EMDR Therapists in Florida

Photo of Jill K Diamond, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill K Diamond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Key West, FL 33040
You may find my advanced training in EMDR therapy an invaluable resource for true healing.
Whether it be changing your life circumstances, resolving relationship conflict or healing emotional-psychological distress, I offer a compassionate therapeutic relationship where healing and lasting solutions can be achieved. With my clinical experience of 30+ years, we will collaborate to support you in realizing the life you envision for yourself.
You may find my advanced training in EMDR therapy an invaluable resource for true healing.
Whether it be changing your life circumstances, resolving relationship conflict or healing emotional-psychological distress, I offer a compassionate therapeutic relationship where healing and lasting solutions can be achieved. With my clinical experience of 30+ years, we will collaborate to support you in realizing the life you envision for yourself.
(203) 689-7806 View (203) 689-7806
Photo of Sarah Brawer, MA, CAP, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Brawer
Counselor, MA, CAP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marathon, FL 33050
I have extensive experience working in the areas of trauma, addiction, and mental health. I am a certified as a Certified Addictions Professional and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am trained in EMDR and specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma. I am the Coordinator of the Florida Keys Trauma Recovery Network. I work with adults, children and adolescents. Families and couples counseling are welcome.
I have extensive experience working in the areas of trauma, addiction, and mental health. I am a certified as a Certified Addictions Professional and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am trained in EMDR and specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma. I am the Coordinator of the Florida Keys Trauma Recovery Network. I work with adults, children and adolescents. Families and couples counseling are welcome.
(305) 676-7214 View (305) 676-7214
Photo of Blanche Freund, PhD, Psychologist
Blanche Freund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33446  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with anxiety clients and to implement interventions such as Exposure, ritual prevention, and in vivo exposure. There are special treatments for the different anxiety disorders. A first session would consist of a thorough behavioral assessment which would then indicate what your therapy goals are. Thereafter, we would collaborate on setting up a treatment plan. Most anxiety treatments are short-term,20 sessions or less. I enjoy working with Cognitive behavioral methods whether for depression,protracted mourning, anxiety, trauma, and sexual concerns.I also enjoy working with the intervention/psychotherapy of EMDR.which can move therapy rapidly in many cases.
I enjoy working with anxiety clients and to implement interventions such as Exposure, ritual prevention, and in vivo exposure. There are special treatments for the different anxiety disorders. A first session would consist of a thorough behavioral assessment which would then indicate what your therapy goals are. Thereafter, we would collaborate on setting up a treatment plan. Most anxiety treatments are short-term,20 sessions or less. I enjoy working with Cognitive behavioral methods whether for depression,protracted mourning, anxiety, trauma, and sexual concerns.I also enjoy working with the intervention/psychotherapy of EMDR.which can move therapy rapidly in many cases.
(561) 629-1192 View (561) 629-1192
Photo of Chris M Meshula, LMHC, Counselor
Chris M Meshula
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33558
Using EMDR and emotional regulations skills I can help you to cut loose from the tethers holding you back from the life you deserve.
For more than 15 years I have been helping to change lives for the better. My philosophy is that the issues we face have origins in our past experiences. Therefore, there is hope for all of us to improve our lives. There are proven ways to reprogram our emotional states and our perspectives on life. I have gained skills for treating a wide variety of diagnoses and life situations affecting children and adults. I have a reputation for helping the most apprehensive people to trust the therapy process and find better outcomes.
Using EMDR and emotional regulations skills I can help you to cut loose from the tethers holding you back from the life you deserve.
For more than 15 years I have been helping to change lives for the better. My philosophy is that the issues we face have origins in our past experiences. Therefore, there is hope for all of us to improve our lives. There are proven ways to reprogram our emotional states and our perspectives on life. I have gained skills for treating a wide variety of diagnoses and life situations affecting children and adults. I have a reputation for helping the most apprehensive people to trust the therapy process and find better outcomes.
(813) 699-5714 View (813) 699-5714
Photo of Suzanne Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Life can seem difficult when you feel like you are traveling alone. Whether you are experiencing the normal stress of daily life or you have faced a traumatic event in your life, my goal is to partner with you in moving towards health and healing. My approach is client centered and solution-focused to empower my clients to heal and to achieve their goals. I have extensive experience and training in treating trauma and other common co-occurring symptoms including grief, anxiety and depression. I have the highest level of certification and am a qualified EMDR practitioner and trainer.
Life can seem difficult when you feel like you are traveling alone. Whether you are experiencing the normal stress of daily life or you have faced a traumatic event in your life, my goal is to partner with you in moving towards health and healing. My approach is client centered and solution-focused to empower my clients to heal and to achieve their goals. I have extensive experience and training in treating trauma and other common co-occurring symptoms including grief, anxiety and depression. I have the highest level of certification and am a qualified EMDR practitioner and trainer.
(904) 664-5426 View (904) 664-5426
Photo of John Bachman, JD, MA, MS, LMHC, Counselor
John Bachman
Counselor, JD, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
I have been trained in a relational style of counseling, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Trauma Theory and others.
I consider mental health counseling a profession in which my clients come to me because they feel stuck and want to change. Further, I believe that many people believe that change is too difficult, too painful, or simply not possible. In other words, stuck! My role as a counselor is to clarify the issues that create the muck that holds my clients back from healing, growth, and thriving. I help them discover that their lives will not get better by chance, but by change. I believe that the road to healing involves pursuing change.
I have been trained in a relational style of counseling, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Trauma Theory and others.
I consider mental health counseling a profession in which my clients come to me because they feel stuck and want to change. Further, I believe that many people believe that change is too difficult, too painful, or simply not possible. In other words, stuck! My role as a counselor is to clarify the issues that create the muck that holds my clients back from healing, growth, and thriving. I help them discover that their lives will not get better by chance, but by change. I believe that the road to healing involves pursuing change.
(407) 543-1158 View (407) 543-1158
Photo of Minerva Melody King, LCSW, QCSW, CSOTS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Minerva Melody King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QCSW, CSOTS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33478
Interventions I utilize include EMDR, Emotional Processing, Internal Family Systems.
Since 2006 I have been working with individuals, families and couples who have struggled with trauma related depression, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. If you are experiencing unwanted thoughts, emotions and/or memories, and are ready to challenge that negative self talk, this is an opportunity to rewrite your experiences and explore effective options toward a new normal toward an extraordinary life. Let's get your journey started!
Interventions I utilize include EMDR, Emotional Processing, Internal Family Systems.
Since 2006 I have been working with individuals, families and couples who have struggled with trauma related depression, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. If you are experiencing unwanted thoughts, emotions and/or memories, and are ready to challenge that negative self talk, this is an opportunity to rewrite your experiences and explore effective options toward a new normal toward an extraordinary life. Let's get your journey started!
(561) 530-2698 View (561) 530-2698
Photo of Ambria Page, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ambria Page
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Are you ready to stop carrying that weight? I offer an effective therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy.
Is the past weighing heavy on you? Or has a recent troubling event changed how you see the world and yourself? Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression and suspect that it all comes from somewhere in your past. Trauma, whether it is Big “T” (a reaction to a deeply disturbing, life-threatening event or situation, such as an act of violence) or Little “t” (events that typically don't involve violence or disaster but do create significant distress) leave lasting effects on us. Multiple events can also stack on this emotional weight. Leading us to develop problematic responses, negative thoughts and/or behaviors.
Are you ready to stop carrying that weight? I offer an effective therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy.
Is the past weighing heavy on you? Or has a recent troubling event changed how you see the world and yourself? Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression and suspect that it all comes from somewhere in your past. Trauma, whether it is Big “T” (a reaction to a deeply disturbing, life-threatening event or situation, such as an act of violence) or Little “t” (events that typically don't involve violence or disaster but do create significant distress) leave lasting effects on us. Multiple events can also stack on this emotional weight. Leading us to develop problematic responses, negative thoughts and/or behaviors.
(386) 832-1671 View (386) 832-1671
Photo of Dr. Ashley Morris, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Ashley Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819  (Online Only)
My approach merges systems theory with solution-focused theory, and I am trained in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Life's challenges can become increasingly overwhelming, and positive outlooks are gradually limited. At some point in life, everyone could benefit from the therapeutic process. I'm here to provide the support and skills to help you overcome and prevail. There is strength in vulnerability! I offer a safe environment for you to share, explore, and learn ways to become and feel healthy in multiple domains of wellness: physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. I believe in supporting the whole person and implementing interventions based on unique and individual needs.
My approach merges systems theory with solution-focused theory, and I am trained in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Life's challenges can become increasingly overwhelming, and positive outlooks are gradually limited. At some point in life, everyone could benefit from the therapeutic process. I'm here to provide the support and skills to help you overcome and prevail. There is strength in vulnerability! I offer a safe environment for you to share, explore, and learn ways to become and feel healthy in multiple domains of wellness: physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. I believe in supporting the whole person and implementing interventions based on unique and individual needs.
(407) 638-8572 View (407) 638-8572
Photo of Emily Mashburn, LMHC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Emily Mashburn
Counselor, LMHC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I operate from a trauma-informed perspective utilizing techniques such as CBT, EMDR, and a solution focused approach.
Life throws everyone curveballs, and sometimes you need extra support to navigate through these tough and challenging situations. Whether you are dealing with tough life transitions, relationship issues, or dealing with past or present trauma, there is always hope that better days are ahead.
I operate from a trauma-informed perspective utilizing techniques such as CBT, EMDR, and a solution focused approach.
Life throws everyone curveballs, and sometimes you need extra support to navigate through these tough and challenging situations. Whether you are dealing with tough life transitions, relationship issues, or dealing with past or present trauma, there is always hope that better days are ahead.
(904) 601-0175 View (904) 601-0175
Photo of Leslie Whitley - Navarre Sound Counseling , LMHC, Counselor
Navarre Sound Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Navarre, FL 32566
I am certified in EMDR and in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
My Ideal Client: Those who have struggled for years or even decades, with the inability to live their, “Best Life”. Those who are serious about obtaining their healing and or restoration, and will to do the required work. Those who struggle with, PTSD, CPTSD, Childhood Trauma, and or Addictions. Children and Teens with trauma. Those who are struggling with Mental Health issues, who are wanting stability and balance. Parents who struggles with traumatized, adoptive, foster, struggling children, who need help and guidance. Active duty military, veterans, and 1st responders.
I am certified in EMDR and in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
My Ideal Client: Those who have struggled for years or even decades, with the inability to live their, “Best Life”. Those who are serious about obtaining their healing and or restoration, and will to do the required work. Those who struggle with, PTSD, CPTSD, Childhood Trauma, and or Addictions. Children and Teens with trauma. Those who are struggling with Mental Health issues, who are wanting stability and balance. Parents who struggles with traumatized, adoptive, foster, struggling children, who need help and guidance. Active duty military, veterans, and 1st responders.
(850) 810-1867 View (850) 810-1867
Photo of Deena Nathoo, LMHC, CYT-200, Counselor
Deena Nathoo
Counselor, LMHC, CYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Casselberry, FL 32707
My approach combines traditional talk therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness.
First of all, I just want to honor you for taking this step to invest in yourself. Working on yourself isn't easy but you don't have to do it alone. You recognize that you aren't happy or that you might be feeling stuck in your life but that something has to change. What keeps you where you are at? We can't keep doing the same thing over and over again and expect a different result. If you are ready to do something different, I want to help support you in that. I work with clients who are open and ready to learn new tools/ways to break their own limiting beliefs, create new ones, and embody the best version of themselves.
My approach combines traditional talk therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness.
First of all, I just want to honor you for taking this step to invest in yourself. Working on yourself isn't easy but you don't have to do it alone. You recognize that you aren't happy or that you might be feeling stuck in your life but that something has to change. What keeps you where you are at? We can't keep doing the same thing over and over again and expect a different result. If you are ready to do something different, I want to help support you in that. I work with clients who are open and ready to learn new tools/ways to break their own limiting beliefs, create new ones, and embody the best version of themselves.
(407) 442-1801 View (407) 442-1801
Photo of Solange Sabeta, LMHC
Solange Sabeta
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33173  (Online Only)
With the power of EMDR; an evidenced-based method I use designed to desensitize past experiences, we work to transition the expression of our traumas to a less disruptive and more adaptive form when faced with present-day triggers.
Hi there, I'm Solange It is a true honor for me to be a part of your healing journey. I believe strongly in our human need for a listening ear and the healing that comes from it. As a person-centered therapist, I consciously work to see your world through your eyes. This allows room for the safe space necessary to process your unique story. With a flexible approach to therapy, I can use the most effective methods to fit your needs. From coping with life stressors to digging deep, I go at your pace.
With the power of EMDR; an evidenced-based method I use designed to desensitize past experiences, we work to transition the expression of our traumas to a less disruptive and more adaptive form when faced with present-day triggers.
Hi there, I'm Solange It is a true honor for me to be a part of your healing journey. I believe strongly in our human need for a listening ear and the healing that comes from it. As a person-centered therapist, I consciously work to see your world through your eyes. This allows room for the safe space necessary to process your unique story. With a flexible approach to therapy, I can use the most effective methods to fit your needs. From coping with life stressors to digging deep, I go at your pace.
(786) 891-4140 View (786) 891-4140
Photo of Madison DiCesare, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison DiCesare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Along with traditional psychotherapy, we offer EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Amen Clinics Certified Brain Health Coaching and Spiritual Strengthening.
Do you struggle to prioritize your needs, always putting others before yourself? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, unable to enjoy life’s moments? Do you find yourself second guessing your choices, trapped in a cycle of self-doubt? If these struggles resonate with you, there is a solution! You will receive the personalized support and attention you need to develop your confidence and take charge of your life.
Along with traditional psychotherapy, we offer EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Amen Clinics Certified Brain Health Coaching and Spiritual Strengthening.
Do you struggle to prioritize your needs, always putting others before yourself? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, unable to enjoy life’s moments? Do you find yourself second guessing your choices, trapped in a cycle of self-doubt? If these struggles resonate with you, there is a solution! You will receive the personalized support and attention you need to develop your confidence and take charge of your life.
(727) 591-5327 View (727) 591-5327
Photo of Monica M Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica M Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32503
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide individuals, couples, and families a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients are able to freely express themselves while gaining insight into their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, PTSD, people-pleasing, developmental and sexual trauma, self-esteem issues, parenting, anxiety, and depression. I use EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) when working with couples. I am Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also certified in EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Anxiety, and DBT.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide individuals, couples, and families a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients are able to freely express themselves while gaining insight into their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, PTSD, people-pleasing, developmental and sexual trauma, self-esteem issues, parenting, anxiety, and depression. I use EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) when working with couples. I am Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also certified in EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Anxiety, and DBT.
(850) 400-2193 View (850) 400-2193
Photo of Ann Gossy, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Gossy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
When I was in therapy struggling with depression and anxiety and thoughts of “I’m not good enough,“ my wise therapist referred me to a clinician who specialized in EMDR therapy. In a matter of weeks, the therapy rocked my world, giving me a life-altering perspective that changed my entire existence for the better. I immediately decided to enrich my therapist tool box by taking the intense training to become an Emdria-approved EMDR therapist. As a result, I help my clients experience radical, positive change in a matter of weeks or a few short months. I am blessed to witness my clients’ personal transformations.
When I was in therapy struggling with depression and anxiety and thoughts of “I’m not good enough,“ my wise therapist referred me to a clinician who specialized in EMDR therapy. In a matter of weeks, the therapy rocked my world, giving me a life-altering perspective that changed my entire existence for the better. I immediately decided to enrich my therapist tool box by taking the intense training to become an Emdria-approved EMDR therapist. As a result, I help my clients experience radical, positive change in a matter of weeks or a few short months. I am blessed to witness my clients’ personal transformations.
(954) 928-9403 View (954) 928-9403
Photo of Jayne Tingley - October Sky Counseling and Education LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
October Sky Counseling and Education LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ruskin, FL 33570  (Online Only)
I am skilled in a wide variety of modalities to include EMDR, trauma, CBT, PCIT, CPP am a TBRI Practitioner to name a few.
Sometimes figuring out how to handle a stressors in life is difficult. Change can be hard and scary but you do not have to do it alone. I am honored that you are considering me to help you work through life's obstacles. I use a client centered approach to help identify your goals and see progress weekly. If you have come to a point in your life where what you were doing is no longer working you have made the first step. If you are experiencing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety or change in relationship, I can help!
I am skilled in a wide variety of modalities to include EMDR, trauma, CBT, PCIT, CPP am a TBRI Practitioner to name a few.
Sometimes figuring out how to handle a stressors in life is difficult. Change can be hard and scary but you do not have to do it alone. I am honored that you are considering me to help you work through life's obstacles. I use a client centered approach to help identify your goals and see progress weekly. If you have come to a point in your life where what you were doing is no longer working you have made the first step. If you are experiencing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety or change in relationship, I can help!
(813) 213-0937 View (813) 213-0937
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 Karen Moore, LCSW-QS, CEDS-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
While eclectic in my therapeutic approach, I utilize interventions that are proven beneficial, such as: EMDR, Psychodrama, Mindfulness-based, CBT, DBT, and Sand Tray Therapy.
While life's experiences can cause us to become critical of ourselves, I stand firm that everyone is worthy, important, and capable of healing. Understanding that everyone is the expert of their own life, I will guide you through self-exploration in an accepting and safe environment. All while building skills to improve your overall wellbeing. I am dedicated to providing support and validation to foster the healing. Through my vast experience I have found my passion lies in providing therapy to those dealing with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, and burnout.
While eclectic in my therapeutic approach, I utilize interventions that are proven beneficial, such as: EMDR, Psychodrama, Mindfulness-based, CBT, DBT, and Sand Tray Therapy.
While life's experiences can cause us to become critical of ourselves, I stand firm that everyone is worthy, important, and capable of healing. Understanding that everyone is the expert of their own life, I will guide you through self-exploration in an accepting and safe environment. All while building skills to improve your overall wellbeing. I am dedicated to providing support and validation to foster the healing. Through my vast experience I have found my passion lies in providing therapy to those dealing with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, and burnout.
(772) 212-2935 View (772) 212-2935
Photo of Sage Roberts, LMHC, MA
Sage Roberts
LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
In therapy sessions, I integrate EMDR, CBT, and person centered practices.
I am a trauma specialist that utilizes a trauma informed approach in working with individuals 18 and up. In therapy we focus on reframing core beliefs that have impacted client views of themselves and the world around them that impact emotions, mental health, and relationships. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient care for substance dependency challenges, trauma, and transitional challenges. It is an honor to sit with individuals in their stories and to see the progress they make when their beliefs about themselves change. I know you are worthy of therapy and worthy of the work! It would be an honor to help you see it too.
In therapy sessions, I integrate EMDR, CBT, and person centered practices.
I am a trauma specialist that utilizes a trauma informed approach in working with individuals 18 and up. In therapy we focus on reframing core beliefs that have impacted client views of themselves and the world around them that impact emotions, mental health, and relationships. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient care for substance dependency challenges, trauma, and transitional challenges. It is an honor to sit with individuals in their stories and to see the progress they make when their beliefs about themselves change. I know you are worthy of therapy and worthy of the work! It would be an honor to help you see it too.
(813) 568-9693 View (813) 568-9693
1
...
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.