EMDR Therapists in Ocala, FL

Photo of Lizeth Osorio, LMHC
Lizeth Osorio
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
As a Certified Trauma Model Therapist and Certified EMDR Therapist, I integrate my intuitive and channeling abilities to enhance the therapeutic process.
Certainly! Here's the paragraph in the first person: I am Lizeth Osorio, a dedicated Counselor, Healer, and Instructor with a Master’s in Psychology and a License in Mental Health Counseling.
As a Certified Trauma Model Therapist and Certified EMDR Therapist, I integrate my intuitive and channeling abilities to enhance the therapeutic process.
Certainly! Here's the paragraph in the first person: I am Lizeth Osorio, a dedicated Counselor, Healer, and Instructor with a Master’s in Psychology and a License in Mental Health Counseling.
(352) 703-0277 View (352) 703-0277
Photo of Kelly Jaworski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Jaworski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
I offer traditional talk therapy, EMDR, direct neurofeedback, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) somatic work, relaxation, mindfulness, play, and expressive therapies.
I am a believer that compassion is a necessary ingredient for growth. I believe in utilizing the Mind-Body connection to help my clients grow and heal. I believe in thinking outside of the box. I will tailor my approach to fit your needs. I enjoy finding new, innovative ways to help people in my work. I work with adults and adolescents. I offer traditional talk therapy, EMDR, Direct Neurofeedback, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Mindfulness-based therapies.
I offer traditional talk therapy, EMDR, direct neurofeedback, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) somatic work, relaxation, mindfulness, play, and expressive therapies.
I am a believer that compassion is a necessary ingredient for growth. I believe in utilizing the Mind-Body connection to help my clients grow and heal. I believe in thinking outside of the box. I will tailor my approach to fit your needs. I enjoy finding new, innovative ways to help people in my work. I work with adults and adolescents. I offer traditional talk therapy, EMDR, Direct Neurofeedback, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Mindfulness-based therapies.
(352) 661-2724 View (352) 661-2724
Photo of Kimberly Sindy - Renewed Life Therapy, LCSW,  , MCAP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewed Life Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, , MCAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470
I have been trained in EMDR therapy.
Are you living with emotional pain or substance abuse? Are you having difficulty moving forward from past trauma? I specialize in Trauma, Emotional and Substance Abuse Therapy. You do not have to live in turmoil any longer. Through goal setting and Talk Therapy, we can work toward setting you free from emotional bondage. I work with individuals, families, couples, and adolescents. We can meet on location or virtually at your own pace.
I have been trained in EMDR therapy.
Are you living with emotional pain or substance abuse? Are you having difficulty moving forward from past trauma? I specialize in Trauma, Emotional and Substance Abuse Therapy. You do not have to live in turmoil any longer. Through goal setting and Talk Therapy, we can work toward setting you free from emotional bondage. I work with individuals, families, couples, and adolescents. We can meet on location or virtually at your own pace.
(352) 280-3463 View (352) 280-3463
Urban Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34471
The EMDR therapy fits yith those who have been victimized or traumatized.
I enjoy working with clients of all age groups and demographics. I am enthralled with the human condition and I like to help clients understand the motivations of their chosen behaviors. I love working with adolescents and witness many young adults develop and grow into who they are meant to be. I believe strongly in people recognizing and working toward their full potential. I rejoice when I am able to work for a client who accepts ownership of their actions and wants to work to improve their lives emotionally and physically.
The EMDR therapy fits yith those who have been victimized or traumatized.
I enjoy working with clients of all age groups and demographics. I am enthralled with the human condition and I like to help clients understand the motivations of their chosen behaviors. I love working with adolescents and witness many young adults develop and grow into who they are meant to be. I believe strongly in people recognizing and working toward their full potential. I rejoice when I am able to work for a client who accepts ownership of their actions and wants to work to improve their lives emotionally and physically.
(352) 354-4144 View (352) 354-4144
Photo of Margaret Proulx, LMHC, NCC, NY, FL, Counselor
Margaret Proulx
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NY, FL
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Please Note: Margaret is only virtual. Margaret is licensed in both New York and Florida. Margaret has been a practicing Mental Health Counselor since 2020. Margaret attended Capella University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and graduated in 2020. She is a National Certified Counselor. Margaret also is an EMDR therapist. Margaret specializes in trauma,PTSD, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety. Margaret believes that therapy is a mode of traveling through this life within healing. She has experience using the following therapeutic methods/approaches/philosophies: CBT, EMDR, ClientCentered, and TraumaInformed.
Please Note: Margaret is only virtual. Margaret is licensed in both New York and Florida. Margaret has been a practicing Mental Health Counselor since 2020. Margaret attended Capella University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and graduated in 2020. She is a National Certified Counselor. Margaret also is an EMDR therapist. Margaret specializes in trauma,PTSD, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety. Margaret believes that therapy is a mode of traveling through this life within healing. She has experience using the following therapeutic methods/approaches/philosophies: CBT, EMDR, ClientCentered, and TraumaInformed.
(518) 760-0321 View (518) 760-0321
Photo of Heather M. Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather M. Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34472  (Online Only)
My calming, client centered focus includes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement De-sensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Heather Parker, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Florida and Indiana. My counseling approach is client-centered and strengths based to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment. I believe it is important to identify the client’s strengths to start the journey away from negative thoughts and empower towards a more positive lifestyle. I utilize evidence-based practices to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. With a collaborative approach to identify and address goals, I assist you with finding and using strategies that work best for you.
My calming, client centered focus includes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement De-sensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Heather Parker, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Florida and Indiana. My counseling approach is client-centered and strengths based to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment. I believe it is important to identify the client’s strengths to start the journey away from negative thoughts and empower towards a more positive lifestyle. I utilize evidence-based practices to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. With a collaborative approach to identify and address goals, I assist you with finding and using strategies that work best for you.
(844) 733-0128 View (844) 733-0128
Photo of Raquel de Oliveira, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raquel de Oliveira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Raquel tailors her approach to each individual, drawing on evidence-based interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Raquel de Oliveira is a board-certified License Clinical Social worker offers bilingual online therapy to adults of all ages. Raquel specializes in assisting clients to learn skills to cope with multiple issues, including but not limited to: debilitating anxiety, depression, trauma, unhealthy relationships, life transitions and stress of everyday life.
Raquel tailors her approach to each individual, drawing on evidence-based interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Raquel de Oliveira is a board-certified License Clinical Social worker offers bilingual online therapy to adults of all ages. Raquel specializes in assisting clients to learn skills to cope with multiple issues, including but not limited to: debilitating anxiety, depression, trauma, unhealthy relationships, life transitions and stress of everyday life.
(352) 605-9827 View (352) 605-9827
Photo of Sandra Cornell, LMHC, Counselor
Sandra Cornell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
I am an Eclectic therapist that enjoys combining all beneficial theories and modalities that have been proven effective for trauma; Direct Neurofeedback, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused and mindfulness techniques.
Hi, I am Sandi. Have you ever felt that some things in life that have happened to you have affected you so much that you can no longer enjoy life and the thought of going to therapy scares you? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn? You are not alone. I am a trauma specialist who has compassion and understanding. My approach to clients is Client Centered and Trauma Informed Care. I help clients to understand how to make decisons that will empower them. I provide Direct Neurofeedback, which has been proven to help anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injury to my practice.
I am an Eclectic therapist that enjoys combining all beneficial theories and modalities that have been proven effective for trauma; Direct Neurofeedback, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused and mindfulness techniques.
Hi, I am Sandi. Have you ever felt that some things in life that have happened to you have affected you so much that you can no longer enjoy life and the thought of going to therapy scares you? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn? You are not alone. I am a trauma specialist who has compassion and understanding. My approach to clients is Client Centered and Trauma Informed Care. I help clients to understand how to make decisons that will empower them. I provide Direct Neurofeedback, which has been proven to help anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injury to my practice.
(352) 670-3356 View (352) 670-3356
Photo of Deborah E Cohen, LMFT, CHT, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah E Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I provide a variety of experiential techniques, including EMDR, guided visualization, Somatic Experiencing, hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, mindfulness practices and spiritual processes to guide you back to your intuitive knowing and soul-wisdom.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
I provide a variety of experiential techniques, including EMDR, guided visualization, Somatic Experiencing, hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, mindfulness practices and spiritual processes to guide you back to your intuitive knowing and soul-wisdom.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
(916) 251-9983 View (916) 251-9983
Photo of Juwariya Quddus, MA, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Juwariya Quddus
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470
My integrative and person-centered approach is tailored to client's unique needs, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, SFT, MBSR, EMDR.
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone” -Olivera. As a skilled therapist I look forward to facilitating and supporting you on your inner work journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you’re here, then maybe it’s time to experience the transformative power of therapy. You’ll be empowered to work through struggles with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, marriage/family, and relationship issues, to name a few, by cultivating resilience, developing coping skills, and fostering meaningful relationships.
My integrative and person-centered approach is tailored to client's unique needs, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, SFT, MBSR, EMDR.
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone” -Olivera. As a skilled therapist I look forward to facilitating and supporting you on your inner work journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you’re here, then maybe it’s time to experience the transformative power of therapy. You’ll be empowered to work through struggles with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, marriage/family, and relationship issues, to name a few, by cultivating resilience, developing coping skills, and fostering meaningful relationships.
(352) 436-6843 View (352) 436-6843
Photo of Erica Justine Zeno - First StrideZ Counseling, LMHC, QS, Counselor
First StrideZ Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
Erica Zeno, LMHC-QS and her team at First StrideZ Counseling are dedicated to providing a full spectrum of evidence-based, integrative psychological services in order to advance and promote the emotional, behavioral, and developmental well-being of young individuals, adults, couples and their families. Many complications arise throughout a life time let us assist you in walking through the fires. (depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infant mental health 0-6, OCD, bipolar, EMDR, severe mental illness and more
Erica Zeno, LMHC-QS and her team at First StrideZ Counseling are dedicated to providing a full spectrum of evidence-based, integrative psychological services in order to advance and promote the emotional, behavioral, and developmental well-being of young individuals, adults, couples and their families. Many complications arise throughout a life time let us assist you in walking through the fires. (depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infant mental health 0-6, OCD, bipolar, EMDR, severe mental illness and more
(352) 280-3832 View (352) 280-3832
Photo of Jennifer Swanson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Swanson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34471
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Certified. I strive to provide a safe, open, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing your true self. No "cookie cutter" therapeutic approach works for everyone, so we will work together to develop a therapeutic plan to meet each individual's needs, preferences, and comfort levels. In addition to talk therapy, I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Certified. I strive to provide a safe, open, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing your true self. No "cookie cutter" therapeutic approach works for everyone, so we will work together to develop a therapeutic plan to meet each individual's needs, preferences, and comfort levels. In addition to talk therapy, I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR therapy.
(352) 218-1570 View (352) 218-1570
Photo of Brian D Freeman, MA , LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Brian D Freeman
Counselor, MA , LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
I have a MA in Clinical Counseling from Webster University & have been trained in trauma and EMDR therapy.
Accepting New Clients! Reaching out when we need help can be the hardest part. It's my goal to help you feel comfortable & provide you with a relaxed space to be your completely unfiltered self. I have worked with clients from all walks of life struggling with issues ranging from substance abuse, depression & anxiety to PTSD & trauma & the hardest part for nearly all of them was making he decision to reach out. You are not alone! Having the courage to reach out can be incredibly difficult but, please know that real change can start with just a simple conversation. Whenever you're ready to begin making change, I'll be ready to help.
I have a MA in Clinical Counseling from Webster University & have been trained in trauma and EMDR therapy.
Accepting New Clients! Reaching out when we need help can be the hardest part. It's my goal to help you feel comfortable & provide you with a relaxed space to be your completely unfiltered self. I have worked with clients from all walks of life struggling with issues ranging from substance abuse, depression & anxiety to PTSD & trauma & the hardest part for nearly all of them was making he decision to reach out. You are not alone! Having the courage to reach out can be incredibly difficult but, please know that real change can start with just a simple conversation. Whenever you're ready to begin making change, I'll be ready to help.
(352) 280-3590 View (352) 280-3590
Photo of Gabriella Zelaya, LMHC, Counselor
Gabriella Zelaya
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and stress management, utilizing evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi! I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. I am passionate about helping individuals find their inner strength and resilience to overcome life's struggles. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology and have worked with diverse populations ranging from children to adults in a variety of settings
I have experience in working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and stress management, utilizing evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi! I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. I am passionate about helping individuals find their inner strength and resilience to overcome life's struggles. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology and have worked with diverse populations ranging from children to adults in a variety of settings
(352) 614-4011 View (352) 614-4011
Photo of Ellen Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481
I primarily use CBT, motivational interviewing and I am EMDR trained.
Hello! I'm so glad you are on the journey towards healing and self-discovery. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I've primarily worked in the areas of mental health, substance abuse and eating disorders.
I primarily use CBT, motivational interviewing and I am EMDR trained.
Hello! I'm so glad you are on the journey towards healing and self-discovery. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I've primarily worked in the areas of mental health, substance abuse and eating disorders.
(561) 782-3190 View (561) 782-3190
Photo of Heather L Hurwitt - A Satisfied Mind Counseling, LLC., LMFT, LMHC
A Satisfied Mind Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34470
I offer talk therapy as well as EMDR and IASIS Neurofeedback to help clients unburden themselves from the painful experiences of the past.
Are you finding it difficult to deal with life after experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect? You do not have to "go it" alone. No matter when it occurred, recovery is possible! Let me help you work through your situation and process whatever is holding you back. I offer different types of therapy to help you find peace and stability after the life-altering experiences that come with trauma and abuse. Don't settle for a lackluster life! I can help you find healthy ways to move forward into a new and fulfilling chapter of life. I offer in-person services in Ocala and Gainesville as well as telehealth throughout Florida.
I offer talk therapy as well as EMDR and IASIS Neurofeedback to help clients unburden themselves from the painful experiences of the past.
Are you finding it difficult to deal with life after experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect? You do not have to "go it" alone. No matter when it occurred, recovery is possible! Let me help you work through your situation and process whatever is holding you back. I offer different types of therapy to help you find peace and stability after the life-altering experiences that come with trauma and abuse. Don't settle for a lackluster life! I can help you find healthy ways to move forward into a new and fulfilling chapter of life. I offer in-person services in Ocala and Gainesville as well as telehealth throughout Florida.
(352) 678-4551 View (352) 678-4551
Photo of Liz Overpeck, Counselor
Liz Overpeck
Counselor
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I empower my clients to identify and amplify the strengths within themselves and their world that they may have lost touch with or perhaps have not yet discovered. In our sessions together, you'll experience a healthy balance of acceptance and empathy paired with therapeutic challenges towards growth. I like to collaborate with my clients so that their treatment is individualized to their unique goals, culture, and strengths. I offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions focused therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and Christian spiritual integration for clients seeking faith based therapy.
I empower my clients to identify and amplify the strengths within themselves and their world that they may have lost touch with or perhaps have not yet discovered. In our sessions together, you'll experience a healthy balance of acceptance and empathy paired with therapeutic challenges towards growth. I like to collaborate with my clients so that their treatment is individualized to their unique goals, culture, and strengths. I offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions focused therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and Christian spiritual integration for clients seeking faith based therapy.
(904) 872-6071 View (904) 872-6071
Photo of Deanne O'Brien, LMHC
Deanne O'Brien
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Hi my name is Deanne- I started working in mental health in 2001- I knew I found my mission to heal myself and others- I specialize in validating supportive therapy. At the same time I want to help my clients move toward change and healing. I am comfortable with complex cases- I teach skills from DBT primarily mindfulness and distress tolerance these are very useful tools. I also use EMDR to treat anxiety and PTSD symptoms. I use specialized software to provide EMDR- so you can receive care from the comfort of your home.
Hi my name is Deanne- I started working in mental health in 2001- I knew I found my mission to heal myself and others- I specialize in validating supportive therapy. At the same time I want to help my clients move toward change and healing. I am comfortable with complex cases- I teach skills from DBT primarily mindfulness and distress tolerance these are very useful tools. I also use EMDR to treat anxiety and PTSD symptoms. I use specialized software to provide EMDR- so you can receive care from the comfort of your home.
(352) 309-2411 View (352) 309-2411
Photo of Sarah Martinez, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Martinez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with people that have experienced trauma, and utilize EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy regularly, along with other various modalities of treatment, including CBT and DBT, to best assist patients in feeling safe, secure, and loved.
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida, currently residing in beautiful upstate New York, and have been providing therapy since 2012.
I have a passion for working with people that have experienced trauma, and utilize EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy regularly, along with other various modalities of treatment, including CBT and DBT, to best assist patients in feeling safe, secure, and loved.
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida, currently residing in beautiful upstate New York, and have been providing therapy since 2012.
(407) 214-4220 View (407) 214-4220
Photo of Shariety L Gibbs, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shariety L Gibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34473  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR therapy, and have been able to witness the amazing results it provides.
While asking for help can be a frightening experience, it doesn't have to be. I strive to take the frightening out of therapy, and utilize empowering strategies to help individuals become the very best they can be. My professional experience involves working with teens, adults, and couples. I have experience with individuals working through traumas such as being victims of rape, incest, bullying, and abuse. I also work with military personnel, assisting through traumas such as PTSD, and assisting with reintegration.
I am certified in EMDR therapy, and have been able to witness the amazing results it provides.
While asking for help can be a frightening experience, it doesn't have to be. I strive to take the frightening out of therapy, and utilize empowering strategies to help individuals become the very best they can be. My professional experience involves working with teens, adults, and couples. I have experience with individuals working through traumas such as being victims of rape, incest, bullying, and abuse. I also work with military personnel, assisting through traumas such as PTSD, and assisting with reintegration.
(608) 807-2776 View (608) 807-2776
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.