EMDR Therapists in Back Bay, Boston, MA

Photo of Dallas Sierra, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dallas Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(857) 420-5911 View (857) 420-5911
Photo of Daniel J. Harvey, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel J. Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Other modalities I draw upon include EMDR, The Stages of Recovery in trauma work, CBT, and narrative therapy.
Currently accepting NEW clients. I often work with people who feel disoriented and disconnected from themselves and others. These feelings can be profoundly lonely and confusing, leaving one grasping for a sense of direction. I work directively and collaboratively to help them regain a greater sense of orientation within their own lives and discover the meanings behind their struggles. It is my privilege to be able to support and witness others' journeys and their healing process.
Other modalities I draw upon include EMDR, The Stages of Recovery in trauma work, CBT, and narrative therapy.
Currently accepting NEW clients. I often work with people who feel disoriented and disconnected from themselves and others. These feelings can be profoundly lonely and confusing, leaving one grasping for a sense of direction. I work directively and collaboratively to help them regain a greater sense of orientation within their own lives and discover the meanings behind their struggles. It is my privilege to be able to support and witness others' journeys and their healing process.
(508) 315-6876 View (508) 315-6876
Photo of Dr. Abby Meszaros, LICSW, EdD, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Abby Meszaros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
As an EMDR clinician, I offer my clients a customized mix of psychotherapy and trauma focused treatment.
Today is your last day of scrolling through therapists. The last day of doubting yourself and the true intentions of everyone around you. You feel anxious all the time, completely exhausted, and you can’t remember the last time you felt truly connected to your emotions or really felt grounded in your body. You have always wondered how everyone else can live so carefree. Well, it’s your time now to experience the profound peace of finally releasing all of the things that are keeping you stuck. You're longing for someone to finally see the real you, someone with whom you can engage in life changing, powerful therapeutic work together.
As an EMDR clinician, I offer my clients a customized mix of psychotherapy and trauma focused treatment.
Today is your last day of scrolling through therapists. The last day of doubting yourself and the true intentions of everyone around you. You feel anxious all the time, completely exhausted, and you can’t remember the last time you felt truly connected to your emotions or really felt grounded in your body. You have always wondered how everyone else can live so carefree. Well, it’s your time now to experience the profound peace of finally releasing all of the things that are keeping you stuck. You're longing for someone to finally see the real you, someone with whom you can engage in life changing, powerful therapeutic work together.
(617) 404-4717 View (617) 404-4717
Photo of Stephanie Baird, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Baird
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are a clinician seeking consultation ( EMDR or otherwise), please email with your needs.
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
If you are a clinician seeking consultation ( EMDR or otherwise), please email with your needs.
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
(617) 997-0367 View (617) 997-0367
Photo of Chini Chan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chini Chan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
I am EMDR certified therapist, specialized in complex trauma therapy. The techniques I use include advanced, IFS informed EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Brainspotting Therapy, CBT and DBT. I apply person-centered, skill-building approaches and relationship-centered communication techniques in individual, couples and family therapies. Areas of focus include but not limited to complex PTSD, emotion regulation, nourish inner child, heal attachment wounds, enhance resilience, strengthen healthy self-esteem and build meaningful relationship.
I am EMDR certified therapist, specialized in complex trauma therapy. The techniques I use include advanced, IFS informed EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Brainspotting Therapy, CBT and DBT. I apply person-centered, skill-building approaches and relationship-centered communication techniques in individual, couples and family therapies. Areas of focus include but not limited to complex PTSD, emotion regulation, nourish inner child, heal attachment wounds, enhance resilience, strengthen healthy self-esteem and build meaningful relationship.
(617) 401-8493 View (617) 401-8493
Photo of Barbara Lavi - Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: children & adults, individual, couple, family & group techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnosis & the Dream Positioning System.
Have the changes since the pandemic left you feeling stuck? Challenged? Do you want to enhance your life? Have you lost sight of your dreams? Whether you long to feel closer to your partner, are overwhelmed at work, or feel that being a parent leaves no time for your dreams, Dr. Lavi & her Dream Positioning System (DPS) can put YOU back in control of your life so you can start moving towards your dreams. Although the psychotherapeutic relationship lasts for life, therapy with Dr. Lavi will be as brief as possible. When issues arise down the road, clients can return to "recalculate"get back on track & reach their aspirations.
Specialties: children & adults, individual, couple, family & group techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnosis & the Dream Positioning System.
Have the changes since the pandemic left you feeling stuck? Challenged? Do you want to enhance your life? Have you lost sight of your dreams? Whether you long to feel closer to your partner, are overwhelmed at work, or feel that being a parent leaves no time for your dreams, Dr. Lavi & her Dream Positioning System (DPS) can put YOU back in control of your life so you can start moving towards your dreams. Although the psychotherapeutic relationship lasts for life, therapy with Dr. Lavi will be as brief as possible. When issues arise down the road, clients can return to "recalculate"get back on track & reach their aspirations.
(203) 212-9890 View (203) 212-9890
Photo of Seana Peterson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seana Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I’m trained in IFS and EMDR, and incorporate mindfulness and somatic practices into sessions.
I work with people who long to feel more at home with themselves and in their lives. My clients are curious, self-reflective and have experienced things that leave them feeling hurt, fearful and alone. During sessions we may encounter powerful gates of self-discovery like grief, anger, and shame. Together we get to know these parts of you, approach them with kindness, release painful stories and make meaning. Clients leave sessions feeling closer to themselves, able to move through their lives with clarity and presence.
I’m trained in IFS and EMDR, and incorporate mindfulness and somatic practices into sessions.
I work with people who long to feel more at home with themselves and in their lives. My clients are curious, self-reflective and have experienced things that leave them feeling hurt, fearful and alone. During sessions we may encounter powerful gates of self-discovery like grief, anger, and shame. Together we get to know these parts of you, approach them with kindness, release painful stories and make meaning. Clients leave sessions feeling closer to themselves, able to move through their lives with clarity and presence.
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Photo of Cassandra Seery, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Seery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Hi there! Are you seeking genuine, straightforward guidance and effective coping strategies enriched by personal experience and practical application? You’ve come to the right place! I specialize in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy). In addition to trauma, EMDR is effective in treatment of phobias, low self esteem, pain management, eating disorders, and performance anxiety. I love supporting my fellow ADHDers and those with chronic illness. Sessions are focused on reducing self-judgment and internalized stigma while finding ways for your environment to work for you.
Hi there! Are you seeking genuine, straightforward guidance and effective coping strategies enriched by personal experience and practical application? You’ve come to the right place! I specialize in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy). In addition to trauma, EMDR is effective in treatment of phobias, low self esteem, pain management, eating disorders, and performance anxiety. I love supporting my fellow ADHDers and those with chronic illness. Sessions are focused on reducing self-judgment and internalized stigma while finding ways for your environment to work for you.
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Photo of Beth Waterman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Waterman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
I am Level 1 trained in IFS and EMDR and specialize in working with survivors of PTSD and early childhood trauma.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by trauma. I believe we are shaped by our experiences and that each client is unique. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to trauma treatment, which is why I utilize an eclectic approach that focuses on each client’s needs. I use an individualized approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), narrative therapy, and attachment theory to inform treatment. I also offer individual case consults and work with organizations as a consultant and trainer to improve understanding around trauma response.
I am Level 1 trained in IFS and EMDR and specialize in working with survivors of PTSD and early childhood trauma.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by trauma. I believe we are shaped by our experiences and that each client is unique. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to trauma treatment, which is why I utilize an eclectic approach that focuses on each client’s needs. I use an individualized approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), narrative therapy, and attachment theory to inform treatment. I also offer individual case consults and work with organizations as a consultant and trainer to improve understanding around trauma response.
(339) 217-4191 View (339) 217-4191
Photo of Taryn L Cagnina, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Taryn L Cagnina
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
For clients: I am EMDR certified and focus most of my work on Trauma and PTSD while also specializing in eating disorders.
Why do so many of us avoid feeling? Somewhere along the line, we learned that discomfort was "bad." We all avoid in certain ways and it takes strength to look at ourselves compassionately. I balance a realistic, no fluff approach with warmth and empathy. We are all going through something, but I believe we can heal and be inspired by the little things (which eventually become the big things).
For clients: I am EMDR certified and focus most of my work on Trauma and PTSD while also specializing in eating disorders.
Why do so many of us avoid feeling? Somewhere along the line, we learned that discomfort was "bad." We all avoid in certain ways and it takes strength to look at ourselves compassionately. I balance a realistic, no fluff approach with warmth and empathy. We are all going through something, but I believe we can heal and be inspired by the little things (which eventually become the big things).
(857) 203-8409 View (857) 203-8409
Photo of Rachel Stanton, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Stanton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
I provide EMDR intensive therapy where we meet for several days to weeks consecutively for 4-6 hours per day.
You've experienced sexual assault (and you might find it hard to label it that way). You struggle with intimacy and are worried there might be something wrong with you. You often feel anxious and on edge. Even when things are going well at work or in relationships it feels like you are waiting for something to go wrong. Sometimes during sex you cry, dissociate, or try to just "get through it". You're worried you might never get over the bad things that have happened to you and that on some level you are broken.
I provide EMDR intensive therapy where we meet for several days to weeks consecutively for 4-6 hours per day.
You've experienced sexual assault (and you might find it hard to label it that way). You struggle with intimacy and are worried there might be something wrong with you. You often feel anxious and on edge. Even when things are going well at work or in relationships it feels like you are waiting for something to go wrong. Sometimes during sex you cry, dissociate, or try to just "get through it". You're worried you might never get over the bad things that have happened to you and that on some level you are broken.
(857) 420-4710 View (857) 420-4710
Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of March Kim, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
March Kim
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a trained EMDR therapist.
I believe that healing in relationship with one another is a critical prerequisite to our collective liberation and reimagined future. As a therapist, I hope to create a space that promotes a sense of trust and safety where we can work collaboratively to remove barriers and gain tools to thrive throughout life’s various challenges. My job is to support you in solidarity with humility and authenticity alongside an understanding of how our lived experiences shape us to be who we are.
I am also a trained EMDR therapist.
I believe that healing in relationship with one another is a critical prerequisite to our collective liberation and reimagined future. As a therapist, I hope to create a space that promotes a sense of trust and safety where we can work collaboratively to remove barriers and gain tools to thrive throughout life’s various challenges. My job is to support you in solidarity with humility and authenticity alongside an understanding of how our lived experiences shape us to be who we are.
(508) 501-6078 View (508) 501-6078
Photo of Tamar Naor, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Tamar Naor
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I integrate psychotherapy with evidence- based modalities such as Mindfulness, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and carefully tailor it to your needs.
Anxious and overwhelmed? Experiencing racing thoughts, or rumination on negative events that prevent you from feeling present and content with your life? If anxiety/ panic attacks disrupt your functioning at work, school or home- I can help! I bring forth a warm, compassionate, interactive, down-to-earth and gentle therapeutic style that will put you at ease and allow you to tune in to your inner resources and wisdom. I will work collaboratively with you to identify goals, explore thoughts patterns and behaviors that may no longer serve you, and develop coping strategies that would enable you to make lasting changes in your life.
I integrate psychotherapy with evidence- based modalities such as Mindfulness, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and carefully tailor it to your needs.
Anxious and overwhelmed? Experiencing racing thoughts, or rumination on negative events that prevent you from feeling present and content with your life? If anxiety/ panic attacks disrupt your functioning at work, school or home- I can help! I bring forth a warm, compassionate, interactive, down-to-earth and gentle therapeutic style that will put you at ease and allow you to tune in to your inner resources and wisdom. I will work collaboratively with you to identify goals, explore thoughts patterns and behaviors that may no longer serve you, and develop coping strategies that would enable you to make lasting changes in your life.
(617) 870-6058 View (617) 870-6058
Photo of Will Dempsey - Heads Held High Counseling, LICSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heads Held High Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Our therapists offer a range of modalities including expressive arts therapy, EMDR, and much more!.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
Our therapists offer a range of modalities including expressive arts therapy, EMDR, and much more!.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
(857) 877-3999 View (857) 877-3999
Photo of Madison Detwiler, MS, Counselor
Madison Detwiler
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, play therapy, and family therapy.
I will work with you to improve your relationships, learn how to advocate for yourself and build self-confidence, and work through trauma. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks and empowering them to live authentically and confidently in a world that may not always understand or support their experiences. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, learn new skills, and work towards living your best life.
I am trained in EMDR, play therapy, and family therapy.
I will work with you to improve your relationships, learn how to advocate for yourself and build self-confidence, and work through trauma. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks and empowering them to live authentically and confidently in a world that may not always understand or support their experiences. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, learn new skills, and work towards living your best life.
(508) 625-9184 View (508) 625-9184
Photo of Larissa Crane - Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT, MSW, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
(508) 659-4613 View (508) 659-4613
Photo of Patty Underwood, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patty Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT and MI, and I incorporate mindfulness into my practice.
The stressors associated with relationships, career, and health can be difficult to navigate! Sometimes we can cope with this on our own and other times friends or family support us. Sometimes that just isn't enough; and we need an objective, nonjudgemental person who has training in counseling to help. I have many years of experience in individual and group therapy. My approach is active, genuine, and strengths-based.
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT and MI, and I incorporate mindfulness into my practice.
The stressors associated with relationships, career, and health can be difficult to navigate! Sometimes we can cope with this on our own and other times friends or family support us. Sometimes that just isn't enough; and we need an objective, nonjudgemental person who has training in counseling to help. I have many years of experience in individual and group therapy. My approach is active, genuine, and strengths-based.
(508) 978-2164 View (508) 978-2164
Photo of William Munze, LMHC, CPC, NCC, Counselor
William Munze
Counselor, LMHC, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
I incorporate elements of CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and DBT to help people achieve their goals.
I help people overcome the challenges they face in everyday life: work or school, mood, stress, relationships, trauma and abuse. If you're not finding satisfaction or joy in life, if you feel stuck, or if you keep running into mental, emotional, or behavioral blocks, I can help. I work with adults and also specialize in helping college/university students and the unique challenges that go with college life: balancing academic and social demands, pressure to succeed, fitting in, "adulting," and possibly most importantly, becoming the person you want to be.
I incorporate elements of CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and DBT to help people achieve their goals.
I help people overcome the challenges they face in everyday life: work or school, mood, stress, relationships, trauma and abuse. If you're not finding satisfaction or joy in life, if you feel stuck, or if you keep running into mental, emotional, or behavioral blocks, I can help. I work with adults and also specialize in helping college/university students and the unique challenges that go with college life: balancing academic and social demands, pressure to succeed, fitting in, "adulting," and possibly most importantly, becoming the person you want to be.
(617) 612-5604 View (617) 612-5604
Photo of Susan Scheufele, EdM, LPC, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Susan Scheufele
Licensed Psychoanalyst, EdM, LPC, LP
Verified Verified
Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
I also have certification in EMDR and mind body skills (Center for Mind Body Medicine) for complex trauma.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience in private practice. Individuals come to see me about anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, eating disorders, gender identity, parenting, and life transitions. I will help you understand the causes of your stress and anxieties as we explore your thoughts, feelings and past and present day experiences. Together we will develop strategies for healing and pathways to personal change so that you may move forward and grow.
I also have certification in EMDR and mind body skills (Center for Mind Body Medicine) for complex trauma.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience in private practice. Individuals come to see me about anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, eating disorders, gender identity, parenting, and life transitions. I will help you understand the causes of your stress and anxieties as we explore your thoughts, feelings and past and present day experiences. Together we will develop strategies for healing and pathways to personal change so that you may move forward and grow.
(781) 243-5133 View (781) 243-5133
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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.