EMDR Therapists in Short North, Columbus, OH
Dr. Lindsey Brown McCormick
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, PMH-C, CLC
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
I'm also a certified EMDR therapist and help folks work through attachment and betrayal trauma.
Parenting can be stressful and overwhelming. Add onto that the other "hats" you wear in your life: employee, spouse, caregiver to adult parents... the list goes on. You keep seeing videos online about ADHD and wonder if that could be you. You're chronically stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, touched out, are having physical health problems, have ZERO libido, and are struggling to find who you are postpartum. You're looking for a psychotherapist who "gets it," with lived experience of the stress that parenting can bring, and is truly trauma-informed.
I'm also a certified EMDR therapist and help folks work through attachment and betrayal trauma.
Parenting can be stressful and overwhelming. Add onto that the other "hats" you wear in your life: employee, spouse, caregiver to adult parents... the list goes on. You keep seeing videos online about ADHD and wonder if that could be you. You're chronically stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, touched out, are having physical health problems, have ZERO libido, and are struggling to find who you are postpartum. You're looking for a psychotherapist who "gets it," with lived experience of the stress that parenting can bring, and is truly trauma-informed.
Emanuel Werner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
I utilize CBT, REBT, Mindfulness, Existential, Narrative, & EMDR.
I specialize in treating generalized anxiety, OCD, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, substance and alcohol use, couples & marital issues, grief, major life transitions, vocational/career discernment, and a variety of everyday and lifelong existential questions and realities we all face. Are you depressed and anxious about many things, with sleepless nights and moments of quiet desperation, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness? Are you searching for answers to questions both known and unknown, looking to share with someone who can validate the reality of suffering in your life & help you find ways to navigate?
I utilize CBT, REBT, Mindfulness, Existential, Narrative, & EMDR.
I specialize in treating generalized anxiety, OCD, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, substance and alcohol use, couples & marital issues, grief, major life transitions, vocational/career discernment, and a variety of everyday and lifelong existential questions and realities we all face. Are you depressed and anxious about many things, with sleepless nights and moments of quiet desperation, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness? Are you searching for answers to questions both known and unknown, looking to share with someone who can validate the reality of suffering in your life & help you find ways to navigate?
Kristen Santel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
Psychotherapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, interpersonal neurobiology, attachment focused work, and talk therapy are all integral parts of my practice.
Are you in emotional pain? Have you been through difficult or traumatic life experiences? Learning to deal with life's challenges and finding your way out of deep emotional pain can be overwhelming. The decision to attend counseling is not always easy and choosing the right therapist to partner with you is important. If you are ready to work to find hope and healing, I am ready to help you. My practice is effective because I work with all parts of the self-- helping you move through the difficult experiences you have encountered and help bring meaning back to life!
Psychotherapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, interpersonal neurobiology, attachment focused work, and talk therapy are all integral parts of my practice.
Are you in emotional pain? Have you been through difficult or traumatic life experiences? Learning to deal with life's challenges and finding your way out of deep emotional pain can be overwhelming. The decision to attend counseling is not always easy and choosing the right therapist to partner with you is important. If you are ready to work to find hope and healing, I am ready to help you. My practice is effective because I work with all parts of the self-- helping you move through the difficult experiences you have encountered and help bring meaning back to life!
Rachael Gardner Purdy
Counselor, LCPC, LICDC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about my work and helping individuals gain insight and understanding in their own challenges, strengths, limits, and abilities. As a proponent of holistic healing, I am working toward the use of yoga, yoga for trauma, meditation, and wellness coaching in my practice. My specialties include behavioral and mental health, substance use/abuse/dependence, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma with training in EMDR for difficult cases. From experience, I know, regardless of the difficulties in life, there is always a solution/change which can happen to help you find a positive to every situation -even if is not what you thought.
I am passionate about my work and helping individuals gain insight and understanding in their own challenges, strengths, limits, and abilities. As a proponent of holistic healing, I am working toward the use of yoga, yoga for trauma, meditation, and wellness coaching in my practice. My specialties include behavioral and mental health, substance use/abuse/dependence, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma with training in EMDR for difficult cases. From experience, I know, regardless of the difficulties in life, there is always a solution/change which can happen to help you find a positive to every situation -even if is not what you thought.
Rebecca Bair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
I have experience in implementing a wide variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma and Loss in Children.
I believe that each client is unique and therefore so must be their treatment. I am dedicated to assisting clients in feeling rooted, secure, and fulfilled in their lives. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in community mental health and private practice settings. In these settings, I have guided clients in managing and alleviating symptoms of behavioral and mental health concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, stress, self-injurious behaviors, and interpersonal conflict.
I have experience in implementing a wide variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma and Loss in Children.
I believe that each client is unique and therefore so must be their treatment. I am dedicated to assisting clients in feeling rooted, secure, and fulfilled in their lives. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in community mental health and private practice settings. In these settings, I have guided clients in managing and alleviating symptoms of behavioral and mental health concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, stress, self-injurious behaviors, and interpersonal conflict.
Rebecca Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
I have training (Parts 1 and 2) in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and often use it in my work with clients in treating trauma, phobias, anxiety, and life transitions.
I specialize in women's sexual health, relationship issues, anxiety, job related stress, life transitions, and the impacts of trauma, injury, and illness. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative partnership and my goal is to create a supportive environment of trust and acceptance. I practice an insight-oriented and psychodynamic approach, meaning that the past informs the present and can create unconscious patterns of thought and behavior. Once we have awareness of how our experiences impact our lives, healing can begin.
I have training (Parts 1 and 2) in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and often use it in my work with clients in treating trauma, phobias, anxiety, and life transitions.
I specialize in women's sexual health, relationship issues, anxiety, job related stress, life transitions, and the impacts of trauma, injury, and illness. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative partnership and my goal is to create a supportive environment of trust and acceptance. I practice an insight-oriented and psychodynamic approach, meaning that the past informs the present and can create unconscious patterns of thought and behavior. Once we have awareness of how our experiences impact our lives, healing can begin.
Jerry Worthington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CLC, LSW, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
I have found using a variety of therapeutic & coaching approaches such as cognitive, behavioral, psych-social, educational and EMDR assist the individual getting unstuck in their life.
I have been in the counseling profession for over 40years. I still look forward to meeting new people who desire to change and have the courage to share their personal life with me. I believe the times we live in offer so much to so many, yet so many struggles with finding satisfaction, meaning and a sense of belonging in the world. I view the counseling/coaching process as one of collaboration with the counselor/coach and client to identify the client’s strengths and issues to work on. I believe therapeutic coaching relationship is the primary tool in facilitating personal growth.
I have found using a variety of therapeutic & coaching approaches such as cognitive, behavioral, psych-social, educational and EMDR assist the individual getting unstuck in their life.
I have been in the counseling profession for over 40years. I still look forward to meeting new people who desire to change and have the courage to share their personal life with me. I believe the times we live in offer so much to so many, yet so many struggles with finding satisfaction, meaning and a sense of belonging in the world. I view the counseling/coaching process as one of collaboration with the counselor/coach and client to identify the client’s strengths and issues to work on. I believe therapeutic coaching relationship is the primary tool in facilitating personal growth.
Emily Combes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
I use evidence based and trauma informed practices in therapy and trained in EMDR to address trauma.
I believe great strides can be made through a strong therapeutic relationship. When you walk into my office you will be stepping into a judgement free space and met with compassion and support. Come as you are with everything you have. I have a passion for working with women throughout their journey to motherhood and parenting. Motherhood has been one of the most dramatic life transitions in my life. Whether you are trying to conceive, anxious during pregnancy, or walking through the throes of the fourth trimester (and beyond) I will walk by your side and help you to find who you are in this new stage of life.
I use evidence based and trauma informed practices in therapy and trained in EMDR to address trauma.
I believe great strides can be made through a strong therapeutic relationship. When you walk into my office you will be stepping into a judgement free space and met with compassion and support. Come as you are with everything you have. I have a passion for working with women throughout their journey to motherhood and parenting. Motherhood has been one of the most dramatic life transitions in my life. Whether you are trying to conceive, anxious during pregnancy, or walking through the throes of the fourth trimester (and beyond) I will walk by your side and help you to find who you are in this new stage of life.
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Columbus
Counselor
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
A Different World Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach to counseling pulling from therapy models such as Solution-Focused Therapy, Choice/Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Play Therapy.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
I have an eclectic approach to counseling pulling from therapy models such as Solution-Focused Therapy, Choice/Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Play Therapy.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
Michal Marchette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
I am trained in EMDR and Polyvagal Theory, and utilize other modalities like Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you experiencing pain and loneliness? Are you ready to do the inner work of healing? I am passionate about working with women and teenagers. If you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, self expression and/or an eating disorder then you have come to the right place! I welcome my clients into a safe, supportive and empathetic space in which we journey together. I offer a listening ear and a compassionate heart. We work together to find the techniques in my toolbox that work best to empower you.
I am trained in EMDR and Polyvagal Theory, and utilize other modalities like Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you experiencing pain and loneliness? Are you ready to do the inner work of healing? I am passionate about working with women and teenagers. If you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, self expression and/or an eating disorder then you have come to the right place! I welcome my clients into a safe, supportive and empathetic space in which we journey together. I offer a listening ear and a compassionate heart. We work together to find the techniques in my toolbox that work best to empower you.
15 Second Videos
Jessica Banes
Winter Houser
Taylor Kinman
Fairview Mental Health
Mason Boano
Carolina Ehlinger
Stephanie Wells MS, LPCC-S is a 1995 graduate of the University of Dayton Counselor Education program, with over 27 years of experience as a case manager, therapist, supervisor, business owner, trained in EMDR, Gottman Method, Perinatal Mental Health. She works with 12-90, is married, & has a 16 year old daughter. Enjoys traveling, home rehab & crocheting.
Stephanie Wells MS, LPCC-S is a 1995 graduate of the University of Dayton Counselor Education program, with over 27 years of experience as a case manager, therapist, supervisor, business owner, trained in EMDR, Gottman Method, Perinatal Mental Health. She works with 12-90, is married, & has a 16 year old daughter. Enjoys traveling, home rehab & crocheting.
Jessica Banes
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I often use EMDR in treatment for trauma, anxiety and depression.
Hello and welcome! I enjoy working with women, college students, survivors of trauma, folks on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, and anyone facing stress around anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, boundary setting and relationship concerns. I specialize in working with ages 18-40. I value authenticity and transparency and believe the relationship in therapy is the key element to a powerful experience. We get more from therapy when we are open. Often, we are not getting our needs met out of fear or avoidance, and therapy is a great way to practice embodiment, taking space and being present as your authentic self.
I often use EMDR in treatment for trauma, anxiety and depression.
Hello and welcome! I enjoy working with women, college students, survivors of trauma, folks on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, and anyone facing stress around anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, boundary setting and relationship concerns. I specialize in working with ages 18-40. I value authenticity and transparency and believe the relationship in therapy is the key element to a powerful experience. We get more from therapy when we are open. Often, we are not getting our needs met out of fear or avoidance, and therapy is a great way to practice embodiment, taking space and being present as your authentic self.
Vivien Roman Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
I enjoy learning and training in different approaches and utilize skills in EMDR, Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, Narrative, Mindfulness and Liberation theories! I am a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist.
Hi! My name is Vivien (she/her/ella). I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I also have a Graduate certificate in Women in Public Policy and Politics and completed my Masters in Social Work at Salem State University. I have largely worked in historically marginalized spaces (BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S, and Veterans) as these are also spaces I identify with as well as with those who identify as allies to these communities. I have been fortunate to have a variety of experiences in my work in mental health that have challenged me and given me
I enjoy learning and training in different approaches and utilize skills in EMDR, Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, Narrative, Mindfulness and Liberation theories! I am a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist.
Hi! My name is Vivien (she/her/ella). I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I also have a Graduate certificate in Women in Public Policy and Politics and completed my Masters in Social Work at Salem State University. I have largely worked in historically marginalized spaces (BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S, and Veterans) as these are also spaces I identify with as well as with those who identify as allies to these communities. I have been fortunate to have a variety of experiences in my work in mental health that have challenged me and given me
Sharon Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
My approach combines a variety of methods including strengths-based, person-centered, brief solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, and EMDR trauma therapy.
I am an independently licensed social worker in both Ohio (LISW) and Kentucky (LCSW) as well as a PhD in social work. I have 25 years of experience working as a therapist, clinical leader, and teacher, and strive to learn something new each day. I am a trained EMDR therapist and have helped many people who have experienced trauma and have worked with first responders who need assistance following traumatic events.
My approach combines a variety of methods including strengths-based, person-centered, brief solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, and EMDR trauma therapy.
I am an independently licensed social worker in both Ohio (LISW) and Kentucky (LCSW) as well as a PhD in social work. I have 25 years of experience working as a therapist, clinical leader, and teacher, and strive to learn something new each day. I am a trained EMDR therapist and have helped many people who have experienced trauma and have worked with first responders who need assistance following traumatic events.
Winter Houser is certified by the Ohio Counselor Social Worker and Marriage and Family Board as well as the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professional Board. She specializes in trauma and uses EMDR. Winter also specializes in depression, anxiety, addictions, life stressors, and relationship issues. Her goal is to help others see their full potential and help them heal from their barriers in life.
Winter Houser is certified by the Ohio Counselor Social Worker and Marriage and Family Board as well as the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professional Board. She specializes in trauma and uses EMDR. Winter also specializes in depression, anxiety, addictions, life stressors, and relationship issues. Her goal is to help others see their full potential and help them heal from their barriers in life.
Dylan Gillis
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
My clinical approaches mainly consist of: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Wright State University (Dayton, OH) and my Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Francis (Fort Wayne, IN). I have been practicing for 6 years. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals in the IDD (intellectual or developmental disabilities) community, community-based therapy, outpatient therapy, and inpatient setting.I enjoy working with a wide range of client populations. I have aided many individuals with wide variations of concerns and issues.
My clinical approaches mainly consist of: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Wright State University (Dayton, OH) and my Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Francis (Fort Wayne, IN). I have been practicing for 6 years. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals in the IDD (intellectual or developmental disabilities) community, community-based therapy, outpatient therapy, and inpatient setting.I enjoy working with a wide range of client populations. I have aided many individuals with wide variations of concerns and issues.
I also regularly use EMDR to process upsetting events.
Whether you are struggling with stress, life transitions, feeling down or have conflict in your relationships, I will help you get unstuck from unwanted patterns, grow your skill to navigate challenging scenarios and develop healthier relationships. I provide individual, couple and family therapy. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma/distressing events, parenting issues, and couples.
I also regularly use EMDR to process upsetting events.
Whether you are struggling with stress, life transitions, feeling down or have conflict in your relationships, I will help you get unstuck from unwanted patterns, grow your skill to navigate challenging scenarios and develop healthier relationships. I provide individual, couple and family therapy. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma/distressing events, parenting issues, and couples.
Abby U. Maitland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215
As of Fall 2024, I am accepting a limited number of new clients and accepting Aetna and Cigna Insurance! Anthem BC/BS(Empire) in NY. Neuroscience-informed Training, healing and growth is my speciality. I 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 tailor my approach to suit your need, not the other way around. I am an advance clinician in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), an advanced facilitator in Nurtured Heart Approach and Core Curriculum on Childhood Trauma and an EMDR Certified Clinician.
As of Fall 2024, I am accepting a limited number of new clients and accepting Aetna and Cigna Insurance! Anthem BC/BS(Empire) in NY. Neuroscience-informed Training, healing and growth is my speciality. I 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 tailor my approach to suit your need, not the other way around. I am an advance clinician in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), an advanced facilitator in Nurtured Heart Approach and Core Curriculum on Childhood Trauma and an EMDR Certified Clinician.
Taylor Kinman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Short North, Columbus, OH 43215 (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).
See more therapy options for Short North, Columbus
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Short North, Columbus
- Brewery
- Brewery District
- Downtown
- Franklin Park
- Franklinton
- McKinley Avenue Corridor
- Near East
- North Central
- South Linden
- Southside
- University
- Weinland Park
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.