EMDR Therapists in Celina, OH
![Photo of Laura Roetgerman - Center for Personal Wellness, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60d55dbf-523a-48fe-9993-9aaa2b15153c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our ideal client might feel anxious, down, or have relationship struggles. They’re looking for a warm, understanding space to find relief and practical tools. Their goals? To feel more balanced, improve their relationships, and boost their confidence. They want to truly understand themselves, manage stress better, and live a more fulfilling life. Does this sound like you? We’re here to offer the support and guidance needed to make these positive changes and enhance your quality of life.
Our ideal client might feel anxious, down, or have relationship struggles. They’re looking for a warm, understanding space to find relief and practical tools. Their goals? To feel more balanced, improve their relationships, and boost their confidence. They want to truly understand themselves, manage stress better, and live a more fulfilling life. Does this sound like you? We’re here to offer the support and guidance needed to make these positive changes and enhance your quality of life.
![Photo of Darin Dodds - Progress Professional Counseling Associates, LLC, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2817f15-335b-4b97-a745-b05974aa6e0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We are currently accepting new patients at our Wapakoneta office, and we are honored to take part in your Progress toward whole health. Progress is the area’s leading confidential private practice comprised of a team of expert counseling professionals trained in the industry's top evidence-based treatment methods. Our providers are dedicated to serving individuals, couples, and families in Auglaize and surrounding counties. Over 14 years of experience helping patients reach their goals through gold-standard treatment protocols including CBT, DBT, ACT, and more.
Welcome! We are currently accepting new patients at our Wapakoneta office, and we are honored to take part in your Progress toward whole health. Progress is the area’s leading confidential private practice comprised of a team of expert counseling professionals trained in the industry's top evidence-based treatment methods. Our providers are dedicated to serving individuals, couples, and families in Auglaize and surrounding counties. Over 14 years of experience helping patients reach their goals through gold-standard treatment protocols including CBT, DBT, ACT, and more.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Winter D Houser, LPCC-S, LICDC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb7e6e82-b395-4004-be61-c605492cf2cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Winter D Houser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Coldwater, OH 45828
Winter is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor- Supervisor and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor, certified in EMDR.
Life can take some unexpected turns and will cause some hurt feelings. It is good to talk with someone when feeling ready to heal, as well as finding the root of why we feel hurt and heal from it. I am here to help you on your journey of life. To help you explore your hurts and get to the root of your feelings. Everyone needs to know their true value and potential on being a better you.
Winter is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor- Supervisor and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor, certified in EMDR.
Life can take some unexpected turns and will cause some hurt feelings. It is good to talk with someone when feeling ready to heal, as well as finding the root of why we feel hurt and heal from it. I am here to help you on your journey of life. To help you explore your hurts and get to the root of your feelings. Everyone needs to know their true value and potential on being a better you.
I am Rosalie Stluka, MSW, LISW. I was the Executive Director of a local family service/counseling agency for 11 years prior to opening my own counseling practice 30 years ago.
I am Rosalie Stluka, MSW, LISW. I was the Executive Director of a local family service/counseling agency for 11 years prior to opening my own counseling practice 30 years ago.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Karla Lebron - Sanos Counseling, LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4950341f-57b0-4423-b648-7a973d95fe2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sanos Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43213 (Online Only)
We utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills.
We are currently accepting new clients (morning, evenings, weekend). We have immediate availability. We are trained in Trauma-Informed Care and support clients through life’s difficult challenges. We work with people that are experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, depression, pregnancy/ prenatal/ postpartum, life transitions stress, trauma, low self-esteem, codependency, grief, among others.
We utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills.
We are currently accepting new clients (morning, evenings, weekend). We have immediate availability. We are trained in Trauma-Informed Care and support clients through life’s difficult challenges. We work with people that are experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, depression, pregnancy/ prenatal/ postpartum, life transitions stress, trauma, low self-esteem, codependency, grief, among others.
![Photo of Lindsay Spoerl, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cacb2d5-57b4-4206-b0a0-3f87638f67fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Spoerl
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in attachment - focused EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and am excited to offer this powerful tool to my clients.
My mission is to help people explore internal wounds and find healing so joy and fulfillment are possible. I bring all of my skills to this work to help clients manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, trauma and more. I offer a supportive and warm environment where clients can feel seen and heard. (You can book an initial consultation free of charge on my website www.everydaytherapy.org)
I am also trained in attachment - focused EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and am excited to offer this powerful tool to my clients.
My mission is to help people explore internal wounds and find healing so joy and fulfillment are possible. I bring all of my skills to this work to help clients manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, trauma and more. I offer a supportive and warm environment where clients can feel seen and heard. (You can book an initial consultation free of charge on my website www.everydaytherapy.org)
![Photo of Ashley Critelli, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/293d8412-583d-4a1a-bd20-aba08adcf797/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Critelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lima, OH 45805
Trained in EMDR and Attachment-Focused Trauma Therapy for Adults, IFS-informed (parts work). If you're feeling stuck, weighed down by past traumas, or struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of disconnection, know that there's hope. I'm Ashley Critelli, and my approach is all about understanding you deeply and providing support that resonates with your unique experience. We'll work together to uncover the root of your challenges and embark on a journey toward healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. My aim is for you to forge stronger connections with yourself and others, reclaiming a life filled with purpose and peace.
Trained in EMDR and Attachment-Focused Trauma Therapy for Adults, IFS-informed (parts work). If you're feeling stuck, weighed down by past traumas, or struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of disconnection, know that there's hope. I'm Ashley Critelli, and my approach is all about understanding you deeply and providing support that resonates with your unique experience. We'll work together to uncover the root of your challenges and embark on a journey toward healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. My aim is for you to forge stronger connections with yourself and others, reclaiming a life filled with purpose and peace.
![Photo of Acacia Cook-Quaintance - Free Spirit Counseling, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcfb7f7e-9024-40d5-9b67-67932518458c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Free Spirit Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
We use a variety of treatments such as EMDR, CBT, Reiki, and mindfulness to help our clients become the best version of themselves.
Your story matters. Do you feel like you're stuck dealing with life stress, maybe crippling effects from a trauma that is making daily life harder to cope with? It can feel scary to reach out for help but finding the right therapist can make that journey feel less scary. At Free Spirit Counseling we work to make clients feel connected during therapy which helps them to make the most progress. Our therapists specialize in many areas of mental health and life transitions and can help in all areas of life.
We use a variety of treatments such as EMDR, CBT, Reiki, and mindfulness to help our clients become the best version of themselves.
Your story matters. Do you feel like you're stuck dealing with life stress, maybe crippling effects from a trauma that is making daily life harder to cope with? It can feel scary to reach out for help but finding the right therapist can make that journey feel less scary. At Free Spirit Counseling we work to make clients feel connected during therapy which helps them to make the most progress. Our therapists specialize in many areas of mental health and life transitions and can help in all areas of life.
![Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa2b163-6beb-4ed6-8dc8-d467918a6607/1/320x400.png)
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
![Photo of Emily J Fumarola, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbd6cfc7-c4ca-4fa0-b18e-f35c977c56bb/2/320x400.png)
Emily J Fumarola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Blanchester, OH 45107 (Online Only)
I offer resilience-based EMDR therapy for first responders, veterans, and their families.
Are you a First Responder, veteran, or family member facing life's challenges and seeking support to find your peace? I’m here to help you navigate through these difficult times with empathy and understanding. Together, we’ll identify specific target areas, set achievable goals, and apply evidence-based practices to foster healing. It’s normal to experience anxiety, depression, or stress responses to trauma, and I am committed to meeting you where you are—without judgment. My goal is to support you in managing, coping, and embracing the inner parts of yourself that deserve love and acceptance.
I offer resilience-based EMDR therapy for first responders, veterans, and their families.
Are you a First Responder, veteran, or family member facing life's challenges and seeking support to find your peace? I’m here to help you navigate through these difficult times with empathy and understanding. Together, we’ll identify specific target areas, set achievable goals, and apply evidence-based practices to foster healing. It’s normal to experience anxiety, depression, or stress responses to trauma, and I am committed to meeting you where you are—without judgment. My goal is to support you in managing, coping, and embracing the inner parts of yourself that deserve love and acceptance.
![Photo of Christine Kokoczka Rinehart - Gahanna Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b15b2d3a-a1a0-4877-9b10-1ed671bb1a09/3/320x400.jpeg)
The clinicians at Gahanna Counseling offer a variety of specialities including: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Informed Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Behavioral Activation, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Couples Therapy.
Hello! At Gahanna Counseling LLC we provide a variety of therapy services. I believe you will find working with us to be helpful in meeting your goals. We uphold a non-judgmental approach to both assessment and treatment. Confidentiality is of the upmost importance and you can feel comfortable that your sessions will be private. All of the clinicians at Gahanna Counseling have unique skillsets to create a therapeutic approach that is personally tailored for you. We work as a team to provide you the best possible care. We offer therapy for adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents.
The clinicians at Gahanna Counseling offer a variety of specialities including: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Informed Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Behavioral Activation, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Couples Therapy.
Hello! At Gahanna Counseling LLC we provide a variety of therapy services. I believe you will find working with us to be helpful in meeting your goals. We uphold a non-judgmental approach to both assessment and treatment. Confidentiality is of the upmost importance and you can feel comfortable that your sessions will be private. All of the clinicians at Gahanna Counseling have unique skillsets to create a therapeutic approach that is personally tailored for you. We work as a team to provide you the best possible care. We offer therapy for adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents.
![Photo of Suzanne Bogren, MSEd, PCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7463cac-e30f-48e8-a5f2-60f3b0fa30db/2/320x400.jpeg)
This includes EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Somatic Processing, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor who has been helping clients since 1998. I am clinically trained to assist those struggling with a variety of mental health situations but focus on assisting those struggling with trauma, anxiety, difficult life circumstances/transitions, and stress management.
This includes EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Somatic Processing, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor who has been helping clients since 1998. I am clinically trained to assist those struggling with a variety of mental health situations but focus on assisting those struggling with trauma, anxiety, difficult life circumstances/transitions, and stress management.
![Photo of Sage Maniates, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e714f94-b660-4377-b469-df9e76d3c9a2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping LGBTQ+ people heal from the impacts of trauma. Using EMDR and other trauma and attachment focused techniques, I work with clients who's experiences of sexual or relationship trauma, difficult family relationships, marginalization, and more, have shaped how they see themselves and the world. As a queer, non-binary, trans person, I offer an environment where you don't have to "explain" your queerness, nor choose between a queer therapist and a trauma-focused one. My approach is social justice oriented, and based in the power of authenticity, acceptance, and attachment.
I specialize in helping LGBTQ+ people heal from the impacts of trauma. Using EMDR and other trauma and attachment focused techniques, I work with clients who's experiences of sexual or relationship trauma, difficult family relationships, marginalization, and more, have shaped how they see themselves and the world. As a queer, non-binary, trans person, I offer an environment where you don't have to "explain" your queerness, nor choose between a queer therapist and a trauma-focused one. My approach is social justice oriented, and based in the power of authenticity, acceptance, and attachment.
![Photo of Taylor Kinman, MS, LPC, LPCA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ca7891-be87-452f-a87d-583e209e2873/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Kinman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040 (Online Only)
Is your sex life struggling? I'm passionate about working with clients who want to improve their relationships and sex. Most often, I work with clients who want to overcome sexual challenges such as erectile dysfunction, low/mismatched libido, and sexual pain. Aside from sex therapy, I treat other general concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I also help clients work through trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Is your sex life struggling? I'm passionate about working with clients who want to improve their relationships and sex. Most often, I work with clients who want to overcome sexual challenges such as erectile dysfunction, low/mismatched libido, and sexual pain. Aside from sex therapy, I treat other general concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I also help clients work through trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
![Photo of Emily Riggs, LISW-S, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b042d4d6-b8fa-41c2-befe-2170415ddb06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Riggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, RYT
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45458 (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping high-achieving, perfectionistic women feel empowered to make changes to help them hope, heal, and live wholeheartedly. I specialize in grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I work with a variety of therapeutic models and skills, including EMDR, DBT, and ACT, to best come alongside my clients on their unique journeys.
I am passionate about helping high-achieving, perfectionistic women feel empowered to make changes to help them hope, heal, and live wholeheartedly. I specialize in grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I work with a variety of therapeutic models and skills, including EMDR, DBT, and ACT, to best come alongside my clients on their unique journeys.
![Photo of Keera Wilmoth, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1c3fa3c-5fe6-4427-80a9-92e3a08178f6/4/320x400.jpeg)
Keera Wilmoth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Hey there, I'm Keera! I use a person-centered approach to create a laid-back environment. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. I believe that the opportunity to learn about and alongside clients is an incredible privilege, and I admire the decision to begin any healing journey. I work with clients with anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, stress, and life transitions.
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Hey there, I'm Keera! I use a person-centered approach to create a laid-back environment. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. I believe that the opportunity to learn about and alongside clients is an incredible privilege, and I admire the decision to begin any healing journey. I work with clients with anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, stress, and life transitions.
![Photo of Elizabeth A Bain, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810752c7-3930-472d-9b42-be8c44986719/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A Bain
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45459
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with mental health, co-occuring disorders (mental health/substance abuse) post-traumatic stress with veterans, non-military and first responders, I teach coping skills that can help with real life situations and I utilize EMDR in a variety of ways that help with traumas, core beliefs and phobias.
I enjoy working with clients with depression, anxiety trauma/PTSD, problems with life adjustments, social anxiety, relationship issues, Adult-children of alcoholics and changing core beliefs that are getting in your road of being happy and fulfilled in your life.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with mental health, co-occuring disorders (mental health/substance abuse) post-traumatic stress with veterans, non-military and first responders, I teach coping skills that can help with real life situations and I utilize EMDR in a variety of ways that help with traumas, core beliefs and phobias.
I enjoy working with clients with depression, anxiety trauma/PTSD, problems with life adjustments, social anxiety, relationship issues, Adult-children of alcoholics and changing core beliefs that are getting in your road of being happy and fulfilled in your life.
![Photo of Erin Wolph, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6abfe2e-8ac7-43d6-ada0-69de2cd979e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Wolph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tiffin, OH 44883
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) a well-researched and effective treatment approach for not only trauma and post-traumatic stress, but many mental health issues like anxiety, depression, poor job performance, low self-esteem, amongst others.
We all want to be our best selves, but there are times in life when we get stuck and need insight to stop those "never ending thoughts." We may feel anxious and depressed or don’t quite know what is bothering us. Trauma induced anxiety can overwhelm and debilitate. We need a little extra help to deal with these issues in an atmosphere of safety, warmth, humor and nonjudgmental support. I am here to help. I believe no one is on an island and finding someone to help create a safe and comforting space to heal, is just the beginning of the therapeutic journey. In this space, you can feel guided through regaining your peace.
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) a well-researched and effective treatment approach for not only trauma and post-traumatic stress, but many mental health issues like anxiety, depression, poor job performance, low self-esteem, amongst others.
We all want to be our best selves, but there are times in life when we get stuck and need insight to stop those "never ending thoughts." We may feel anxious and depressed or don’t quite know what is bothering us. Trauma induced anxiety can overwhelm and debilitate. We need a little extra help to deal with these issues in an atmosphere of safety, warmth, humor and nonjudgmental support. I am here to help. I believe no one is on an island and finding someone to help create a safe and comforting space to heal, is just the beginning of the therapeutic journey. In this space, you can feel guided through regaining your peace.
![Photo of Dayana Alequin, LISW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ec69c60-89ac-4551-ac66-92fb21d958e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dayana Alequin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45247 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize evidence-based therapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, EMDR, trauma focused, relationship focused.
Update: Practice is full. Not accepting new clients . Waitlist available. When other clients transition out of therapy or to fewer sessions you will be contacted. I know finding a great therapist is challenging. I am here to help you find a way to improve and heal. Taking the first step towards getting better might be intimidating, but you will be grateful about seeking support once you realize how smooth and easy the therapy experience is, and how much reward there is for you.
I utilize evidence-based therapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, EMDR, trauma focused, relationship focused.
Update: Practice is full. Not accepting new clients . Waitlist available. When other clients transition out of therapy or to fewer sessions you will be contacted. I know finding a great therapist is challenging. I am here to help you find a way to improve and heal. Taking the first step towards getting better might be intimidating, but you will be grateful about seeking support once you realize how smooth and easy the therapy experience is, and how much reward there is for you.
![Photo of Amanda C Freis - Cincinnati Therapy Center, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f09bdc88-5cec-407b-9355-4ae042319995/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cincinnati Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Cincinnati Therapy Center is a team of therapists brought together by our shared drive to support people experiencing a variety of concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, PTSD, life stressors, grief/loss, and relationship issues. CTC has immediate tele-therapy openings for clients age 15+. We have therapists trained in DBT, EMDR, CBT, ACT, TFCBT, and Mindful Self-Compassion. You must be located in Ohio for tele-therapy services!
Cincinnati Therapy Center is a team of therapists brought together by our shared drive to support people experiencing a variety of concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, PTSD, life stressors, grief/loss, and relationship issues. CTC has immediate tele-therapy openings for clients age 15+. We have therapists trained in DBT, EMDR, CBT, ACT, TFCBT, and Mindful Self-Compassion. You must be located in Ohio for tele-therapy services!
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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.