EMDR Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Tim Martin, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
(202) 951-8669 View (202) 951-8669
Photo of Giselle Ruzany, PhD, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Giselle Ruzany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I use a combination of EMDR, Gestalt Therapy, Somatic Psychology, and Expressive arts therapy.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
I use a combination of EMDR, Gestalt Therapy, Somatic Psychology, and Expressive arts therapy.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
(703) 468-8906 View (703) 468-8906
Photo of Chiara Abbatelli, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Chiara Abbatelli
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Italian, bilingual, psychology associate in Washington D.C. and I provide therapy to young adults, adults, and seniors. I have experience working with diverse clinical populations and a broad spectrum of issues, with an emphasis on trauma and posttraumatic disorders, anxiety and depression, perinatal mood disorders, multicultural concerns, interpersonal and familial difficulties. I am a certified EMDR therapist, and I integrate this approach in my practice to help clients heal from traumatic or adverse life experiences.
I am an Italian, bilingual, psychology associate in Washington D.C. and I provide therapy to young adults, adults, and seniors. I have experience working with diverse clinical populations and a broad spectrum of issues, with an emphasis on trauma and posttraumatic disorders, anxiety and depression, perinatal mood disorders, multicultural concerns, interpersonal and familial difficulties. I am a certified EMDR therapist, and I integrate this approach in my practice to help clients heal from traumatic or adverse life experiences.
(202) 873-1108 View (202) 873-1108
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 Hannah Braune-Friedman - Hannah Braune-Friedman, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Braune-Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Explore your inner strengths and overcome challenges through options of your choosing including but not limited to meditation, visualization, Brainspotting, body awareness, EMDR, and somatic techniques.
Are you ready to be equipped with the tools you need to heal and live your best life? With the support of EMDRIA-certified and seasoned therapist Hannah Braune-Friedman you will experience a whole new landscape of possibility. You can expect to experience warmth and nurturing from Hannah as she lends her talents to creating a safe space where you will feel valued and understood. Her 15+ years of experience allows her to partner with you on a deep level, fostering trust and opening in the therapeutic relationship.
Explore your inner strengths and overcome challenges through options of your choosing including but not limited to meditation, visualization, Brainspotting, body awareness, EMDR, and somatic techniques.
Are you ready to be equipped with the tools you need to heal and live your best life? With the support of EMDRIA-certified and seasoned therapist Hannah Braune-Friedman you will experience a whole new landscape of possibility. You can expect to experience warmth and nurturing from Hannah as she lends her talents to creating a safe space where you will feel valued and understood. Her 15+ years of experience allows her to partner with you on a deep level, fostering trust and opening in the therapeutic relationship.
(202) 265-1000 x1 View (202) 265-1000 x1
Photo of Emma Smith, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CTCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emma Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CTCT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Certified in Trauma & Transgender Care & trained in EMDR, CPT, Imago & sex therapy, I offer a cozy, non-judgmental, sex-positive environment for ENM/poly/kinky (& vanilla) alike!.
I help clients shed old narratives and explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing, even if they already have a lot on their plate. Individuals & couples working with me are "Type A+" meaning they are professionals who have achieved success "in spite" of things that happened to them. Now, they are interested in addressing trauma, seeking symptom relief, engaging in self-discovery, and/or cultivating deeply satisfying romantic/sexual relationships. I specialize in treating sexual & religious trauma & working with LGBTQ+ folks on their journeys of identity discovery (Yes, I like working with cis/straight folks, too).
Certified in Trauma & Transgender Care & trained in EMDR, CPT, Imago & sex therapy, I offer a cozy, non-judgmental, sex-positive environment for ENM/poly/kinky (& vanilla) alike!.
I help clients shed old narratives and explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing, even if they already have a lot on their plate. Individuals & couples working with me are "Type A+" meaning they are professionals who have achieved success "in spite" of things that happened to them. Now, they are interested in addressing trauma, seeking symptom relief, engaging in self-discovery, and/or cultivating deeply satisfying romantic/sexual relationships. I specialize in treating sexual & religious trauma & working with LGBTQ+ folks on their journeys of identity discovery (Yes, I like working with cis/straight folks, too).
(202) 972-4561 View (202) 972-4561
Photo of Huma Sikandar Fatakia, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huma Sikandar Fatakia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 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 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 Sheryl Aaron, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheryl Aaron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
I offer a holistic, integrated approach that includes traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body therapies including EMDR -- a powerful way of resolving the emotional and physical symptoms associated with trauma and other negative life events.
Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating life transitions, feeling paralyzed by depression or anxiety, or trying to overcome trauma, I'd like to help you feel less stuck and more empowered to live a healthier, more meaningful life. Clients say they appreciate my warmth, humor and collaborative style as we tackle the sometimes difficult work of therapy as a team.
I offer a holistic, integrated approach that includes traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body therapies including EMDR -- a powerful way of resolving the emotional and physical symptoms associated with trauma and other negative life events.
Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating life transitions, feeling paralyzed by depression or anxiety, or trying to overcome trauma, I'd like to help you feel less stuck and more empowered to live a healthier, more meaningful life. Clients say they appreciate my warmth, humor and collaborative style as we tackle the sometimes difficult work of therapy as a team.
(202) 999-3386 View (202) 999-3386
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 Colleen Sandick, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Sandick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My caseload is full of dynamic and wonderful clients who seek to change the way they relate to themselves, their life circumstances, and their relationships. I have a particular interest working with recovering alcoholics actively working their 12-step program but are "just feeling stuck". In addition, I especially enjoy supporting women seeking to be authentic to themselves and those around them. Together, we will identify your goals and I will support you in pursuing your personal growth, finding your own answers and balance, and identifying and resolving how your past may be unconsciously impacting your day-to-day life.
I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My caseload is full of dynamic and wonderful clients who seek to change the way they relate to themselves, their life circumstances, and their relationships. I have a particular interest working with recovering alcoholics actively working their 12-step program but are "just feeling stuck". In addition, I especially enjoy supporting women seeking to be authentic to themselves and those around them. Together, we will identify your goals and I will support you in pursuing your personal growth, finding your own answers and balance, and identifying and resolving how your past may be unconsciously impacting your day-to-day life.
(202) 796-7699 View (202) 796-7699
Photo of Dallas Williams-Sierra, LICSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dallas Williams-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(202) 556-3451 View (202) 556-3451
Photo of Risa Tochiki - Risa Tochiki Counseling Service, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Risa Tochiki Counseling Service, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I offer psychotherapy in Japanese or English to adults via online. I am native Japanese and have been in the DMV area for over 23 years. With me, you will spend initial 3 sessions collaboratively to figure out therapy goals and interventions. After that, we will determine the frequency of therapy needed to achieve your goals. I respect my client's values and ways of living. I am trained in CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, Eye Movement Reprocessing (EMDR-T), Motivational Interviewing, and Mental Health First Aid. I can work with clients who reside in Virginia and Washington DC only.
I offer psychotherapy in Japanese or English to adults via online. I am native Japanese and have been in the DMV area for over 23 years. With me, you will spend initial 3 sessions collaboratively to figure out therapy goals and interventions. After that, we will determine the frequency of therapy needed to achieve your goals. I respect my client's values and ways of living. I am trained in CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, Eye Movement Reprocessing (EMDR-T), Motivational Interviewing, and Mental Health First Aid. I can work with clients who reside in Virginia and Washington DC only.
(202) 301-4261 View (202) 301-4261
Photo of Arielle Walls, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arielle Walls
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I get it... It's hard out here. In a world that demands more than it gives, it is imperative that one develops their voice to speak their truth and find their way to liberation and connection. It may feel impossible to find stability and security not only within your environment but also within yourself. As a clinician, my goal is to support you as you find empowerment, enact self-compassion, expand self- awareness, restore and improve relationships with self and others, and find inner security using an interpersonal/relational approach, psychotherapy, psycho-education. EMDR, and holistic interventions.
I get it... It's hard out here. In a world that demands more than it gives, it is imperative that one develops their voice to speak their truth and find their way to liberation and connection. It may feel impossible to find stability and security not only within your environment but also within yourself. As a clinician, my goal is to support you as you find empowerment, enact self-compassion, expand self- awareness, restore and improve relationships with self and others, and find inner security using an interpersonal/relational approach, psychotherapy, psycho-education. EMDR, and holistic interventions.
(202) 968-2800 View (202) 968-2800
Photo of Zachary Rothwell, PMHNP
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(202) 953-5174 View (202) 953-5174
Photo of Dr. Monique D Walker - Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships, PhD, LMFT, CIRT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CIRT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Mo is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) + is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist (CIRT)/Coach.
Dr. Monique Walker, LMFT understands the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender + sexuality-based oppression due to her own personal + professional experiences navigating these challenges. Dr. Mo knows how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through a process that offers a space to be nurtured and lovingly challenged. She looks forward to getting to know you + finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. Dr. Mo works with individuals, couples + families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic + create better relationships with themselves and others.
Mo is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) + is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist (CIRT)/Coach.
Dr. Monique Walker, LMFT understands the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender + sexuality-based oppression due to her own personal + professional experiences navigating these challenges. Dr. Mo knows how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through a process that offers a space to be nurtured and lovingly challenged. She looks forward to getting to know you + finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. Dr. Mo works with individuals, couples + families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic + create better relationships with themselves and others.
(888) 410-9396 View (888) 410-9396
Photo of Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I have some training in EMDR and Family Constellations.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
I have some training in EMDR and Family Constellations.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
(301) 852-7515 View (301) 852-7515
Photo of Tracy Belle, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Belle
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to understand and develop their potential. With warmth and directness, I focus on what concerns you today and work with you to explore your present and past for insight as to how you can thrive. With an interest in the mind/body connection, I hope to offer a fresh approach to therapy that is rooted in the reality of everyday life, yet is emotionally / psychologically /spiritually informed, attuned, and supportive.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to understand and develop their potential. With warmth and directness, I focus on what concerns you today and work with you to explore your present and past for insight as to how you can thrive. With an interest in the mind/body connection, I hope to offer a fresh approach to therapy that is rooted in the reality of everyday life, yet is emotionally / psychologically /spiritually informed, attuned, and supportive.
(202) 980-2804 View (202) 980-2804
Photo of Megan K Doherty, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan K Doherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel “stuck” in repeating patterns? Do you long for a change but can’t seem to make it happen? Or have you recently made a big transition and need help adjusting? Has trauma – either a one-time life event, or an ongoing stressful situation – stopped you from living fully? I help individuals and couples identify goals and the barriers to reaching them. With a collaborative and supportive approach you will find purpose, confidence, and belonging. My approach emphasizes self- determination and collaboration, drawing on evidence-based talk therapies and mind-body approaches like EMDR, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
Do you feel “stuck” in repeating patterns? Do you long for a change but can’t seem to make it happen? Or have you recently made a big transition and need help adjusting? Has trauma – either a one-time life event, or an ongoing stressful situation – stopped you from living fully? I help individuals and couples identify goals and the barriers to reaching them. With a collaborative and supportive approach you will find purpose, confidence, and belonging. My approach emphasizes self- determination and collaboration, drawing on evidence-based talk therapies and mind-body approaches like EMDR, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
(202) 952-2134 View (202) 952-2134
Photo of Amira Yanni, LGPC, MA, Counselor
Amira Yanni
Counselor, LGPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
I utilize EMDR as well as talk therapy to help you reach your goals.
Behavioral and cognitive patterns can have a significant impact on our lives, relationships, and sense of self-worth. If you are taking a closer, deeper look at your own patterns, you may find it helpful to do so in a safe, collaborative environment. I would love to come alongside you to help you identify and disrupt negative patterns and develop improved skills to grow and handle challenges. My specialities include: anxiety, trauma, grief, self esteem issues, life transitions, communication, and setting boundaries.
I utilize EMDR as well as talk therapy to help you reach your goals.
Behavioral and cognitive patterns can have a significant impact on our lives, relationships, and sense of self-worth. If you are taking a closer, deeper look at your own patterns, you may find it helpful to do so in a safe, collaborative environment. I would love to come alongside you to help you identify and disrupt negative patterns and develop improved skills to grow and handle challenges. My specialities include: anxiety, trauma, grief, self esteem issues, life transitions, communication, and setting boundaries.
(301) 215-2765 View (301) 215-2765
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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.