EMDR Therapists in Willimantic, CT

Photo of Sherry Chen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherry Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
I am trained in Internal Family Systems level 1, EMDR, and Gottman Level 1.
Hi there, I currently have limited availability. I want to congratulate you on being curious on what is out there. It takes courage and strength to be vulnerable and open. We all know that at times life can be hard, at times overwhelming and uncertain of what to do. Having a person to talk to can be a weight off your shoulders and there’s help available. Everyone deserves to feel better. My hope is to provide a safe space for you to be vulnerable and express the challenges that you are facing in life. Together, we can work on identifying your goals in therapy and build the therapeutic relationship you need in order to move forward.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems level 1, EMDR, and Gottman Level 1.
Hi there, I currently have limited availability. I want to congratulate you on being curious on what is out there. It takes courage and strength to be vulnerable and open. We all know that at times life can be hard, at times overwhelming and uncertain of what to do. Having a person to talk to can be a weight off your shoulders and there’s help available. Everyone deserves to feel better. My hope is to provide a safe space for you to be vulnerable and express the challenges that you are facing in life. Together, we can work on identifying your goals in therapy and build the therapeutic relationship you need in order to move forward.
(860) 979-5594 View (860) 979-5594
Photo of Penny Tavar, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penny Tavar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and EMDR therapist with over 25 years of experience.
As the founder and clinical director of Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, I am here to provide you with the support you deserve. We have a talented and compassionate team of clinical psychotherapists that have worked extensively with individuals, couples and families. The majority of individuals we help are working on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. Meridian Psychotherapy Associates strives to provide a compassionate, safe and judgement-free space to talk and heal. Whether it is relationship difficulty or the stressors of day to day life, your lived experience should and will be heard.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and EMDR therapist with over 25 years of experience.
As the founder and clinical director of Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, I am here to provide you with the support you deserve. We have a talented and compassionate team of clinical psychotherapists that have worked extensively with individuals, couples and families. The majority of individuals we help are working on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. Meridian Psychotherapy Associates strives to provide a compassionate, safe and judgement-free space to talk and heal. Whether it is relationship difficulty or the stressors of day to day life, your lived experience should and will be heard.
(203) 988-6900 View (203) 988-6900
Photo of Robert Salcedo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Salcedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
I understand that we can benefit from help if we feel stuck, overwhelmed or not sure where to turn. Sometimes people get stuck in patterns that may have been helpful but have become limiting or even destructive. I believe therapy can provide deep healing which allows for greater flexibility, ease, self knowledge and enjoyment of life. With 20+ years of experience, I have been successful in helping my clients through depression, substance abuse, anxiety, panic and grief and loss or just gaining more satisfaction with their lives. It has been an honor for me to do this.
I understand that we can benefit from help if we feel stuck, overwhelmed or not sure where to turn. Sometimes people get stuck in patterns that may have been helpful but have become limiting or even destructive. I believe therapy can provide deep healing which allows for greater flexibility, ease, self knowledge and enjoyment of life. With 20+ years of experience, I have been successful in helping my clients through depression, substance abuse, anxiety, panic and grief and loss or just gaining more satisfaction with their lives. It has been an honor for me to do this.
(860) 546-4158 View (860) 546-4158
Photo of Mary E Webb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary E Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
(860) 517-8643 View (860) 517-8643
Photo of Donna Nicolino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Nicolino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Not accepting new clients
Depending on your needs, I may use very concrete therapies such as CBT or DBT, explore issues of spirituality, or work with somatic therapies such as EMDR - or all of these.
I provide both brief and longer-term counseling to individuals grappling with a range of challenges, from life transitions, anxiety and depression to complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. Trauma is a particular focus of mine and I continually educate myself on the most helpful methods of healing. I am certified in EMDR, have 2 years training in Somatic Experiencing and have trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems and other therapies. I take a holistic approach, and will work with you to explore how diet and nutrition, activity, sleep, belief systems and relationships impact your overall well-being.
Depending on your needs, I may use very concrete therapies such as CBT or DBT, explore issues of spirituality, or work with somatic therapies such as EMDR - or all of these.
I provide both brief and longer-term counseling to individuals grappling with a range of challenges, from life transitions, anxiety and depression to complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. Trauma is a particular focus of mine and I continually educate myself on the most helpful methods of healing. I am certified in EMDR, have 2 years training in Somatic Experiencing and have trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems and other therapies. I take a holistic approach, and will work with you to explore how diet and nutrition, activity, sleep, belief systems and relationships impact your overall well-being.
(860) 544-2472 View (860) 544-2472
Photo of Hillary Stern, LCSW, ADTR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADTR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Not accepting new clients
My therapeutic skills include Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Expressive Arts Therapy, family therapy, play therapy, healing visualization, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Groups, Divorce Support Groups, Imago Couple's Therapy and EMDR.
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
My therapeutic skills include Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Expressive Arts Therapy, family therapy, play therapy, healing visualization, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Groups, Divorce Support Groups, Imago Couple's Therapy and EMDR.
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
(860) 606-4278 View (860) 606-4278
Photo of Laura DeSantis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura DeSantis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Not accepting new clients
Feeling stuck? We all face challenges, but there’s no reason you should struggle alone when help is available. You deserve to feel better and work through the obstacles that keep you from living your best life. As a clinician in the mental health and substance abuse field for almost 20 years, it's been my privilege to support many courageous individuals in their quest for healing. No two journeys have been the same. I have learned to be present and trust the process. There are many methods, strategies and skills that we can employ to help you resolve current issues and create new possibilities. You just need to begin.
Feeling stuck? We all face challenges, but there’s no reason you should struggle alone when help is available. You deserve to feel better and work through the obstacles that keep you from living your best life. As a clinician in the mental health and substance abuse field for almost 20 years, it's been my privilege to support many courageous individuals in their quest for healing. No two journeys have been the same. I have learned to be present and trust the process. There are many methods, strategies and skills that we can employ to help you resolve current issues and create new possibilities. You just need to begin.
(860) 455-4358 View (860) 455-4358

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Serena Chestnut - Root & Bloom Therapy LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Root & Bloom Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Coventry, CT 06238
As an EMDR trained therapist, I can help you resolve and process memories and stressors that are making day to day life unmanagable.
Accepting new clients at this time! Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Are you struggling to cope with grief or past traumas? Do you feel misunderstood or struggle with feelings of unworthiness? Maybe you feel burnt out and need a change but don’t know where to start. Using EMDR, I’ll guide you towards relief from your burdens. I offer complimentary 15-minute phone consultations.
As an EMDR trained therapist, I can help you resolve and process memories and stressors that are making day to day life unmanagable.
Accepting new clients at this time! Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Are you struggling to cope with grief or past traumas? Do you feel misunderstood or struggle with feelings of unworthiness? Maybe you feel burnt out and need a change but don’t know where to start. Using EMDR, I’ll guide you towards relief from your burdens. I offer complimentary 15-minute phone consultations.
(860) 248-7959 View (860) 248-7959
Photo of Samantha Forst, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Forst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windham, CT 06280  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Samantha Forst, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works with adults that have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenging life stressors. I am trained in EMDR and CBT therapies and utilize a strengths-based perspective. In our time together, we can work to identify and understand how stressors are impacting your life and relationships, plus develop strategies to better manage the symptoms. I am only providing telehealth sessions at this time. Telehealth therapy provides a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns in the comfort and convenience of your own home.
Hi! I'm Samantha Forst, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works with adults that have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenging life stressors. I am trained in EMDR and CBT therapies and utilize a strengths-based perspective. In our time together, we can work to identify and understand how stressors are impacting your life and relationships, plus develop strategies to better manage the symptoms. I am only providing telehealth sessions at this time. Telehealth therapy provides a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns in the comfort and convenience of your own home.
(860) 385-8898 View (860) 385-8898
Photo of Megan E. Yorio - Pathways to Hope Counseling, LLC, MSEd, LPC, LMSW, JD, Counselor
Pathways to Hope Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MSEd, LPC, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
Amston, CT 06231
Megan is skilled in a wide variety of treatment approaches, and specializes in helping people heal from trauma as a certified EMDR therapist.
Welcome to Pathways to Help Counseling. We take special attention to create a safe space for you to be heard and validated in a non-judgmental manner. We bring our genuine empathy and kindness to our work with you, and structure your helping process around a holistic understanding of where you are now. Through our work, we have been humbled and honored to have had the opportunity to support people like you as they have grown, learned & healed through therapy. We focus on helping clients heal and grow through mental health experiences so that they can live their most fulfilling lives.
Megan is skilled in a wide variety of treatment approaches, and specializes in helping people heal from trauma as a certified EMDR therapist.
Welcome to Pathways to Help Counseling. We take special attention to create a safe space for you to be heard and validated in a non-judgmental manner. We bring our genuine empathy and kindness to our work with you, and structure your helping process around a holistic understanding of where you are now. Through our work, we have been humbled and honored to have had the opportunity to support people like you as they have grown, learned & healed through therapy. We focus on helping clients heal and grow through mental health experiences so that they can live their most fulfilling lives.
(860) 200-2078 View (860) 200-2078
Photo of Erin Joudrey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Joudrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hebron, CT 06248
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR is utilized to address PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, phobias, grief recovery, and addiction disorders.
I am a trauma-informed therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that focuses on treating those who have experienced distressing events. These experiences, when unprocessed, can become “stuck” in the brain, leading to a wide array of emotional and psychological difficulties. I have seen firsthand the transformative power of this modality and am thankful to have the knowledge and training to guide people on their healing journey.
EMDR is utilized to address PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, phobias, grief recovery, and addiction disorders.
I am a trauma-informed therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). EMDR is a structured psychotherapy that focuses on treating those who have experienced distressing events. These experiences, when unprocessed, can become “stuck” in the brain, leading to a wide array of emotional and psychological difficulties. I have seen firsthand the transformative power of this modality and am thankful to have the knowledge and training to guide people on their healing journey.
(860) 943-4590 View (860) 943-4590
Photo of Sherry L Michaud - Sherry Michaud, LLC, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry Michaud, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, CT 06232
I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDR Certified and an Authorized Oasis Facilitator.
All of us deserve to enjoy what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many of us experience that journey as compromised by obstacles that threaten to rob us of our potential. These blockages may come from events in the present such as COVID-19, loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship, or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds and scars unhealed. I have been engaged in clinical work, helping people navigate difficulties, heal trauma, restore their lives to wholeness. I invite you to let me walk that journey with you
I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDR Certified and an Authorized Oasis Facilitator.
All of us deserve to enjoy what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many of us experience that journey as compromised by obstacles that threaten to rob us of our potential. These blockages may come from events in the present such as COVID-19, loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship, or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds and scars unhealed. I have been engaged in clinical work, helping people navigate difficulties, heal trauma, restore their lives to wholeness. I invite you to let me walk that journey with you
(860) 866-5390 View (860) 866-5390
Photo of Carroll Foley, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carroll Foley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Storrs Mansfield, CT 06269
No two people are the same, and so I work creatively using trauma-informed therapeutic approaches from psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness, IFS, EMDR, and cognitive-behavioral therapies uniquely tailored to you.
I specialize in the really hard stuff life throws our way. I work with adults, college students, and teens affected by grief and loss, complex trauma (abuse and neglect) and PTSD, serious and chronic health conditions (like cancer, ALS, MS, MD), disability, and other big life changes and challenges resulting in depression and anxiety. I believe that our inability to control what happens to us is not something to be overcome. Instead, it is the reality of life that we all live within. This is where the real work of being a person begins. And this is where good, meaningful, compassionate therapy comes in. I'm glad you're here.
No two people are the same, and so I work creatively using trauma-informed therapeutic approaches from psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness, IFS, EMDR, and cognitive-behavioral therapies uniquely tailored to you.
I specialize in the really hard stuff life throws our way. I work with adults, college students, and teens affected by grief and loss, complex trauma (abuse and neglect) and PTSD, serious and chronic health conditions (like cancer, ALS, MS, MD), disability, and other big life changes and challenges resulting in depression and anxiety. I believe that our inability to control what happens to us is not something to be overcome. Instead, it is the reality of life that we all live within. This is where the real work of being a person begins. And this is where good, meaningful, compassionate therapy comes in. I'm glad you're here.
(860) 397-6291 View (860) 397-6291
Photo of Shannon Radlo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Radlo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coventry, CT 06238
In addition to my EMDR certification, I also have years of experience practicing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, which are evidenced based practices to address anxiety and depression.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years in the field. Please allow me to help you discover your best self. I am an animal assisted therapist, with strong beliefs in the therapeutic benefits of animals. I currently have a cavapoo puppy in training to become a therapy dog. He may attend some sessions, depending upon your comfort. I am certified in EMDR therapy, and my passion is to assist those with traumatic experiences.
In addition to my EMDR certification, I also have years of experience practicing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, which are evidenced based practices to address anxiety and depression.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years in the field. Please allow me to help you discover your best self. I am an animal assisted therapist, with strong beliefs in the therapeutic benefits of animals. I currently have a cavapoo puppy in training to become a therapy dog. He may attend some sessions, depending upon your comfort. I am certified in EMDR therapy, and my passion is to assist those with traumatic experiences.
(860) 753-3339 View (860) 753-3339
Photo of Martha Jean Michaud, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Martha Jean Michaud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coventry, CT 06238
I understand the unique challenges we sometimes face as we encounter relational issues, loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I will guide you through the storms, support you when you are falling apart, and challenge you when it’s time to take a step forward. Instead of pushing away from the “hard things”, it is important to put in the hard work, grow, and thrive in life. I specialize in Advanced EMDR, neuropsychotherapy, anxiety, ADHD and sleep. It's my honor to be part of your healing journey. I use a variety of approaches and techniques to teach you new skills, build resilience, and facilitate connection
I understand the unique challenges we sometimes face as we encounter relational issues, loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I will guide you through the storms, support you when you are falling apart, and challenge you when it’s time to take a step forward. Instead of pushing away from the “hard things”, it is important to put in the hard work, grow, and thrive in life. I specialize in Advanced EMDR, neuropsychotherapy, anxiety, ADHD and sleep. It's my honor to be part of your healing journey. I use a variety of approaches and techniques to teach you new skills, build resilience, and facilitate connection
(860) 831-4922 View (860) 831-4922
Photo of Victoria Sousa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Sousa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250  (Online Only)
Utilizing frameworks offered by EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Seeking Safety.
Specializing in treating those who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, as well as those with anxiety, mood and substance use disorders.
Utilizing frameworks offered by EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Seeking Safety.
Specializing in treating those who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, as well as those with anxiety, mood and substance use disorders.
(860) 909-8537 View (860) 909-8537
Photo of Chip Frey, LCSW, MSOM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chip Frey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSOM
Verified Verified
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
It can be easy to rush through life without stopping to notice much. Paying more attention to the present, your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you can improve your mental well-being. I empower clients to gain the skills needed to reach their goals, understand and regulate their emotions, and improve mindfulness and acceptance through a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach. I treat clients with Depression, Anxiety and Panic related disorders, PTSD, Individual and Family transitions, Relationship Issues, Grief and loss, Substance use, Dual Diagnosis, Intrusive Symptoms, and Severe and Persistent Mental Illness.
It can be easy to rush through life without stopping to notice much. Paying more attention to the present, your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you can improve your mental well-being. I empower clients to gain the skills needed to reach their goals, understand and regulate their emotions, and improve mindfulness and acceptance through a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach. I treat clients with Depression, Anxiety and Panic related disorders, PTSD, Individual and Family transitions, Relationship Issues, Grief and loss, Substance use, Dual Diagnosis, Intrusive Symptoms, and Severe and Persistent Mental Illness.
(959) 208-4780 View (959) 208-4780
Photo of Barbara Ellen Doak, LCSW, CCDP-D, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Ellen Doak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashford, CT 06278  (Online Only)
The truth of what is essential to know, you are whole just as you are, and you do not need to be, fixed. You may have been through unforgettable experiences that created the belief you are not good enough or that you are less than enough. All of these untruthful messages get internalized and often become the story of your inner critic. This builds an even stronger falsehood. What is wrong with me? This health crisis can stir up emotions of disconnection. Therapy will expand your capacity to cope and ignite your sense of hope. Hope has the power to build resilience and support mental wellness even in difficult times.
The truth of what is essential to know, you are whole just as you are, and you do not need to be, fixed. You may have been through unforgettable experiences that created the belief you are not good enough or that you are less than enough. All of these untruthful messages get internalized and often become the story of your inner critic. This builds an even stronger falsehood. What is wrong with me? This health crisis can stir up emotions of disconnection. Therapy will expand your capacity to cope and ignite your sense of hope. Hope has the power to build resilience and support mental wellness even in difficult times.
(860) 374-2941 View (860) 374-2941
Photo of Jenifer Gietek, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenifer Gietek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coventry, CT 06238
Are you navigating the complexities of different relationship in your life, facing major life transitions, or struggling with anxiety or depression? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. As a dedicated therapist specialized in these areas, I am committed to helping individuals find clarity, balance, and growth in their lives. Life is full of changes, both expected and unexpected. Whether you’re dealing with the ebb and flow of relationships, transitioning through a major life event, or managing the persistent grip of anxiety and depression, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Are you navigating the complexities of different relationship in your life, facing major life transitions, or struggling with anxiety or depression? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. As a dedicated therapist specialized in these areas, I am committed to helping individuals find clarity, balance, and growth in their lives. Life is full of changes, both expected and unexpected. Whether you’re dealing with the ebb and flow of relationships, transitioning through a major life event, or managing the persistent grip of anxiety and depression, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
(860) 863-4732 View (860) 863-4732
Photo of Skylar Larkyn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Skylar Larkyn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Storrs, CT 06268  (Online Only)
Enjoy a greater sense of inner calm, wellness, and connection. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and disillusioned right now, it's completely understandable. YOU CAN achieve, and deserve to feel, a sense of calm and optimism. Sorting through all the noise to hear your own voice and guidance is essential in these turbulent times. Creating a greater sense of connection in your relationship IS possible. JOY, confidence, and authentic living are the rewards of the journey
Enjoy a greater sense of inner calm, wellness, and connection. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and disillusioned right now, it's completely understandable. YOU CAN achieve, and deserve to feel, a sense of calm and optimism. Sorting through all the noise to hear your own voice and guidance is essential in these turbulent times. Creating a greater sense of connection in your relationship IS possible. JOY, confidence, and authentic living are the rewards of the journey
(203) 590-9155 View (203) 590-9155

See more therapy options for Willimantic

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.