EMDR Therapists in Evansville, IN

Photo of Caron J Leader, LCSW, ACSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caron J Leader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47714
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified EMDR therapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner as well as have extensive training in Sand Tray Expressive Play Therapy.
If you are searching for a therapist, you must be wanting or needing some kind of change. Change, while overwhelming, is a necessary part of life. I really view my work as helping people negotiate changes in life and help them discover how to feel better. My treatment philosophy is simple. I focus on building a trusting and collaborative relationship with you first. Then, with your goals and feedback, I tailor a treatment plan just for you. I work with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, complex PTSD, depression, grief, AD/HD, OCD, LGBTQIA, PTSD, relationship issues, life developmental hurdles, and plain old life stress.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner as well as have extensive training in Sand Tray Expressive Play Therapy.
If you are searching for a therapist, you must be wanting or needing some kind of change. Change, while overwhelming, is a necessary part of life. I really view my work as helping people negotiate changes in life and help them discover how to feel better. My treatment philosophy is simple. I focus on building a trusting and collaborative relationship with you first. Then, with your goals and feedback, I tailor a treatment plan just for you. I work with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, complex PTSD, depression, grief, AD/HD, OCD, LGBTQIA, PTSD, relationship issues, life developmental hurdles, and plain old life stress.
(812) 730-4348 View (812) 730-4348
Photo of Amber Freels, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Freels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
Waitlist for new clients
Are you dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or even trauma and abuse? I work with young adults, adult, individuals, and families dealing with painful or intense emotions, everyday problems and issues. Together we develop healthy coping skills to become successful in school, work, home, and society. Additionally, I can offer Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing- EMDR to engage your brain in the problem solving process.
Are you dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or even trauma and abuse? I work with young adults, adult, individuals, and families dealing with painful or intense emotions, everyday problems and issues. Together we develop healthy coping skills to become successful in school, work, home, and society. Additionally, I can offer Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing- EMDR to engage your brain in the problem solving process.
(812) 577-8730 View (812) 577-8730
Photo of Meghan Elizabeth Trevino, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Elizabeth Trevino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47711
I offer dialectic behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, EMDR, substance abuse therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief therapy, and coping skills.
Meghan E. Trevino, LCSW (she, her) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been practicing in Indiana for the past 6 years. Prior to that, I practiced in California working with victims of domestic violence, children and teens in need of intensive services, and hospital social work. I have also been a client. I know how scary it is to make that first call and find the right therapist. I have known I wanted to be a therapist since I was a teenager, as I grew up in a house with addiction and domestic violence. I believe that clients know best what they need, so my clients only work on what they want to work on.
I offer dialectic behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, EMDR, substance abuse therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief therapy, and coping skills.
Meghan E. Trevino, LCSW (she, her) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been practicing in Indiana for the past 6 years. Prior to that, I practiced in California working with victims of domestic violence, children and teens in need of intensive services, and hospital social work. I have also been a client. I know how scary it is to make that first call and find the right therapist. I have known I wanted to be a therapist since I was a teenager, as I grew up in a house with addiction and domestic violence. I believe that clients know best what they need, so my clients only work on what they want to work on.
(812) 505-2297 View (812) 505-2297
Photo of Carina Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carina Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
Waitlist for new clients
I use play therapy, sand tray therapy, EMDR, and more to support your child’s process and help them understand their struggles.
I currently have office hours Mon-Thur 8am-4pm CT. The best way to contact me is via email or text message. When contacting me, you must give your name and phone number in order for me to respond.——————————Does your child ever seem different from others their age? Have you ever had difficulty trying to help your child communicate? Has your child lost what makes them uniquely special? I primarily work with families and children dealing with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and trauma, amongst many other difficulties they may face. I have helped many families get through difficult times or deal with challenging emotions.
I use play therapy, sand tray therapy, EMDR, and more to support your child’s process and help them understand their struggles.
I currently have office hours Mon-Thur 8am-4pm CT. The best way to contact me is via email or text message. When contacting me, you must give your name and phone number in order for me to respond.——————————Does your child ever seem different from others their age? Have you ever had difficulty trying to help your child communicate? Has your child lost what makes them uniquely special? I primarily work with families and children dealing with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and trauma, amongst many other difficulties they may face. I have helped many families get through difficult times or deal with challenging emotions.
(812) 889-0371 View (812) 889-0371
Photo of Autumn A. Brown, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autumn A. Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47713  (Online Only)
My expertise includes training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), both recognized as evidence-based interventions suitable for children, adolescents, and adults who have undergone trauma.
Life often poses various challenges, yet the quest for a therapist who resonates with your needs should not be an added burden. Are you prepared to embark on your path toward healing? Willing to delve into self-reflection and implement changes to enhance your quality of life? I am prepared and ready to accompany you on this expedition. Let’s weather the unexpected life of hurdles on this virtual platform that is at your convenience.
My expertise includes training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), both recognized as evidence-based interventions suitable for children, adolescents, and adults who have undergone trauma.
Life often poses various challenges, yet the quest for a therapist who resonates with your needs should not be an added burden. Are you prepared to embark on your path toward healing? Willing to delve into self-reflection and implement changes to enhance your quality of life? I am prepared and ready to accompany you on this expedition. Let’s weather the unexpected life of hurdles on this virtual platform that is at your convenience.
(812) 489-7841 View (812) 489-7841
Photo of Angie Heidorn - Heidorn Counseling, LLC., LCSW, LCAC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidorn Counseling, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47714
I frequently incorporate EMDR, Biofeedback, Mindful Meditation, Play Therapy Techniques and ArtTherapy.
Balancing can be hard to do when your foundation seems unstable. I would like to help you get back on solid ground.
I frequently incorporate EMDR, Biofeedback, Mindful Meditation, Play Therapy Techniques and ArtTherapy.
Balancing can be hard to do when your foundation seems unstable. I would like to help you get back on solid ground.
(812) 308-3494 View (812) 308-3494
Photo of Chris Graham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
With over 7 years of experience with adults, as well as children and families, I offer insight oriented therapy and EMDR upon request.
One of the hardest things is feeling like we have hurt or disappointed those closest to us. It’s a struggle every day to keep relationships and even friendships going smoothly. We often disappoint ourselves, and life hasn’t always been what we hoped it would be. Maybe things look good on the surface but inside we feel like everyone else has it figured out while we barely keep it together. It doesn’t have to feel like this, and I can help you feel better through therapy. While in therapy with me you will definitely laugh, you might cry, and you will see changes in your life that you’ve wanted for a long time.
With over 7 years of experience with adults, as well as children and families, I offer insight oriented therapy and EMDR upon request.
One of the hardest things is feeling like we have hurt or disappointed those closest to us. It’s a struggle every day to keep relationships and even friendships going smoothly. We often disappoint ourselves, and life hasn’t always been what we hoped it would be. Maybe things look good on the surface but inside we feel like everyone else has it figured out while we barely keep it together. It doesn’t have to feel like this, and I can help you feel better through therapy. While in therapy with me you will definitely laugh, you might cry, and you will see changes in your life that you’ve wanted for a long time.
(812) 675-5464 View (812) 675-5464
Photo of Joel David Fehsenfeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel David Fehsenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47713
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR trained since 2020 and able to work with those who are looking to heal their past traumatic experiences and over a decade of experience working with children, teens, and families.
Sometimes you feel stuck to create the change you want for a happier you. If you are looking for someone to help you along your journey then I offer an array of experiences, training, and knowledge to help connect you to the insights that can help you to the better life you want. If you are able to approach therapy with humor and a serious focus to create your change then we can work well together finding answers for positive change in your life.
I am EMDR trained since 2020 and able to work with those who are looking to heal their past traumatic experiences and over a decade of experience working with children, teens, and families.
Sometimes you feel stuck to create the change you want for a happier you. If you are looking for someone to help you along your journey then I offer an array of experiences, training, and knowledge to help connect you to the insights that can help you to the better life you want. If you are able to approach therapy with humor and a serious focus to create your change then we can work well together finding answers for positive change in your life.
(812) 624-8984 View (812) 624-8984
Photo of Kasandra Catherine Niemeier, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasandra Catherine Niemeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
I have been trained in EMDR and EMDR Sandtray which can be effective in treating trauma.
We as individuals can lose ourselves in this big world of choices, mixed-up thoughts, and happenstance. You may no longer think, feel, or behave in preferable ways and desire real change. Whether it be the effects of past trauma, relationships, parenting struggle, or health concerns, we may find we aren't managing life at the top of our game. Sometimes, we are barely making it at all. We can explore your needs and break through the challenges so you can move forward living your best life.
I have been trained in EMDR and EMDR Sandtray which can be effective in treating trauma.
We as individuals can lose ourselves in this big world of choices, mixed-up thoughts, and happenstance. You may no longer think, feel, or behave in preferable ways and desire real change. Whether it be the effects of past trauma, relationships, parenting struggle, or health concerns, we may find we aren't managing life at the top of our game. Sometimes, we are barely making it at all. We can explore your needs and break through the challenges so you can move forward living your best life.
(812) 726-0563 View (812) 726-0563
Stephanie Cueche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47710
I am a believer in possibilities and change. If you are someone who feels now is the time for positive transformation, or just simply feeling in over your head with life's curve balls. I would love to help with introducing the right tools for you for new opportunities and growth. I see adults, teenagers and adolescents as young as 12 years old. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am Certified in EMDR.
I am a believer in possibilities and change. If you are someone who feels now is the time for positive transformation, or just simply feeling in over your head with life's curve balls. I would love to help with introducing the right tools for you for new opportunities and growth. I see adults, teenagers and adolescents as young as 12 years old. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am Certified in EMDR.
(812) 747-8081 View (812) 747-8081
Photo of Charlene Drake, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlene Drake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47715
I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Trained Therapist and utilize this approach, in conjunction with other practices, as often as possible.
Sometimes therapists are called the "wounded healers" because from their own life experiences they have decided to help people. I am proud to be one of those therapists. I have had a wealth of life experiences and losses and can truly empathize with my clients. I have experience in many areas of Social Work; including housing homeless people, coordinating adoptions, and advocating for pre-adjudicated youth. As a Clinical Therapist, I have worked in Home Based Therapy, Community, Residential, and Addiction. I firmly believe that these varied populations and organizations have enriched my integrative approach to therapy.
I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Trained Therapist and utilize this approach, in conjunction with other practices, as often as possible.
Sometimes therapists are called the "wounded healers" because from their own life experiences they have decided to help people. I am proud to be one of those therapists. I have had a wealth of life experiences and losses and can truly empathize with my clients. I have experience in many areas of Social Work; including housing homeless people, coordinating adoptions, and advocating for pre-adjudicated youth. As a Clinical Therapist, I have worked in Home Based Therapy, Community, Residential, and Addiction. I firmly believe that these varied populations and organizations have enriched my integrative approach to therapy.
(812) 301-8158 View (812) 301-8158
Photo of Julie M Bellamy, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie M Bellamy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47714
I use EMDR, ego state work, & other trauma related treatments to reduce distress and facilitate the natural healing processes.
Not only do I understand the challenge in picking up the phone to make that first phone call for help, I understand and am mindful of the challenges of following through with this, every step of the way. I see my role as a therapist as helping each of my clients to move toward their best life. I work collaboratively with my clients to figure out what that means for them, and am mindful that my job as a therapist is to work myself out of a job.
I use EMDR, ego state work, & other trauma related treatments to reduce distress and facilitate the natural healing processes.
Not only do I understand the challenge in picking up the phone to make that first phone call for help, I understand and am mindful of the challenges of following through with this, every step of the way. I see my role as a therapist as helping each of my clients to move toward their best life. I work collaboratively with my clients to figure out what that means for them, and am mindful that my job as a therapist is to work myself out of a job.
(812) 496-4328 View (812) 496-4328
Photo of Taylor Nellis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Nellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
I utilize an eclectic approach of evidence-based treatments such as EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy, which is tailored to the client and their goals.
"Never underestimate a person's capacity for change." This motto has driven my approach to assisting others throughout my 10+ years as a helping professional. We all have a unique set of circumstances and experiences that shape us for better or worse. This sometimes results in difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviors. If you desire to overcome life's obstacles, therapy may be your opportunity. Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression or any other issue life may throw at you, empowerment and insight is just a step away.
I utilize an eclectic approach of evidence-based treatments such as EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy, which is tailored to the client and their goals.
"Never underestimate a person's capacity for change." This motto has driven my approach to assisting others throughout my 10+ years as a helping professional. We all have a unique set of circumstances and experiences that shape us for better or worse. This sometimes results in difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviors. If you desire to overcome life's obstacles, therapy may be your opportunity. Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression or any other issue life may throw at you, empowerment and insight is just a step away.
(812) 301-8504 View (812) 301-8504
Photo of James Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47725
Have you experienced physical emotional or sexual abuse in your life? If you are struggling with nervousness, anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling hopeless, unable to trust anyone and feeling you are not good enough as the result of emotional, physical or sexual abuse, then you need to contact me. I understand the impact that trauma has on survivors of physical, emotional and sexual abuse...how it makes you feel unworthy, how it makes you feel unsafe today, and how it is difficult to enjoy life. Don't let the past continue to impact your present life...you have suffered enough! I offer EMDR therapy to help you get past your past.
Have you experienced physical emotional or sexual abuse in your life? If you are struggling with nervousness, anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling hopeless, unable to trust anyone and feeling you are not good enough as the result of emotional, physical or sexual abuse, then you need to contact me. I understand the impact that trauma has on survivors of physical, emotional and sexual abuse...how it makes you feel unworthy, how it makes you feel unsafe today, and how it is difficult to enjoy life. Don't let the past continue to impact your present life...you have suffered enough! I offer EMDR therapy to help you get past your past.
(812) 406-0948 View (812) 406-0948
Photo of Danny Spurlock, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danny Spurlock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47715
I use a mixture of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR.
Do you have a teen who is struggling? Maybe they have trouble communicating? Maybe they struggle to express their emotions in a healthy manner? Or maybe they can't move on from a circumstance in their past? Regardless of the reason you may have found my page today, I want you to know the challenges you or your child may be going through are valid, and I want to be able to help.
I use a mixture of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR.
Do you have a teen who is struggling? Maybe they have trouble communicating? Maybe they struggle to express their emotions in a healthy manner? Or maybe they can't move on from a circumstance in their past? Regardless of the reason you may have found my page today, I want you to know the challenges you or your child may be going through are valid, and I want to be able to help.
(812) 577-9904 View (812) 577-9904
Photo of Karen E. Hellenberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen E. Hellenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47720
As a certified EMDR therapist I assist clients to move through their traumas while discovering core issues impacting their life.
My focus is on adults experiencing traumas and eating disorders who are seeking a continuing recovery treatment. I offer Faith-based Counseling for those seeking this path in their healing.
As a certified EMDR therapist I assist clients to move through their traumas while discovering core issues impacting their life.
My focus is on adults experiencing traumas and eating disorders who are seeking a continuing recovery treatment. I offer Faith-based Counseling for those seeking this path in their healing.
(812) 496-3203 View (812) 496-3203
Photo of Hailey Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hailey Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47715
Seventy percent of counseling treatment outcomes are dependent on the connection and trust between client and therapist. As a Mexican, First Nations (Cree), and Euro-American woman, I understand the incredible importance of client centered treatment based on the cultural mental health needs of the individual and family. It has been my joy to provide psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, and families since 2016. I have had the privilege of providing supportive mental health services in schools, homes, outpatient facilities, and online. I have advanced training in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder with EMDR and IFS.
Seventy percent of counseling treatment outcomes are dependent on the connection and trust between client and therapist. As a Mexican, First Nations (Cree), and Euro-American woman, I understand the incredible importance of client centered treatment based on the cultural mental health needs of the individual and family. It has been my joy to provide psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, and families since 2016. I have had the privilege of providing supportive mental health services in schools, homes, outpatient facilities, and online. I have advanced training in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder with EMDR and IFS.
(812) 347-4603 View (812) 347-4603
Photo of Lynette Dawn May, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynette Dawn May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47714
I am certified in EMDR and received advanced training in EMDR with Dissociative Identity Disorder.
Congratulations, you have shown courage in taking the first steps in your journey towards change. Whether these changes are in thinking, behavior, or feeling, I would consider it a privilege to have the opportunity to help you in your journey of self-exploration and healing. I understand the courage and strength it takes to become vulnerable throughout the therapeutic process, therefore I strongly believe in a non-judgmental approach to therapy and practice unconditional regard for each client.
I am certified in EMDR and received advanced training in EMDR with Dissociative Identity Disorder.
Congratulations, you have shown courage in taking the first steps in your journey towards change. Whether these changes are in thinking, behavior, or feeling, I would consider it a privilege to have the opportunity to help you in your journey of self-exploration and healing. I understand the courage and strength it takes to become vulnerable throughout the therapeutic process, therefore I strongly believe in a non-judgmental approach to therapy and practice unconditional regard for each client.
(812) 432-2418 View (812) 432-2418
Photo of Donna D. Groves, LCSW, EMDR, A R T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna D. Groves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, A R T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47714
Specializing in trauma-based therapies such as EMDR and ART, as well as CBT, DBT, and others, I am here to guide you through your journey of healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey towards your personal truth can feel daunting. Our ideal clients are individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed and stuck. They desire change but find it challenging to move forward. At our practice, we provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment and a variety of therapeutic approaches. We seek clients who are ready to embrace change and begin their path to self-discovery and authenticity. If you are prepared to take the first step towards your truth, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore your goals and develop a plan for your personal growth and healing.
Specializing in trauma-based therapies such as EMDR and ART, as well as CBT, DBT, and others, I am here to guide you through your journey of healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey towards your personal truth can feel daunting. Our ideal clients are individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed and stuck. They desire change but find it challenging to move forward. At our practice, we provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment and a variety of therapeutic approaches. We seek clients who are ready to embrace change and begin their path to self-discovery and authenticity. If you are prepared to take the first step towards your truth, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore your goals and develop a plan for your personal growth and healing.
(812) 561-8546 View (812) 561-8546
Photo of Candace Marshall, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47713
I enjoy helping individuals and couples of all backgrounds unlock their potential for self healing through the use of EMDR, mindfulness, parts work, somatic integration and a variety of creative, holistic modalities.
Are you tired of living in survival mode? Perhaps you're wondering if there could be more to life than just getting by? Would you love to learn to relax, to bring playfulness, peace and purpose back into your life? Trauma isn't what happens to us, it's what happens inside of us as a result of what happens to us. It's the invisible walls we build around our hearts to keep ourselves safe and the chronic dysregulation in our nervous systems. By addressing unresolved trauma, we can heal the roots of disconnection, self-sabotage, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, codependency and more. We can awaken our hearts and begin to thrive!
I enjoy helping individuals and couples of all backgrounds unlock their potential for self healing through the use of EMDR, mindfulness, parts work, somatic integration and a variety of creative, holistic modalities.
Are you tired of living in survival mode? Perhaps you're wondering if there could be more to life than just getting by? Would you love to learn to relax, to bring playfulness, peace and purpose back into your life? Trauma isn't what happens to us, it's what happens inside of us as a result of what happens to us. It's the invisible walls we build around our hearts to keep ourselves safe and the chronic dysregulation in our nervous systems. By addressing unresolved trauma, we can heal the roots of disconnection, self-sabotage, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, codependency and more. We can awaken our hearts and begin to thrive!
(812) 472-2853 View (812) 472-2853

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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.