EMDR Therapists in Missouri

Photo of Courtney Peters, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64151
I specialize in working with adults and couples 18+ who are seeking care for trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, and more. I provide EMDR therapist, CBT, and Gottman Method couples therapy.
I specialize in working with adults and couples 18+ who are seeking care for trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, and more. I provide EMDR therapist, CBT, and Gottman Method couples therapy.
(816) 293-4468 View (816) 293-4468
Photo of Kimela Kluthe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimela Kluthe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63021
I am certified in EMDR & love it because it helps clients finally shake loose self-limiting negative beliefs that keep them stuck (like ‘I’m not good enough’ and ‘nobody can be trusted’).
Life comes at you fast, and whatever you donn’t fix this year will continue to hold you back next year! It’s time to take action. Stop carrying around the fear, sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, etc, that has been holding you back. Let’s face those issues head-on … I’ll help.
I am certified in EMDR & love it because it helps clients finally shake loose self-limiting negative beliefs that keep them stuck (like ‘I’m not good enough’ and ‘nobody can be trusted’).
Life comes at you fast, and whatever you donn’t fix this year will continue to hold you back next year! It’s time to take action. Stop carrying around the fear, sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, etc, that has been holding you back. Let’s face those issues head-on … I’ll help.
(636) 336-1363 View (636) 336-1363
Photo of Brooke Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65807
In therapy I use EMDR and CBT, we have a nutritionist available, and we work with medical providers to explore how nutrition, hormones, etc impact us.
What is self actualization? Maslow would say it is the process of becoming “everything you are capable of becoming.” One of the most exciting and painful journeys we face is truly understanding who we are and who we can become. One of my biggest passions in practice is empowering people as they take this journey. With neurodiversity, many people have found this process stressful and even traumatic. In reality, what they are capable of is often truly remarkable when they learn to embrace it. I have found so much joy in watching clients find relief, empathy for themselves, and excitement when they learn to understand themselves.
In therapy I use EMDR and CBT, we have a nutritionist available, and we work with medical providers to explore how nutrition, hormones, etc impact us.
What is self actualization? Maslow would say it is the process of becoming “everything you are capable of becoming.” One of the most exciting and painful journeys we face is truly understanding who we are and who we can become. One of my biggest passions in practice is empowering people as they take this journey. With neurodiversity, many people have found this process stressful and even traumatic. In reality, what they are capable of is often truly remarkable when they learn to embrace it. I have found so much joy in watching clients find relief, empathy for themselves, and excitement when they learn to understand themselves.
(417) 943-5489 View (417) 943-5489
Photo of Alana Cummings, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alana Cummings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branson, MO 65616
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained and certified in EMDR, an evidence-based approach to treating trauma.
I consider it an honor to be able to walk alongside individuals in the counseling process who are hurting, struggling, or simply wanting to make improvements in their lives.
I am trained and certified in EMDR, an evidence-based approach to treating trauma.
I consider it an honor to be able to walk alongside individuals in the counseling process who are hurting, struggling, or simply wanting to make improvements in their lives.
(417) 465-3336 View (417) 465-3336
Photo of Jacqueline Keitel, PsyD, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Keitel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64152
My therapeutic approach routinely includes: CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and/or Ericksonian Hypnosis.
Have you experienced a trauma such as sexual/physical/emotional abuse, bullying, a shooting, car accident, or combat/military trauma? Did you survive a traumatic/dysfunctional childhood? Do you have a relationship in your life that you want to be healthier? Does perfectionism consume you? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or depression? Some people think seeking help is a sign of weakness. I completely disagree. I believe it takes an inordinate amount of strength to reach out for help and to become your healthiest authentic self. I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
My therapeutic approach routinely includes: CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and/or Ericksonian Hypnosis.
Have you experienced a trauma such as sexual/physical/emotional abuse, bullying, a shooting, car accident, or combat/military trauma? Did you survive a traumatic/dysfunctional childhood? Do you have a relationship in your life that you want to be healthier? Does perfectionism consume you? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or depression? Some people think seeking help is a sign of weakness. I completely disagree. I believe it takes an inordinate amount of strength to reach out for help and to become your healthiest authentic self. I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
(816) 925-9628 View (816) 925-9628
Photo of Cindy Keyte - Cindy Keyte, KEYte to Change EMDR, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Keyte, KEYte to Change EMDR, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I’m experienced in the evidence-based treatment modalities of CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; CPT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy.
Have you experienced trauma in your life and seem to struggle with the same situations over and over, not knowing how to stop the vicious cycle. Are your emotions problematic, do you repeat unhealthy behaviors, relationships, have an onslaught of negative thoughts and no matter how successful you have become, you feel like a fake, insecure and if people really knew? How many times have you promised that you will stop, alcohol, drugs and really mean it, want it, yet once again fall short. As a veteran, were you in combat, was your military experience depleting, anxiety provoking and your life never the same? What keeps you stuck?
I’m experienced in the evidence-based treatment modalities of CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; CPT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy.
Have you experienced trauma in your life and seem to struggle with the same situations over and over, not knowing how to stop the vicious cycle. Are your emotions problematic, do you repeat unhealthy behaviors, relationships, have an onslaught of negative thoughts and no matter how successful you have become, you feel like a fake, insecure and if people really knew? How many times have you promised that you will stop, alcohol, drugs and really mean it, want it, yet once again fall short. As a veteran, were you in combat, was your military experience depleting, anxiety provoking and your life never the same? What keeps you stuck?
(314) 652-3538 View (314) 652-3538
Photo of Moyenda Anwisye, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moyenda Anwisye
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I am trained in a variety of current best practices - including EMDR - that are designed to help you find clarity, purpose and new ways to heal.
Greetings! Welcome and thank you for considering me as your therapist. It is said that the reason two antelope walk side by side is to blow the dust from each other's eyes (African proverb). In today's world, it seems harder than ever to find clarity in the midst of chaos. Living with unaddressed chaos and unresolved pain can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from those who love us and who may be able to help us. Sometimes, due to life circumstances, we struggle to find our way back to ourselves, our family and our God.
I am trained in a variety of current best practices - including EMDR - that are designed to help you find clarity, purpose and new ways to heal.
Greetings! Welcome and thank you for considering me as your therapist. It is said that the reason two antelope walk side by side is to blow the dust from each other's eyes (African proverb). In today's world, it seems harder than ever to find clarity in the midst of chaos. Living with unaddressed chaos and unresolved pain can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from those who love us and who may be able to help us. Sometimes, due to life circumstances, we struggle to find our way back to ourselves, our family and our God.
(314) 408-5053 View (314) 408-5053
Photo of Kaitlyn Ekart-Eliot, MS, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Ekart-Eliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Have you ever walked into a professional's office and felt like you had no say in your treatment? Have you ever felt that you had to educate your doctors or therapists on Queer issues? It's daunting and invalidating. I aim to create a safe environment where you are in charge of your treatment. As a therapist, I am here to help you navigate the treatment process with your goals at heart. Using person-centered therapy, EMDR, and art therapy, I hope to challenge you from a non-judgmental, trauma-informed framework to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD.
Have you ever walked into a professional's office and felt like you had no say in your treatment? Have you ever felt that you had to educate your doctors or therapists on Queer issues? It's daunting and invalidating. I aim to create a safe environment where you are in charge of your treatment. As a therapist, I am here to help you navigate the treatment process with your goals at heart. Using person-centered therapy, EMDR, and art therapy, I hope to challenge you from a non-judgmental, trauma-informed framework to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD.
(816) 355-5340 View (816) 355-5340
Photo of Marybeth Pugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marybeth Pugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Hello, I’m MaryBeth! I have 8 years of clinical experience in community mental health. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, as I believe that YOU are the expert in your life and you deserve to take up space in this world! I work with people ages 15 & up. I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, & CPT. Through a trauma informed lens, we will use client-centered therapy to tailor modalities to your personal needs. I also find that creating art in our sessions can be incredibly powerful, if that’s something you’d like to explore! I accept UHC, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid HSH, & self-pay.
Hello, I’m MaryBeth! I have 8 years of clinical experience in community mental health. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, as I believe that YOU are the expert in your life and you deserve to take up space in this world! I work with people ages 15 & up. I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, & CPT. Through a trauma informed lens, we will use client-centered therapy to tailor modalities to your personal needs. I also find that creating art in our sessions can be incredibly powerful, if that’s something you’d like to explore! I accept UHC, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid HSH, & self-pay.
(314) 970-5040 View (314) 970-5040
Photo of Naaman L Lauderdale - First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
(314) 310-5648 View (314) 310-5648
Photo of Nathan Beck, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan Beck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cottleville, MO 63304
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults and I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement-Desensitization-and-Reprocessing) therapy.
Change is possible for each of us. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relational issues, a trauma you've witnessed or survived yourself, self image, or any number of struggles you may be facing, it can be helped.
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults and I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement-Desensitization-and-Reprocessing) therapy.
Change is possible for each of us. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relational issues, a trauma you've witnessed or survived yourself, self image, or any number of struggles you may be facing, it can be helped.
(636) 238-2504 View (636) 238-2504
Photo of Danielle High, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle High
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in a variety of counseling methods including EMDR, DBT, IFS, and attachment focused therapy.
I know reaching out for help can be daunting and overwhelming. I am here to make this process easier for you. I have worked with individuals and families from differing backgrounds, experiences, and concerns. My counseling style is strength-based, meaning I like to focus on the many positive traits you already possess and work collaboratively to reach the goals you would like to achieve. We are all searching for acceptance and understanding. I am here to help. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and non-monogamous relationships.
I am trained in a variety of counseling methods including EMDR, DBT, IFS, and attachment focused therapy.
I know reaching out for help can be daunting and overwhelming. I am here to make this process easier for you. I have worked with individuals and families from differing backgrounds, experiences, and concerns. My counseling style is strength-based, meaning I like to focus on the many positive traits you already possess and work collaboratively to reach the goals you would like to achieve. We are all searching for acceptance and understanding. I am here to help. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and non-monogamous relationships.
(314) 270-1294 View (314) 270-1294
Photo of Paula Heller, MA , LPC, RDT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Heller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, RDT
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122  (Online Only)
Through a strengths-based, experiential approach attention shifts from "what is wrong with me? to "what has happened to me?" and "what has made me stronger?" I have trained in a range of theoretical perspectives including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness-based psychotherapy as well as drama therapy.
I believe change is possible! I help people just like you improve their relationships and build healthy interpersonal and family interactions by highlighting your strengths and resources, and helping you develop new coping strategies. I help families in crisis due to school issues, relationship issues and economic issues. I work with grief and specializes in issues related to pregnancy loss, infertility, life transitions for women including career issues, relationships, child birth, adoption, empty nesting, divorce and menopause.
Through a strengths-based, experiential approach attention shifts from "what is wrong with me? to "what has happened to me?" and "what has made me stronger?" I have trained in a range of theoretical perspectives including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness-based psychotherapy as well as drama therapy.
I believe change is possible! I help people just like you improve their relationships and build healthy interpersonal and family interactions by highlighting your strengths and resources, and helping you develop new coping strategies. I help families in crisis due to school issues, relationship issues and economic issues. I work with grief and specializes in issues related to pregnancy loss, infertility, life transitions for women including career issues, relationships, child birth, adoption, empty nesting, divorce and menopause.
(314) 347-3580 View (314) 347-3580
Photo of Charity Ann Clavey, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charity Ann Clavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055  (Online Only)
Strength based, Person Centered, trauma focused, EMDR, motivational interviewing.
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
Strength based, Person Centered, trauma focused, EMDR, motivational interviewing.
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
(816) 323-5589 View (816) 323-5589
Photo of Sara Wilper, LCSW, LSCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Wilper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to address trauma through the use of bi-lateral stimulation.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Kansas and Missouri and have been practicing for 20+ years in a variety of settings which include Community Mental Health, Private Practice and The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). I welcome teens, adults, and seniors for therapy and work with each individual on their own unique reasons for being in services. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach to my work and see the therapeutic relationship as a partnership. I will work to improve the well being of individuals and families by providing compassionate and comprehensive behavioral healthcare.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to address trauma through the use of bi-lateral stimulation.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Kansas and Missouri and have been practicing for 20+ years in a variety of settings which include Community Mental Health, Private Practice and The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). I welcome teens, adults, and seniors for therapy and work with each individual on their own unique reasons for being in services. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach to my work and see the therapeutic relationship as a partnership. I will work to improve the well being of individuals and families by providing compassionate and comprehensive behavioral healthcare.
(816) 448-8095 View (816) 448-8095
Photo of Alexia Thompson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexia Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Using EMDR and a variety of other therapy styles and methods, I tailor my approach to your needs, helping you foster healing and growth.
If you're a woman, non-binary, or trans individual struggling with low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, you're not alone. You might want to rebuild your self-worth and find emotional stability by understanding your past and present self. Your goals may include building self-esteem, developing coping skills, and learning about your mental health. You're motivated to heal from trauma and cultivate self-compassion, aiming for a fulfilling life. Together, we can address these needs and help you create a balanced, resilient sense of self with practical strategies for growth.
Using EMDR and a variety of other therapy styles and methods, I tailor my approach to your needs, helping you foster healing and growth.
If you're a woman, non-binary, or trans individual struggling with low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, you're not alone. You might want to rebuild your self-worth and find emotional stability by understanding your past and present self. Your goals may include building self-esteem, developing coping skills, and learning about your mental health. You're motivated to heal from trauma and cultivate self-compassion, aiming for a fulfilling life. Together, we can address these needs and help you create a balanced, resilient sense of self with practical strategies for growth.
(417) 541-2824 View (417) 541-2824
Photo of Emily Barnes, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807  (Online Only)
My counseling style is person-centered, while utilizing aspects of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapy, EMDR, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have experience as a crisis counselor, community mental health provider, and a counselor in a residential facility for adolescents. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I also have several years of experience working with those who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
My counseling style is person-centered, while utilizing aspects of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapy, EMDR, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have experience as a crisis counselor, community mental health provider, and a counselor in a residential facility for adolescents. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I also have several years of experience working with those who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
(417) 428-8958 View (417) 428-8958
Photo of Michele Deeter Accepting New Clients, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Deeter Accepting New Clients
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I provide a non-judgmental place where we will partner to create growth and change through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR and Psychotherapy.
I enjoy working with older and younger adults of diverse populations and gender identities dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. I focus on a person-centered approach to guide each unique client to find the proper tools they need to enrich their lives and help each client become more empowered. You can feel better and you can overcome trauma. I can show you how to harness the power of your own psyche to live a happier, healthier life.
I provide a non-judgmental place where we will partner to create growth and change through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR and Psychotherapy.
I enjoy working with older and younger adults of diverse populations and gender identities dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. I focus on a person-centered approach to guide each unique client to find the proper tools they need to enrich their lives and help each client become more empowered. You can feel better and you can overcome trauma. I can show you how to harness the power of your own psyche to live a happier, healthier life.
(816) 208-8899 View (816) 208-8899
Photo of Ra Suh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ra Suh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65810
Do you feel hopeless, anxious, stressed out, recently lost a loved one, or struggling to overcome past trauma? I know personally how difficult and hard it can be to reach out for help. I hope you'll take the first step to give therapy a chance to help you talk about the weight on your shoulders and the deep emotions that seem to take over your life. If you have past trauma, I can help you process and heal from it through EMDR.
Do you feel hopeless, anxious, stressed out, recently lost a loved one, or struggling to overcome past trauma? I know personally how difficult and hard it can be to reach out for help. I hope you'll take the first step to give therapy a chance to help you talk about the weight on your shoulders and the deep emotions that seem to take over your life. If you have past trauma, I can help you process and heal from it through EMDR.
(417) 719-0973 View (417) 719-0973
Photo of Alyson Marie Walters, MS , LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyson Marie Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT and Brainspotting.
Hi! Are you seeking a compassionate, dedicated Christ-Centered therapist to guide you on your journey toward mental wellness and self-discovery? I use evidence-based practices to help my clients heal from trauma and manage relationships all while keeping God at the center. I have extensive training working with people from all walks of life. I specialize in trauma, addiction counseling, confidence building, issues associated with difficult life transitions, and relationship boundary work. I look forward to working with you!
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT and Brainspotting.
Hi! Are you seeking a compassionate, dedicated Christ-Centered therapist to guide you on your journey toward mental wellness and self-discovery? I use evidence-based practices to help my clients heal from trauma and manage relationships all while keeping God at the center. I have extensive training working with people from all walks of life. I specialize in trauma, addiction counseling, confidence building, issues associated with difficult life transitions, and relationship boundary work. I look forward to working with you!
(480) 530-7526 View (480) 530-7526
1
...
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.