EMDR Therapists in Idaho

Photo of Ali Astrid Moto, LMSW, EMDR, DMT, Somatic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Astrid Moto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, EMDR, DMT, Somatic
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83714
Waitlist for new clients
I'm an EMDR/Somatic and Polyvagal trained therapist.
With compassion and support, we will untether you from beliefs and negative records that have caused pain. You can be your true self, free. When we suffer from anxiety, depression, or feel stuck and not "motivated" or just can't "get it together," this isn't us broken or defective, it's our brain doing it's job, keeping us alive. It's coped in a way that is maladaptive. Luckily, we have resilient brains and neuro-plasticity. Therapy is an opportunity to reprocess and "change our brain." You have within you the ability to shift threat to thrive. With our aligned intentions, you'll access adaptive thinking and behavior.
I'm an EMDR/Somatic and Polyvagal trained therapist.
With compassion and support, we will untether you from beliefs and negative records that have caused pain. You can be your true self, free. When we suffer from anxiety, depression, or feel stuck and not "motivated" or just can't "get it together," this isn't us broken or defective, it's our brain doing it's job, keeping us alive. It's coped in a way that is maladaptive. Luckily, we have resilient brains and neuro-plasticity. Therapy is an opportunity to reprocess and "change our brain." You have within you the ability to shift threat to thrive. With our aligned intentions, you'll access adaptive thinking and behavior.
(208) 218-8101 View (208) 218-8101
Photo of Rebecca Houston, LCPC, Counselor
Rebecca Houston
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
I have been an EMDR therapist for 18 years and use it to help process a variety of concerns and issues including current life stressors, past traumas, addictions, deployment incidences, and critical incidences.
Currently accepting Emergency Responders (Police officers, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics) and Military Members for individual and couples counseling. My passion is supporting those who support and serve our local, national and global community, with an approach that is direct, educational, and humorous (Okay, attempts at humor.) From 2008-2014 I worked across the US, Europe and Japan, as a rotational counselor supporting military. It was a difficult choice to leave that work, but since my return to Idaho, I've really appreciated still being able to serve by supporting our Idaho's Emergency Responder community and Military.
I have been an EMDR therapist for 18 years and use it to help process a variety of concerns and issues including current life stressors, past traumas, addictions, deployment incidences, and critical incidences.
Currently accepting Emergency Responders (Police officers, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics) and Military Members for individual and couples counseling. My passion is supporting those who support and serve our local, national and global community, with an approach that is direct, educational, and humorous (Okay, attempts at humor.) From 2008-2014 I worked across the US, Europe and Japan, as a rotational counselor supporting military. It was a difficult choice to leave that work, but since my return to Idaho, I've really appreciated still being able to serve by supporting our Idaho's Emergency Responder community and Military.
(208) 494-8123 View (208) 494-8123
Photo of Christine M Collaer-Muzzo, LCPC, Counselor
Christine M Collaer-Muzzo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am a trained EMDR counselor.
We all encounter times in our lives when we are faced with experiences which can be challenging and sometimes painful. I have worked in the mental health field for 25 years and have been honored to work with and help people through those challenges. I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced traumatic events and suffer from PTSD, as well as those who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, emotional regulation, and relationship issues.
I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am a trained EMDR counselor.
We all encounter times in our lives when we are faced with experiences which can be challenging and sometimes painful. I have worked in the mental health field for 25 years and have been honored to work with and help people through those challenges. I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced traumatic events and suffer from PTSD, as well as those who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, emotional regulation, and relationship issues.
(208) 886-5048 View (208) 886-5048
Photo of Clay Salmon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clay Salmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and also utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic tools.
Hello! My name is Clay (he/they). You are probably looking for a therapist if you are ready for something to change. Maybe the experience is recent or from years ago. Stress, depression, anxiety and trauma show up for us in different ways over time and sometimes they get in the way of moving through the world in a way that works for us. Sometimes it is understanding how past and current systems, oppression, or identity and impact our internal and external experiences in our now day to day lives. What are you struggling with? What do you want to be different?
I am a trauma therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and also utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic tools.
Hello! My name is Clay (he/they). You are probably looking for a therapist if you are ready for something to change. Maybe the experience is recent or from years ago. Stress, depression, anxiety and trauma show up for us in different ways over time and sometimes they get in the way of moving through the world in a way that works for us. Sometimes it is understanding how past and current systems, oppression, or identity and impact our internal and external experiences in our now day to day lives. What are you struggling with? What do you want to be different?
(208) 793-7217 View (208) 793-7217
Photo of Ashley Vargas, LCPC, Counselor
Ashley Vargas
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pocatello, ID 83201  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of approaches including EMDR and mindfulness-based practices.
I value genuine connection and safety in the counseling relationship. In order to best meet the needs of my clients, I approach each session with authenticity, compassion, empathy, and understanding. Through a trauma-informed lens, clients are able to explore difficult experiences from childhood through adulthood. Clients are able to make choices in their lives that best fit their values and beliefs by providing a space that fosters resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment.
I utilize a variety of approaches including EMDR and mindfulness-based practices.
I value genuine connection and safety in the counseling relationship. In order to best meet the needs of my clients, I approach each session with authenticity, compassion, empathy, and understanding. Through a trauma-informed lens, clients are able to explore difficult experiences from childhood through adulthood. Clients are able to make choices in their lives that best fit their values and beliefs by providing a space that fosters resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment.
(208) 793-7135 View (208) 793-7135
Photo of Megan Allyn, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Allyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ketchum, ID 83340
I often incorporate CBT, Parts Work, EMDR, and Play Therapy in session.
I wholeheartedly believe that every human wants to feel connected, to be a part of something and find meaning. I apply a holistic approach to therapy, focusing on a person in their entirety and the interconnectedness of the mind and body. I hold the belief that we all have innate wisdom and wellness. My role is to stand beside you in solidarity and with encouragement as you create movement along your path towards healing. I offer individual therapy for those in search of support during a challenging chapter in their life journey. I am currently working towards my Psychedelic Assisted Therapy certification at Naropa University.
I often incorporate CBT, Parts Work, EMDR, and Play Therapy in session.
I wholeheartedly believe that every human wants to feel connected, to be a part of something and find meaning. I apply a holistic approach to therapy, focusing on a person in their entirety and the interconnectedness of the mind and body. I hold the belief that we all have innate wisdom and wellness. My role is to stand beside you in solidarity and with encouragement as you create movement along your path towards healing. I offer individual therapy for those in search of support during a challenging chapter in their life journey. I am currently working towards my Psychedelic Assisted Therapy certification at Naropa University.
(208) 329-6977 View (208) 329-6977
Photo of Sydney Young, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I use EMDR, among other modalities, to treat PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** The counseling experiences is a powerful journey of growth and change. My role as a counselor and helper is to hold space for that healing and growth to occur. I hope to help create a safe place to deal with past and current issues, explore the self, and create a healthy future. Counseling is and should be a safe place for everyone, and I value that diversity.
I use EMDR, among other modalities, to treat PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** The counseling experiences is a powerful journey of growth and change. My role as a counselor and helper is to hold space for that healing and growth to occur. I hope to help create a safe place to deal with past and current issues, explore the self, and create a healthy future. Counseling is and should be a safe place for everyone, and I value that diversity.
(208) 768-4718 View (208) 768-4718
Photo of Tylene Channer - Strive Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Strive Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Nampa, ID 83651
We have experienced therapists in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy for quicker results with trauma, anxiety, and stress.
Accepting new clients. "We believe in not just surviving life, but finding a way to thrive." We are a group of trauma-informed therapists with a variation of experiences in social work and counseling settings. We currently provide therapeutic services for individuals (children through adults), couples, and groups. We believe in making sure there is a good fit between the client and counselor and empowering people through focusing on their own inner strengths and abilities. We use a variety of therapy techniques to address problems, together we will figure out an approach that is right for you.
We have experienced therapists in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy for quicker results with trauma, anxiety, and stress.
Accepting new clients. "We believe in not just surviving life, but finding a way to thrive." We are a group of trauma-informed therapists with a variation of experiences in social work and counseling settings. We currently provide therapeutic services for individuals (children through adults), couples, and groups. We believe in making sure there is a good fit between the client and counselor and empowering people through focusing on their own inner strengths and abilities. We use a variety of therapy techniques to address problems, together we will figure out an approach that is right for you.
(208) 936-1097 View (208) 936-1097
Photo of Tracy Roe, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Tracy Roe
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706
Integrating Mindfulness, EMDR, Somatic, IFS, and Transpersonal Psychotherapies, I offer tools and perspectives to help you clarify your goals, and break through the thoughts and habits that get in your way.
Our stressful lives and ineffective patterns can get in the way of a full expression of potential. I'm a facilitator for conciousness growth spurts. Working from a MindBodySpirit perspective, I help clients identify goals, make changes, release past trauma, learn new perspectives, and access inner motivation. If you're inspired to grow, I'd love to help you do it.
Integrating Mindfulness, EMDR, Somatic, IFS, and Transpersonal Psychotherapies, I offer tools and perspectives to help you clarify your goals, and break through the thoughts and habits that get in your way.
Our stressful lives and ineffective patterns can get in the way of a full expression of potential. I'm a facilitator for conciousness growth spurts. Working from a MindBodySpirit perspective, I help clients identify goals, make changes, release past trauma, learn new perspectives, and access inner motivation. If you're inspired to grow, I'd love to help you do it.
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Photo of Nick Faber, MS, LPC, Counselor
Nick Faber
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR treatment options! Are you looking for lasting change? I can help. If you are struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, low-self esteem, or trauma, it can be hard to know what to do or what the next step is. I am here to help guide you on your healing journey using evidence based treatments and strategies. My goal is to provide the most time effective and productive strategies available to get you back on track and enjoying life as quickly as possible. I work with pre-teens, teenagers, adults, families, and couples.
EMDR treatment options! Are you looking for lasting change? I can help. If you are struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, low-self esteem, or trauma, it can be hard to know what to do or what the next step is. I am here to help guide you on your healing journey using evidence based treatments and strategies. My goal is to provide the most time effective and productive strategies available to get you back on track and enjoying life as quickly as possible. I work with pre-teens, teenagers, adults, families, and couples.
(208) 925-1413 View (208) 925-1413
Photo of Laura Adams, LPC, EMDR-T, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR-T, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
I support clients' journeys by using an eclectic and holistic approach of EMDR therapy, attachment focused therapy, and somatic therapies.
My focus is providing a dedicated, safe space for those seeking support through life transitions. Transitions, whether they are welcomed or unexpected, are opportunities for reflection, for discovering a new authentic sense of self, and for challenging internal belief systems that often make change feel overwhelming or unbearable. My primary goal is to help clients find a renewed sense of purpose, balance, energy, and self-confidence.
I support clients' journeys by using an eclectic and holistic approach of EMDR therapy, attachment focused therapy, and somatic therapies.
My focus is providing a dedicated, safe space for those seeking support through life transitions. Transitions, whether they are welcomed or unexpected, are opportunities for reflection, for discovering a new authentic sense of self, and for challenging internal belief systems that often make change feel overwhelming or unbearable. My primary goal is to help clients find a renewed sense of purpose, balance, energy, and self-confidence.
(208) 218-8546 View (208) 218-8546
Photo of Becky Fender, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky Fender
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Moscow, ID 83843
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize holistic, strength-based modalities such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, EFT/tapping, sandtray, narrative, Gottman and mindfulness therapies.
My clients are open to possibilities and want to see growth and positive change but often feel stuck and unsure how to move into healthier ways of being. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment where clients can safely explore present and past stressors and trauma while simultaneously developing hope to move forward. Through this exploration, my clients discover and apply new tools that support and empower their journey. It is through wholehearted living that humans find joy and fulfillment. We reach this by releasing unhelpful patterns, embracing authenticity, and healing our relationship with ourselves and others.
I utilize holistic, strength-based modalities such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, EFT/tapping, sandtray, narrative, Gottman and mindfulness therapies.
My clients are open to possibilities and want to see growth and positive change but often feel stuck and unsure how to move into healthier ways of being. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment where clients can safely explore present and past stressors and trauma while simultaneously developing hope to move forward. Through this exploration, my clients discover and apply new tools that support and empower their journey. It is through wholehearted living that humans find joy and fulfillment. We reach this by releasing unhelpful patterns, embracing authenticity, and healing our relationship with ourselves and others.
(208) 974-9169 View (208) 974-9169
Photo of Dallas Payton - Payton Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LCPC
Payton Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Caldwell, ID 83605
Hello, I'm Dallas Payton. After 18 years of experience I enjoy working with a variety of clients. Whether I'm helping a client resolve past events from impacting the present thru EMDR, helping someone through their depression & anxiety by teaching & developing coping skills using dialecical behavior therapy, (DBT), or helping a couple work through conflicts & improve communication, I'm invested in your progress because there is hope. You can have the life that is worth living. I would like to help you get it. I'm here to listen, & here to help.
Hello, I'm Dallas Payton. After 18 years of experience I enjoy working with a variety of clients. Whether I'm helping a client resolve past events from impacting the present thru EMDR, helping someone through their depression & anxiety by teaching & developing coping skills using dialecical behavior therapy, (DBT), or helping a couple work through conflicts & improve communication, I'm invested in your progress because there is hope. You can have the life that is worth living. I would like to help you get it. I'm here to listen, & here to help.
(208) 271-9536 View (208) 271-9536
Photo of Alicia May-Su, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia May-Su
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nampa, ID 83651  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist with specific training in Trauma Focused CBT, EMDR and IFS.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Idaho and Oregon with a physical location in Nampa, ID. I provide individual and family therapy to those struggling with a variety of issues including: trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and family conflict. I believe that each person coming through my office is unique and comes with their own perspective and experiences. My goal is to help you work towards change, growth and healing through providing you with a safe environment to share your thoughts and feelings. I have specialized training to help you learn strategies to cope differently with your circumstances.
I am a trauma informed therapist with specific training in Trauma Focused CBT, EMDR and IFS.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Idaho and Oregon with a physical location in Nampa, ID. I provide individual and family therapy to those struggling with a variety of issues including: trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and family conflict. I believe that each person coming through my office is unique and comes with their own perspective and experiences. My goal is to help you work towards change, growth and healing through providing you with a safe environment to share your thoughts and feelings. I have specialized training to help you learn strategies to cope differently with your circumstances.
(208) 295-0680 View (208) 295-0680
Photo of Amy Beitia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Beitia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fruitland, ID 83619  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR therapy for trauma.
Telehealth ONLY Provider serving Clients in AZ, ID, and OR - As a therapist my passion is to support you through whatever life event may have brought you to seek counseling. I will guide you through this time and help you continue on your journey. Whether you're struggling with symptoms from trauma, depression, anxiety, life stressors or transitions I will provide a safe space for you to work through your challenges. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults with a goal to help you find balance and wellness.
I specialize in EMDR therapy for trauma.
Telehealth ONLY Provider serving Clients in AZ, ID, and OR - As a therapist my passion is to support you through whatever life event may have brought you to seek counseling. I will guide you through this time and help you continue on your journey. Whether you're struggling with symptoms from trauma, depression, anxiety, life stressors or transitions I will provide a safe space for you to work through your challenges. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults with a goal to help you find balance and wellness.
(208) 607-3869 View (208) 607-3869
Photo of Chloe Richmond, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chloe Richmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Using a foundation of CBT, EMDR, and Existentialism, my aim is to help you live according to your values, identity, and ideal self.
While anxiety, depression, and loneliness are all parts of the human condition, and will ebb and flow throughout your life, avoiding these uncomfortable feelings will only lead to disconnection, low self-esteem, perfectionism, co-dependency, disordered eating, impulsive behaviors, etc. In our time together, you will learn how to stop avoiding discomfort and instead engage in new thoughts, core beliefs, and behaviors to live differently.
Using a foundation of CBT, EMDR, and Existentialism, my aim is to help you live according to your values, identity, and ideal self.
While anxiety, depression, and loneliness are all parts of the human condition, and will ebb and flow throughout your life, avoiding these uncomfortable feelings will only lead to disconnection, low self-esteem, perfectionism, co-dependency, disordered eating, impulsive behaviors, etc. In our time together, you will learn how to stop avoiding discomfort and instead engage in new thoughts, core beliefs, and behaviors to live differently.
(208) 269-9595 View (208) 269-9595
Photo of Nicole Scott - EMDR with Nicole Scott, LMSW, EMDR-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EMDR with Nicole Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Let me introduce you to the power of EMDR Therapy. Whether you're an individual seeking healing or a family in need of support, I am here to help you get results. The effectiveness of EMDR has been established by rigorous research and has been proven to be the most effective treatment for anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, chronic pain, relationship issues and more; surpassing other common modalities even CBT. Many individuals are often frustrated with the lack of progress made through traditional therapy. By contrast EMDR is proven to quickly heal issues with lasting results. Contact me for scheduling.
Let me introduce you to the power of EMDR Therapy. Whether you're an individual seeking healing or a family in need of support, I am here to help you get results. The effectiveness of EMDR has been established by rigorous research and has been proven to be the most effective treatment for anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, chronic pain, relationship issues and more; surpassing other common modalities even CBT. Many individuals are often frustrated with the lack of progress made through traditional therapy. By contrast EMDR is proven to quickly heal issues with lasting results. Contact me for scheduling.
(208) 925-2473 View (208) 925-2473
Photo of Merridith Manning, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merridith Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
We have EMDR and trauma trained counselors to help deal with loss and trauma.
Are you looking for a renewal in your life. Maybe in your coping strategies, connection with others or goal setting. Perhaps you need to reconnect with purpose and motivation. Maybe you have not felt like yourself in quite a while and are feeling down and/or anxious. At Impact Counseling our therapists provide community mental health in an empathetic and collaborative environment to help you make the necessary changes to feel like yourself again. Some issues treated include trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexual behavior problems, mood disorders and more.
We have EMDR and trauma trained counselors to help deal with loss and trauma.
Are you looking for a renewal in your life. Maybe in your coping strategies, connection with others or goal setting. Perhaps you need to reconnect with purpose and motivation. Maybe you have not felt like yourself in quite a while and are feeling down and/or anxious. At Impact Counseling our therapists provide community mental health in an empathetic and collaborative environment to help you make the necessary changes to feel like yourself again. Some issues treated include trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexual behavior problems, mood disorders and more.
(208) 427-2473 View (208) 427-2473
Photo of Joyce Kearney, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joyce Kearney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I prefer EMDR for trauma, anxiety, and depression.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I’ve worked with couples, families, children and adolescents, and groups. While I help my clients address the issue(s) they present when coming into therapy, I also help them learn new skills and ways of interacting with their environment that will help them resolve, and even avoid problem situations in their future. I’ve worked with a wide variety of presenting issues, most frequently involving trauma, anxiety, fear, depression and suicidal ideations, communication problems and difficult relationships, and parenting problems.
I prefer EMDR for trauma, anxiety, and depression.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I’ve worked with couples, families, children and adolescents, and groups. While I help my clients address the issue(s) they present when coming into therapy, I also help them learn new skills and ways of interacting with their environment that will help them resolve, and even avoid problem situations in their future. I’ve worked with a wide variety of presenting issues, most frequently involving trauma, anxiety, fear, depression and suicidal ideations, communication problems and difficult relationships, and parenting problems.
(208) 508-1475 View (208) 508-1475
Photo of Wendy Sedano, MA, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Sedano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Twin Falls, ID 83301
I have taken several advanced trainings in EMDR to provide you the best treatment possible.
Starting any type of healing can be scary and intimidating at times. Coming to counseling means you have made a courageous choice to heal. The techniques and treatment approach I use is tailored around each individual’s needs to help build and access inner strength, resilience, and peace that already lies deep within. I do my best of looking at you through a holistic lens where we connect the mind, body, and spirit, to create an astrosphere where you can heal. I collaborate with you to take those first steps in rediscovering your best self. Just surviving is not living. I utilize EMDR and other trauma-informed approaches.
I have taken several advanced trainings in EMDR to provide you the best treatment possible.
Starting any type of healing can be scary and intimidating at times. Coming to counseling means you have made a courageous choice to heal. The techniques and treatment approach I use is tailored around each individual’s needs to help build and access inner strength, resilience, and peace that already lies deep within. I do my best of looking at you through a holistic lens where we connect the mind, body, and spirit, to create an astrosphere where you can heal. I collaborate with you to take those first steps in rediscovering your best self. Just surviving is not living. I utilize EMDR and other trauma-informed approaches.
(208) 298-5731 View (208) 298-5731
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.