EMDR Therapists in Highland, Denver, CO

Photo of Jade Cooley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jade Cooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I offer EMDR for trauma, a type of therapy that offers lasting relief.
In a world that often wants us to feel badly about ourselves, it's easy to feel overwhelmed if we don't conform to the "norm". I am here to stand by you in confronting the structures that contribute to our mental challenges while carving out new routes to emotional well-being. My focus includes holding space for my LGBTQIA community, fostering safety and respect for neurodivergent folks, and offering vital support to survivors of trauma, especially those affected by sexual trauma. Whether you're just starting out on your mental health journey, or are looking for a change of pace, I can help get you where you want to be!
I offer EMDR for trauma, a type of therapy that offers lasting relief.
In a world that often wants us to feel badly about ourselves, it's easy to feel overwhelmed if we don't conform to the "norm". I am here to stand by you in confronting the structures that contribute to our mental challenges while carving out new routes to emotional well-being. My focus includes holding space for my LGBTQIA community, fostering safety and respect for neurodivergent folks, and offering vital support to survivors of trauma, especially those affected by sexual trauma. Whether you're just starting out on your mental health journey, or are looking for a change of pace, I can help get you where you want to be!
(303) 562-1569 View (303) 562-1569
Photo of Mara Richman, PhD, Psych, Registered Psychotherapist
Mara Richman
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), CBT, DBT, & EFT, I empower individuals to process and integrate their past traumas, paving the way for profound transformation.
My style is a unique blend of warmth, empathy, and clinical proficiency, which can help for me to be a trusted guide for individuals and couples navigating through life's challenges. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of trauma, I provide a safe and nurturing space for her clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I use personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs, which equips clients with practical tools and coping strategies to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
Drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), CBT, DBT, & EFT, I empower individuals to process and integrate their past traumas, paving the way for profound transformation.
My style is a unique blend of warmth, empathy, and clinical proficiency, which can help for me to be a trusted guide for individuals and couples navigating through life's challenges. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of trauma, I provide a safe and nurturing space for her clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I use personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs, which equips clients with practical tools and coping strategies to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
(720) 807-6898 View (720) 807-6898
Photo of Anna Pendleton, MA, MSW, SWC
Anna Pendleton
MA, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I am trauma trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and am working toward certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I support individuals who desire to heal from trauma, experience relief from anxiety, explore patterns in relationships, navigate life transitions, and cultivate greater self-acceptance. I also support couples who are seeking more closeness and connection.
I am trauma trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and am working toward certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I support individuals who desire to heal from trauma, experience relief from anxiety, explore patterns in relationships, navigate life transitions, and cultivate greater self-acceptance. I also support couples who are seeking more closeness and connection.
(720) 590-6081 View (720) 590-6081
Photo of Karen Lockwood - Karen Lockwood - Green Couch Counseling , LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Lockwood - Green Couch Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, and we aren’t sure what to do to move forward. Have you found yourself stuck and feeling hopeless? I believe we are all capable of change and I would like to be part of the journey towards healing. My style of therapy involves Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Schema Therapy. I am also trained in trauma specific treatment modalities, EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, and we aren’t sure what to do to move forward. Have you found yourself stuck and feeling hopeless? I believe we are all capable of change and I would like to be part of the journey towards healing. My style of therapy involves Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Schema Therapy. I am also trained in trauma specific treatment modalities, EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(720) 902-8127 View (720) 902-8127
Photo of Jennifer A Garibay, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer A Garibay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I am also an EMDR trained therapist for those who would like to tackle trauma, anxiety and depression symptoms head on through the use of this specialized intervention.
Do you often feel stuck, worried or feel that you aren't enough? My specialty is helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression and grief gain get a deeper understanding of who they are and what they need to feel whole again. I believe that true healing only happens when you address the roots of your problems. I will walk beside you every step of the way as we explore your past experiences and how they impact your life today. You will learn how to navigate through your emotions, prioritize taking care of yourself and learn tools to make the changes you want to readily see in your life.
I am also an EMDR trained therapist for those who would like to tackle trauma, anxiety and depression symptoms head on through the use of this specialized intervention.
Do you often feel stuck, worried or feel that you aren't enough? My specialty is helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression and grief gain get a deeper understanding of who they are and what they need to feel whole again. I believe that true healing only happens when you address the roots of your problems. I will walk beside you every step of the way as we explore your past experiences and how they impact your life today. You will learn how to navigate through your emotions, prioritize taking care of yourself and learn tools to make the changes you want to readily see in your life.
(720) 613-9437 View (720) 613-9437
Photo of Johnna Vernon, LMFT , EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Johnna Vernon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I provide EMDR, pre and postnatal support, individual, marriage and family therapy.
I whole heartedly believe in the therapeutic process to create lasting change in people's lives. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, children and individuals in a variety of settings. I use many different techniques, including EMDR, to support clients through their healing, reduce symptoms and create happy, fulfilling lives. I believe that YOU have an innate ability to heal and thrive. My role, as your therapist, is to help you feel empowered by accessing your own mind/body wisdom to bring balance and peace into your life.
I provide EMDR, pre and postnatal support, individual, marriage and family therapy.
I whole heartedly believe in the therapeutic process to create lasting change in people's lives. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, children and individuals in a variety of settings. I use many different techniques, including EMDR, to support clients through their healing, reduce symptoms and create happy, fulfilling lives. I believe that YOU have an innate ability to heal and thrive. My role, as your therapist, is to help you feel empowered by accessing your own mind/body wisdom to bring balance and peace into your life.
(719) 215-5803 View (719) 215-5803
Photo of Paula Santos, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I work with intensive approaches like EMDR to challenge your subconscious and reprogram your thinking quickly, where you will begin to feel a different relationship to life.
I’m an action based therapist, where individuals and couples come to get unstuck. I will ask you to dive into the work and be ready to release unconscious narratives that are holding you back from living your most authentic life. People come to me for counseling to address many issues, but I specialize in issues in relationships, self worth, finding purpose, and trauma healing. I’m here to challenge blindspots that are preventing you from living the life and relationships you want. I offer direct, upfront, no BS type of coaching for people who need help deepening connection with self and others and discovering true identity within.
I work with intensive approaches like EMDR to challenge your subconscious and reprogram your thinking quickly, where you will begin to feel a different relationship to life.
I’m an action based therapist, where individuals and couples come to get unstuck. I will ask you to dive into the work and be ready to release unconscious narratives that are holding you back from living your most authentic life. People come to me for counseling to address many issues, but I specialize in issues in relationships, self worth, finding purpose, and trauma healing. I’m here to challenge blindspots that are preventing you from living the life and relationships you want. I offer direct, upfront, no BS type of coaching for people who need help deepening connection with self and others and discovering true identity within.
(720) 743-5101 View (720) 743-5101
Photo of Dennis Guyvan, MA, LPCC
Dennis Guyvan
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80202
I utilize cutting-edge modalities like Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS, and Somatic Therapy, which have proven to be highly effective.
Welcome! I assume you are going through some challenges right now and since you are here, a part of you believes that there is a way to turn things around. I’m here to help you! Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, or self-esteem challenges, I am here to guide you every step of the way, help you figure out what exactly is causing the internal distress as well as find a way to manage and resolve that distress!
I utilize cutting-edge modalities like Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS, and Somatic Therapy, which have proven to be highly effective.
Welcome! I assume you are going through some challenges right now and since you are here, a part of you believes that there is a way to turn things around. I’m here to help you! Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, or self-esteem challenges, I am here to guide you every step of the way, help you figure out what exactly is causing the internal distress as well as find a way to manage and resolve that distress!
(720) 802-4368 View (720) 802-4368
Photo of Becky Natenberg, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky Natenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Currently accepting new clients. Is there a part of you that desires to feel motivated, present, and connected yet anxiety, depression, and trauma keep you living in fear? You keep repeating the same patterns, even though you really want to change. If you've struggled to create sustainable change without debilitating anxiety, your nervous system may be overwhelmed. If you struggle to understand your feelings, I can provide the framework for you to become less fearful and more trusting of yourself through mindfulness, somatic and EMDR therapy.
Currently accepting new clients. Is there a part of you that desires to feel motivated, present, and connected yet anxiety, depression, and trauma keep you living in fear? You keep repeating the same patterns, even though you really want to change. If you've struggled to create sustainable change without debilitating anxiety, your nervous system may be overwhelmed. If you struggle to understand your feelings, I can provide the framework for you to become less fearful and more trusting of yourself through mindfulness, somatic and EMDR therapy.
(720) 776-8046 View (720) 776-8046
Photo of Brittany Roper, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Roper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence-based, trauma-informed treatments including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR.
It’s easy to feel stuck. Maybe you can’t shake certain thoughts or feelings. Maybe you’re constantly feeling down, worried, or fearful. As your therapist, I’m here to partner with you. You know a lot more about yourself than you give yourself credit for, and I want to help you focus on your strengths and provide tangible tools to help you reach your goals. When you work with me, you’re stepping into an environment where you can be your true, authentic self and feel affirmed, cared for, and valued.
I use evidence-based, trauma-informed treatments including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR.
It’s easy to feel stuck. Maybe you can’t shake certain thoughts or feelings. Maybe you’re constantly feeling down, worried, or fearful. As your therapist, I’m here to partner with you. You know a lot more about yourself than you give yourself credit for, and I want to help you focus on your strengths and provide tangible tools to help you reach your goals. When you work with me, you’re stepping into an environment where you can be your true, authentic self and feel affirmed, cared for, and valued.
(720) 893-9039 View (720) 893-9039
Photo of Claire Coonrod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Coonrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I offer EMDR, CBT, DBT, and more.
Can't stop thinking about the "what if's"? Or maybe you find yourself spending too much time obsessing about what people think of you. Sometimes you get to a point where enjoying the present is difficult and you just can’t seem to shake the feeling of being “on edge.” You may even get a sinking feeling in your stomach when Sunday rolls around knowing you have work or school ahead of you. Feelings and thoughts like this may seem like roadblocks to achieving your goals; however, change is possible.
I offer EMDR, CBT, DBT, and more.
Can't stop thinking about the "what if's"? Or maybe you find yourself spending too much time obsessing about what people think of you. Sometimes you get to a point where enjoying the present is difficult and you just can’t seem to shake the feeling of being “on edge.” You may even get a sinking feeling in your stomach when Sunday rolls around knowing you have work or school ahead of you. Feelings and thoughts like this may seem like roadblocks to achieving your goals; however, change is possible.
(720) 753-5510 View (720) 753-5510
Photo of William Sandy Pryor - Pryor Counseling LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pryor Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
One technique that i use, called EMDR, helps people process and release emotions that result from trauma or abuse.
In practice over 16 years. Are you struggling with abuse or a recent trauma? Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Do you struggle with relationships? Do you struggle with finding your path? I can help. I have worked with people for over 16 years and have found that my warm yet direct style has helped countless people uncover and connect with a deeper, stronger part of themselves. I offer a free telephone consultation to see if we would be a good fit. Life can be painful but suffering is optional.
One technique that i use, called EMDR, helps people process and release emotions that result from trauma or abuse.
In practice over 16 years. Are you struggling with abuse or a recent trauma? Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Do you struggle with relationships? Do you struggle with finding your path? I can help. I have worked with people for over 16 years and have found that my warm yet direct style has helped countless people uncover and connect with a deeper, stronger part of themselves. I offer a free telephone consultation to see if we would be a good fit. Life can be painful but suffering is optional.
(303) 622-3688 View (303) 622-3688
Photo of Nikita King, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikita King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer EMDR, neurofeedback integration therapy, and yoga therapy.
Hi! I’m Nikita, and I specialize in working with chronic pain and illness; trauma and anxiety; and clients doing neurofeedback. As a somatic therapist, I often use body-grounding techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and movement to help you process emotions. When you work with me, you can expect a balance between talking and practicing tools and techniques. I love getting to know my clients and can't wait to get to know you too.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer EMDR, neurofeedback integration therapy, and yoga therapy.
Hi! I’m Nikita, and I specialize in working with chronic pain and illness; trauma and anxiety; and clients doing neurofeedback. As a somatic therapist, I often use body-grounding techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and movement to help you process emotions. When you work with me, you can expect a balance between talking and practicing tools and techniques. I love getting to know my clients and can't wait to get to know you too.
(720) 664-4097 View (720) 664-4097
Photo of Gwenivere Weiss - Real Change Therapy, MA, LPC
Real Change Therapy
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I am trained in Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy, EMDR for trauma resolution, Internal Family Systems and Sex Therapy from Northwest Institute of Intimacy.
Short waitlist: I'm Gwenivere Weiss (she/her). I bring a style that is warm, straightforward, and authentic. I work with themes of anxiety, moving beyond trauma, sex, sexuality, alternative relationships, and spiritual growth/challenges. Clients often come to me when they are aware of the patterns that don't work anymore, and are ready to dive into therapy to find a different way to relate to their challenges.
I am trained in Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy, EMDR for trauma resolution, Internal Family Systems and Sex Therapy from Northwest Institute of Intimacy.
Short waitlist: I'm Gwenivere Weiss (she/her). I bring a style that is warm, straightforward, and authentic. I work with themes of anxiety, moving beyond trauma, sex, sexuality, alternative relationships, and spiritual growth/challenges. Clients often come to me when they are aware of the patterns that don't work anymore, and are ready to dive into therapy to find a different way to relate to their challenges.
(720) 734-1330 View (720) 734-1330
Photo of Jessica Rowan - Jessica Rowan at Embrace Today Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Rowan at Embrace Today Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I work from a compassion focused lens using techniques from DBT, IFS and EMDR to promote reattachment to self and healing of trauma wounds.
If you are a person in Colorado or Oregon and have a desire to heal from past trauma or attachment wounds, I would love to be a part of your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Colorado and Oregon and provide fully remote teletherapy services to clients in both states. My goal with Embrace Today Counseling is to create a safe space where trauma and attachment wounds can be interacted with and healed in a way that allows the client to feel completely aligned, stable, and confident. Clinically I practice from a trauma informed, whole person perspective and believe that the client is the expert on themselves.
I work from a compassion focused lens using techniques from DBT, IFS and EMDR to promote reattachment to self and healing of trauma wounds.
If you are a person in Colorado or Oregon and have a desire to heal from past trauma or attachment wounds, I would love to be a part of your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Colorado and Oregon and provide fully remote teletherapy services to clients in both states. My goal with Embrace Today Counseling is to create a safe space where trauma and attachment wounds can be interacted with and healed in a way that allows the client to feel completely aligned, stable, and confident. Clinically I practice from a trauma informed, whole person perspective and believe that the client is the expert on themselves.
(541) 605-8801 View (541) 605-8801
Photo of Kristen Milliron - Kristen Milliron, LCSW - Green Couch Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Milliron, LCSW - Green Couch Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I am also EMDR trained.
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy and having the support of an unbiased person to talk to. My therapy is focused on helping patients achieve their goals. I ask for feedback from Clients so that sessions are tailored to your needs. I believe that the therapeutic process must be individualized for each person and that the process of healing and growth is collaborative between therapist and patient.
I am also EMDR trained.
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy and having the support of an unbiased person to talk to. My therapy is focused on helping patients achieve their goals. I ask for feedback from Clients so that sessions are tailored to your needs. I believe that the therapeutic process must be individualized for each person and that the process of healing and growth is collaborative between therapist and patient.
(833) 784-5222 View (833) 784-5222
Photo of Alex Carone, MSW, LSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Carone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
As your EMDR therapist or Parent Coach, I create a supportive and perceptive environment for couples and parents.
I'm so glad you're here. It feels like you’re here because you’re tired of the same repetitive conflicts and unresolved feelings in your relationships or in your parenting journey. Does it seem like you’re going round and round in a loop of frustration, misunderstandings, or quick reactions? You’re seeking a pathway to understanding and connection, wanting to heal and find joy in these relationships again. You're ready for new approaches, and together, we'll uncover ways to turn these challenges into avenues for personal growth and closer relationships.
As your EMDR therapist or Parent Coach, I create a supportive and perceptive environment for couples and parents.
I'm so glad you're here. It feels like you’re here because you’re tired of the same repetitive conflicts and unresolved feelings in your relationships or in your parenting journey. Does it seem like you’re going round and round in a loop of frustration, misunderstandings, or quick reactions? You’re seeking a pathway to understanding and connection, wanting to heal and find joy in these relationships again. You're ready for new approaches, and together, we'll uncover ways to turn these challenges into avenues for personal growth and closer relationships.
(970) 533-3378 View (970) 533-3378
Photo of Kerri Sterrett - Denver Wellness Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denver Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Denver Wellness Counseling is accepting new EMDR clients. We work collaboratively with each client to help them heal from emotional wounds, engage more fully in the present, and work towards building a brighter future. We specialize in treating those who are struggling with trauma, complex-trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship/family problems, and overall life stress. Our approach assists clients in managing present day symptoms, earning secure attachment, and healing emotional wounds through EMDR treatment.
Denver Wellness Counseling is accepting new EMDR clients. We work collaboratively with each client to help them heal from emotional wounds, engage more fully in the present, and work towards building a brighter future. We specialize in treating those who are struggling with trauma, complex-trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship/family problems, and overall life stress. Our approach assists clients in managing present day symptoms, earning secure attachment, and healing emotional wounds through EMDR treatment.
(720) 740-0512 View (720) 740-0512
Photo of Rachel Darting, MFTC, RYT-250, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Darting
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTC, RYT-250
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I also offer EMDR in this process.
—I am taking new clients— I love working with clients who are ready to address coping patterns in their life and how this prevents them from living courageously. As a holistic therapist, I will journey alongside you as we uncover the negative patterns and interaction cycles that have been holding you back from living as the most authentic version of yourself or that have been impacting your relationship. We will address how past wounds/trauma have created protective patterns that impact your wellbeing. By taking this first step of seeking change, you are on your journey of creating more lightness and fulfillment in your life.
I also offer EMDR in this process.
—I am taking new clients— I love working with clients who are ready to address coping patterns in their life and how this prevents them from living courageously. As a holistic therapist, I will journey alongside you as we uncover the negative patterns and interaction cycles that have been holding you back from living as the most authentic version of yourself or that have been impacting your relationship. We will address how past wounds/trauma have created protective patterns that impact your wellbeing. By taking this first step of seeking change, you are on your journey of creating more lightness and fulfillment in your life.
(720) 606-2459 View (720) 606-2459
Photo of Desiree Carroll, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Desiree Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Desiree has been trained in EMDR since 2014 and became a certified EMDR therapist in 2023.
It is normal during the course of our lives to feel stuck. You may have tried several options to getting unstuck, but find that there is a part of you that doesn't seem to budge. That part might hold trauma, unmet relational needs, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, the list goes on. Therapy is a great option to get to know the different parts of ourselves and learn how to care for these parts. Desiree offers a safe and nurturing space to take a deep dive into understanding you as a whole person; while also offering the tools and resources to process and heal the parts that feel stuck.
Desiree has been trained in EMDR since 2014 and became a certified EMDR therapist in 2023.
It is normal during the course of our lives to feel stuck. You may have tried several options to getting unstuck, but find that there is a part of you that doesn't seem to budge. That part might hold trauma, unmet relational needs, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, the list goes on. Therapy is a great option to get to know the different parts of ourselves and learn how to care for these parts. Desiree offers a safe and nurturing space to take a deep dive into understanding you as a whole person; while also offering the tools and resources to process and heal the parts that feel stuck.
(303) 951-7330 View (303) 951-7330
1

See more therapy options for Highland, Denver

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.