EMDR Therapists in Ottawa County, MI

Photo of Gail Gretchen Johnson, MSW, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Gretchen Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Zeeland, MI 49464
Special tools include EMDR, hypnosis, energy tapping and relaxation.
Working to resolve anxiety and trauma, especially "stacked trauma". I have a variety of approaches which are frequently useful to people who have had recent or early traumas. Anxiety is a normal reaction to abnormal experience. Our work focuses on bringing up the harmful event, processing it, and laying it to rest.
Special tools include EMDR, hypnosis, energy tapping and relaxation.
Working to resolve anxiety and trauma, especially "stacked trauma". I have a variety of approaches which are frequently useful to people who have had recent or early traumas. Anxiety is a normal reaction to abnormal experience. Our work focuses on bringing up the harmful event, processing it, and laying it to rest.
(616) 920-8110 View (616) 920-8110
Photo of Amy Harbison, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Harbison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Zeeland, MI 49464
I utilize a variety of modalities when working with clients including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR.
Hello, my name is Amy Harbison. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in childhood trauma and family counseling. If you or your loved one is experiencing distress in their relationships or if past traumatic experiences are stealing your joy, I would be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey. The desire to see strong families and healthy relationships are two of the primary reasons I chose to pursue a career in clinical social work. The parent child relationship is the first one in which we learn who we are to others and where our sense of value and worth begins to form.
I utilize a variety of modalities when working with clients including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR.
Hello, my name is Amy Harbison. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in childhood trauma and family counseling. If you or your loved one is experiencing distress in their relationships or if past traumatic experiences are stealing your joy, I would be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey. The desire to see strong families and healthy relationships are two of the primary reasons I chose to pursue a career in clinical social work. The parent child relationship is the first one in which we learn who we are to others and where our sense of value and worth begins to form.
(616) 371-5028 View (616) 371-5028
Photo of Kristine Berryman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Berryman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Kris is skilled with treating a variety of life’s challenges, including adoption and foster care, identity, relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, body image/self-esteem issues, Obsessive-compulsive disorders and life transitions. She is expertly trained in numerous clinical utilities, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Attachment Focused EMDR, Brainspotting, Child-Centered play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Kris is skilled with treating a variety of life’s challenges, including adoption and foster care, identity, relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, body image/self-esteem issues, Obsessive-compulsive disorders and life transitions. She is expertly trained in numerous clinical utilities, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Attachment Focused EMDR, Brainspotting, Child-Centered play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(616) 952-3398 View (616) 952-3398
Photo of Betsy Pyle, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Pyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Haven, MI 49417
I am trained in both Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy) and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1).
I have enjoyed engaging people in the therapeutic process for the past 15 years. My clinical experience has been practicing within the non-profit sector and private practice. I am passionate about engaging with people and working through their identified concerns. I welcome working with people who are experiencing personal or interpersonal issues. I can meet you where you are and together we can make a treatment plan to helps you meet your goals. I am passionate about helping people overcome past trauma. As well as developing healthy strategies to get through particular life phases.
I am trained in both Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy) and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1).
I have enjoyed engaging people in the therapeutic process for the past 15 years. My clinical experience has been practicing within the non-profit sector and private practice. I am passionate about engaging with people and working through their identified concerns. I welcome working with people who are experiencing personal or interpersonal issues. I can meet you where you are and together we can make a treatment plan to helps you meet your goals. I am passionate about helping people overcome past trauma. As well as developing healthy strategies to get through particular life phases.
(616) 201-4996 View (616) 201-4996
Photo of Ashley VanPutten, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley VanPutten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenison, MI 49428
I often utilize CBT and EMDR in my practice and will help you explore how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences.
I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and women. My goal as a therapist is to help you in your healing process so you can thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically. My specialties include anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, as well as providing support through life transitions.
I often utilize CBT and EMDR in my practice and will help you explore how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences.
I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and women. My goal as a therapist is to help you in your healing process so you can thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically. My specialties include anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, as well as providing support through life transitions.
(616) 404-4505 View (616) 404-4505
Photo of Jill E Bawks, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill E Bawks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
I offer many types of therapy based on your treatment goals and I am fully certified in EMDR.
Limited Availability for New Clients October 2024! Are you feeling exhausted, worried, lonely, confused, overwhelmed, or just want someone to listen? You are not alone. I'm a licensed clinical therapist and I specialize in treating PTSD (+complex trauma) as well as anxiety and depression. I love meeting new people and I would be honored to work together to help you clear a path towards the healthiest version of you!
I offer many types of therapy based on your treatment goals and I am fully certified in EMDR.
Limited Availability for New Clients October 2024! Are you feeling exhausted, worried, lonely, confused, overwhelmed, or just want someone to listen? You are not alone. I'm a licensed clinical therapist and I specialize in treating PTSD (+complex trauma) as well as anxiety and depression. I love meeting new people and I would be honored to work together to help you clear a path towards the healthiest version of you!
(616) 326-2564 View (616) 326-2564
Photo of Stephanie Stoneman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Stoneman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I have a holistic approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR, with a psycho-dynamic perspective.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan, with 18 years of experience providing therapy in multi-faceted ways. I have worked as a medical social worker, providing therapy for those suffering from a variety of hardships. I have worked as an addictions counselor for those with substance dependence and their families. I specialize in working with other professionals who struggle with mood or substance abuse issues. I have experience treating depression, anxiety/panic, trauma, women's issues, relationship issues, career issues, and those with a combination of physical and mental health issues.
I have a holistic approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR, with a psycho-dynamic perspective.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan, with 18 years of experience providing therapy in multi-faceted ways. I have worked as a medical social worker, providing therapy for those suffering from a variety of hardships. I have worked as an addictions counselor for those with substance dependence and their families. I specialize in working with other professionals who struggle with mood or substance abuse issues. I have experience treating depression, anxiety/panic, trauma, women's issues, relationship issues, career issues, and those with a combination of physical and mental health issues.
(616) 300-2911 View (616) 300-2911
Photo of Liliana Navarro, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liliana Navarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I have experience with trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy for those who have experienced trauma such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and domestic violence.
Finding the right therapist can be the first step towards a journey of healing and personal growth. My name is Liliana Navarro, and I am a bilingual psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, depression, relationships, family conflict and trauma. With 8 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of assisting individuals, couples, and families navigate through challenging times towards more fulfilling lives. My goal is to provide a safe space to be able to identify and process areas that need work in your life.
I have experience with trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy for those who have experienced trauma such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and domestic violence.
Finding the right therapist can be the first step towards a journey of healing and personal growth. My name is Liliana Navarro, and I am a bilingual psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, depression, relationships, family conflict and trauma. With 8 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of assisting individuals, couples, and families navigate through challenging times towards more fulfilling lives. My goal is to provide a safe space to be able to identify and process areas that need work in your life.
(616) 441-4542 View (616) 441-4542
Photo of Adam R Shanty, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam R Shanty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
I have been trained in EMDR and sand tray therapy but also utilize mindfulness techniques in session.
I view counseling as discipleship where I come along side you to help you reach your personal hopes and goals for your life. I personally believe that trauma is a mind/body issue and look at therapy in a holistic manor. The things we struggle with today are often caused by past experiences and to find freedom, we need to address that past.
I have been trained in EMDR and sand tray therapy but also utilize mindfulness techniques in session.
I view counseling as discipleship where I come along side you to help you reach your personal hopes and goals for your life. I personally believe that trauma is a mind/body issue and look at therapy in a holistic manor. The things we struggle with today are often caused by past experiences and to find freedom, we need to address that past.
(231) 388-7527 View (231) 388-7527
Photo of Kim Richardson, LMSW, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Kim Richardson
Counselor, LMSW, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I offer teletherapy and in-office therapy to clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations racial and ethnic identities. With 25 years of clinical experience, I provide a safe and confidential space to explore what needs healing. Trained in trauma EMDR /Polyvalgal /Brainspotting and in-depth Psychodynamic therapy. I help adults and college students with stress, depression, PTSD, sexual trauma, loss, grief, anger, gender dysphoria, parenting, and young adult challenges. I have worked in psychiatric hospitals, special education (ADHD, ASD), & in home-based trauma care (TF-CBT).
I offer teletherapy and in-office therapy to clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations racial and ethnic identities. With 25 years of clinical experience, I provide a safe and confidential space to explore what needs healing. Trained in trauma EMDR /Polyvalgal /Brainspotting and in-depth Psychodynamic therapy. I help adults and college students with stress, depression, PTSD, sexual trauma, loss, grief, anger, gender dysphoria, parenting, and young adult challenges. I have worked in psychiatric hospitals, special education (ADHD, ASD), & in home-based trauma care (TF-CBT).
(616) 208-4977 View (616) 208-4977
Photo of Lara Helmus - EnCourage Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EnCourage Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
We use a variety of approaches ( EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Psycho-therapy, etc.
We are a small, local collection of therapists (Clinical Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors). We LOVE to work a wide range of people and concerns. We have therapists who only work via telehealth, some who see people in person, and many who do both. We work with children as young as 7 or 8 years old and up. We can work with individuals, couples and families. Our goal is to help your identify and achieve YOUR goals for a happier, healthier life.
We use a variety of approaches ( EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Psycho-therapy, etc.
We are a small, local collection of therapists (Clinical Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors). We LOVE to work a wide range of people and concerns. We have therapists who only work via telehealth, some who see people in person, and many who do both. We work with children as young as 7 or 8 years old and up. We can work with individuals, couples and families. Our goal is to help your identify and achieve YOUR goals for a happier, healthier life.
(616) 693-5708 View (616) 693-5708
Photo of Brooke Clifton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke Clifton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in DBT and EMDR and I enjoy utilizing these skills along with CBT and insight oriented approaches that allow me to meet people where they are at in life.
Attending to mental health is an important part of maintaining a healthy connection to one’s physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. The therapy process allows the opportunity to gain insight into how our experiences shape our emotions, interpretations and behavior. Whether the goal is to heal from trauma, develop and strengthen coping skills, learn effective interpersonal relationship skills or create greater self-compassion, a strong therapeutic relationship is paramount. Trust, empathy, respect and healthy boundaries are vital to creating a therapeutic relationship that promotes growth.
I have been trained in DBT and EMDR and I enjoy utilizing these skills along with CBT and insight oriented approaches that allow me to meet people where they are at in life.
Attending to mental health is an important part of maintaining a healthy connection to one’s physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. The therapy process allows the opportunity to gain insight into how our experiences shape our emotions, interpretations and behavior. Whether the goal is to heal from trauma, develop and strengthen coping skills, learn effective interpersonal relationship skills or create greater self-compassion, a strong therapeutic relationship is paramount. Trust, empathy, respect and healthy boundaries are vital to creating a therapeutic relationship that promotes growth.
(616) 693-5541 View (616) 693-5541
Photo of Laura Rutledge Murphy - Patchwork Therapy Services , LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patchwork Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jenison, MI 49428  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.
Navigating adolescence and the transition to adulthood can be challenging. Although we are born with unique traits and personalities, we are shaped and influenced by our communities, relationships, life experiences and the media. My goal is to support you and your child (or young adult) through this confusing but exciting life stage. I enjoy identifying unique strengths and building self-worth and self-efficacy. We will work together to strengthen coping skills and process past life experiences that continue to affect our thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
I have advanced training in EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.
Navigating adolescence and the transition to adulthood can be challenging. Although we are born with unique traits and personalities, we are shaped and influenced by our communities, relationships, life experiences and the media. My goal is to support you and your child (or young adult) through this confusing but exciting life stage. I enjoy identifying unique strengths and building self-worth and self-efficacy. We will work together to strengthen coping skills and process past life experiences that continue to affect our thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
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Photo of Kelli Postema, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelli Postema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I use CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness to help clients process trauma and develop coping strategies.
Are you seeking support to navigate through past experiences that continue to impact your life? As a trauma therapist, I provide a compassionate and safe environment where clients can explore and understand their experiences without judgment. My goal is to help individuals process and heal from trauma, fostering empowerment and resilience in their lives.
I use CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness to help clients process trauma and develop coping strategies.
Are you seeking support to navigate through past experiences that continue to impact your life? As a trauma therapist, I provide a compassionate and safe environment where clients can explore and understand their experiences without judgment. My goal is to help individuals process and heal from trauma, fostering empowerment and resilience in their lives.
(616) 201-4960 View (616) 201-4960
Photo of Murphy Jo Palmer, MS, LLPC, CHC, Counselor
Murphy Jo Palmer
Counselor, MS, LLPC, CHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49424
I offer a person centered counseling approach, integrating specific trauma therapy such as EMDR and somatic therapy.
You are not really sure what you may be feeling, but you do not feel like you. Something feels off. Maybe you have gone through some recent life changes and want to feel connected to yourself. Maybe you have recently become aware of some trauma and want to begin the journey toward healing from it. Life can lead us to feel different emotions, which lead to different thought and behaviors. One day we wake up and are not sure how we got here. The incredible thing is, we can heal. We can create space for what we want, for peace, for confidence, to bring love into our lives, because we know how to offer it to ourselves.
I offer a person centered counseling approach, integrating specific trauma therapy such as EMDR and somatic therapy.
You are not really sure what you may be feeling, but you do not feel like you. Something feels off. Maybe you have gone through some recent life changes and want to feel connected to yourself. Maybe you have recently become aware of some trauma and want to begin the journey toward healing from it. Life can lead us to feel different emotions, which lead to different thought and behaviors. One day we wake up and are not sure how we got here. The incredible thing is, we can heal. We can create space for what we want, for peace, for confidence, to bring love into our lives, because we know how to offer it to ourselves.
(616) 577-8547 View (616) 577-8547
Photo of First Responders Support - Kerrie Murphy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
First Responders Support - Kerrie Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Through my work as a therapist, I have served first responders and provided EMDR therapy as a means of healing from trauma.
My practice focuses on the health and wellbeing of first responders primarily, although I am open to taking other clients looking to heal from trauma through EMDR therapy. First Responders Support, LLC is designed to provide mental health services to those who serve in many roles caring for the health and safety of the community, in emergency and crisis situations. First responders who respond to critical incidents and traumatic events are exposed daily to acute stress and trauma. It is the goal of First Responders Support, LLC to offer counseling & trauma therapy through Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing.
Through my work as a therapist, I have served first responders and provided EMDR therapy as a means of healing from trauma.
My practice focuses on the health and wellbeing of first responders primarily, although I am open to taking other clients looking to heal from trauma through EMDR therapy. First Responders Support, LLC is designed to provide mental health services to those who serve in many roles caring for the health and safety of the community, in emergency and crisis situations. First responders who respond to critical incidents and traumatic events are exposed daily to acute stress and trauma. It is the goal of First Responders Support, LLC to offer counseling & trauma therapy through Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing.
(616) 366-9789 View (616) 366-9789
Photo of Alyssa Green, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Alyssa Green
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424
I incorporate multiple techniques including EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
I strive to provide a comfortable environment where each client can feel heard. I specialize in assisting clients to work through trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, and anxiety. I am experienced with diverse communities including LGBTQIA+ and those in non-traditional lifestyles. I am here to focus on your unique and specific needs; our time together is tailored to your individual experiences. My practice is built on client-centered, trauma informed care. I believe in a collaborative experience between myself and you, the client.
I incorporate multiple techniques including EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
I strive to provide a comfortable environment where each client can feel heard. I specialize in assisting clients to work through trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, and anxiety. I am experienced with diverse communities including LGBTQIA+ and those in non-traditional lifestyles. I am here to focus on your unique and specific needs; our time together is tailored to your individual experiences. My practice is built on client-centered, trauma informed care. I believe in a collaborative experience between myself and you, the client.
(616) 236-6955 View (616) 236-6955
Photo of Caitlyn Nyhuis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlyn Nyhuis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I have been basic trained in EMDR therapy, TF-CBT, play therapy and utilize components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Dialectic Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
Taking this first step in finding a therapist can be difficult and overwhelming, I see you and am glad you are here and taking those first steps. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and empowerment focused. My goal is to provide a safe environment where you can navigate what feels most right to you. I want to provide a validating, empathetic, and comfortable space for you or your child to find healing and growth. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree of Psychology from Grand Valley State University and my Master’s of Social Work from Western Michigan University
I have been basic trained in EMDR therapy, TF-CBT, play therapy and utilize components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Dialectic Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
Taking this first step in finding a therapist can be difficult and overwhelming, I see you and am glad you are here and taking those first steps. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and empowerment focused. My goal is to provide a safe environment where you can navigate what feels most right to you. I want to provide a validating, empathetic, and comfortable space for you or your child to find healing and growth. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree of Psychology from Grand Valley State University and my Master’s of Social Work from Western Michigan University
(616) 449-1808 View (616) 449-1808
Photo of Danie Duron - Danie Duron - Trauma & Attachment Center of W. MI, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, IATP-C, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danie Duron - Trauma & Attachment Center of W. MI
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, IATP-C, NCC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424
We offer DBT, EMDR and IATP-C to help people process and handle trauma in a more effective way.
At the Trauma and Attachment Center, we focus on helping people process their traumas and strengthen their attachments. We are a small group of clinicians with a passion for helping and making people feel welcome. The center was founded by Danie Duron and the following is her personal statement: My ideal client would be a person hoping to heal their trauma that they have encountered in life and would like to use EMDR, (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) in order to do so.
We offer DBT, EMDR and IATP-C to help people process and handle trauma in a more effective way.
At the Trauma and Attachment Center, we focus on helping people process their traumas and strengthen their attachments. We are a small group of clinicians with a passion for helping and making people feel welcome. The center was founded by Danie Duron and the following is her personal statement: My ideal client would be a person hoping to heal their trauma that they have encountered in life and would like to use EMDR, (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) in order to do so.
(616) 219-8664 View (616) 219-8664
Photo of Gabriel Kangas, MA, LPC, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabriel Kangas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCS
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy to address client's needs in a personalized and productive manner.
My personal theoretical foundation is not limited to one approach. I believe it is necessary for counselors to be adaptive. Every client is different and our responses and approaches should be equally diverse. One person may need a cognitive behavioral approach whereas another would be more responsive to brief counseling. This eclectic approach will be applied to all clients. Techniques will vary between clients to best meet the individual client's needs.
I offer EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy to address client's needs in a personalized and productive manner.
My personal theoretical foundation is not limited to one approach. I believe it is necessary for counselors to be adaptive. Every client is different and our responses and approaches should be equally diverse. One person may need a cognitive behavioral approach whereas another would be more responsive to brief counseling. This eclectic approach will be applied to all clients. Techniques will vary between clients to best meet the individual client's needs.
(616) 205-9786 View (616) 205-9786
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See more therapy options for Ottawa County

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.