EMDR Therapists in Greenacres, FL

Photo of Jennifer Garcia, LMHC , Counselor
Jennifer Garcia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Greenacres, FL 33467
Jennifer Garcia is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a specialization in trauma-informed care, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), couples counseling, family therapy, and women's issues. With a specialty in online EMDR, Jennifer employs a holistic treatment approach, crafting attainable goals that deeply connect with her patients on a therapeutic level. She is committed to helping individuals and families achieve tangible results and lasting change through counseling.
Jennifer Garcia is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a specialization in trauma-informed care, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), couples counseling, family therapy, and women's issues. With a specialty in online EMDR, Jennifer employs a holistic treatment approach, crafting attainable goals that deeply connect with her patients on a therapeutic level. She is committed to helping individuals and families achieve tangible results and lasting change through counseling.
(561) 510-7664 View (561) 510-7664
Photo of Elizabeth R Charles - ERMC Counseling Services, LMHC, MFT, Counselor
ERMC Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC, MFT
Verified Verified
Greenacres, FL 33463
Who We Are: We are an intimately diverse and rich group, which consists of a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with training in Marriage and Family Therapy, as well as EMDR, two Licensed Clinical Social Workers, a Mater's Level Therapist, Case Manager, and Psychiatrist. As an LMHC, I use EMDR to help clients move from frozen in time to a more adaptive self following traumatic experiences. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to persons who are at emotional, behavioral, psychiatric, and substance abuse related risks. I am a Qualified supervisor to MFT and MHC Interns.
Who We Are: We are an intimately diverse and rich group, which consists of a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with training in Marriage and Family Therapy, as well as EMDR, two Licensed Clinical Social Workers, a Mater's Level Therapist, Case Manager, and Psychiatrist. As an LMHC, I use EMDR to help clients move from frozen in time to a more adaptive self following traumatic experiences. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to persons who are at emotional, behavioral, psychiatric, and substance abuse related risks. I am a Qualified supervisor to MFT and MHC Interns.
(561) 286-5340 View (561) 286-5340
Photo of Helya Ortiz, LMHC, Counselor
Helya Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33467
I specialize in evidence-based treatments for trauma, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I am a licensed mental health therapist who is passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. I am committed to tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. I work with young children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family sessions.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments for trauma, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I am a licensed mental health therapist who is passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. I am committed to tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. I work with young children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family sessions.
(561) 816-3414 View (561) 816-3414
Photo of Helya Ortiz - Center for Trauma Counseling, Inc., MS, LMHC, Counselor
Center for Trauma Counseling, Inc.
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33467
Have you been thinking about seeing a therapist to ease emotional distress? Our therapists at Center for Trauma Counseling can help you overcome any obstacles to seeking help, meet your goals, and start your journey to emotional healing today. We work with young children, families, adolescents, and adults. We tailor our treatment approach to meet our clients' individual needs. We believe that by providing a safe compassionate space and effective tools, clients can resolve problems and find answers. We have highly qualified professionals including registered Play Therapists and Certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)therapists on staff.
Have you been thinking about seeing a therapist to ease emotional distress? Our therapists at Center for Trauma Counseling can help you overcome any obstacles to seeking help, meet your goals, and start your journey to emotional healing today. We work with young children, families, adolescents, and adults. We tailor our treatment approach to meet our clients' individual needs. We believe that by providing a safe compassionate space and effective tools, clients can resolve problems and find answers. We have highly qualified professionals including registered Play Therapists and Certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)therapists on staff.
(561) 666-9037 View (561) 666-9037
Photo of Courtney Macon-Arnold, LMHC, Counselor
Courtney Macon-Arnold
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33415
I use an integrative approach to therapy blending elements from different concepts and tailoring them to meet your individual needs including client centered therapy,Trauma/EMDR, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, motivational interviewing, assertiveness training, and life coaching.
Hi! My name is Courtney and I am a believer in restoration, healing, and positive change. My approach is adaptable and diverse with an emphasis on life change and what works best for you. I provide a curative space free of judgement, in which you can share your thoughts and feelings. I take a team approach to the therapy process and will provide guidance as we problem solve together. I have a master's degree from Troy University and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. My experience over the last 19 years includes substance abuse, children and families, adolescent, teens, and adults at a private practice.
I use an integrative approach to therapy blending elements from different concepts and tailoring them to meet your individual needs including client centered therapy,Trauma/EMDR, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, motivational interviewing, assertiveness training, and life coaching.
Hi! My name is Courtney and I am a believer in restoration, healing, and positive change. My approach is adaptable and diverse with an emphasis on life change and what works best for you. I provide a curative space free of judgement, in which you can share your thoughts and feelings. I take a team approach to the therapy process and will provide guidance as we problem solve together. I have a master's degree from Troy University and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. My experience over the last 19 years includes substance abuse, children and families, adolescent, teens, and adults at a private practice.
(954) 738-1850 View (954) 738-1850
Photo of Joshua Weaver Lake Worth Psychiatry, LMHC, Counselor
Joshua Weaver Lake Worth Psychiatry
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33463
I am a trained EMDR practitioner as well as a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional.
From an early age, I’ve known what it’s like to face adversity. I beat childhood cancer twice and in recent years dealt with a brain tumor. As a survivor of many serious health diagnoses, I’ve made it my life’s work to help others overcome their own challenges. I began my career serving clients through nonprofit work, specializing in treating severe and persistent mental illness including Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder as well as substance abuse. These continue to be my areas of expertise.
I am a trained EMDR practitioner as well as a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional.
From an early age, I’ve known what it’s like to face adversity. I beat childhood cancer twice and in recent years dealt with a brain tumor. As a survivor of many serious health diagnoses, I’ve made it my life’s work to help others overcome their own challenges. I began my career serving clients through nonprofit work, specializing in treating severe and persistent mental illness including Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder as well as substance abuse. These continue to be my areas of expertise.
(954) 231-2170 View (954) 231-2170
Photo of Lizzette Mambru, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lizzette Mambru
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33463
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing): Proficiency in EMDR, a therapeutic approach that addresses trauma and emotional distress through eye movement.
Throughout my years of experience, I have assisted clients in overcoming various challenges. From managing stress and navigating life transitions to addressing depression, anxiety, and perinatal and postpartum depression, I have the knowledge and expertise to guide you towards a path of healing and growth. You don't have to face these difficulties alone. Together, we can work towards positive change and create a life of resilience, strength, and well-being. Reach out to me today to begin your transformative journey.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing): Proficiency in EMDR, a therapeutic approach that addresses trauma and emotional distress through eye movement.
Throughout my years of experience, I have assisted clients in overcoming various challenges. From managing stress and navigating life transitions to addressing depression, anxiety, and perinatal and postpartum depression, I have the knowledge and expertise to guide you towards a path of healing and growth. You don't have to face these difficulties alone. Together, we can work towards positive change and create a life of resilience, strength, and well-being. Reach out to me today to begin your transformative journey.
(561) 220-4594 View (561) 220-4594
Photo of Keisha Dwynette Henry, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keisha Dwynette Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33463
I treat a range of client issues including anxiety and depression; and PTSD disorders primarily among women and adolescents with specialized training in trauma recovery, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) CBT, and DBT.
"What resist persists!" Are you tired of going it alone? Are you tired of carrying the same baggage around? Perhaps you have seen a few therapists before. Together we can create and keep that change you desire. Help, support and guidance is available! Are you concerned about your TEEN? Parenting today can be overwhelming and challenging as a result of modern pressures, demands, and influences, such as social media, and negative peer pressure. We can help!
I treat a range of client issues including anxiety and depression; and PTSD disorders primarily among women and adolescents with specialized training in trauma recovery, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) CBT, and DBT.
"What resist persists!" Are you tired of going it alone? Are you tired of carrying the same baggage around? Perhaps you have seen a few therapists before. Together we can create and keep that change you desire. Help, support and guidance is available! Are you concerned about your TEEN? Parenting today can be overwhelming and challenging as a result of modern pressures, demands, and influences, such as social media, and negative peer pressure. We can help!
(561) 910-0582 View (561) 910-0582
Photo of Justin Grossmayer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Grossmayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33467
Change can occur and growth can happen. The key is to have the motivation to put in the work, a support system to help you along the journey, and to believe in the process. My name is Justin Grossmayer and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Qualified Supervisor. I have had the privilege in my career to work with children through elders and in all different settings. I am a firm believer that anything is possible if the mind is focused on the goal and the drive is there to seize the moments.
Change can occur and growth can happen. The key is to have the motivation to put in the work, a support system to help you along the journey, and to believe in the process. My name is Justin Grossmayer and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Qualified Supervisor. I have had the privilege in my career to work with children through elders and in all different settings. I am a firm believer that anything is possible if the mind is focused on the goal and the drive is there to seize the moments.
(561) 440-1467 View (561) 440-1467
Photo of Keren Gonzalez - Chesed Counseling, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keren Gonzalez - Chesed Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Greenacres, FL 33413
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! If you are reading this, you've taken a huge leap and you have shown courage because you're here, looking into therapy. Thank you for considering me to partner with you on this journey. click on the website link to book a session at your convenience. -> Hola! Gracias por tomar un momento para considerar trabajar juntxs. Seria un placer emprender este jornada contigo. Puedes usar el enlace de sitio web para fijar una cita de 15 minutos a una hora conveniente y conversar acerca de las metas que queries lograr con psychoterapia.
Hi there! If you are reading this, you've taken a huge leap and you have shown courage because you're here, looking into therapy. Thank you for considering me to partner with you on this journey. click on the website link to book a session at your convenience. -> Hola! Gracias por tomar un momento para considerar trabajar juntxs. Seria un placer emprender este jornada contigo. Puedes usar el enlace de sitio web para fijar una cita de 15 minutos a una hora conveniente y conversar acerca de las metas que queries lograr con psychoterapia.
(561) 783-4414 View (561) 783-4414
Photo of Lina Valery, LMHC, EMDR
Lina Valery
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenacres, FL 33467  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in couples counseling, EMDR trauma interventions, and implement nature/eco therapy to create mindful healing.
My approach to counseling is mainly from a person-centered, non-authoritative style that allows clients to process, discover, and find their own solutions. By fostering a non-judgmental space; clients are met where they are and viewed as the experts in their lives. Through various evidence based techniques of counseling, clients are empowered to challenge internal thinking processes and motivated to create positive change. As clients discover how to utilize their inner strengths to bring about these transformations, autonomy increases, and independence is fortified.
I specialize in couples counseling, EMDR trauma interventions, and implement nature/eco therapy to create mindful healing.
My approach to counseling is mainly from a person-centered, non-authoritative style that allows clients to process, discover, and find their own solutions. By fostering a non-judgmental space; clients are met where they are and viewed as the experts in their lives. Through various evidence based techniques of counseling, clients are empowered to challenge internal thinking processes and motivated to create positive change. As clients discover how to utilize their inner strengths to bring about these transformations, autonomy increases, and independence is fortified.
(561) 861-1483 View (561) 861-1483

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debra Fischer - Thriveworks Counseling&Psychiatry West Palm Beach, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling&Psychiatry West Palm Beach
Counselor
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33415
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.
(561) 240-6426 View (561) 240-6426
Elcie Ardain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Worth, FL 33467
My treatment modalities include EMDR, which I have extensive training in.
When human beings experience truama or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My passion is working with people to bring healing from situational /events that have affected their lives. I work with adolescence and adults to find a healthy perception of themselves and streghten their relationship with others.
My treatment modalities include EMDR, which I have extensive training in.
When human beings experience truama or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My passion is working with people to bring healing from situational /events that have affected their lives. I work with adolescence and adults to find a healthy perception of themselves and streghten their relationship with others.
(561) 867-2928 View (561) 867-2928
Photo of Victoria Naginsky, MS, NCC, LMHC, Counselor
Victoria Naginsky
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lake Worth, FL 33467  (Online Only)
Welcome! Something in your life has initiated this search for support and you have come to the right place. I applaud you. My name is Victoria, and I am both a licensed professional therapist and a Nationally Certified Counselor in the state of Florida. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including substance abuse, depression and anxiety, family conflict, trauma, stress-related issues, communication challenges, self-esteem, and many more. I have extensive experience working with Trauma and am trained in providing CBT, DBT and EMDR therapy.
Welcome! Something in your life has initiated this search for support and you have come to the right place. I applaud you. My name is Victoria, and I am both a licensed professional therapist and a Nationally Certified Counselor in the state of Florida. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including substance abuse, depression and anxiety, family conflict, trauma, stress-related issues, communication challenges, self-esteem, and many more. I have extensive experience working with Trauma and am trained in providing CBT, DBT and EMDR therapy.
(844) 563-8026 View (844) 563-8026
Photo of Aalysha Gonzalez @ Inspired Strength Counseling, MS, LMHC, QS
Aalysha Gonzalez @ Inspired Strength Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406  (Online Only)
I use well-studied and effective therapies, including CBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness.
Have you experienced trauma in the past, and wonder how much this impacts your daily life, relationships, and goals now? If you are experiencing depression, low self-esteem, difficulty controlling anger, or sleep or concentration issues, trauma may be the root concern. Maybe the critic in your head beats you up over the smallest mistakes. You doubt yourself, procrastinate, and avoid facing the day. You want to imagine a day when you are able to think freely without worry; a day when you wake up feeling energized, pain-free, and fulfilled. I'd like to help you move into your potential and experience your passions full-throttle.
I use well-studied and effective therapies, including CBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness.
Have you experienced trauma in the past, and wonder how much this impacts your daily life, relationships, and goals now? If you are experiencing depression, low self-esteem, difficulty controlling anger, or sleep or concentration issues, trauma may be the root concern. Maybe the critic in your head beats you up over the smallest mistakes. You doubt yourself, procrastinate, and avoid facing the day. You want to imagine a day when you are able to think freely without worry; a day when you wake up feeling energized, pain-free, and fulfilled. I'd like to help you move into your potential and experience your passions full-throttle.
(561) 423-1844 View (561) 423-1844
Photo of Denny J Cecil-Van Den Heuvel, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, QS, Counselor
Denny J Cecil-Van Den Heuvel
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33406
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting are used for treatment of shock trauma.
In treating those in need of mental wellness, numerous approaches are utilized such as: Person-Centered Therapy, Family Systems, Emotional Focused Therapy, Neuroaffective Relational Therapy (NARM), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Areas treated in the past include: anxiety, depression, addiction, depression, sexual abuse, shock/developmental trauma and grief/loss. Therapeutic interventions used include EMDR, Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and NARM. As of November 2019, certified NeuroAffective Relational Model Therapy (NARM) that treats Developmental Trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting are used for treatment of shock trauma.
In treating those in need of mental wellness, numerous approaches are utilized such as: Person-Centered Therapy, Family Systems, Emotional Focused Therapy, Neuroaffective Relational Therapy (NARM), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Areas treated in the past include: anxiety, depression, addiction, depression, sexual abuse, shock/developmental trauma and grief/loss. Therapeutic interventions used include EMDR, Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and NARM. As of November 2019, certified NeuroAffective Relational Model Therapy (NARM) that treats Developmental Trauma.
(561) 532-1403 View (561) 532-1403
Photo of Stacy Jo Poffenbarger, MA, RMHCI, CAP, ICADC, CET, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Stacy Jo Poffenbarger
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, RMHCI, CAP, ICADC, CET
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
An ideal client is anyone who shows up at your door understanding that something in their life is not working the way they want it to and having the desire to change that. I have been working in the substance abuse and mental health field for over a decade and have encountered many people with many different life situations and stories. Each person is unique and I believe that once we identify the core issue, we are well on our way to removing the block and creating the life a client truly desires. I use talk therapy along with EMDR to assist clients in achieving the goals they have set for themselves.
An ideal client is anyone who shows up at your door understanding that something in their life is not working the way they want it to and having the desire to change that. I have been working in the substance abuse and mental health field for over a decade and have encountered many people with many different life situations and stories. Each person is unique and I believe that once we identify the core issue, we are well on our way to removing the block and creating the life a client truly desires. I use talk therapy along with EMDR to assist clients in achieving the goals they have set for themselves.
(561) 440-6095 View (561) 440-6095
Photo of Claudia Rodrigues, LMHC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Claudia Rodrigues
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461
My approach combines the principles of IFS with other evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, to support clients in their healing journey.
I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. I believe that each person possesses an internal system composed of different parts, each with its own unique thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through the gentle exploration of these parts, clients can begin to understand their inner dynamics and develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. I guide clients in identifying and healing wounded parts while fostering a connection with their core Self, which is inherently wise, compassionate, and resilient.
My approach combines the principles of IFS with other evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, to support clients in their healing journey.
I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. I believe that each person possesses an internal system composed of different parts, each with its own unique thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through the gentle exploration of these parts, clients can begin to understand their inner dynamics and develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. I guide clients in identifying and healing wounded parts while fostering a connection with their core Self, which is inherently wise, compassionate, and resilient.
(561) 660-9080 View (561) 660-9080
Photo of Heidy Garcia, LMHC, IMH-E
Heidy Garcia
LMHC, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406
I offer EMDR, a modality which is very effective for people like you.
You’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. Often you don’t feel good enough. You aren’t as confident as you’d like to be. You're struggling with your emotions and feel like you can’t cope with the stress in your life. It’s painful to not feel in control of your emotions. Negative thoughts make it hard to feel good about yourself, your relationships, and your outlook on life. Imagine how different it would be if you freed yourself from those feelings.
I offer EMDR, a modality which is very effective for people like you.
You’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. Often you don’t feel good enough. You aren’t as confident as you’d like to be. You're struggling with your emotions and feel like you can’t cope with the stress in your life. It’s painful to not feel in control of your emotions. Negative thoughts make it hard to feel good about yourself, your relationships, and your outlook on life. Imagine how different it would be if you freed yourself from those feelings.
(772) 218-7397 View (772) 218-7397
Photo of Adam Colling, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, Counselor
Adam Colling
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Worth, FL 33461
I'm a licensed Counseling Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I've worked in churches, mental health agencies, addiction treatment centers, group practices and my own private practice. I am further certified in EMDR trauma therapy and am currently working towards certification in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Over the years, I believe working with you in healing the root shame that has negatively impacted your view of yourself or others can completely transform your life.
I'm a licensed Counseling Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I've worked in churches, mental health agencies, addiction treatment centers, group practices and my own private practice. I am further certified in EMDR trauma therapy and am currently working towards certification in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Over the years, I believe working with you in healing the root shame that has negatively impacted your view of yourself or others can completely transform your life.
(561) 375-5184 View (561) 375-5184
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.