EMDR Therapists in Fruit Cove, FL
![Photo of Christopher Maniscalco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aebe39ec-a812-4a98-acad-2ee72cc5c708/1/320x400.png)
I utilize EMDR, a highly effective neurological intervention to treat PTSD & other issues.
Do you struggle with past or present traumatic life experiences, be that from combat, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, natural disasters, or other emotionally disturbing experiences? Are you willing to embrace connection over protection and open up about your struggles? I will provide you with the tools & support needed to reduce the frequency, intensity & duration of your presenting symptoms or increase your ability to manage them healthily. If you want to learn how your past may be negatively impacting your present & learn tools to manage or replace maladaptive behaviors, then I'm the clinician for you!
I utilize EMDR, a highly effective neurological intervention to treat PTSD & other issues.
Do you struggle with past or present traumatic life experiences, be that from combat, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, natural disasters, or other emotionally disturbing experiences? Are you willing to embrace connection over protection and open up about your struggles? I will provide you with the tools & support needed to reduce the frequency, intensity & duration of your presenting symptoms or increase your ability to manage them healthily. If you want to learn how your past may be negatively impacting your present & learn tools to manage or replace maladaptive behaviors, then I'm the clinician for you!
![Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cb7f366-0c61-4b09-b6a2-65280dcf706b/2/320x400.png)
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, & Mood Disorders. I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years, obtaining my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia. I have been fortunate to have backgrounds in both addiction and mental health at all levels of care, including inpatient residential, intensive outpatient and outpatient. My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy. I believe in the mind/body connection and offer guided imagery.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, & Mood Disorders. I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years, obtaining my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia. I have been fortunate to have backgrounds in both addiction and mental health at all levels of care, including inpatient residential, intensive outpatient and outpatient. My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy. I believe in the mind/body connection and offer guided imagery.
![Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS , LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27d69238-b2ce-480e-a43d-a11e2ea8900e/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
![Photo of Nonata Calcines, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3990a80d-a961-4c64-883f-16cf93cb2d98/2/320x400.png)
One of my heartfelt specialties is ADHD, which is increasingly prevalent among individuals aged 5 to 18 years old. Based on evidence-based practices & my own up-growing experience with clients, I firmly believe that factors such as nutrition, environment, societal influences, & social media play significant roles in shaping individuals with ADHD symptoms, whether they have been formally diagnosed or not. Understanding how these factors impact clients' functionality and well-being, I strive to provide a safe, welcoming, non-judgmental, and compassionate space. I offer treatments tailored to my clients' needs, desires, and goals.
One of my heartfelt specialties is ADHD, which is increasingly prevalent among individuals aged 5 to 18 years old. Based on evidence-based practices & my own up-growing experience with clients, I firmly believe that factors such as nutrition, environment, societal influences, & social media play significant roles in shaping individuals with ADHD symptoms, whether they have been formally diagnosed or not. Understanding how these factors impact clients' functionality and well-being, I strive to provide a safe, welcoming, non-judgmental, and compassionate space. I offer treatments tailored to my clients' needs, desires, and goals.
![Photo of Lauren Whitworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef453a2a-1ec6-47ed-8263-8180b2b182a6/1/320x400.png)
Are you looking for relief from symptoms of PTSD, seeking emotional validation, or even yearning to feel "just a little bit better"? Are you ready to explore your emotions, practice new strategies for healing, find forgiveness for yourself, and learn to set and work towards achieving your own treatment goals? My specialty is treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and more. Anyone who is ready to feel empowered and take back control of their life is my ideal client.
Are you looking for relief from symptoms of PTSD, seeking emotional validation, or even yearning to feel "just a little bit better"? Are you ready to explore your emotions, practice new strategies for healing, find forgiveness for yourself, and learn to set and work towards achieving your own treatment goals? My specialty is treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and more. Anyone who is ready to feel empowered and take back control of their life is my ideal client.
![Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8030d2e0-23b2-4714-9174-9c370fb0b9bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
![Photo of Didem Hacioglu, RMHCI, MS , EdS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/770c3046-58d9-497b-96ad-11117474e4b7/2/320x400.png)
Are you navigating life's emotional rollercoaster & looking for a friendly hand to hold along the way? Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-loathing and relationship challenges? Are you looking for relief from your struggles, a boost in self-worth, and stronger connections with yourself and others? You may want to break free from the past, learn positive coping strategies, cultivate healthy habits, learn acceptance, and find peace within yourself. My ideal client is someone who just wants to feel like themselves again—laughing, loving, and living life to the fullest.
Are you navigating life's emotional rollercoaster & looking for a friendly hand to hold along the way? Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-loathing and relationship challenges? Are you looking for relief from your struggles, a boost in self-worth, and stronger connections with yourself and others? You may want to break free from the past, learn positive coping strategies, cultivate healthy habits, learn acceptance, and find peace within yourself. My ideal client is someone who just wants to feel like themselves again—laughing, loving, and living life to the fullest.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Amanda Payne, LMHC, NCC, CST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4516bddb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Payne
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist in Florida, and have worked in social services for over 20 years serving populations such as: at-risk youth, domestic violence survivors, couples, first responders, and veterans. In my private practice, I use mostly mindfulness and cognitive behavioral approaches including EMDR to treat Post Traumatic Stress, anxiety, sexual functioning, and relational problems. I am also a Certified Daring Way Facilitator. This is an intervention that aims to help people around concerns connected to vulnerability, shame, and courage.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist in Florida, and have worked in social services for over 20 years serving populations such as: at-risk youth, domestic violence survivors, couples, first responders, and veterans. In my private practice, I use mostly mindfulness and cognitive behavioral approaches including EMDR to treat Post Traumatic Stress, anxiety, sexual functioning, and relational problems. I am also a Certified Daring Way Facilitator. This is an intervention that aims to help people around concerns connected to vulnerability, shame, and courage.
![Photo of Amy Pope-Latham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47888c41-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Pope-Latham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
While I am a trauma specialist (Certified in EMDR & intensively trained in Trauma-Focused CBT), and offer Somatic Therapy (mind/body approaches), it's my goal to help put people at ease when they come into my office.
You're having a hard time. I get it, I understand. And you're going to feel a little better just by taking a next step and reaching out, grabbing hold of a better tomorrow. Grief, trauma, anxiety, adjustment issues and the like can all be handled with awareness, kindness, and even a bit of humor.
While I am a trauma specialist (Certified in EMDR & intensively trained in Trauma-Focused CBT), and offer Somatic Therapy (mind/body approaches), it's my goal to help put people at ease when they come into my office.
You're having a hard time. I get it, I understand. And you're going to feel a little better just by taking a next step and reaching out, grabbing hold of a better tomorrow. Grief, trauma, anxiety, adjustment issues and the like can all be handled with awareness, kindness, and even a bit of humor.
![Photo of Sabrina Connelly, LMHC, CST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b15d3b2a-66ed-431a-806d-30797550d53d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am professionally trained in several therapeutic modalities including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy but tend to use a more integrated approach.
Connection is hard. It requires a level of vulnerability that opens us up to the very pain we’ve been trying to avoid. Connection however, is vital to every person’s emotional, sexual, and mental well-being. We can’t understand ourselves or feel close to others without it. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist, I offer a safe, honest, and affirming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring whatever holds you back from connecting with yourself and others.
I am professionally trained in several therapeutic modalities including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy but tend to use a more integrated approach.
Connection is hard. It requires a level of vulnerability that opens us up to the very pain we’ve been trying to avoid. Connection however, is vital to every person’s emotional, sexual, and mental well-being. We can’t understand ourselves or feel close to others without it. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist, I offer a safe, honest, and affirming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring whatever holds you back from connecting with yourself and others.
![Photo of Taylor Neilly, MSW, RCSWI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb6bbaa6-61cb-4ba7-8b6b-2cb215329558/5/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Neilly
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
I specialize in trauma-informed care, EMDR, mindfulness and meditation, and ego-state/parts work.
I work with individuals and couples seeking positive changes and healing in their life. This includes addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. I help clients who are overwhelmed by distressing emotions, feeling trapped, and experiencing conflicts internally and in relationships. I support, guide, and educate clients, and help them find relief, joy, and purpose in living. Together, we work to build awareness and emotional resilience. Clients develop tangible coping skills while assessing their values and learning to care for what is most important, with renewed interest and appreciation.
I specialize in trauma-informed care, EMDR, mindfulness and meditation, and ego-state/parts work.
I work with individuals and couples seeking positive changes and healing in their life. This includes addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. I help clients who are overwhelmed by distressing emotions, feeling trapped, and experiencing conflicts internally and in relationships. I support, guide, and educate clients, and help them find relief, joy, and purpose in living. Together, we work to build awareness and emotional resilience. Clients develop tangible coping skills while assessing their values and learning to care for what is most important, with renewed interest and appreciation.
![Photo of Karly Stuart Shreders - Shreders and Associates, PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1b73bdb-9935-4a0a-bea4-cce125cd806b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shreders and Associates, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
I specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for trauma related sessions.
I believe an individualized treatment plan tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, peer relationships, anger management, codependency, coping skills, eating disorders, grief, women’s issues, children, family conflict, gender identity, gender dysphoria, and military families. My belief is that therapy should be a positive experience of growth for each individual and I encourage clients to collaborate with me as treatment progresses.
I specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for trauma related sessions.
I believe an individualized treatment plan tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, peer relationships, anger management, codependency, coping skills, eating disorders, grief, women’s issues, children, family conflict, gender identity, gender dysphoria, and military families. My belief is that therapy should be a positive experience of growth for each individual and I encourage clients to collaborate with me as treatment progresses.
![Photo of Sonja Oshida, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79245119-ffd8-4fd3-84c6-c0d73d26cf42/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about utilizing EMDR to aid clients with healing from trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients via in office or statewide telehealth. I am passionate about working with people and aiding individuals in reaching their full potential with mental health and emotional wellbeing. I utilize problem-solving skills and incorporate creative, out-of-the-box thinking into all therapy sessions. I have both the skillset and academic background to guide clients to lead purposeful lives, attend to unique personal circumstances, enhance objective realization, and reach their many goals and undertakings.
I am passionate about utilizing EMDR to aid clients with healing from trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients via in office or statewide telehealth. I am passionate about working with people and aiding individuals in reaching their full potential with mental health and emotional wellbeing. I utilize problem-solving skills and incorporate creative, out-of-the-box thinking into all therapy sessions. I have both the skillset and academic background to guide clients to lead purposeful lives, attend to unique personal circumstances, enhance objective realization, and reach their many goals and undertakings.
![Photo of Dorrie Lombardi, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ae37176-0227-42ac-a53a-f4523757183c/1/320x400.png)
Some modalities I use in treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), person-centered therapy and mindfulness-based approaches.
Life is ever changing: new pressures, new demands, new life adventures and challenges. I believe in human resilience and our ability to take control of our lives. We all need support in processing our emotions and responses to these challenges. I pride myself with helping individuals learn to navigate these challenges and work through the various struggles. My approach to therapy is warm and empathetic. I emphasize building a trusting relationship with my clients in a non-judgmental environment. I trust that each client is an expert on themselves, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Some modalities I use in treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), person-centered therapy and mindfulness-based approaches.
Life is ever changing: new pressures, new demands, new life adventures and challenges. I believe in human resilience and our ability to take control of our lives. We all need support in processing our emotions and responses to these challenges. I pride myself with helping individuals learn to navigate these challenges and work through the various struggles. My approach to therapy is warm and empathetic. I emphasize building a trusting relationship with my clients in a non-judgmental environment. I trust that each client is an expert on themselves, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Christina M. Schultz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dca5028-70e0-4532-ad9e-581f6700a4bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina M. Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259 (Online Only)
Using a meaning-centered EMDR approach, I will help you process loss and trauma, reduce symptoms, while improving self-worth and coping.
Right now you’re struggling to find purpose in your daily life — feeling overwhelmed by grief or other role demands. You need a warm, safe environment to explore patterns that are holding you back and find ways of moving forward. While it’s easier to hide from what is causing you pain, by taking action now you will begin to understand who you are and what you want out of life. Regardless if you are a student, a stay-at-home mom, professional, or retired— you will learn new ways to cope with life — but most importantly learn to make positive changes toward greater life balance and acceptance, while creating meaning.
Using a meaning-centered EMDR approach, I will help you process loss and trauma, reduce symptoms, while improving self-worth and coping.
Right now you’re struggling to find purpose in your daily life — feeling overwhelmed by grief or other role demands. You need a warm, safe environment to explore patterns that are holding you back and find ways of moving forward. While it’s easier to hide from what is causing you pain, by taking action now you will begin to understand who you are and what you want out of life. Regardless if you are a student, a stay-at-home mom, professional, or retired— you will learn new ways to cope with life — but most importantly learn to make positive changes toward greater life balance and acceptance, while creating meaning.
![Photo of Elizabeth Messer, MACP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efdea979-64f6-4582-9197-cc0b8f57af88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Messer
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MACP
Verified Verified
Saint Johns, FL 32259
With advanced training in modalities such as Play Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I can effectively guide clients through their healing process.
I am a National Board-Certified Counselor with a comprehensive background in psychology, mental health support, and military leadership. My journey in mental health began with a profound passion for helping others navigate life's challenges in the Army, which led me to pursue a career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and client-centered focus to address various mental health issues. My experience spans individual counseling, group therapy, and specialized support for diverse populations, including veterans and LGBTQ+ individuals.
With advanced training in modalities such as Play Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I can effectively guide clients through their healing process.
I am a National Board-Certified Counselor with a comprehensive background in psychology, mental health support, and military leadership. My journey in mental health began with a profound passion for helping others navigate life's challenges in the Army, which led me to pursue a career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and client-centered focus to address various mental health issues. My experience spans individual counseling, group therapy, and specialized support for diverse populations, including veterans and LGBTQ+ individuals.
![Photo of Natalie Ward, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dd345af-ccb0-499b-8156-fdc8cf2d8633/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new clients! I am a down to earth therapist, who wants to help you during this time in your life. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and can treat symptoms such as depression, anxiety, OCD, history of abuse, managing stress, and effects of trauma. If this is your first time ever going through therapy I want to ensure that your are comfortable and feeling safe while we go through this together. You are not alone, and I would love to work with you!
I am accepting new clients! I am a down to earth therapist, who wants to help you during this time in your life. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and can treat symptoms such as depression, anxiety, OCD, history of abuse, managing stress, and effects of trauma. If this is your first time ever going through therapy I want to ensure that your are comfortable and feeling safe while we go through this together. You are not alone, and I would love to work with you!
![Photo of Kristen Cleary, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/348cf1ef-6409-461a-917f-e90a91a931bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Cleary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Hi, I appreciate you taking the time and considering me to be part of your journey. Finding the right therapist can feel like an overwhelming task. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem, or life’s everyday struggles. I utilize evidenced-based theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused modalities, and a strength-based approach to help my clients create and achieve their goals.
Hi, I appreciate you taking the time and considering me to be part of your journey. Finding the right therapist can feel like an overwhelming task. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem, or life’s everyday struggles. I utilize evidenced-based theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused modalities, and a strength-based approach to help my clients create and achieve their goals.
![Photo of Jeannie Mitchell - EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cd24499-7fb5-4b26-94a4-dba103cc02ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
The therapists and nurse practitioners at EMDR Trauma Therapy Center are highly trained in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias either online or in person. We treat adults, adolescents, and special populations such as veterans, first responders, and professionals. Our highly trained medication providers and therapists specialize in treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, and many others. You can express yourself in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to overcome adversities & manage symptoms. Virtual evening appointments are available.
The therapists and nurse practitioners at EMDR Trauma Therapy Center are highly trained in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias either online or in person. We treat adults, adolescents, and special populations such as veterans, first responders, and professionals. Our highly trained medication providers and therapists specialize in treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, and many others. You can express yourself in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to overcome adversities & manage symptoms. Virtual evening appointments are available.
![Photo of Shanti Hollis, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37ffb1e2-5a98-4f7f-90f6-010106ec11c4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shanti Hollis
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a highly effective, research-based approach.
Hello, I’m Shanti, a therapist specializing in helping adult women free themselves from the burdens of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate daily life while managing intense emotions and thoughts, and I want you to know that I’m here to support you with compassion and care.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a highly effective, research-based approach.
Hello, I’m Shanti, a therapist specializing in helping adult women free themselves from the burdens of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate daily life while managing intense emotions and thoughts, and I want you to know that I’m here to support you with compassion and care.
See more therapy options for Fruit Cove
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Fruit Cove
- Atlantic Beach
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- Middleburg
- Neptune Beach
- Orange Park
- Ponte Vedra
- Ponte Vedra Beach
- Saint Johns
- Town Of Nocatee
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.