EMDR Therapists in South Bend, IN

Photo of Karen Lynn Esperanza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Lynn Esperanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
I offer support using CBT, DBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, family therapy, art, movement and play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, acceptance commitment therapy, attachment work.
You are your story, and you are more. You are strong, brave, courageous. We humans are angry, sad, confused, lonely, ashamed- can these be turned to good? We are deeply discouraged, seek forgiveness, or require a mirror to understand our need. We fear, we desire. In our noisy stimulating world we long for silence in our soul, to listen, so that we might know what we are called to do.
I offer support using CBT, DBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, family therapy, art, movement and play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, acceptance commitment therapy, attachment work.
You are your story, and you are more. You are strong, brave, courageous. We humans are angry, sad, confused, lonely, ashamed- can these be turned to good? We are deeply discouraged, seek forgiveness, or require a mirror to understand our need. We fear, we desire. In our noisy stimulating world we long for silence in our soul, to listen, so that we might know what we are called to do.
(574) 505-4837 View (574) 505-4837
Photo of Donald Cronk, LMHC, CST, Counselor
Donald Cronk
Counselor, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
I specialize in couples/relationship therapy, families, adolescents and individual adults. I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, specializing in out of control sexual behavior (commonly referred to as sex addiction). I am Gottman and EMDR trained as well trauma informed. I help all clients develop a plan to maximize all aspects of their health.
I specialize in couples/relationship therapy, families, adolescents and individual adults. I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, specializing in out of control sexual behavior (commonly referred to as sex addiction). I am Gottman and EMDR trained as well trauma informed. I help all clients develop a plan to maximize all aspects of their health.
(574) 607-4876 View (574) 607-4876
Photo of Amanda Rhoades - Psych Pointe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Psych Pointe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Bend, IN 46615
At Psych Pointe we utilize multiple evidenced based practices including CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR and numerous other interventions allowing us to draw from multiple theories to address diverse needs facing clients.
If you are feeling stressed and having difficulty managing life, it's essential to focus on your emotional well being for self-care. Take the time to be invested in yourself to maximize life's opportunities. Coming to Psych Pointe, you will find a relaxed and laid back atmosphere in order to start your journey. I am co-owner of Psych Pointe LLC, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified in DBT and a level-1 certified trauma specialist with more than a decade of experience specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. At Psych Pointe, therapists and NP’s are passionate and find helping others to be very rewarding.
At Psych Pointe we utilize multiple evidenced based practices including CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR and numerous other interventions allowing us to draw from multiple theories to address diverse needs facing clients.
If you are feeling stressed and having difficulty managing life, it's essential to focus on your emotional well being for self-care. Take the time to be invested in yourself to maximize life's opportunities. Coming to Psych Pointe, you will find a relaxed and laid back atmosphere in order to start your journey. I am co-owner of Psych Pointe LLC, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified in DBT and a level-1 certified trauma specialist with more than a decade of experience specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. At Psych Pointe, therapists and NP’s are passionate and find helping others to be very rewarding.
(574) 208-9123 View (574) 208-9123
Photo of Andrea Eriks, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST, NCC, Counselor
Andrea Eriks
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46637
I am EMDR certified and an AASECT certified Sex Therapist.
Clients seek my help to navigate the struggles and difficulties that often revolve around intimacy/sexuality, family conflict, and personal identity. Those who desire to repair conflicts, reduce problematic (sexual, spiritual, emotional) patterns, establish healthier relationships, or heal trauma interfering with the present will align well. I earned my PhD in Clinical Sexology. This allowed me to professionally expand my practice from relational to deeply personal as sexuality impacts so much. Clients find this work highly valuable.
I am EMDR certified and an AASECT certified Sex Therapist.
Clients seek my help to navigate the struggles and difficulties that often revolve around intimacy/sexuality, family conflict, and personal identity. Those who desire to repair conflicts, reduce problematic (sexual, spiritual, emotional) patterns, establish healthier relationships, or heal trauma interfering with the present will align well. I earned my PhD in Clinical Sexology. This allowed me to professionally expand my practice from relational to deeply personal as sexuality impacts so much. Clients find this work highly valuable.
(574) 444-0364 View (574) 444-0364
Photo of Melissa Ann Lentine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Ann Lentine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46616  (Online Only)
Will power and determination sometimes aren’t enough. That’s because we all have an unconscious, emotionally reactive brain that can sometimes sabotage us. These are the roots of why human beings can get stuck in their journeys, and why we struggle to embody the changes we know we “should” be making. I utilize EMDR and other neurobiological/cognitive strategies to help transform and reorient subconscious parts toward becoming inner allies for our higher selves. I am honored to be a gatekeeper for these powerful tools and I am ready to share! I can meet you where you are at, with multiple practice locations and Telehealth options
Will power and determination sometimes aren’t enough. That’s because we all have an unconscious, emotionally reactive brain that can sometimes sabotage us. These are the roots of why human beings can get stuck in their journeys, and why we struggle to embody the changes we know we “should” be making. I utilize EMDR and other neurobiological/cognitive strategies to help transform and reorient subconscious parts toward becoming inner allies for our higher selves. I am honored to be a gatekeeper for these powerful tools and I am ready to share! I can meet you where you are at, with multiple practice locations and Telehealth options
(574) 263-0102 View (574) 263-0102
Photo of Bayley Morse, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bayley Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Bend, IN 46635
I operate from a holistic, client-centered, strengths-based perspective and serve clients by providing individual psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and more.
Do you experience any of the following: low mood and lack of motivation, feeling lost, unfulfilled or stuck in your life, stessful life transitions, distressing memories including flashbacks and nightmares, frustrating relationships with family, friends or colleagues, people-pleasing tendencies, being an empath or someone who experiences “big feelings”, perfectionism or a tendency to be hard on yourself.
I operate from a holistic, client-centered, strengths-based perspective and serve clients by providing individual psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and more.
Do you experience any of the following: low mood and lack of motivation, feeling lost, unfulfilled or stuck in your life, stessful life transitions, distressing memories including flashbacks and nightmares, frustrating relationships with family, friends or colleagues, people-pleasing tendencies, being an empath or someone who experiences “big feelings”, perfectionism or a tendency to be hard on yourself.
(574) 777-0175 View (574) 777-0175
Photo of Steven D Bright, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven D Bright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46601
I have received training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) to help with trauma and PTSD.
Dealing with life can, sometimes, require a little extra help. Whether it is counseling for stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or a troubled family, or a trauma, I have the skills to help you learn to cope, and/or overcome.
I have received training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) to help with trauma and PTSD.
Dealing with life can, sometimes, require a little extra help. Whether it is counseling for stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or a troubled family, or a trauma, I have the skills to help you learn to cope, and/or overcome.
(574) 498-8090 View (574) 498-8090
Photo of Jody Lillich Hughes, LCSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody Lillich Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46601
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience with trauma/anxiety/fears/EMDR/mood disorders.
Wait list until July 1. Seeing a therapist is as simple as sitting down and talking about what is going on in a safe, confidential and totally non-judgmental setting. My areas of expertise: - children/adolescents (ages 8-18) - adults (ages 18 and up) - family/couples therapy (incl. alternative lifestyle issues) - parenting issues (incl. divorce, step parenting) - anxiety/fear/mood disorders I take most insurance and have sliding-fee scale. "A journey of a thousand miles, I begins with a single step..." Lao Tsu.
I have extensive experience with trauma/anxiety/fears/EMDR/mood disorders.
Wait list until July 1. Seeing a therapist is as simple as sitting down and talking about what is going on in a safe, confidential and totally non-judgmental setting. My areas of expertise: - children/adolescents (ages 8-18) - adults (ages 18 and up) - family/couples therapy (incl. alternative lifestyle issues) - parenting issues (incl. divorce, step parenting) - anxiety/fear/mood disorders I take most insurance and have sliding-fee scale. "A journey of a thousand miles, I begins with a single step..." Lao Tsu.
(574) 808-4496 View (574) 808-4496
Photo of Lisa A Levin - Myh Library / Begin To Wake Therapy, LCSW, BCD, CAS, CECP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Myh Library / Begin To Wake Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CAS, CECP
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46614
You've got trauma? I use various tools like EMDR, ACT, CBT, IFS, and the Emotion Code to eliminate powerful emotions from your life so that you can sleep better, feel better, & live a more satisfying life.
You are the expert on you, & I have the know-how, so as a team, you & I will get you to achieve your goals & more life satisfaction. Do you have trauma from childhood, the military, racism/discrimination, natural disaster, DV, sexual assault, etc. to overcome? Do you struggle with alcohol, meth, pills, cocaine, etc. or maybe video games, love/relationships, porn, etc.? Identity problems? Are you a yes-person that's sick of being walked on? Do you need to learn to control depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, or personality stuff? How about self-esteem problems? Whatever it is, we got this! Please visit www.myhlibrary.com for more info.
You've got trauma? I use various tools like EMDR, ACT, CBT, IFS, and the Emotion Code to eliminate powerful emotions from your life so that you can sleep better, feel better, & live a more satisfying life.
You are the expert on you, & I have the know-how, so as a team, you & I will get you to achieve your goals & more life satisfaction. Do you have trauma from childhood, the military, racism/discrimination, natural disaster, DV, sexual assault, etc. to overcome? Do you struggle with alcohol, meth, pills, cocaine, etc. or maybe video games, love/relationships, porn, etc.? Identity problems? Are you a yes-person that's sick of being walked on? Do you need to learn to control depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, or personality stuff? How about self-esteem problems? Whatever it is, we got this! Please visit www.myhlibrary.com for more info.
(574) 900-2192 View (574) 900-2192
Photo of Brittany Price, LCSW, CSAYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46615
I utilize a variety of approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other evidenced-based modalities to meet individual needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, youth, and adults. I received my bachelor degree and Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University South Bend.
I utilize a variety of approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other evidenced-based modalities to meet individual needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, youth, and adults. I received my bachelor degree and Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University South Bend.
(574) 766-7501 View (574) 766-7501
Photo of Ami Fair, MAAT, ATR, LMHC-A, Counselor
Ami Fair
Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46615
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a psychotherapy treatment designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from trauma, depression, and anxiety, demonstrating a deep understanding of these complex conditions. My therapeutic approach is characterized by compassion, patience, and a commitment to helping clients navigate their emotional landscapes.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a psychotherapy treatment designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from trauma, depression, and anxiety, demonstrating a deep understanding of these complex conditions. My therapeutic approach is characterized by compassion, patience, and a commitment to helping clients navigate their emotional landscapes.
(574) 626-6239 View (574) 626-6239
Photo of April Rowe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am trained in EMDR.
There comes a time in life where we have all exceeded our capacity to cope with internal and external life stressors. It's in these times, where we most need a safe, understanding and neutral person to hold space for us and guide us in our process to becoming a stronger, more resilient version of ourselves. If you're ready to move towards becoming a happier, healthier more confident version of yourself, I am here to hold hope for you and guide you in your journey in growing your capacity for coping and full wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am trained in EMDR.
There comes a time in life where we have all exceeded our capacity to cope with internal and external life stressors. It's in these times, where we most need a safe, understanding and neutral person to hold space for us and guide us in our process to becoming a stronger, more resilient version of ourselves. If you're ready to move towards becoming a happier, healthier more confident version of yourself, I am here to hold hope for you and guide you in your journey in growing your capacity for coping and full wellness.
(574) 475-8421 View (574) 475-8421
Photo of Emily Lehman, MS Ed, LMHC, Counselor
Emily Lehman
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Bend, IN 46617
I am EMDR-trained (EMDRIA 2020) & I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (Evergreen 2024).
I'm an experienced, friendly therapist available for virtual visits (mostly). I've been counseling people for more than a decade & believe in getting to know my clients personally & crafting treatment to their individual needs. I find this is especially important for those with trauma histories. Once we have built a foundation together, we can use a variety of approaches to achieve your goals. I like to incorporate faith for those who want to, and I'm experienced in multiple evidence-based methods. My specialties include coping with life changes, depression, anxiety, loss, & post-traumatic stress. Visit www.EmilyLehmanLMHC.com
I am EMDR-trained (EMDRIA 2020) & I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (Evergreen 2024).
I'm an experienced, friendly therapist available for virtual visits (mostly). I've been counseling people for more than a decade & believe in getting to know my clients personally & crafting treatment to their individual needs. I find this is especially important for those with trauma histories. Once we have built a foundation together, we can use a variety of approaches to achieve your goals. I like to incorporate faith for those who want to, and I'm experienced in multiple evidence-based methods. My specialties include coping with life changes, depression, anxiety, loss, & post-traumatic stress. Visit www.EmilyLehmanLMHC.com
(574) 319-9694 View (574) 319-9694
Photo of Angie Mills, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
I use CBT, EMDR, and IFS in my therapy sessions.
ACCEPTING ONLY A LIMITED NUMBER OF PATIENTS AT THIS TIME. We all deserve a second chance. We can learn from our past mistakes and create a new way of life that includes healthier relationships and liking the person you are. Finding the right therapist is just the beginning of this process. I want you to know that you will not be alone in this journey. Whatever issue brings you to my office, we will work through it together. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can just be yourself.
I use CBT, EMDR, and IFS in my therapy sessions.
ACCEPTING ONLY A LIMITED NUMBER OF PATIENTS AT THIS TIME. We all deserve a second chance. We can learn from our past mistakes and create a new way of life that includes healthier relationships and liking the person you are. Finding the right therapist is just the beginning of this process. I want you to know that you will not be alone in this journey. Whatever issue brings you to my office, we will work through it together. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can just be yourself.
(574) 622-8169 View (574) 622-8169
Photo of Marsha Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsha Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on teens and adults using CBT, DBT, EMDR and other models to support clients in navigating their feelings to improve various life challenges.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope with grief, sadness, depression, anxiety, etc.? I can help you navigate these feelings and offer suggestions to move forward toward hope to improve various life challenges. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University in 2018. I've worked in many different settings doing individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with individuals from teenagers to older adults who have experienced personal issues including, individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, abuse, grief, dependency, and many more.
I focus on teens and adults using CBT, DBT, EMDR and other models to support clients in navigating their feelings to improve various life challenges.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope with grief, sadness, depression, anxiety, etc.? I can help you navigate these feelings and offer suggestions to move forward toward hope to improve various life challenges. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University in 2018. I've worked in many different settings doing individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with individuals from teenagers to older adults who have experienced personal issues including, individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, abuse, grief, dependency, and many more.
(317) 768-0229 View (317) 768-0229
Photo of Alli Kaminski, MA, LMHC, RYT, CCTP-II, EMDR II, Counselor
Alli Kaminski
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RYT, CCTP-II, EMDR II
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617  (Online Only)
My intention as a holistic therapist is to help facilitate what I believe our purpose here is on earth, which is to become the best versions of ourselves. I help you process and work through traumas, toxic relationships, addictions, and/or poor coping skills that prevent you from becoming your best self. I use a combination of treatment modalities to custom fit your needs. I utilize EMDR, person centered, CBT, DBT, systems and attachment theory to facilitate the healing process. I also incorporate mind, body and spirit modalities to encourage a holistic transformation. I look forward to meeting with you!
My intention as a holistic therapist is to help facilitate what I believe our purpose here is on earth, which is to become the best versions of ourselves. I help you process and work through traumas, toxic relationships, addictions, and/or poor coping skills that prevent you from becoming your best self. I use a combination of treatment modalities to custom fit your needs. I utilize EMDR, person centered, CBT, DBT, systems and attachment theory to facilitate the healing process. I also incorporate mind, body and spirit modalities to encourage a holistic transformation. I look forward to meeting with you!
(219) 500-8352 View (219) 500-8352
Photo of Nicole Grayson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Grayson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617  (Online Only)
I am also fully trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Indiana, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and California. I have been practicing for 6+ years. I have worked with clients of all ages and who are struggling with a wide range of problems. I have worked with domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, eating disorders, self harm, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and more. My approach is warm and inviting. I believe in treating each individual with respect. I also believe each individual I see has the ability to change and get well.
I am also fully trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Indiana, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and California. I have been practicing for 6+ years. I have worked with clients of all ages and who are struggling with a wide range of problems. I have worked with domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, eating disorders, self harm, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and more. My approach is warm and inviting. I believe in treating each individual with respect. I also believe each individual I see has the ability to change and get well.
(812) 615-2378 View (812) 615-2378
Photo of Emily A Heineke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily A Heineke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617  (Online Only)
I use cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and person-centered treatment.
As the world has grown smaller with access to so much instant information, children and families are feeling overwhelmed. As families try to cope from this place of overwhelm, their relationships and connections can suffer. Childhood trauma can also play a part in the way we shape our families. Recognizing and understanding generational trauma is the first step in creating your family differently. Sometimes adults need help in order to help their children.
I use cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and person-centered treatment.
As the world has grown smaller with access to so much instant information, children and families are feeling overwhelmed. As families try to cope from this place of overwhelm, their relationships and connections can suffer. Childhood trauma can also play a part in the way we shape our families. Recognizing and understanding generational trauma is the first step in creating your family differently. Sometimes adults need help in order to help their children.
(812) 393-2902 View (812) 393-2902
Photo of Sara Sage - Sage Counseling, LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Sage Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Bend, IN 46635  (Online Only)
Combining humanistic and existential approaches, with training in Jungian work, EMDR/trauma, and LGBTQ concerns, I offer creative and in-depth opportunities for your growth.
Are you looking for a companion on your own journey of becoming? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, a significant life transition, identity and spiritual issues, or relationship issues? Perhaps you simply desire more wholeness of mind, body and spirit. Or perhaps you are LGBTQ and want an affirming and knowledgeable therapist. If you benefit from talking with someone with clear thinking, excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to adapt to your unique needs and style, please call me. I work with individuals 14 and older and couples.
Combining humanistic and existential approaches, with training in Jungian work, EMDR/trauma, and LGBTQ concerns, I offer creative and in-depth opportunities for your growth.
Are you looking for a companion on your own journey of becoming? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, a significant life transition, identity and spiritual issues, or relationship issues? Perhaps you simply desire more wholeness of mind, body and spirit. Or perhaps you are LGBTQ and want an affirming and knowledgeable therapist. If you benefit from talking with someone with clear thinking, excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to adapt to your unique needs and style, please call me. I work with individuals 14 and older and couples.
(574) 914-0184 View (574) 914-0184
Jamie Garvey
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46628  (Online Only)
I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR to help you reach your goals.
Finding a therapist that you feel truly gets you is crucial to having a meaningful and beneficial therapeutic experience. And while no therapy experience is "perfect", my goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe to be able to open up, dig deep, and get the most from your sessions. You can always expect to be heard, and to have an authentic connection and real conversation with me. My aim is for you to be able to take something from every single session- a new insight, perspective, strategy, or coping skill.
I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR to help you reach your goals.
Finding a therapist that you feel truly gets you is crucial to having a meaningful and beneficial therapeutic experience. And while no therapy experience is "perfect", my goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe to be able to open up, dig deep, and get the most from your sessions. You can always expect to be heard, and to have an authentic connection and real conversation with me. My aim is for you to be able to take something from every single session- a new insight, perspective, strategy, or coping skill.
(269) 371-5978 View (269) 371-5978
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.