EMDR Therapists in Appleton, WI

Photo of Gail M Rabe - Mindful Living Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Living Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54913  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR, DBT, Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems therapy.
Are past experiences holding you back in life from participating in relationships, feeling confident in your daily life endeavors or achieving your personal goals? I have a passion for helping individuals to process through events that are interfering with them enjoying and actively participating in their lives in present time. I have extensive experience working with people struggling from trauma, and am a certified Brainspotting Therapist, as well as trained in EMDR and IFS Therapy. Therapy is a relationship, and I treat each of my clients with respect and integrity, approaching this relationship in a warm, validating manner.
I specialize in EMDR, DBT, Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems therapy.
Are past experiences holding you back in life from participating in relationships, feeling confident in your daily life endeavors or achieving your personal goals? I have a passion for helping individuals to process through events that are interfering with them enjoying and actively participating in their lives in present time. I have extensive experience working with people struggling from trauma, and am a certified Brainspotting Therapist, as well as trained in EMDR and IFS Therapy. Therapy is a relationship, and I treat each of my clients with respect and integrity, approaching this relationship in a warm, validating manner.
(920) 376-9879 View (920) 376-9879
Photo of Debra Lynne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lynne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915
Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Analytical Psychotherapy, Dream Therapy, Mindfulness/meditation practice, Sand Play, HMR, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Analytical Psychotherapy, Dream Therapy, Mindfulness/meditation practice, Sand Play, HMR, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
(940) 641-8926 View (940) 641-8926
Photo of Rosonna Comers, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosonna Comers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54913
At WI Wellness, I specialize in treating trauma from a bottom to top perspective, using EMDR.
Hello and welcome to my page! My specialty areas are trauma anxiety, depression and co-occurring conditions. EMDR is my specialty service at WI Wellness, which is located near Appleton Airport. Contact Number 920-404-2100. If you are looking for couples therapy please reach out to me at my private practice location in Oshkosh, WI located on Hwy 44 near CESA 6. Contact Number is 920-203-0169. At Couple Connect LLC the goal of therapy is to help couples build and strengthen their relationships, or renew and repair their, relationship foundation by implementing evidenced based practices developed by Doctors John and Julie Gottman.
At WI Wellness, I specialize in treating trauma from a bottom to top perspective, using EMDR.
Hello and welcome to my page! My specialty areas are trauma anxiety, depression and co-occurring conditions. EMDR is my specialty service at WI Wellness, which is located near Appleton Airport. Contact Number 920-404-2100. If you are looking for couples therapy please reach out to me at my private practice location in Oshkosh, WI located on Hwy 44 near CESA 6. Contact Number is 920-203-0169. At Couple Connect LLC the goal of therapy is to help couples build and strengthen their relationships, or renew and repair their, relationship foundation by implementing evidenced based practices developed by Doctors John and Julie Gottman.
(920) 536-4817 View (920) 536-4817
Photo of Mark A Wilkerson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark A Wilkerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54913  (Online Only)
I am trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, and am EAGALA certified.
I am welcoming new clients who are looking for help with life transitions, grief and loss, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, or traumatic experiences. I currently have the capacity to serve older teens and adults via telehealth using a wide range of evidenced-based techniques and approaches. Whether this is your first time in therapy or not I believe in equipping you with knowledge and tools to use throughout your life to overcome behavioral and emotional barriers. If you are unsure of your goals or ideal outcomes, we collaborate to outline what you hope to change, improve, and accomplish and use outcome metrics to measure progress.
I am trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, and am EAGALA certified.
I am welcoming new clients who are looking for help with life transitions, grief and loss, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, or traumatic experiences. I currently have the capacity to serve older teens and adults via telehealth using a wide range of evidenced-based techniques and approaches. Whether this is your first time in therapy or not I believe in equipping you with knowledge and tools to use throughout your life to overcome behavioral and emotional barriers. If you are unsure of your goals or ideal outcomes, we collaborate to outline what you hope to change, improve, and accomplish and use outcome metrics to measure progress.
(920) 717-1401 View (920) 717-1401
Photo of Maryliz Murphy, MSW, CAPSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryliz Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CAPSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54911
I believe in each one of us is the ability to find joy, peace and meaning in life. Sometimes we need guidance in figuring things out, working through difficulties or developing coping strategies. Using evidence based practices, I can help guide you in moving forward in life. Specializing in trauma and couples therapy I hold certifications in EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Integrative Behavorial Couple Therapy (IBCT) and trained as Gottman Institute 7 Principles for Highly Effective Marriages Workshop Leader and CBT Insomnia to address sleep issues.
I believe in each one of us is the ability to find joy, peace and meaning in life. Sometimes we need guidance in figuring things out, working through difficulties or developing coping strategies. Using evidence based practices, I can help guide you in moving forward in life. Specializing in trauma and couples therapy I hold certifications in EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Integrative Behavorial Couple Therapy (IBCT) and trained as Gottman Institute 7 Principles for Highly Effective Marriages Workshop Leader and CBT Insomnia to address sleep issues.
(608) 719-3665 View (608) 719-3665
Photo of Tricia L Gonzalez, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tricia L Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54913
I am a trained EMDR therapist.
Feeling sad & nothing is much fun anymore?Trapped in your mind with worries & thoughts you can’t stop... sometimes it makes you feel crazy? Having unwanted painful thoughts & memories from the past & you can’t make it stop? Irritated & frustrated so easily & it’s ruining your relationships? Maybe you're just having a hard time & everything you try isn't working. Don't continue struggling on your own. Therapy can give much needed support, a safe place to hurt, make sense of your pain, courage to heal, knowledge & skills to resolve issues. It may be exactly what you need right now. Life has suffering and we all need help at times.
I am a trained EMDR therapist.
Feeling sad & nothing is much fun anymore?Trapped in your mind with worries & thoughts you can’t stop... sometimes it makes you feel crazy? Having unwanted painful thoughts & memories from the past & you can’t make it stop? Irritated & frustrated so easily & it’s ruining your relationships? Maybe you're just having a hard time & everything you try isn't working. Don't continue struggling on your own. Therapy can give much needed support, a safe place to hurt, make sense of your pain, courage to heal, knowledge & skills to resolve issues. It may be exactly what you need right now. Life has suffering and we all need help at times.
(920) 795-7864 View (920) 795-7864
Photo of Jeff l Palmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff l Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
Hello! Thanks for taking the time to visit my profile. Whether you are looking to heal past hurts, create better relationships or set a vision for your future I can help. I have helped individuals and couples through each of these stages of their journey. My goal is to offer expert, compassionate care to help you navigate the challenges of your life. I have extensive training and experience in treating relational trauma with individuals, couples and families. I use Family Systems Therapy, IMAGO Relationship Therapy, Brainspotting and EMDR to help you experience healing and change.
Hello! Thanks for taking the time to visit my profile. Whether you are looking to heal past hurts, create better relationships or set a vision for your future I can help. I have helped individuals and couples through each of these stages of their journey. My goal is to offer expert, compassionate care to help you navigate the challenges of your life. I have extensive training and experience in treating relational trauma with individuals, couples and families. I use Family Systems Therapy, IMAGO Relationship Therapy, Brainspotting and EMDR to help you experience healing and change.
(920) 654-1847 View (920) 654-1847
Photo of Jade Holewinski, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jade Holewinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54914
My specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT allows me to effectively help individuals who have experienced abuse and trauma and are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD as a result.
I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, daily life stressors, relational conflicts, trauma, and PTSD. My goal is to help you improve the overall quality of your life by offering a safe and supportive environment in which you will gain insight, build coping tools, and learn to adjust unhelpful ways of thinking.
My specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT allows me to effectively help individuals who have experienced abuse and trauma and are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD as a result.
I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, daily life stressors, relational conflicts, trauma, and PTSD. My goal is to help you improve the overall quality of your life by offering a safe and supportive environment in which you will gain insight, build coping tools, and learn to adjust unhelpful ways of thinking.
(920) 785-6656 View (920) 785-6656
Photo of Carey A Molinski, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carey A Molinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915
Carey has a rich history of providing psychotherapy services with diverse populations. She is direct yet relatable, skilled yet casual. She has experience in crisis intervention and trauma and is trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. She has helped many clients with eclectic concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, oppositional behaviors, conduct disorders, Autism Spectrum, schizophrenia and other psychoses, and relationship concerns. Viewing each therapeutic relationship as a partnership, Carey diligently works to meet clients where they’re at, without judgment, helping them to heal and achieve individual goals.
Carey has a rich history of providing psychotherapy services with diverse populations. She is direct yet relatable, skilled yet casual. She has experience in crisis intervention and trauma and is trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. She has helped many clients with eclectic concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, oppositional behaviors, conduct disorders, Autism Spectrum, schizophrenia and other psychoses, and relationship concerns. Viewing each therapeutic relationship as a partnership, Carey diligently works to meet clients where they’re at, without judgment, helping them to heal and achieve individual goals.
(920) 477-0938 View (920) 477-0938
Photo of Holly Doughty, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Doughty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915
My preferred treatment modalities include: DBT; CBT; Motivational Interviewing; EFT; ERPT; Person Centered; Gestalt Therapy; Narrative Therapy, EMDR.
Hello! I am Holly Doughty, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a EMDR and DBT therapist. I am accepting new patients (adults, teens, kids). I have recently opened a new location in Kaukauna. Are you struggling with anxiety? Worried about others and what they are thinking? Asking yourself "what if" a lot? Are you feeling triggered by others? Questioning your relationships? Is someone in your life causing you distress in a relationship? Are you struggling but don't know what is causing it. I can help you and you are in the right place.
My preferred treatment modalities include: DBT; CBT; Motivational Interviewing; EFT; ERPT; Person Centered; Gestalt Therapy; Narrative Therapy, EMDR.
Hello! I am Holly Doughty, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a EMDR and DBT therapist. I am accepting new patients (adults, teens, kids). I have recently opened a new location in Kaukauna. Are you struggling with anxiety? Worried about others and what they are thinking? Asking yourself "what if" a lot? Are you feeling triggered by others? Questioning your relationships? Is someone in your life causing you distress in a relationship? Are you struggling but don't know what is causing it. I can help you and you are in the right place.
(920) 415-4416 View (920) 415-4416
Photo of Jodie C Skenandore - JCS Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
JCS Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54911  (Online Only)
Treatment Areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Unresolved Trauma, PTSD, Stress Management, Stages of Life complications/changes, Lifestyle Changes Modalities of Treatment Offered: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Person Centered, Solution Focused.
Hello and welcome, my name is Jodie Skenandore, Psychotherapist/Owner of JCS Counseling LLC. My goal and approach is to provide a warm, safe, accepting and supportive environment for individuals to be heard, seen, validated and understood. My role as a helping professional is to collaborate with you on this journey to heal, grow, build a strong sense of self, cultivate self-compassion and live the life that you want and deserve.
Treatment Areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Unresolved Trauma, PTSD, Stress Management, Stages of Life complications/changes, Lifestyle Changes Modalities of Treatment Offered: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Person Centered, Solution Focused.
Hello and welcome, my name is Jodie Skenandore, Psychotherapist/Owner of JCS Counseling LLC. My goal and approach is to provide a warm, safe, accepting and supportive environment for individuals to be heard, seen, validated and understood. My role as a helping professional is to collaborate with you on this journey to heal, grow, build a strong sense of self, cultivate self-compassion and live the life that you want and deserve.
(920) 315-3753 View (920) 315-3753
Photo of Stacy Bamberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Bamberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54913
I'm certified in Prolonged Exposure (PE), EMDR, CBT-Depression, and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy.
Many of us go through a process of hoping for change, personal growth or, perhaps, acceptance within ourselves. I'm here to walk that journey with you and help you reach realistic goals to positively impact your daily life. I believe that establishing rapport between a client and therapist is the foundation in providing the best outcome for change. You'll find that my therapeutic approach is empathetic, non-judgmental, and transparent with a bit of light-heartedness. I work with a wide variety of clients with specialty populations that include healthcare workers, first responders, sexual assault survivors, and couples.
I'm certified in Prolonged Exposure (PE), EMDR, CBT-Depression, and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy.
Many of us go through a process of hoping for change, personal growth or, perhaps, acceptance within ourselves. I'm here to walk that journey with you and help you reach realistic goals to positively impact your daily life. I believe that establishing rapport between a client and therapist is the foundation in providing the best outcome for change. You'll find that my therapeutic approach is empathetic, non-judgmental, and transparent with a bit of light-heartedness. I work with a wide variety of clients with specialty populations that include healthcare workers, first responders, sexual assault survivors, and couples.
View
Photo of Nikki Gordon, MS, MA, LPC, CCI, CCISM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikki Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CCI, CCISM
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
My expertise is EMDR therapy, which helps resolve trauma, and navigate through life transitions big and small.
So you've tried therapy before, and it hasn't "worked". You've talked about your problems, they're still there, you're still bothered by your 'stuff' and it doesn't seem like it's ever going to be different. Excellent! Then you're in the right place. We don't just talk about things here, we actually do something about them! Instead of putting a bandaid on it, we're going to dig in and do some trauma work to resolve what's going on. Does that sound like a different approach? Most likely, but I'm a different kind of therapist!
My expertise is EMDR therapy, which helps resolve trauma, and navigate through life transitions big and small.
So you've tried therapy before, and it hasn't "worked". You've talked about your problems, they're still there, you're still bothered by your 'stuff' and it doesn't seem like it's ever going to be different. Excellent! Then you're in the right place. We don't just talk about things here, we actually do something about them! Instead of putting a bandaid on it, we're going to dig in and do some trauma work to resolve what's going on. Does that sound like a different approach? Most likely, but I'm a different kind of therapist!
(920) 781-3910 View (920) 781-3910
Photo of Raquel Medrano, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raquel Medrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54911  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a therapist who provides virtual counseling sessions? Keep reading and see if this could be a good fit for you! I provide counseling services to individuals ages 18+ of any/all ethnicities, race, faith, gender, and sexuality. If you are struggling to cope with life stressors related to work, school, relationships, or self-esteem, I can provide you with a safe space to express yourself and learn effective coping skills to manage stress. If you have experienced trauma or struggle with mental illness, I am trained in EMDR and can help you process experiences and alleviate symptoms and emotional disturbance.
Are you searching for a therapist who provides virtual counseling sessions? Keep reading and see if this could be a good fit for you! I provide counseling services to individuals ages 18+ of any/all ethnicities, race, faith, gender, and sexuality. If you are struggling to cope with life stressors related to work, school, relationships, or self-esteem, I can provide you with a safe space to express yourself and learn effective coping skills to manage stress. If you have experienced trauma or struggle with mental illness, I am trained in EMDR and can help you process experiences and alleviate symptoms and emotional disturbance.
(608) 387-8596 View (608) 387-8596
Photo of Julia Tami Witt, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Tami Witt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54913  (Online Only)
My philosophy is counseling is simple but powerful. I help people make sense of their feelings so that they no longer have to have a disconnection between what they think and how they feel. I work specifically to help you make sense of your feelings by teaching you how to feel so that you can find some emotional peace. The most painful thing is when you feel stuck, powerless, and can't make sense of your situation.
My philosophy is counseling is simple but powerful. I help people make sense of their feelings so that they no longer have to have a disconnection between what they think and how they feel. I work specifically to help you make sense of your feelings by teaching you how to feel so that you can find some emotional peace. The most painful thing is when you feel stuck, powerless, and can't make sense of your situation.
(920) 677-4041 View (920) 677-4041
Photo of Alissa Lapp, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Alissa Lapp
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
Waitlist for new clients
I'd love to help you find hope and meaning in your life. I have experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, suicidal thoughts, paranoia, major mental health disorders, and those in crisis. I value your unique story which provides a starting point to understanding where you were, where you are, and where you are going. I incorporate Christian values, psychology, and compassion while challenging you to heal and grow along your personal journey. I value the opportunity to walk alongside as you let go of what holds you back so that you can reach your greatest potential.
I'd love to help you find hope and meaning in your life. I have experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, suicidal thoughts, paranoia, major mental health disorders, and those in crisis. I value your unique story which provides a starting point to understanding where you were, where you are, and where you are going. I incorporate Christian values, psychology, and compassion while challenging you to heal and grow along your personal journey. I value the opportunity to walk alongside as you let go of what holds you back so that you can reach your greatest potential.
(920) 598-5329 View (920) 598-5329
Photo of Amanda Swaw-Wyer, MSE, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Swaw-Wyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
Waitlist for new clients
Whether it is assisting parents find time for self-care or helping emotionally sensitive individuals understand and honor their emotions, I offer a validating, humorous and often frank approach to help my clients navigate obstacles on their personal journeys.
Whether it is assisting parents find time for self-care or helping emotionally sensitive individuals understand and honor their emotions, I offer a validating, humorous and often frank approach to help my clients navigate obstacles on their personal journeys.
(920) 259-2462 View (920) 259-2462
Photo of Kim Witkowski, LCSW, SAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Witkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54911
Waitlist for new clients
It takes courage to reach out for help and find the right therapist. I believe good therapy starts with rapport building, getting to know you, and listening to your needs. You will find a safe, non-judgmental, empathic place for you to heal and grow. I walk beside my clients on their journey. My areas of expertise include treating trauma/PTSD in a Trauma-Informed Care setting with treatment offerings of Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, & Trauma Informed Guilt Reduction Therapy. I have worked with a wide range of populations including emergency response personnel, Law Enforcement, and sexual assault survivors.
It takes courage to reach out for help and find the right therapist. I believe good therapy starts with rapport building, getting to know you, and listening to your needs. You will find a safe, non-judgmental, empathic place for you to heal and grow. I walk beside my clients on their journey. My areas of expertise include treating trauma/PTSD in a Trauma-Informed Care setting with treatment offerings of Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, & Trauma Informed Guilt Reduction Therapy. I have worked with a wide range of populations including emergency response personnel, Law Enforcement, and sexual assault survivors.
(920) 647-8685 View (920) 647-8685
Photo of Tina Wankey - Roots of Healing, LLC, MSW, LCSW, MSHN, L Hyp, CWFC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roots of Healing, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSHN, L Hyp, CWFC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can feel like we are stuck in the mud. We are struggling to get out, to break free, but it feels like we can't get out. We may feel frustrated, angry, anxious, helpless, or distraught. When this happens, it can be difficult to know how to deal with what happened or what type of help we need.
Sometimes life can feel like we are stuck in the mud. We are struggling to get out, to break free, but it feels like we can't get out. We may feel frustrated, angry, anxious, helpless, or distraught. When this happens, it can be difficult to know how to deal with what happened or what type of help we need.
(920) 395-1081 View (920) 395-1081
Photo of Connie M Bode, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connie M Bode
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54911
Research shows the connection between client and therapist is the biggest predictor of client change, regardless of treatment techniques used in therapy. Technique is important, but if the client doesn't believe they are heard and understood or that the therapist isn't invested in them, they don't feel confident in the process and maybe don't come back.
Research shows the connection between client and therapist is the biggest predictor of client change, regardless of treatment techniques used in therapy. Technique is important, but if the client doesn't believe they are heard and understood or that the therapist isn't invested in them, they don't feel confident in the process and maybe don't come back.
(920) 315-3410 View (920) 315-3410
1
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.