EMDR Therapists in Teaneck, NJ
![Photo of Phyllis Yedida Sachs-Yasgur, LCSW-R, EMDR, IFS 2, RPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca101e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Phyllis Yedida Sachs-Yasgur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, EMDR, IFS 2, RPC
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of modalities, including but not limited to family systems therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, somatic therapy, and EMDR trauma therapy.
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. I work with children and families who are struggling with the impact of divorce, learning disabilities, sudden or chronic illness, disability, trauma, loss, neglect or abuse. Challenges can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. My strength-based approach will help you and/or your children grow closer together, heal emotionally and find inner resiliency. I am committed to navigating with you, side by side, to help you be the best you can be!
I use a variety of modalities, including but not limited to family systems therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, somatic therapy, and EMDR trauma therapy.
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. I work with children and families who are struggling with the impact of divorce, learning disabilities, sudden or chronic illness, disability, trauma, loss, neglect or abuse. Challenges can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. My strength-based approach will help you and/or your children grow closer together, heal emotionally and find inner resiliency. I am committed to navigating with you, side by side, to help you be the best you can be!
![Photo of Abby U. Maitland, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6fb33d8-b163-4a24-bb92-973194a98676/3/320x400.jpeg)
Abby U. Maitland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Trained in EMDR and I have extensive experience with children, families and adults specializing in complex and developmental trauma as well as with youth with problem sexual behaviors.
Accepting limited number of new clients in NY, NJ and Ohio. I will provide professional expertise in a warm and personal manner in order to maximize your experience and make the most of your investment in our time together. I will tailor my approach to suit your need, not the other way around. If you are considering services for your child, be assured I have extensive experience with children of all ages, including youth resistant to therapy and/or court involved. I am the only Clinician in the greater NYC area certified in NMT by Neurosequential Network. Text if preferred. 740.501.7362.
Trained in EMDR and I have extensive experience with children, families and adults specializing in complex and developmental trauma as well as with youth with problem sexual behaviors.
Accepting limited number of new clients in NY, NJ and Ohio. I will provide professional expertise in a warm and personal manner in order to maximize your experience and make the most of your investment in our time together. I will tailor my approach to suit your need, not the other way around. If you are considering services for your child, be assured I have extensive experience with children of all ages, including youth resistant to therapy and/or court involved. I am the only Clinician in the greater NYC area certified in NMT by Neurosequential Network. Text if preferred. 740.501.7362.
![Photo of Cindy Caneja, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce1997a5-1624-4afb-8b53-a9f2024ba25c/11/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Caneja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, using various therapeutic techniques/interventions; including CBT/DBT, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Structural Family Therapy, and Psychodynamic.
Hi, we can create a secure, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for you to strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. I give plenty of feedback in a gentle, and authentic manner.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, using various therapeutic techniques/interventions; including CBT/DBT, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Structural Family Therapy, and Psychodynamic.
Hi, we can create a secure, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for you to strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. I give plenty of feedback in a gentle, and authentic manner.
![Photo of Rainer Orth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47cf77b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a down-to-earth and well-established therapist with 25+ years of experience in traditional therapies such psychodynamic and advanced cognitive-behavioral approaches, I draw from some new and powerful mind-body methods such as EMDR and EFT that my clients have found to be real game-changers in resolving their anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues.
Are you feeling down or overwhelmed? Are things just not working out despite your best efforts? If so, I know my first priority is to listen to you in such a way that you are not only left feeling heard and understood, but so as to accurately pinpoint what is actually keeping you stuck. As a team, we will develop an individualized plan to turn your life around. My approach will be based on your specific needs and what works for you. In doing so, I will provide you with ongoing support along with some highly effective tools that you can apply immediately to decrease your distress and to leave you feeling better sooner than later.
As a down-to-earth and well-established therapist with 25+ years of experience in traditional therapies such psychodynamic and advanced cognitive-behavioral approaches, I draw from some new and powerful mind-body methods such as EMDR and EFT that my clients have found to be real game-changers in resolving their anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues.
Are you feeling down or overwhelmed? Are things just not working out despite your best efforts? If so, I know my first priority is to listen to you in such a way that you are not only left feeling heard and understood, but so as to accurately pinpoint what is actually keeping you stuck. As a team, we will develop an individualized plan to turn your life around. My approach will be based on your specific needs and what works for you. In doing so, I will provide you with ongoing support along with some highly effective tools that you can apply immediately to decrease your distress and to leave you feeling better sooner than later.
![Photo of Evi Robinson Trauma Emdr Ifs Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ae77618-defd-4ef6-94c2-b4d0e9c9c776/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evi Robinson Trauma Emdr Ifs Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques including psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS, relational therapy and mindfulness practice.
Through my experience as a therapist, I have learned that asking stimulating questions in a trusting, safe, non-judgmental space empowers people to process past experiences and understand how that history impacts relationships and decision-making today. My approach to therapy is focused on a positive and collaborative therapeutic relationship and my belief that everyone has the ability to conquer their fears and overcome hardships.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques including psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS, relational therapy and mindfulness practice.
Through my experience as a therapist, I have learned that asking stimulating questions in a trusting, safe, non-judgmental space empowers people to process past experiences and understand how that history impacts relationships and decision-making today. My approach to therapy is focused on a positive and collaborative therapeutic relationship and my belief that everyone has the ability to conquer their fears and overcome hardships.
![Photo of Shayna Lebovic, CFLE, LCSW, LMSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edf77d4e-bf55-4d6b-ac16-3a317214cd35/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shayna Lebovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CFLE, LCSW, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
My practice is multidisciplinary with a holistic approach incorporating CBT, EMDR, MI, Mindfulness practices, and TF-CBT.
For over 10 years I’ve been working with adolescents and adults who’ve experienced trauma as well as those who struggle with intense feelings and emotions. Whether you are pregnant, postpartum, dealing with a trauma, or struggling with with adjustments, we will explore the thoughts and feelings that feel overwhelming and work towards personal growth and empowerment.
My practice is multidisciplinary with a holistic approach incorporating CBT, EMDR, MI, Mindfulness practices, and TF-CBT.
For over 10 years I’ve been working with adolescents and adults who’ve experienced trauma as well as those who struggle with intense feelings and emotions. Whether you are pregnant, postpartum, dealing with a trauma, or struggling with with adjustments, we will explore the thoughts and feelings that feel overwhelming and work towards personal growth and empowerment.
![Photo of Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/093740ca-73bd-4864-b4b8-fb7b7a39dd8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
![Photo of Pauline Bergstein, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464715a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals with PTSD and dissociative disorders and I am trained in the administration of EMDR.
In the over twenty years that I have been in the clinical practice of psychotherapy, I remain amazed by the tenacity and resilience of the human spirit. I respect the human capacity to survive and adapt to challenges - big and small, acute and chronic - but also the ability to make change given the right circumstances. It has been an honor to witness and be part of many individuals’ journeys to a better and more satisfying life using psychotherapy. Sometimes peoples’ ability to change has seemed miraculous. Through my training, many modalities have been embedded into my practice including cognitive-behavioral techniques.
I work with individuals with PTSD and dissociative disorders and I am trained in the administration of EMDR.
In the over twenty years that I have been in the clinical practice of psychotherapy, I remain amazed by the tenacity and resilience of the human spirit. I respect the human capacity to survive and adapt to challenges - big and small, acute and chronic - but also the ability to make change given the right circumstances. It has been an honor to witness and be part of many individuals’ journeys to a better and more satisfying life using psychotherapy. Sometimes peoples’ ability to change has seemed miraculous. Through my training, many modalities have been embedded into my practice including cognitive-behavioral techniques.
![Photo of Peter J Paterno, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ae2798-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter J Paterno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I utilize a variety of short term treatment approaches including CBT and EMDR to help clients effect change in their lives and overcome obstacles in their way that keep them from attaining their goals.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
I utilize a variety of short term treatment approaches including CBT and EMDR to help clients effect change in their lives and overcome obstacles in their way that keep them from attaining their goals.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
![Photo of Nancy Fish, LCSW, MSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d14f85f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in private practice for more than 20 years. I work in Northern New Jersey and provide short-term psychotherapy using psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, EMDR and IFS. I feel using an integrated model produces the best results. Every client is different so it's necessary to use multiple modalities --a one size fits all model does not work in therapy. I like working in partnership with clients. I am approachable, warm, nurturing and active in my sessions. I believe it's essential to be available to clients and return phone calls and emails on a timely basis
I have been in private practice for more than 20 years. I work in Northern New Jersey and provide short-term psychotherapy using psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, EMDR and IFS. I feel using an integrated model produces the best results. Every client is different so it's necessary to use multiple modalities --a one size fits all model does not work in therapy. I like working in partnership with clients. I am approachable, warm, nurturing and active in my sessions. I believe it's essential to be available to clients and return phone calls and emails on a timely basis
![Photo of Nadine O'Reilly - Englewood Therapy Associates, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb4c9666-8a2f-48e4-abcc-72fb7915146f/1/320x400.png)
Our therapists have advanced training in evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
We are a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians located in the heart of East Hill Englewood in Bergen County, NJ. We offer in-person and virtual therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. We treat stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, depression and anger. We specialize in reluctant therapy-seekers and have a strong track record in creating and maintaining lasting working relationships with a solutions-focused approach.
Our therapists have advanced training in evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
We are a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians located in the heart of East Hill Englewood in Bergen County, NJ. We offer in-person and virtual therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. We treat stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, depression and anger. We specialize in reluctant therapy-seekers and have a strong track record in creating and maintaining lasting working relationships with a solutions-focused approach.
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![Photo of Melissa Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a67d69ff-be5c-4529-be67-72c979fbb2fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
I use a range of therapeutic modalities from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to EMDR and other body centered therapies.
With a passion for holistic well-being and two decades of experience in the field of mental health, I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges. I love working with a diverse population - from adolescence to older adults. “This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.” I strive to create a space where healing occurs - a place where you can sit with difficult thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and develop the tools to transform them.
I use a range of therapeutic modalities from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to EMDR and other body centered therapies.
With a passion for holistic well-being and two decades of experience in the field of mental health, I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges. I love working with a diverse population - from adolescence to older adults. “This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.” I strive to create a space where healing occurs - a place where you can sit with difficult thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and develop the tools to transform them.
![Photo of Brianna Freno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1d26450-e5a0-4b98-8713-782e95b340f9/2/320x400.png)
I specialize in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to address symptoms of trauma.
I specialize in Trauma & PTSD, Domestic Violence, and Anxiety. My ideal client is ready to be open and accepting of the therapeutic process, committed to participating and collaborating. My ideal client is looking to either begin or continue their healing journey from the past to gain a more insightful and healthy perspective on life in the now and future.
I specialize in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to address symptoms of trauma.
I specialize in Trauma & PTSD, Domestic Violence, and Anxiety. My ideal client is ready to be open and accepting of the therapeutic process, committed to participating and collaborating. My ideal client is looking to either begin or continue their healing journey from the past to gain a more insightful and healthy perspective on life in the now and future.
![Photo of Hila Revah, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8e04f62-596a-493c-818b-b855436f3e11/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR for trauma and PTSD.
Often times just when things seem difficult, hopeless, or challenging we tend to retreat inward and isolate, when in truth, this is the precise moment that we need to reach out and form human connection. Therapy is a gift, it is the first step in your self care journey, so congrats on getting this far! I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space so that clients can feel comfortable sharing even the most uncomfortable life circumstances. I start where the client is at, and together we explore objectives and set goals.
I am trained in EMDR for trauma and PTSD.
Often times just when things seem difficult, hopeless, or challenging we tend to retreat inward and isolate, when in truth, this is the precise moment that we need to reach out and form human connection. Therapy is a gift, it is the first step in your self care journey, so congrats on getting this far! I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space so that clients can feel comfortable sharing even the most uncomfortable life circumstances. I start where the client is at, and together we explore objectives and set goals.
![Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94e555f0-b1c5-439d-8bfe-2fc5c1029ef6/2/320x400.png)
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
![Photo of Meredith Kellman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c01c2709-4493-4345-8a70-34752abc3aec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Kellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or haunted by the past? If you find yourself navigating through the complexities of self-discovery, grappling with the loss of a spouse/partner, or wrestling with the overwhelming nature of change, you are not alone. I am here to guide you through these transformative experiences, helping you reclaim your identity and emerge stronger than ever before.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or haunted by the past? If you find yourself navigating through the complexities of self-discovery, grappling with the loss of a spouse/partner, or wrestling with the overwhelming nature of change, you are not alone. I am here to guide you through these transformative experiences, helping you reclaim your identity and emerge stronger than ever before.
![Photo of Sarah Hiller-Bersson - Center for Purposeful Aging/Sarah Hiller-Bersson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce005298-517f-40a4-a8ed-5d46ea0860e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center for Purposeful Aging/Sarah Hiller-Bersson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
With the demographic shift in aging and improvements in healthcare, it is time to reconsider an alternative mindset towards being an Older Adult. This phase in one’s lifetime should be meaningful, fulfilling, purposeful and contain a robust positive psychological well-being. Let's make 70 the new 40. It is time to shed the negative thoughts and attitude, replacing it with a better version of yourself.
With the demographic shift in aging and improvements in healthcare, it is time to reconsider an alternative mindset towards being an Older Adult. This phase in one’s lifetime should be meaningful, fulfilling, purposeful and contain a robust positive psychological well-being. Let's make 70 the new 40. It is time to shed the negative thoughts and attitude, replacing it with a better version of yourself.
![Photo of Max Kirshblum, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39416bd7-477d-4b8c-a71e-98f2be902ea1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Max Kirshblum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
At some point in life you may question, “Why do I do that”, “What is happening to me”, or “When will I get past this”? These thoughts can overtake your daily life and you may find yourself searching for that One. Single. Thing. that will make everything better. The desire to FEEL better becomes the predominant thought in your mind each day. You may become easily agitated, feel less motivated, and distance yourself from others. Engaging in therapy is a brave first step towards exploring your most difficult thoughts and feelings.
At some point in life you may question, “Why do I do that”, “What is happening to me”, or “When will I get past this”? These thoughts can overtake your daily life and you may find yourself searching for that One. Single. Thing. that will make everything better. The desire to FEEL better becomes the predominant thought in your mind each day. You may become easily agitated, feel less motivated, and distance yourself from others. Engaging in therapy is a brave first step towards exploring your most difficult thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Elana Rosencrantz - Integrative Therapy NJ , PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464cba0c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is open to adults, adolescents and children. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, yearning for a better relationship, or seeking more fulfillment in life, therapy can offer relief and hope. I have a passion for working with relationship and attachment issues. My goal is to assist those who wish to learn a new way of relating whether it involves parenting,couples or individuals. I use a combination of techniques that are tailored to you in your process towards healing.
My practice is open to adults, adolescents and children. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, yearning for a better relationship, or seeking more fulfillment in life, therapy can offer relief and hope. I have a passion for working with relationship and attachment issues. My goal is to assist those who wish to learn a new way of relating whether it involves parenting,couples or individuals. I use a combination of techniques that are tailored to you in your process towards healing.
![Photo of Jesse Torrey, LAC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c938e44c-d64c-4bd2-ad53-3375e20d7480/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to helping teens and adults as they navigate challenges, particularly those involving transition and acceptance. Whether you are struggling with general anxiety, depression, feelings of isolation or adjusting to a difficult life change, I will work with you to focus on acceptance and build toward a new and empowered life perspective.
I am committed to helping teens and adults as they navigate challenges, particularly those involving transition and acceptance. Whether you are struggling with general anxiety, depression, feelings of isolation or adjusting to a difficult life change, I will work with you to focus on acceptance and build toward a new and empowered life perspective.
See more therapy options for Teaneck
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EMDR Therapists
Who is EMDR for?
EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.
Why do people need EMDR?
People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.
What problems does EMDR treat?
First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
What happens in EMDR therapy?
First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.