EMDR Therapists in Brainerd, MN

Photo of Megan Mueller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Mueller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
I often incorporate a relational lens, as well as my training in skills-based work such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
Welcome! Brene Brown, social worker/researcher states: "One day you will tell your story of how you overcame and what you went through and it will be someone else's survival guide". I believe in our ability to overcome our struggles in life, and how these can bring out our strengths and character that we otherwise would not have known in ourselves. Starting therapy is a journey and a courageous first step to take. I have confidence that with support and guidance you can find strength and meaning in the difficulties that bring you to therapy.
I often incorporate a relational lens, as well as my training in skills-based work such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
Welcome! Brene Brown, social worker/researcher states: "One day you will tell your story of how you overcame and what you went through and it will be someone else's survival guide". I believe in our ability to overcome our struggles in life, and how these can bring out our strengths and character that we otherwise would not have known in ourselves. Starting therapy is a journey and a courageous first step to take. I have confidence that with support and guidance you can find strength and meaning in the difficulties that bring you to therapy.
(763) 347-2683 View (763) 347-2683
Photo of Allison C Gildner, MS, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison C Gildner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
As a certified EMDR provider, I can help in a unique way that you may not have experienced with other therapists.
Do you feel like you haven’t been yourself lately? Perhaps you have experienced an upsetting, difficult, or traumatic event. Or, you may be someone who is prone to anxiety, nervousness, or feeling overwhelmed. You might find yourself thinking, “Am I broken? Am I crazy? What is wrong with me?” I specialize in helping people who are struggling with difficult life experiences to restore peace and purpose to their lives.
As a certified EMDR provider, I can help in a unique way that you may not have experienced with other therapists.
Do you feel like you haven’t been yourself lately? Perhaps you have experienced an upsetting, difficult, or traumatic event. Or, you may be someone who is prone to anxiety, nervousness, or feeling overwhelmed. You might find yourself thinking, “Am I broken? Am I crazy? What is wrong with me?” I specialize in helping people who are struggling with difficult life experiences to restore peace and purpose to their lives.
(218) 422-3395 View (218) 422-3395
Photo of Claribel Torres Severson, PhD, NCC, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Claribel Torres Severson
Counselor, PhD, NCC, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on anxiety, depression, assertiveness, boundaries, NT/AS relationships or marital problems. Single incident trauma treated with EMDR. OCD treatment utilizing ERP and CBT. Se Habla Español. I am a native Spanish speaker able to translate and provide therapy in Spanish, as well as address acculturation difficulties for various ethnic groups. I am also a US Army veteran and personally understand many of the issues surrounding military life and culture.
I focus on anxiety, depression, assertiveness, boundaries, NT/AS relationships or marital problems. Single incident trauma treated with EMDR. OCD treatment utilizing ERP and CBT. Se Habla Español. I am a native Spanish speaker able to translate and provide therapy in Spanish, as well as address acculturation difficulties for various ethnic groups. I am also a US Army veteran and personally understand many of the issues surrounding military life and culture.
(218) 427-6066 View (218) 427-6066
Photo of Audriana Bagwell, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audriana Bagwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Brainerd, MN 56401
Hello! I’m a trauma therapist who is passionate about helping my clients heal and grow. I understand how difficult it can be to seek help when you’re struggling, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced grief, loss, or childhood trauma and are ready to take the first step towards healing. Note: I additionally have a special interest in working with parents who have lost a child, and am trained in utilizing EMDR with people who cope with dissociation.
Hello! I’m a trauma therapist who is passionate about helping my clients heal and grow. I understand how difficult it can be to seek help when you’re struggling, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced grief, loss, or childhood trauma and are ready to take the first step towards healing. Note: I additionally have a special interest in working with parents who have lost a child, and am trained in utilizing EMDR with people who cope with dissociation.
(218) 297-8864 View (218) 297-8864
Photo of Tiffany Marie Conner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Marie Conner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
I utilize EMDR, Brainspotting, art and/or sand tray therapy along with talk.
Hi. I'm here to support you through your therapeutic process, whatever that looks like. I believe that each person's therapy experience is unique to them and aim to work with a client in a way that is most meaningful to them. I enjoy working with people of all ages, backgrounds and situations. I began my career working with and learning about children and play therapy. I've expanded my knowledge to include trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, stress, anger and other mental health concerns with all ages. Please call or email with any questions. I am happy to help.
I utilize EMDR, Brainspotting, art and/or sand tray therapy along with talk.
Hi. I'm here to support you through your therapeutic process, whatever that looks like. I believe that each person's therapy experience is unique to them and aim to work with a client in a way that is most meaningful to them. I enjoy working with people of all ages, backgrounds and situations. I began my career working with and learning about children and play therapy. I've expanded my knowledge to include trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, stress, anger and other mental health concerns with all ages. Please call or email with any questions. I am happy to help.
(218) 521-7120 View (218) 521-7120
Photo of Patricia L Gorman - Ellie Mental Health Services, EdD, LPCC
Ellie Mental Health Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EdD, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401  (Online Only)
We all need to laugh sometimes! I am trained in EMDR and DBT but utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help you move forward.
Everyone has experienced pain and disappointment in their life. For some of us that pain is keeping us from the life we want. You may have learned to cope in ways that are no longer helpful and have become "stuck." I consider it an honor to hear your story and help you navigate what is keeping you from moving forward.
We all need to laugh sometimes! I am trained in EMDR and DBT but utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help you move forward.
Everyone has experienced pain and disappointment in their life. For some of us that pain is keeping us from the life we want. You may have learned to cope in ways that are no longer helpful and have become "stuck." I consider it an honor to hear your story and help you navigate what is keeping you from moving forward.
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Photo of Ande Nelson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ande Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brainerd, MN 56401
Waitlist for new clients
I have been practicing EMDR for many years, and recently completed EFIT training (Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy).
My ideal client might be afraid to begin with. They may think I will tell them they are crazy, or look at them in shock for what they tell me. When I reassure them their trauma has taken a toll, but they are not crazy, and I can help them, they will relax. They will learn to trust me and open up. By opening up about their lives and what they have been through and working through their trauma, they will come out on the other side realizing they no longer need to experience the pain, and can experience the joy they always strived for.
I have been practicing EMDR for many years, and recently completed EFIT training (Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy).
My ideal client might be afraid to begin with. They may think I will tell them they are crazy, or look at them in shock for what they tell me. When I reassure them their trauma has taken a toll, but they are not crazy, and I can help them, they will relax. They will learn to trust me and open up. By opening up about their lives and what they have been through and working through their trauma, they will come out on the other side realizing they no longer need to experience the pain, and can experience the joy they always strived for.
(218) 321-6133 View (218) 321-6133
Photo of Amy Dahl - Acquire Mental Health, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Acquire Mental Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brainerd, MN 56401
Our mission is to normalize mental health, reduce the stigma, strengthen the community, and help people reach their goals/dreams. We use your expertise on yourself, your strengths, and our knowledge about mental health to help you get what you want out of therapy. We are someone on the outside who can recognize patterns, challenge them when needed, offer ways to change that pattern, but we don't shame you if you don't want to, can't or are not ready. We understand that you need a connection, and aren't an "authority" figure. We acknowledge we are human too.
Our mission is to normalize mental health, reduce the stigma, strengthen the community, and help people reach their goals/dreams. We use your expertise on yourself, your strengths, and our knowledge about mental health to help you get what you want out of therapy. We are someone on the outside who can recognize patterns, challenge them when needed, offer ways to change that pattern, but we don't shame you if you don't want to, can't or are not ready. We understand that you need a connection, and aren't an "authority" figure. We acknowledge we are human too.
(218) 228-3128 View (218) 228-3128
Photo of Leslie Russell-Martin - True Balance Counseling, MS, LMFT, PhD, LP, RPT-S, Psychologist
True Balance Counseling
Psychologist, MS, LMFT, PhD, LP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
Anxiety? Depression? Just sick and tired of being sick and tired? We get it. Life can be a pain in the .....well.... a pain. Sometimes we just have to let it all out. Our team of experienced therapists get it. Trauma? YEP! ADHD? YEP! Military and public service? YEP! Let us help. We can offer you an alternative, non- doctory, take of your shoes and be comfy, place to let it all start to heal. We work with children, adults, couples, and families. Let us help you, help yourself.
Anxiety? Depression? Just sick and tired of being sick and tired? We get it. Life can be a pain in the .....well.... a pain. Sometimes we just have to let it all out. Our team of experienced therapists get it. Trauma? YEP! ADHD? YEP! Military and public service? YEP! Let us help. We can offer you an alternative, non- doctory, take of your shoes and be comfy, place to let it all start to heal. We work with children, adults, couples, and families. Let us help you, help yourself.
(320) 632-5524 View (320) 632-5524
Photo of Jeff Glover, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Jeff Glover
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
I specialize with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health diagnosis such anxiety, depression and trauma. This includes family members. When you're not sure if it's really a problem but you're open to exploring it; when you're pretty sure it's a problem but you need help figuring out what's next; when you know it's a problem but you've struggled to find a way out.... I understand the concerns very well, professionally and personally, and I can help orient you, figure out where you want things to be, and help you develop a plan to get there.
I specialize with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health diagnosis such anxiety, depression and trauma. This includes family members. When you're not sure if it's really a problem but you're open to exploring it; when you're pretty sure it's a problem but you need help figuring out what's next; when you know it's a problem but you've struggled to find a way out.... I understand the concerns very well, professionally and personally, and I can help orient you, figure out where you want things to be, and help you develop a plan to get there.
(612) 261-1928 View (612) 261-1928

Online Therapists

Photo of Olivia Walls, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Olivia Walls
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Blaine, MN 55449  (Online Only)
Therefore, I use a variety of treatment approaches (DARe, EMDR, CBT, etc.
You may find yourself in a season of life where internally/personally, relationally, or professionally things feel uncomfortable, overwhelming, confusing, or worrisome. You may identify as a person who is feeling burnt out, wearing too many hats, feeling undervalued and misunderstood, having decision fatigue, feeling perfectionist tendencies, self-critical, avoidant of conflict, experiencing fears, reminded of childhood wounds/hurt, experiencing a life transition, etc. In any case, whatever brings you to therapy, I would be honored to come alongside you in your life's journey. There is hope for things to change!
Therefore, I use a variety of treatment approaches (DARe, EMDR, CBT, etc.
You may find yourself in a season of life where internally/personally, relationally, or professionally things feel uncomfortable, overwhelming, confusing, or worrisome. You may identify as a person who is feeling burnt out, wearing too many hats, feeling undervalued and misunderstood, having decision fatigue, feeling perfectionist tendencies, self-critical, avoidant of conflict, experiencing fears, reminded of childhood wounds/hurt, experiencing a life transition, etc. In any case, whatever brings you to therapy, I would be honored to come alongside you in your life's journey. There is hope for things to change!
(763) 265-7676 View (763) 265-7676
Photo of Janet K Schlegel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet K Schlegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Champlin, MN 55316
I often use EMDR and NLP which have techniques that use both sides of your brain to change better and faster than traditional "talk therapy".
Do you think change has to be hard or take a long time? Do you want more out of life? Are you wondering if you will ever be happy again? Do you want better quality relationships? Do you wish you could put a spark back into your marriage? Are you tired of trying and feeling hopeless? I take a no nonsense approach to therapy and use razor sharp precision to get to the core issues. I am highly skilled at helping clients remove the "porcupine quills" that hurt whenever a bad memory is triggered.
I often use EMDR and NLP which have techniques that use both sides of your brain to change better and faster than traditional "talk therapy".
Do you think change has to be hard or take a long time? Do you want more out of life? Are you wondering if you will ever be happy again? Do you want better quality relationships? Do you wish you could put a spark back into your marriage? Are you tired of trying and feeling hopeless? I take a no nonsense approach to therapy and use razor sharp precision to get to the core issues. I am highly skilled at helping clients remove the "porcupine quills" that hurt whenever a bad memory is triggered.
(763) 260-1889 x1 View (763) 260-1889 x1
Photo of Natalie Boisvert - Innovative Psychological Consultants, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Innovative Psychological Consultants
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I am trained in the use of EMDR which is particularly effective for working with trauma.
Personal success is achieved by defining the goals you want and working together to build on your current strengths and enhance your skills, coping tools, and confidence. I work with client to alleviate stress and mental health issues so they can get back to being themselves and effectively tackle what life brings. An investment in yourself will produce great results.
I am trained in the use of EMDR which is particularly effective for working with trauma.
Personal success is achieved by defining the goals you want and working together to build on your current strengths and enhance your skills, coping tools, and confidence. I work with client to alleviate stress and mental health issues so they can get back to being themselves and effectively tackle what life brings. An investment in yourself will produce great results.
(763) 347-2382 View (763) 347-2382
Photo of Bailey Maly, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bailey Maly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Andover, MN 55304
I'm also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I work with couples and individuals ages 18+. As an LGBTQIA+ identified therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting my community. I tailor my methods to honor the unique experiences within our community, always striving to be culturally competent and sensitive to diverse backgrounds. By witnessing your story, I create an environment where you can explore your identity, overcome challenges, and celebrate your strengths. Whether you’re navigating a gender transition, healing from past trauma, overcoming anxiety, or working on self-love, I’m here to support you in becoming your happiest self!
I'm also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I work with couples and individuals ages 18+. As an LGBTQIA+ identified therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting my community. I tailor my methods to honor the unique experiences within our community, always striving to be culturally competent and sensitive to diverse backgrounds. By witnessing your story, I create an environment where you can explore your identity, overcome challenges, and celebrate your strengths. Whether you’re navigating a gender transition, healing from past trauma, overcoming anxiety, or working on self-love, I’m here to support you in becoming your happiest self!
(763) 373-3254 View (763) 373-3254
Photo of Darra Bonham, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darra Bonham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hibbing, MN 55746  (Online Only)
It can be difficult to reach out for help, so I commend you for taking that first step. In my practice at Kind Mind, I see adults and couples. As well, I am EMDR trained with a focus on decreasing symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety, and use therapy and EMDR to desensitize and reprocess narratives that are hindering you. We might explore the origins of your current beliefs and behaviors in order to better understand the dynamics of your experiences and how they may have shaped your perception of yourself and the world around you. We can then identify what beliefs are no longer serving you well.
It can be difficult to reach out for help, so I commend you for taking that first step. In my practice at Kind Mind, I see adults and couples. As well, I am EMDR trained with a focus on decreasing symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety, and use therapy and EMDR to desensitize and reprocess narratives that are hindering you. We might explore the origins of your current beliefs and behaviors in order to better understand the dynamics of your experiences and how they may have shaped your perception of yourself and the world around you. We can then identify what beliefs are no longer serving you well.
(218) 274-8358 View (218) 274-8358
Photo of Karen M. Kahler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen M. Kahler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313
I am trained as a certified EMDR therapist, anger management certified, and my Masters was focused on relational strategies as a Marriage and Family therapist.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who utilizes empathy, kindness, active listening, respect and systemic approach with clients to build a trusting relationship. Within this relationship is where clients are able to find their center, rise to the challenges they are facing, work on and achieve their goals, and find a sense of balance. I believe we all need connection, compassion, and encouragement to grow. I offer both in person and virtual sessions. Let me know how I can be of support for you.
I am trained as a certified EMDR therapist, anger management certified, and my Masters was focused on relational strategies as a Marriage and Family therapist.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who utilizes empathy, kindness, active listening, respect and systemic approach with clients to build a trusting relationship. Within this relationship is where clients are able to find their center, rise to the challenges they are facing, work on and achieve their goals, and find a sense of balance. I believe we all need connection, compassion, and encouragement to grow. I offer both in person and virtual sessions. Let me know how I can be of support for you.
(952) 649-5379 View (952) 649-5379
Photo of Rebecca Bowers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Bowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Forest Lake, MN 55025
I practice EMDR (emdria-trained) and hold certification in treating trauma.
I believe that the best therapy is radically empathetic, that all people hold the innate capacity for healing, and that courage and strength are discovered when people are allowed the space to express and release emotional pain. I use relational, evidence based approaches and work collaboratively with my clients to target the issues most challenging to them. The approaches I use vary and are dependent on the needs of the individual, family, or couple that I'm working with, modalities include DBT, TF-CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment theory.
I practice EMDR (emdria-trained) and hold certification in treating trauma.
I believe that the best therapy is radically empathetic, that all people hold the innate capacity for healing, and that courage and strength are discovered when people are allowed the space to express and release emotional pain. I use relational, evidence based approaches and work collaboratively with my clients to target the issues most challenging to them. The approaches I use vary and are dependent on the needs of the individual, family, or couple that I'm working with, modalities include DBT, TF-CBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment theory.
(651) 464-3685 x115 View (651) 464-3685 x115
Photo of Bonnett Ottelia Chandler, MA LPCC
Bonnett Ottelia Chandler
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA LPCC
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you looking for an affirming and relatable therapist? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed in your day-to-day life? Is it difficult for you to move on from past or present pain? Perhaps you feel sadness, failure, anxiety, or a sense of despair. Do these feelings keep you from living the life you want? Disempowering thoughts and feelings of what happened and are currently going through may keep you stuck. You want to go forward but trauma has interfered. I can help you transform painful emotions into renewed wellbeing. How? You will gain a fresh perspective and learn strategies allowing you to discover your true and authentic self.
I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you looking for an affirming and relatable therapist? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed in your day-to-day life? Is it difficult for you to move on from past or present pain? Perhaps you feel sadness, failure, anxiety, or a sense of despair. Do these feelings keep you from living the life you want? Disempowering thoughts and feelings of what happened and are currently going through may keep you stuck. You want to go forward but trauma has interfered. I can help you transform painful emotions into renewed wellbeing. How? You will gain a fresh perspective and learn strategies allowing you to discover your true and authentic self.
(763) 325-8730 View (763) 325-8730
Photo of Jamie Bankers, MA, LADC, LPCC, Counselor
Jamie Bankers
Counselor, MA, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051
Using a unique blend of EMDR therapy, somatic work, and mindfulness techniques, we will work together to uncover strengths, reshape your sense of self, find balance, and heal relationships.
Trying to manage a family, career, friendships, and find time for yourself as the daily cycle continues, leaves you exhausted. So many tasks left undone. Life is feeling overwhelming. Thoughts of tomorrow keep you awake at night. Empathy towards others is depleted leading you feeling irritable and snippy towards others. Your gas tank is empty and your relationships are struggling. You want to succeed. Searching desperately for balance and a way to rejuvenate but feeling lost on where to begin.
Using a unique blend of EMDR therapy, somatic work, and mindfulness techniques, we will work together to uncover strengths, reshape your sense of self, find balance, and heal relationships.
Trying to manage a family, career, friendships, and find time for yourself as the daily cycle continues, leaves you exhausted. So many tasks left undone. Life is feeling overwhelming. Thoughts of tomorrow keep you awake at night. Empathy towards others is depleted leading you feeling irritable and snippy towards others. Your gas tank is empty and your relationships are struggling. You want to succeed. Searching desperately for balance and a way to rejuvenate but feeling lost on where to begin.
(320) 592-6431 View (320) 592-6431
Photo of Jennifer M. Klutch, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jennifer M. Klutch
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Big Lake, MN 55309
Waitlist for new clients
I have a specialty focus for survivors of complex Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder (C-PTSD). I specialize in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR and other C-PTSD modalities that provide positive change for survivors of C-PTSD. Whether your journey has brought significant discoveries - or if you are feeling stuck and needing help, "There's more to YOUR story!"
I have a specialty focus for survivors of complex Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder (C-PTSD). I specialize in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR and other C-PTSD modalities that provide positive change for survivors of C-PTSD. Whether your journey has brought significant discoveries - or if you are feeling stuck and needing help, "There's more to YOUR story!"
(763) 225-1894 View (763) 225-1894
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.