EMDR Therapists in Rockford, MN

Photo of Deanne Shaw, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deanne Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockford, MN 55373  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR.
We live in a multi stress world and sometimes we need extra support. I provide couples, individual, and family therapy for adolescents and adults. I am a compassionate therapist who values the therapeutic connection. I am passionate about working with adolescence who have emotional/behavioral difficulties. I have years of experience assisting individuals, couples and families working through their life challenges. My experience includes (but is not limited to) mood disorders, trauma recovery, survivors of abuse, women's issues, parent-child conflict(s), marital issues, and transitional/adjustment issues.
I am trained in EMDR.
We live in a multi stress world and sometimes we need extra support. I provide couples, individual, and family therapy for adolescents and adults. I am a compassionate therapist who values the therapeutic connection. I am passionate about working with adolescence who have emotional/behavioral difficulties. I have years of experience assisting individuals, couples and families working through their life challenges. My experience includes (but is not limited to) mood disorders, trauma recovery, survivors of abuse, women's issues, parent-child conflict(s), marital issues, and transitional/adjustment issues.
(612) 324-5154 View (612) 324-5154
Photo of Kelly May, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly May
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockford, MN 55373
I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Life often will throw us curve balls that we don’t expect, or things we never thought of having to deal with. In these times we tend to feel like we aren’t in control, we may feel alone, and not sure how to navigate through these times. So if you’re searching for an encouraging, non-judgmental, welcoming and comforting space to help guide you through these times, I look forward to walking along side of you in your journey.
I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Life often will throw us curve balls that we don’t expect, or things we never thought of having to deal with. In these times we tend to feel like we aren’t in control, we may feel alone, and not sure how to navigate through these times. So if you’re searching for an encouraging, non-judgmental, welcoming and comforting space to help guide you through these times, I look forward to walking along side of you in your journey.
(612) 979-1645 View (612) 979-1645

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Knapp, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I am also a trauma informed therapist, meaning I have extensive training, including EMDR, DBT and body based therapies, to come along side and support you in a way that works for you.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
I am also a trauma informed therapist, meaning I have extensive training, including EMDR, DBT and body based therapies, to come along side and support you in a way that works for you.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
(763) 334-6512 View (763) 334-6512
Photo of Ashley Walters, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313  (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with those who have experienced various forms of trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and a client centered approach.
Partnering with the right therapist for the support and encouragement you need, can make all the difference when trying to navigate life's challenges. My primary goal is to work alongside you to help you feel in control of your life and make changes that bring you closer to your goals. If you are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety or are experiencing relationship stressors, with my straight forward approach I can help you explore ways of managing symptoms and resolving the issues in a non-judgmental and comfortable space.
I also specialize in working with those who have experienced various forms of trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and a client centered approach.
Partnering with the right therapist for the support and encouragement you need, can make all the difference when trying to navigate life's challenges. My primary goal is to work alongside you to help you feel in control of your life and make changes that bring you closer to your goals. If you are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety or are experiencing relationship stressors, with my straight forward approach I can help you explore ways of managing symptoms and resolving the issues in a non-judgmental and comfortable space.
(763) 225-1374 View (763) 225-1374
Photo of Melissa A. Raatz, MSW, LICSW, CHT, ART, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A. Raatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CHT, ART, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Delano, MN 55328
Accelerated Resolution, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Sand Tray, Mindfulness, NLP, EMDR, Coaching, Breathwork, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Trauma Focused, Healing Touch, Family Systems.
I believe all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationship and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among my goals in therapy. My personal journey through adoption, trauma, abuse, raising a child with mental health concerns, spiritual enlightenment, natural mental health, divorce, and remarriage have become the gifts I share though therapy. I believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone also believes in us .
Accelerated Resolution, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Sand Tray, Mindfulness, NLP, EMDR, Coaching, Breathwork, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Trauma Focused, Healing Touch, Family Systems.
I believe all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationship and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among my goals in therapy. My personal journey through adoption, trauma, abuse, raising a child with mental health concerns, spiritual enlightenment, natural mental health, divorce, and remarriage have become the gifts I share though therapy. I believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone also believes in us .
(763) 401-7618 View (763) 401-7618
Photo of Kippie A. Palesch, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kippie A. Palesch
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hanover, MN 55341
I utilize play and nature-based therapy, EMDR and horses to help kids heal.
RELATIONSHIP SPECIALIST - Ready to heal old wounds and start building healthy connection and interaction? Empowering each of you to gain insight and develop skills, I can help you live more authentically, communicate your needs in ways that are heard, help discover new solutions to old problems and add more joy and intimacy to your lives. I can also help you navigate difficult issues such as emotional and sexual intimacy, infidelity, addiction, parenting conflict, infertility, as well as blending families.
I utilize play and nature-based therapy, EMDR and horses to help kids heal.
RELATIONSHIP SPECIALIST - Ready to heal old wounds and start building healthy connection and interaction? Empowering each of you to gain insight and develop skills, I can help you live more authentically, communicate your needs in ways that are heard, help discover new solutions to old problems and add more joy and intimacy to your lives. I can also help you navigate difficult issues such as emotional and sexual intimacy, infidelity, addiction, parenting conflict, infertility, as well as blending families.
(952) 479-5967 View (952) 479-5967
Photo of Alison Potter, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I am trained in EMDR.
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. Maybe you have developed patterns of coping that are not working anymore, or you are feeling stuck. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
I am trained in EMDR.
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. Maybe you have developed patterns of coping that are not working anymore, or you are feeling stuck. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
(763) 307-5785 View (763) 307-5785
Photo of Barb Suick, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barb Suick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
I work with a variety of mental health occurrences including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, relationship repair and building, life transitions, abuse, codependency, trauma using EMDR and grief.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples seeking to build and sustain healthy relationships. I use a strengths-based approach that helps clients gather the resources within to work toward positive change. I believe we all need a little help now and then for life's curveballs and challenges and I am passionate about helping others feel empowered to better themselves and their quality of life. I am an EMDR trained therapist for work with trauma and pain. I work with the Veterans Resilience Project to treat veterans with PTSD. I have daytime openings for new in-person clients in Annandale, MN.
I work with a variety of mental health occurrences including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, relationship repair and building, life transitions, abuse, codependency, trauma using EMDR and grief.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples seeking to build and sustain healthy relationships. I use a strengths-based approach that helps clients gather the resources within to work toward positive change. I believe we all need a little help now and then for life's curveballs and challenges and I am passionate about helping others feel empowered to better themselves and their quality of life. I am an EMDR trained therapist for work with trauma and pain. I work with the Veterans Resilience Project to treat veterans with PTSD. I have daytime openings for new in-person clients in Annandale, MN.
(320) 334-5111 View (320) 334-5111
Photo of Patti Brown, MA, LMFT, CNTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patti Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CNTP
Verified Verified
Delano, MN 55328
I have training in many trauma-focused approaches including EMDR, PIT, DART, as well as a lot of couples’ work including RLT, PACT and EFT.
IN PERSON OR TELETHERAPY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE The times are changing and we all need resiliency to get through the current challenges. Stressors are at an all-time high level, leaving many people unprepared for the situations they are experiencing. Under stress, our behavior can fall back to our default settings that were shaped in our early childhood. These patterns may not serve us or our families well. Learning new skills can give us the tools to develop appropriate responses and forge new neuropathways that will enhance the way we connect with the people close to us. Happiness comes from secure connected relationships
I have training in many trauma-focused approaches including EMDR, PIT, DART, as well as a lot of couples’ work including RLT, PACT and EFT.
IN PERSON OR TELETHERAPY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE The times are changing and we all need resiliency to get through the current challenges. Stressors are at an all-time high level, leaving many people unprepared for the situations they are experiencing. Under stress, our behavior can fall back to our default settings that were shaped in our early childhood. These patterns may not serve us or our families well. Learning new skills can give us the tools to develop appropriate responses and forge new neuropathways that will enhance the way we connect with the people close to us. Happiness comes from secure connected relationships
(612) 395-4719 View (612) 395-4719
Photo of Michelle Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Are you wanting to live a more fulfilled life? Are you engaged in an unhealthy relationship or experiencing marital conflicts? Do you feel overwhelmed with depression, anxiety or suffer from PTSD? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then call me, Michelle Clark MA, LMFT, where help & healing begins. I am devoted to helping you live the life you have always wanted and committed to providing the highest quality care in a fun, safe, professional environment focusing on practical strategies to help you live the life you have always wanted but struggled to achieve.
Are you wanting to live a more fulfilled life? Are you engaged in an unhealthy relationship or experiencing marital conflicts? Do you feel overwhelmed with depression, anxiety or suffer from PTSD? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then call me, Michelle Clark MA, LMFT, where help & healing begins. I am devoted to helping you live the life you have always wanted and committed to providing the highest quality care in a fun, safe, professional environment focusing on practical strategies to help you live the life you have always wanted but struggled to achieve.
(763) 363-6238 View (763) 363-6238
Photo of Shelly Melroe, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelly Melroe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Another day of managing stress, trying to figure out what rules matter and what compromises have the least consequences. Get some rest, miss the deadline. Miss the workout, feel the irritability climb. Seems that playing by the rules has led you astray. The pieces seldom fit together anymore and all you really want is to feel good! Is it too much to ask to have a good relationship? One that loves and accepts you, without minimizing your needs or your hurt. Feeling so alone, when surrounded by people (people who don't hesitate to let you know what they need), is hard to explain. Yet you know it to be true for you.
Another day of managing stress, trying to figure out what rules matter and what compromises have the least consequences. Get some rest, miss the deadline. Miss the workout, feel the irritability climb. Seems that playing by the rules has led you astray. The pieces seldom fit together anymore and all you really want is to feel good! Is it too much to ask to have a good relationship? One that loves and accepts you, without minimizing your needs or your hurt. Feeling so alone, when surrounded by people (people who don't hesitate to let you know what they need), is hard to explain. Yet you know it to be true for you.
(612) 261-1648 View (612) 261-1648
Photo of Andria Botzet, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andria Botzet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313  (Online Only)
Relationships can be so stressful. Finding common ground on parenting or values/beliefs at times feels impossible. A negative spiral begins where you don’t talk as much…you shut down, you yell, or maybe you just give up and walk away. You might begin to feel anxious or depressed and don’t know what else you can do to make this better for you and your family. Learning to communicate effectively and finding balance in your relationship can take work. I can help you and/or your partner learn how to improve communication, balance home/work responsibilities, and strengthen parenting strategies.
Relationships can be so stressful. Finding common ground on parenting or values/beliefs at times feels impossible. A negative spiral begins where you don’t talk as much…you shut down, you yell, or maybe you just give up and walk away. You might begin to feel anxious or depressed and don’t know what else you can do to make this better for you and your family. Learning to communicate effectively and finding balance in your relationship can take work. I can help you and/or your partner learn how to improve communication, balance home/work responsibilities, and strengthen parenting strategies.
(612) 326-9575 View (612) 326-9575
Photo of Dan Schmoyer, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC, Counselor
Dan Schmoyer
Counselor, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
(763) 280-7963 View (763) 280-7963
Photo of Christine Junod, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Junod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
My clients have experienced Big T or little t traumas, or they're anxious and overthinking. My clients have been harmed by past relationships or experiences and often don't feel "heard" by the significant people in their lives. Some clients need help identifying and processing long-held feelings, some need someone to come alongside and help them navigate a tough time in life. My clients don't want to feel alone anymore. They want to move ahead and replace their burdens with hope.
My clients have experienced Big T or little t traumas, or they're anxious and overthinking. My clients have been harmed by past relationships or experiences and often don't feel "heard" by the significant people in their lives. Some clients need help identifying and processing long-held feelings, some need someone to come alongside and help them navigate a tough time in life. My clients don't want to feel alone anymore. They want to move ahead and replace their burdens with hope.
(320) 337-1394 View (320) 337-1394
Photo of Erica Creighton, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Creighton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck despite being highly self-aware? Have you tried talk therapy before, but it didn't really create the deep healing and relief you were looking for?
Do you feel stuck despite being highly self-aware? Have you tried talk therapy before, but it didn't really create the deep healing and relief you were looking for?
(320) 313-9086 View (320) 313-9086
Photo of Christina Muraski, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Muraski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
Not accepting new clients
Christina specializes in using trauma-focused treatment approaches and has training in EMDR, an evidenced based treatment for processing trauma and distressing life experiences.
Christina specializes in working in early childhood mental health and sees young children from birth and up to age 6 and works closely with their caregivers providing parenting skills and focusing on strengthening relationships. Christina is a Registered Play Therapist and sees children up to the age of 12. Christina believes that play therapy offers a way to empower children and provides a space for them to heal from traumatic experiences, express their emotions in productive ways, and feel encouraged to move beyond their difficult situations, and all through their natural language which is PLAY.
Christina specializes in using trauma-focused treatment approaches and has training in EMDR, an evidenced based treatment for processing trauma and distressing life experiences.
Christina specializes in working in early childhood mental health and sees young children from birth and up to age 6 and works closely with their caregivers providing parenting skills and focusing on strengthening relationships. Christina is a Registered Play Therapist and sees children up to the age of 12. Christina believes that play therapy offers a way to empower children and provides a space for them to heal from traumatic experiences, express their emotions in productive ways, and feel encouraged to move beyond their difficult situations, and all through their natural language which is PLAY.
(320) 347-3759 View (320) 347-3759

Online Therapists

Photo of Sandy Sample, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandy Sample
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
I specialize in EMDR and have seen clients make significant progress healing from trauma.
My specialties are relationship counseling and EMDR for trauma. I have advanced training in EMDR and am Certified through EMDRIA. The world is a challenging place as we learn about - or experience - harmful events. I understand that coping with your own personal challenges can be daunting at times. I effectively use feedback, self-evaluating questions, and reflection -- leading to happiness and fulfillment. I also tell my clients that I might have certain insights by looking at patterns, behaviors, and habits they don't realize are present. Sessions via computer and phone offered.
I specialize in EMDR and have seen clients make significant progress healing from trauma.
My specialties are relationship counseling and EMDR for trauma. I have advanced training in EMDR and am Certified through EMDRIA. The world is a challenging place as we learn about - or experience - harmful events. I understand that coping with your own personal challenges can be daunting at times. I effectively use feedback, self-evaluating questions, and reflection -- leading to happiness and fulfillment. I also tell my clients that I might have certain insights by looking at patterns, behaviors, and habits they don't realize are present. Sessions via computer and phone offered.
(952) 295-3573 View (952) 295-3573
Photo of Laurel Ann Light, MA, LPCC
Laurel Ann Light
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rochester, MN 55901
Waitlist for new clients
I help individuals embrace life again through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My goal is to empower individuals to make small change which can lead to big results. Imagine feeling that weight fall off your shoulders. It can happen!
I help individuals embrace life again through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My goal is to empower individuals to make small change which can lead to big results. Imagine feeling that weight fall off your shoulders. It can happen!
(507) 577-5728 View (507) 577-5728
Photo of Morgan Boeltl: Adults - Morgan Boeltl: Adults, Trauma, Substance Abuse , BS, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Boeltl: Adults, Trauma, Substance Abuse
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I am a biracial female therapist who loves working with adult individuals that are ready to prioritize their mental health. I help clients with relationships, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem issues, life changes, grief/loss, and self expression. I am committed to building trusting relationships where clients feel empowered. I utilize EMDR, Relational-Cultural and Psychodynamic and expressive arts techniques in my work Previously I worked in the community with the SPMI (Severe & Persistent Mental Illness) population as well as in a Substance Abuse Treatment center, lending a wealth of experience in complex cases.
I am a biracial female therapist who loves working with adult individuals that are ready to prioritize their mental health. I help clients with relationships, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem issues, life changes, grief/loss, and self expression. I am committed to building trusting relationships where clients feel empowered. I utilize EMDR, Relational-Cultural and Psychodynamic and expressive arts techniques in my work Previously I worked in the community with the SPMI (Severe & Persistent Mental Illness) population as well as in a Substance Abuse Treatment center, lending a wealth of experience in complex cases.
(651) 615-9144 View (651) 615-9144
Photo of Naomi Drenk, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Drenk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization-Reprocessing ( EMDR), addressing trauma, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which can be helpful for those working through emotion regulation and relationship concerns.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe a little lost on taking your next steps? You are not alone. I enjoy working with people as they journey through their next steps, whether it's a stage of life change, relationship struggles or identifying and breaking through the barriers that seem to be holding them back from the life they want to live. My clients often find validation, encouragement and their own inner strength as we walk the path together.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization-Reprocessing ( EMDR), addressing trauma, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which can be helpful for those working through emotion regulation and relationship concerns.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe a little lost on taking your next steps? You are not alone. I enjoy working with people as they journey through their next steps, whether it's a stage of life change, relationship struggles or identifying and breaking through the barriers that seem to be holding them back from the life they want to live. My clients often find validation, encouragement and their own inner strength as we walk the path together.
(651) 758-0172 View (651) 758-0172

See more therapy options for Rockford

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.