EMDR Therapists in District Of Columbia, DC

Photo of Kara O'Leary, PhD, Psychologist
Kara O'Leary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
I have a psychodynamic, relational orientation and practice empirically-supported treatments such as ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT-Insomnia, and EMDR.
When life becomes hard, painful, stressful, or traumatic, as it sometimes will, a person needs both new tools and new support. I specialize in helping people heal from the past and thrive in the present. I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples to reduce their suffering and find their resilience when they have been experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and health struggles.
I have a psychodynamic, relational orientation and practice empirically-supported treatments such as ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT-Insomnia, and EMDR.
When life becomes hard, painful, stressful, or traumatic, as it sometimes will, a person needs both new tools and new support. I specialize in helping people heal from the past and thrive in the present. I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples to reduce their suffering and find their resilience when they have been experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and health struggles.
(202) 915-8990 View (202) 915-8990
Photo of Campbell States, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Campbell States
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I also use EMDR and somatic approaches.
Welcome! The people I work with come to therapy for a lot of reasons. Some severe- suicidal ideation, trauma, dissociation, self-harm, moments of crisis. Others appear to have a life that seems fine- stable work and/or relationships but experience a persistent and burbling sense that life is not as satisfying as it could be. Some have a question- should I leave my partner? My job? Have a baby? Transition? Who am I? What is art? Others are trying to figure out how to manage neurodiversity or plurality in a world that is not built for them.
I also use EMDR and somatic approaches.
Welcome! The people I work with come to therapy for a lot of reasons. Some severe- suicidal ideation, trauma, dissociation, self-harm, moments of crisis. Others appear to have a life that seems fine- stable work and/or relationships but experience a persistent and burbling sense that life is not as satisfying as it could be. Some have a question- should I leave my partner? My job? Have a baby? Transition? Who am I? What is art? Others are trying to figure out how to manage neurodiversity or plurality in a world that is not built for them.
(202) 968-3508 View (202) 968-3508
Photo of Michele Martini, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Martini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is centered on fostering an optimal environment for clients—a space conducive to uncovering fresh perspectives and effective solutions. My practice is characterized by an integration of techniques, including biofeedback, mindfulness, CBT, and EMDR, aimed at delivering a targeted and personalized experience. The foundation of my approach is rooted in Systems Theory, incorporating Family Systems and Person-Centered approaches. I'm bilingual (English and Italian) and my work focuses on life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety and stress management, grief, loss, and trauma.
My therapeutic approach is centered on fostering an optimal environment for clients—a space conducive to uncovering fresh perspectives and effective solutions. My practice is characterized by an integration of techniques, including biofeedback, mindfulness, CBT, and EMDR, aimed at delivering a targeted and personalized experience. The foundation of my approach is rooted in Systems Theory, incorporating Family Systems and Person-Centered approaches. I'm bilingual (English and Italian) and my work focuses on life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety and stress management, grief, loss, and trauma.
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Photo of William G McVey, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William G McVey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals and couples regain control and find fulfillment (poly/kink positive). With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals and couples regain control and find fulfillment (poly/kink positive). With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
(202) 915-2081 View (202) 915-2081
Photo of Dr. Rachael Goodman, PhD, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Rachael Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am trained as an EMDR therapist and love using this approach with clients.
We all go through stressful & sometimes traumatic experiences in our lives. Therapy is a space for dealing with hardship and also creating a meaningful life and relationships through an authentic, supportive partnership. In my practice, we work on healing the past, and also building toward the future you want.
I am trained as an EMDR therapist and love using this approach with clients.
We all go through stressful & sometimes traumatic experiences in our lives. Therapy is a space for dealing with hardship and also creating a meaningful life and relationships through an authentic, supportive partnership. In my practice, we work on healing the past, and also building toward the future you want.
(844) 936-0365 View (844) 936-0365
Photo of Teayra Gray, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teayra Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
She can apply techniques that tap into the healing wisdom of your body, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Brainspotting.
Your body is designed to heal – it is encoded in the cells of your being. If you’re like many individuals, you’ve invested time and effort in therapy that isn’t working. You’ve tried traditional talk therapy, explored various online resources, and even looked into alternative treatments. But none of it worked, and you’re trying to figure out why. In Teayra’s care, you’ll discover a safe and supportive space where you can finally unpack it all and decide what healing looks like for you.
She can apply techniques that tap into the healing wisdom of your body, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Brainspotting.
Your body is designed to heal – it is encoded in the cells of your being. If you’re like many individuals, you’ve invested time and effort in therapy that isn’t working. You’ve tried traditional talk therapy, explored various online resources, and even looked into alternative treatments. But none of it worked, and you’re trying to figure out why. In Teayra’s care, you’ll discover a safe and supportive space where you can finally unpack it all and decide what healing looks like for you.
(866) 823-3515 View (866) 823-3515
Photo of Chris Brearly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Brearly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a powerful means of restoring wellness and creating lasting change. I have experienced this in my own life and enjoy seeing this unfold for my clients. I am passionate about working with clients to develop self-compassion and emotional intelligence, and establishing a greater sense of groundedness and self-esteem. I am trained in EMDR and often use this therapeutic approach to significantly reduce distress associated with trauma and other adverse life experiences. EMDR can also be helpful for clients in breaking free from stuck patterns of thinking and feeling that are resistant to traditional talk therapy approaches.
Therapy is a powerful means of restoring wellness and creating lasting change. I have experienced this in my own life and enjoy seeing this unfold for my clients. I am passionate about working with clients to develop self-compassion and emotional intelligence, and establishing a greater sense of groundedness and self-esteem. I am trained in EMDR and often use this therapeutic approach to significantly reduce distress associated with trauma and other adverse life experiences. EMDR can also be helpful for clients in breaking free from stuck patterns of thinking and feeling that are resistant to traditional talk therapy approaches.
(202) 335-6327 View (202) 335-6327
Photo of Huma Sikandar Fatakia, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huma Sikandar Fatakia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
We all have a unique journey in life, as individuals and as couples, and I believe that our resilience is as unique as our journey. I work with clients to help them overcome distressing cycles that make them feel stuck and empower them to find stability, create healthier relationships and live an enriched life. Together we explore underlying emotions and find new ways of coping with past traumas, difficult life transitions, loss, relational distress and other mental health issues. While EMDR, mindfulness and cultural sensitivity are at the core of my practice, I also integrate Psychodynamic and CBT interventions.
We all have a unique journey in life, as individuals and as couples, and I believe that our resilience is as unique as our journey. I work with clients to help them overcome distressing cycles that make them feel stuck and empower them to find stability, create healthier relationships and live an enriched life. Together we explore underlying emotions and find new ways of coping with past traumas, difficult life transitions, loss, relational distress and other mental health issues. While EMDR, mindfulness and cultural sensitivity are at the core of my practice, I also integrate Psychodynamic and CBT interventions.
(202) 301-8395 x501 View (202) 301-8395 x501
Photo of Ali Weisbrot, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Weisbrot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I have additional training in perinatal mental health, CBT & EMDR.
Whatever your reason for seeking support, you don’t have to take this journey alone. I bring a warm, compassionate and holistic treatment approach filled with humor and curiosity. At my practice, Bluestone Counseling Group, we have a passion for supporting women and families with their mental health and wellbeing throughout all of life’s transitions. We have specialized training in maternal mental health from fertility, pregnancy, postpartum through parenting challenges and relationship changes. Our approach is trauma-informed, mindfulness-based, culturally-inclusive and welcomes and affirms all identities.
I have additional training in perinatal mental health, CBT & EMDR.
Whatever your reason for seeking support, you don’t have to take this journey alone. I bring a warm, compassionate and holistic treatment approach filled with humor and curiosity. At my practice, Bluestone Counseling Group, we have a passion for supporting women and families with their mental health and wellbeing throughout all of life’s transitions. We have specialized training in maternal mental health from fertility, pregnancy, postpartum through parenting challenges and relationship changes. Our approach is trauma-informed, mindfulness-based, culturally-inclusive and welcomes and affirms all identities.
(202) 517-9826 View (202) 517-9826
Photo of Aaryn Kopp, LGSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaryn Kopp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I'm trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
I work with ages 10+ who are experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, trauma, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief. I believe what we resist persists, so challenges are best overcome when faced directly with courage and compassion. True healing and change can take time and effort, and I believe deeply in the power of therapy to create a dynamic for growth and change—helping individuals create the selves and lives they hope to live.
I'm trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
I work with ages 10+ who are experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, trauma, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief. I believe what we resist persists, so challenges are best overcome when faced directly with courage and compassion. True healing and change can take time and effort, and I believe deeply in the power of therapy to create a dynamic for growth and change—helping individuals create the selves and lives they hope to live.
(202) 804-0924 x708 View (202) 804-0924 x708
Photo of Tara Zandi, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Zandi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Moreover, I am skilled in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), focusing on addressing chronic and past traumas.
I hold licensure as an independent clinical social worker and possess dual Master's degrees-an MA in clinical psychology and an MSW in clinical social work. Over the course of my clinical career, I have gained experience in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, hospitals, foster care, and schools, offering therapeutic assistance to a diverse range of individuals. Presently, I provide therapy to clients spanning various ages and backgrounds. My expertise includes working with individuals dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, anger, and other emotional health challenges.
Moreover, I am skilled in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), focusing on addressing chronic and past traumas.
I hold licensure as an independent clinical social worker and possess dual Master's degrees-an MA in clinical psychology and an MSW in clinical social work. Over the course of my clinical career, I have gained experience in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, hospitals, foster care, and schools, offering therapeutic assistance to a diverse range of individuals. Presently, I provide therapy to clients spanning various ages and backgrounds. My expertise includes working with individuals dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, anger, and other emotional health challenges.
(202) 946-8522 View (202) 946-8522
Photo of Jamila Kani, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamila Kani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20020
I utilize mind-body based modalities, such as EMDR, polyvagal theory, and somatic therapy to invite your whole self into the healing process.
Is your past preventing you from experiencing a joyful and fulfilling life? Have you tried talk therapy and found that words aren't enough to change how you feel or that trying to change your thinking has not brought you the healing you seek? It could be that trauma is keeping you stuck. I specialize in treating adults who feel held back and weighed down by trauma, helping them to resolve traumatic experiences that are often at the root of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.
I utilize mind-body based modalities, such as EMDR, polyvagal theory, and somatic therapy to invite your whole self into the healing process.
Is your past preventing you from experiencing a joyful and fulfilling life? Have you tried talk therapy and found that words aren't enough to change how you feel or that trying to change your thinking has not brought you the healing you seek? It could be that trauma is keeping you stuck. I specialize in treating adults who feel held back and weighed down by trauma, helping them to resolve traumatic experiences that are often at the root of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.
(202) 804-3912 View (202) 804-3912
Photo of Emily Remillard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Remillard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I often use EMDR to address these issues.
I believe that even in the darkest seasons, we contain within ourselves the seeds of healing, change and growth. However, we often need someone to walk alongside us to ask good questions, offer perspective, and cheer us on. I love listening to people’s stories in order to help them untangle the different threads and consider the impact their past is having on their emotions and behavior in the present.
I often use EMDR to address these issues.
I believe that even in the darkest seasons, we contain within ourselves the seeds of healing, change and growth. However, we often need someone to walk alongside us to ask good questions, offer perspective, and cheer us on. I love listening to people’s stories in order to help them untangle the different threads and consider the impact their past is having on their emotions and behavior in the present.
(202) 932-8192 View (202) 932-8192
Photo of Theresa Nowakowski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Nowakowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Using techniques like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I guide individuals in reducing the distress linked to negative memories and core beliefs.
Navigating relationships, career changes, family stress, or significant life transitions can be overwhelming. For women, trauma from these experiences can lead to deep anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. The impact of unresolved trauma can manifest as persistent worry, emotional numbness, or even physical symptoms. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is crucial for finding balance and peace. I look forward to supporting you as you seek processing these experiences.
Using techniques like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I guide individuals in reducing the distress linked to negative memories and core beliefs.
Navigating relationships, career changes, family stress, or significant life transitions can be overwhelming. For women, trauma from these experiences can lead to deep anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. The impact of unresolved trauma can manifest as persistent worry, emotional numbness, or even physical symptoms. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is crucial for finding balance and peace. I look forward to supporting you as you seek processing these experiences.
(844) 360-9833 View (844) 360-9833
Photo of Lisa Wilson, MSW, LICSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
I work from a psychodynamic base and integrate a range of approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral strategies, EMDR and sand therapy to address the client's specific needs and preferences.
Knowing when to reach out for help is one of the most important things in life - I'm glad you're here. I work with clients to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and travel phobias; to navigate grief, life transitions, and relationship issues; and to establish a healthy sense of self that doesn't change with other people's opinions. I also work with individuals who aren't sure at first what they want to work on but have a vague sense that they aren't as happy as they want to be. Whatever the concern, we explore it in a safe and relaxed atmosphere and agree together on a plan to move forward.
I work from a psychodynamic base and integrate a range of approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral strategies, EMDR and sand therapy to address the client's specific needs and preferences.
Knowing when to reach out for help is one of the most important things in life - I'm glad you're here. I work with clients to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and travel phobias; to navigate grief, life transitions, and relationship issues; and to establish a healthy sense of self that doesn't change with other people's opinions. I also work with individuals who aren't sure at first what they want to work on but have a vague sense that they aren't as happy as they want to be. Whatever the concern, we explore it in a safe and relaxed atmosphere and agree together on a plan to move forward.
(202) 931-0849 View (202) 931-0849
Photo of Megan Munzert, JD, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Munzert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
When talk therapy doesn't seem like enough, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to process difficult emotions by accessing the central nervous system.
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and for transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
When talk therapy doesn't seem like enough, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to process difficult emotions by accessing the central nervous system.
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and for transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
(202) 759-2690 View (202) 759-2690
Photo of Phalande Jean, LMFT, LGPC, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Phalande Jean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LGPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My offerings include EMDR, body-based somatics, talk therapy, and expressive therapy.
I see you. If you've made it here, you are searching for something and I am passionate about joining you at the core of the pain, in the middle of the mess, and within the distress. I aim to be a witness and to co-create a space where we can tap into your capacity to resist, rejoice, rest, and recharge.
My offerings include EMDR, body-based somatics, talk therapy, and expressive therapy.
I see you. If you've made it here, you are searching for something and I am passionate about joining you at the core of the pain, in the middle of the mess, and within the distress. I aim to be a witness and to co-create a space where we can tap into your capacity to resist, rejoice, rest, and recharge.
(202) 831-7967 View (202) 831-7967
Photo of Angela Williams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Are you ready to ease the pressure from high standards, gain clarity, and live a more joyful life? You are in the right place. I will teach you tools to reduce stress, regulate your nervous system, tap into your authentic self, resolve long-standing stuck patterns, and create clear goals for your future. I use an integrative approach and specialize in EMDR therapy. I can help you rewrite the narrative you've been living so you can hone in on your intuition, feel more confident, and have more clarity so you can reach the goals that you set for yourself! EMDR Intensives and short-term therapy are now available!
Are you ready to ease the pressure from high standards, gain clarity, and live a more joyful life? You are in the right place. I will teach you tools to reduce stress, regulate your nervous system, tap into your authentic self, resolve long-standing stuck patterns, and create clear goals for your future. I use an integrative approach and specialize in EMDR therapy. I can help you rewrite the narrative you've been living so you can hone in on your intuition, feel more confident, and have more clarity so you can reach the goals that you set for yourself! EMDR Intensives and short-term therapy are now available!
(202) 915-5846 View (202) 915-5846
Photo of Robyn Lacy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Lacy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Experienced Mental Health clinician with a strengths based, collaborative approach with patients. She has a demonstrated history of working in the mental health care industry, education, military, courts and medical (health) including international service. Skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)- EMDRIA certified therapist) Trauma-informed Yoga therapy, Prolonged Exposure (PET), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), strengths perspective, solution-focused brief therapy, and PolyVagal theory. She has years experience with the service delivery inpatient and outpatient including th
Experienced Mental Health clinician with a strengths based, collaborative approach with patients. She has a demonstrated history of working in the mental health care industry, education, military, courts and medical (health) including international service. Skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)- EMDRIA certified therapist) Trauma-informed Yoga therapy, Prolonged Exposure (PET), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), strengths perspective, solution-focused brief therapy, and PolyVagal theory. She has years experience with the service delivery inpatient and outpatient including th
(844) 982-4087 View (844) 982-4087
Photo of Cara Depp Dehghan, PsyD, Psychologist
Cara Depp Dehghan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
These include EMDR, which is a science-backed treatment to help lessen the impact of past traumatic events.
My passion is in working together with my clients to help them overcome anxiety and panic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship problems, grief and loss, problems with motivation, medically unexplained symptoms, behavior issues, and inattention. I enjoy helping people develop self-compassion and live more authentically so they can go from surviving to thriving. I integrate evidence-based techniques into treatment that I tailor to meet the unique needs of each individual with whom I work. I am able to provide services remotely to clients physically located in Maryland, DC, and Virginia and in-person in DC.
These include EMDR, which is a science-backed treatment to help lessen the impact of past traumatic events.
My passion is in working together with my clients to help them overcome anxiety and panic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship problems, grief and loss, problems with motivation, medically unexplained symptoms, behavior issues, and inattention. I enjoy helping people develop self-compassion and live more authentically so they can go from surviving to thriving. I integrate evidence-based techniques into treatment that I tailor to meet the unique needs of each individual with whom I work. I am able to provide services remotely to clients physically located in Maryland, DC, and Virginia and in-person in DC.
(202) 750-3425 View (202) 750-3425
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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.