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neil Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am passionate about working with college students and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and/or addiction. In addition to targeting negative thoughts (CBT), I use an acceptance-based approach (ACT) by encouraging clients to accept current thoughts patterns. Additionally, I use EMDR to eliminate the negative impact of trauma including those resulting in PTSD.
I am passionate about working with college students and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and/or addiction. In addition to targeting negative thoughts (CBT), I use an acceptance-based approach (ACT) by encouraging clients to accept current thoughts patterns. Additionally, I use EMDR to eliminate the negative impact of trauma including those resulting in PTSD.
(203) 350-0592 View (203) 350-0592
Photo of Mary Jane King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jane King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am trained in DBT and EMDR and have been in private practice since 2017.
Hello! I know picking a therapist is no easy task and finding one you connect with is so important. I invite you to reach out for a 15 minute consultation to see if you think we would be a good fit. There are many reasons people enter into therapy including relationship problems, loss, fear, sadness, pain, and addiction, to list a few. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that with hard work, being honest with yourself, and partnering with a therapist you feel comfortable and safe with, you can heal from the past and become the truest version of yourself.
I am trained in DBT and EMDR and have been in private practice since 2017.
Hello! I know picking a therapist is no easy task and finding one you connect with is so important. I invite you to reach out for a 15 minute consultation to see if you think we would be a good fit. There are many reasons people enter into therapy including relationship problems, loss, fear, sadness, pain, and addiction, to list a few. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that with hard work, being honest with yourself, and partnering with a therapist you feel comfortable and safe with, you can heal from the past and become the truest version of yourself.
(860) 351-6909 View (860) 351-6909
Photo of Joanna Crowell - Power to Heal LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Power to Heal LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbrook, CT 06498
We offer a solution-focused approach incorporating various modalities, including EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy interventions.
When we find ourselves deep in the tunnel, believing there is light at the other end is important. Finding the courage to keep going on the faith that there is an end can feel scary and empowering at the same time. When we emerge back into the light, it can feel like a victory. Are you looking for more holistic solutions to your problems? The Power to Heal is an integrative group psychotherapy practice that offers a safe place to heal with a trusted therapeutic guide. We aim to create a partnership to help you overcome challenges, find your inner strength, and live a more fulfilling life.
We offer a solution-focused approach incorporating various modalities, including EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy interventions.
When we find ourselves deep in the tunnel, believing there is light at the other end is important. Finding the courage to keep going on the faith that there is an end can feel scary and empowering at the same time. When we emerge back into the light, it can feel like a victory. Are you looking for more holistic solutions to your problems? The Power to Heal is an integrative group psychotherapy practice that offers a safe place to heal with a trusted therapeutic guide. We aim to create a partnership to help you overcome challenges, find your inner strength, and live a more fulfilling life.
(860) 467-8375 View (860) 467-8375
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.