EMDR Therapists in Hallandale, FL

Photo of Tamela Mcdonald, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamela Mcdonald
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hallandale, FL 33009  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am Tamela R. McDonald; I am glad that you are here and look forward to working with you! I have over 10 years' experience as a therapist; over 20 years' experience as a sexuality educator and as a graduate of Troy University specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). In sexuality studies: I am currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of expertise are Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, and Sexual dysfunction.
Greetings! I am Tamela R. McDonald; I am glad that you are here and look forward to working with you! I have over 10 years' experience as a therapist; over 20 years' experience as a sexuality educator and as a graduate of Troy University specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). In sexuality studies: I am currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of expertise are Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, and Sexual dysfunction.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Martha Samuel, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Martha Samuel
MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hallandale, FL 33008
I specialize in couples counseling, trauma, and reparenting yourself; I am also a hypnosis practitioner as well as EMDR.
I understand your pain. Many times I’ve experienced that negative internal monologue that spirals out of control and impairs my ability to function emotionally effectively. Needless to say, I’ve done and continue to do my share of inner work to achieve my greatest potential. I have struggled with feelings of clarity and inability to connect with myself; that’s why I understand your pain.
I specialize in couples counseling, trauma, and reparenting yourself; I am also a hypnosis practitioner as well as EMDR.
I understand your pain. Many times I’ve experienced that negative internal monologue that spirals out of control and impairs my ability to function emotionally effectively. Needless to say, I’ve done and continue to do my share of inner work to achieve my greatest potential. I have struggled with feelings of clarity and inability to connect with myself; that’s why I understand your pain.
(954) 807-3087 View (954) 807-3087
Photo of Howard Chusid, EdD, LMHC, NCC, MAC, Counselor
Howard Chusid
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hallandale, FL 33009
In the Hallandale office, we see school age children through elder adults and treat depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, kid's frustration with school and parent's frustration with kids. I also work with Family Mediation and Divorce, and parents who are having a hard time with each other. In both the Hallandale and Coral Springs office's, I focus on PTSD in veterans who are graduates of Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan and other war torn areas, Trauma victims from many causes also benefit from using Reset Therapy.
In the Hallandale office, we see school age children through elder adults and treat depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, kid's frustration with school and parent's frustration with kids. I also work with Family Mediation and Divorce, and parents who are having a hard time with each other. In both the Hallandale and Coral Springs office's, I focus on PTSD in veterans who are graduates of Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan and other war torn areas, Trauma victims from many causes also benefit from using Reset Therapy.
(954) 687-0708 View (954) 687-0708
Photo of Patricia Jaegerman, PsyD, Psychologist
Patricia Jaegerman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hallandale, FL 33008
Psychotherapy provides a safe and supportive environment to achieve your highest potential. In therapy, you discover new ways of coping, different points of view, hidden strengths, and an improved outlook on life. Life is filled with the need to change and adapt to new circumstances. Some changes, like marriage, parenting, graduation, and moves, are expected, while events like loss, separation, trauma, and illness are unexpected and more difficult to overcome. Psychotherapy will help you find a new outlook, discover strengths, address difficulties with different tools, and apply the new experiences to future challenges.
Psychotherapy provides a safe and supportive environment to achieve your highest potential. In therapy, you discover new ways of coping, different points of view, hidden strengths, and an improved outlook on life. Life is filled with the need to change and adapt to new circumstances. Some changes, like marriage, parenting, graduation, and moves, are expected, while events like loss, separation, trauma, and illness are unexpected and more difficult to overcome. Psychotherapy will help you find a new outlook, discover strengths, address difficulties with different tools, and apply the new experiences to future challenges.
(954) 283-7683 View (954) 283-7683
Photo of Marihelena Noguera, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Marihelena Noguera
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Hallandale, FL 33009  (Online Only)
I help adults uncover the challenges that are holding them back from living an optimal balanced life. Whether personal or professional, my services help to discover solutions to overcome obstacles and emotional discomfort.
I help adults uncover the challenges that are holding them back from living an optimal balanced life. Whether personal or professional, my services help to discover solutions to overcome obstacles and emotional discomfort.
(321) 282-2202 View (321) 282-2202
Photo of Alessana Fordin - Lotus Counseling Center, MS, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Lotus Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, PhD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hallandale, FL 33009
At Lotus Counseling Center, located in Aventura, we understand the challenges you may be facing with relationship issues, the yearning for life changes, or the battle against depression, anxiety, and anger management. Our team of psychotherapists is here to help you uncover the obstacles that prevent you from leading a life full of satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. We offer a holistic and personalized therapy approach designed just for you. For more details on how we can support your journey towards well-being, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
At Lotus Counseling Center, located in Aventura, we understand the challenges you may be facing with relationship issues, the yearning for life changes, or the battle against depression, anxiety, and anger management. Our team of psychotherapists is here to help you uncover the obstacles that prevent you from leading a life full of satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. We offer a holistic and personalized therapy approach designed just for you. For more details on how we can support your journey towards well-being, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(786) 563-4810 View (786) 563-4810

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leigh Ojeda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Ojeda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33022
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and trained and pursing certificaiton in EMDR.
Mindful Lotus Therapy, Inc is dedicated to helping people struggling with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Death and Dying and Life Stressors. We offer hope, compassion, mindfulness and healing to help with all of life's challenges. I am here to support and guide you in your healing journey. In addition to my 17 years in hospice, I am trained and pursuing certification in EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I am also trained in DBT and CBT skills. Please reach out and schedule with me and we can begin working toward a more mindful and peaceful life.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and trained and pursing certificaiton in EMDR.
Mindful Lotus Therapy, Inc is dedicated to helping people struggling with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Death and Dying and Life Stressors. We offer hope, compassion, mindfulness and healing to help with all of life's challenges. I am here to support and guide you in your healing journey. In addition to my 17 years in hospice, I am trained and pursuing certification in EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I am also trained in DBT and CBT skills. Please reach out and schedule with me and we can begin working toward a more mindful and peaceful life.
(954) 710-5131 View (954) 710-5131
Photo of Karen Cease, MA, LMHC, CAP, CEAP, SAP, Counselor
Karen Cease
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33019
Karen Cease,MA,LMHC,CAP,CEAP,SAP,specializes in treatment of stress,anxiety,panic disorder, fear of flying,depression,all addictions,anger management,workplace issues,grief,post-traumatic stress disorder/trauma,marital counseling, EMDR,DOT SAP evaluations. and DUI counseling. Ms. Cease has conducted over 800 critical incident debriefs in the last 15 years with strong multicultural expertise and experience as the president of the South Florida Employee Assistance Professionals Chapter.Please call the office for any questions.Hours of operation are 10 a.m - 8 p.m Monday thru Friday and Saturday fron 10 am. - 5 p.m.
Karen Cease,MA,LMHC,CAP,CEAP,SAP,specializes in treatment of stress,anxiety,panic disorder, fear of flying,depression,all addictions,anger management,workplace issues,grief,post-traumatic stress disorder/trauma,marital counseling, EMDR,DOT SAP evaluations. and DUI counseling. Ms. Cease has conducted over 800 critical incident debriefs in the last 15 years with strong multicultural expertise and experience as the president of the South Florida Employee Assistance Professionals Chapter.Please call the office for any questions.Hours of operation are 10 a.m - 8 p.m Monday thru Friday and Saturday fron 10 am. - 5 p.m.
(954) 501-0175 View (954) 501-0175
Photo of Limor Grinberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Limor Grinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180  (Online Only)
As an EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in alleviating the distress associated with traumatic memories.
I am committed to helping individuals find inner peace and well-being. My approach offers a compassionate and supportive space where we can collaboratively explore the underlying causes of your challenges. By examining life patterns and understanding your emotions, we can develop effective strategies to alleviate symptoms and foster lasting change. With extensive experience in overcoming life obstacles and interpersonal difficulties, I am dedicated to empowering clients to build resilience and achieve their full potential
As an EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in alleviating the distress associated with traumatic memories.
I am committed to helping individuals find inner peace and well-being. My approach offers a compassionate and supportive space where we can collaboratively explore the underlying causes of your challenges. By examining life patterns and understanding your emotions, we can develop effective strategies to alleviate symptoms and foster lasting change. With extensive experience in overcoming life obstacles and interpersonal difficulties, I am dedicated to empowering clients to build resilience and achieve their full potential
(954) 231-1058 View (954) 231-1058
Photo of Jennifer Williams, LMHC
Jennifer Williams
LMHC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33020  (Online Only)
In an effort to give the best practice to my clients, I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and other types of therapy.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with diverse individuals in the community, private practice, and residential substance abuse treatment. Never in a million years did I ever think providing counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups, would be the career to captivate my heart….but it is! My specialties are working with clients who may have life struggles stemming from traumatic incidents, substance abuse, various forms of anxiety (PTSD, stress disorders), depression, and self-esteem.
In an effort to give the best practice to my clients, I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and other types of therapy.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with diverse individuals in the community, private practice, and residential substance abuse treatment. Never in a million years did I ever think providing counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups, would be the career to captivate my heart….but it is! My specialties are working with clients who may have life struggles stemming from traumatic incidents, substance abuse, various forms of anxiety (PTSD, stress disorders), depression, and self-esteem.
(754) 399-3415 View (754) 399-3415
Photo of Mendel Toron, LCSW-QS, CCTP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mendel Toron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33180
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR-Certified Consultant, our practice brings a variety of trauma-based tools into the healing process.
Psychological healing requires specialized and expert care. Our emotional wounds appear as anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship challenges, and more. By addressing our challenges, we are one step closer to aligning our life and our overall wellbeing. In our trusted therapeutic space, we help clients access their internal wisdom and bring about this transformational work.
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR-Certified Consultant, our practice brings a variety of trauma-based tools into the healing process.
Psychological healing requires specialized and expert care. Our emotional wounds appear as anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship challenges, and more. By addressing our challenges, we are one step closer to aligning our life and our overall wellbeing. In our trusted therapeutic space, we help clients access their internal wisdom and bring about this transformational work.
(954) 466-4443 View (954) 466-4443
Photo of Elia Khalaf - Blooming Psychotherapy, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Blooming Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33019
Did your past leave scars that affect your present? Do you feel stuck, “on the run”, or just numb? Have you experienced oppression based on your gender, sexuality, or ethnicity? Here's how I can help: I provide a person-centered process that tackles current difficulties while exploring deeper experiences where issues are rooted so that you can find meaning and feel empowered. As an integrative psychotherapist, I work at the intersection of western psychology and eastern practices, bringing a variety of tools—talk, EMDR, mindfulness, art therapies, and CBT.
Did your past leave scars that affect your present? Do you feel stuck, “on the run”, or just numb? Have you experienced oppression based on your gender, sexuality, or ethnicity? Here's how I can help: I provide a person-centered process that tackles current difficulties while exploring deeper experiences where issues are rooted so that you can find meaning and feel empowered. As an integrative psychotherapist, I work at the intersection of western psychology and eastern practices, bringing a variety of tools—talk, EMDR, mindfulness, art therapies, and CBT.
(786) 244-7259 View (786) 244-7259
Photo of Livia Perez, PsyD, MS, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Livia Perez
Counselor, PsyD, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
I specialize in EMDR to treat different traumas including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
Every patient should be treated as exceptional, and the treatment should be structured and implemented accordingly. Personalizing the treatment is key for a genuine healing combined with a holistic approach that allows a more integrative treatment . Psychotherapy is not just for the mind, but also for the body, heart, and soul.
I specialize in EMDR to treat different traumas including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
Every patient should be treated as exceptional, and the treatment should be structured and implemented accordingly. Personalizing the treatment is key for a genuine healing combined with a holistic approach that allows a more integrative treatment . Psychotherapy is not just for the mind, but also for the body, heart, and soul.
(786) 837-5946 View (786) 837-5946
Photo of David Ettinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Ettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180
I also specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR), a leading treatments for PTSD as recognized by the World Health Organization.
It's difficult making the first phone call, booking an appointment and admitting you need help. Whether it's depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or trauma, it's frightening to admit that everything isn't how you want it to be and you don't have all the answers. If you're experiencing sadness, anxiety, mood swings, intrusive thoughts or images, flash backs, numbness or insomnia, there is hope and there is help. I'm going to teach you skills to manage you symptoms, emotions and relationships more effectively.
I also specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR), a leading treatments for PTSD as recognized by the World Health Organization.
It's difficult making the first phone call, booking an appointment and admitting you need help. Whether it's depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or trauma, it's frightening to admit that everything isn't how you want it to be and you don't have all the answers. If you're experiencing sadness, anxiety, mood swings, intrusive thoughts or images, flash backs, numbness or insomnia, there is hope and there is help. I'm going to teach you skills to manage you symptoms, emotions and relationships more effectively.
(973) 775-9867 View (973) 775-9867
Photo of Anna Kirakosian, PhD, LMHC
Anna Kirakosian
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hollywood, FL 33020  (Online Only)
I combine system approach and EMDR.
I am one of those therapists who use their natural empathy and heartiness together with the professional skills on the sessions. I believe this is possible and increase the effectiveness and I care about my clients. I work with the following issues: self grow and personal development; trauma and PTSD; uncomfortable emotional state, including depression, anxiety; marital disharmony, conflicts, adultery; going through life crisis; relationship or family issues; sexual disharmony; conflicts at home or work; psychological issues in childhood and adolescents; parent-child conflicts, moving to another country and adaptation.
I combine system approach and EMDR.
I am one of those therapists who use their natural empathy and heartiness together with the professional skills on the sessions. I believe this is possible and increase the effectiveness and I care about my clients. I work with the following issues: self grow and personal development; trauma and PTSD; uncomfortable emotional state, including depression, anxiety; marital disharmony, conflicts, adultery; going through life crisis; relationship or family issues; sexual disharmony; conflicts at home or work; psychological issues in childhood and adolescents; parent-child conflicts, moving to another country and adaptation.
(561) 556-3697 View (561) 556-3697
Photo of Fernanda Lewinsky, LMHC, QS, EMDR, Counselor
Fernanda Lewinsky
Counselor, LMHC, QS, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180
I am EMDR trained with years of experience addressing issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, addiction, trauma, and interpersonal relationships, I work collaboratively with each individual to develop coping strategies and build resilience.
As an experienced and dedicated mental health professional, I specialize in working with adolescents to navigate the challenges of this critical stage in their lives. My approach to working with teens is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep appreciation for the complexities of adolescence. I recognize that this period of life is marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes, and I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where teenagers can express themselves freely.
I am EMDR trained with years of experience addressing issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, addiction, trauma, and interpersonal relationships, I work collaboratively with each individual to develop coping strategies and build resilience.
As an experienced and dedicated mental health professional, I specialize in working with adolescents to navigate the challenges of this critical stage in their lives. My approach to working with teens is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep appreciation for the complexities of adolescence. I recognize that this period of life is marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes, and I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where teenagers can express themselves freely.
(954) 719-0150 View (954) 719-0150
Photo of Randy Levine, PSY, PhD, Psychologist
Randy Levine
Psychologist, PSY, PhD
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33020  (Online Only)
Trained as a licensed Psychologist, I employ EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Spiritual approaches including prayer, meditation, and heart-based practices of opening to greater self-love, forgiveness, and compassion.
My mission is to help you overcome your current difficulties and achieve your goals. I have enjoyed working in clinical psychology for over 30 years. I offer affordable, caring counseling and therapy. Please call so we can discuss your needs. The ideal client would be motivated for change, willing to adopt spiritual practices, and open to discovering new possibilities. I believe symptoms are a doorway towards healing , love and peace which are available from the soul level in each client. Therapy assists you to release the blocks to love's awareness and to heal the traumatic memories from the past.
Trained as a licensed Psychologist, I employ EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Spiritual approaches including prayer, meditation, and heart-based practices of opening to greater self-love, forgiveness, and compassion.
My mission is to help you overcome your current difficulties and achieve your goals. I have enjoyed working in clinical psychology for over 30 years. I offer affordable, caring counseling and therapy. Please call so we can discuss your needs. The ideal client would be motivated for change, willing to adopt spiritual practices, and open to discovering new possibilities. I believe symptoms are a doorway towards healing , love and peace which are available from the soul level in each client. Therapy assists you to release the blocks to love's awareness and to heal the traumatic memories from the past.
(954) 371-0650 View (954) 371-0650
Photo of Bianca Lara, LMHC
Bianca Lara
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33180
I am trained in EMDR Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Caring for ourselves is similar to tending a garden. It should be looked after, nurtured, and maintained. Sometimes weeds creep in and prevent plants from growing; withering away what was once a beautiful garden. The same is true for the garden of our souls. As your therapist, I will provide a safe and supportive environment for you to heal and grow into the person you were created to be. I would be honored to walk alongside you to help you recover and improve your emotional and mental well-being.
I am trained in EMDR Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Caring for ourselves is similar to tending a garden. It should be looked after, nurtured, and maintained. Sometimes weeds creep in and prevent plants from growing; withering away what was once a beautiful garden. The same is true for the garden of our souls. As your therapist, I will provide a safe and supportive environment for you to heal and grow into the person you were created to be. I would be honored to walk alongside you to help you recover and improve your emotional and mental well-being.
(954) 287-4228 View (954) 287-4228
Photo of Kali Fabal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kali Fabal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33019  (Online Only)
With a strong background in trauma and EMDR, I work with clients from all walks of life.
As a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. My approach to therapy is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, and psychodynamic therapy, focusing on creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I believe that healing begins with self-awareness and that every individual has the capacity to grow and thrive.
With a strong background in trauma and EMDR, I work with clients from all walks of life.
As a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. My approach to therapy is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, and psychodynamic therapy, focusing on creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I believe that healing begins with self-awareness and that every individual has the capacity to grow and thrive.
(954) 738-8193 View (954) 738-8193
Photo of Gilda Schaffer Psyd, PsyD, LCPC, LMHC, BCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Gilda Schaffer Psyd
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LMHC, BCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Aventura, FL 33180
I am a Certified/ Approved Consultant in EMDR, an effective treatment for Trauma, perceived feelings of being "stuck" and Performance Empowerment.
I am a seasoned clinician with over 23 years of experience providing services to adolescents, adults and couples. Providing a warm, nurturing atmosphere where the person can feel safe and understood, I help my clients explore and understand how past/current issues are impacting and "coming in the way" of being able to fully enjoy life and set future attainable goals. We will address how certain emotions affect our way of thinking, performing and our capacity to feel "free". Since the mind and body are deeply and strongly connected, I consider the relationship between presenting issues, family history, current relationships and ongoing sources of stress.
I am a Certified/ Approved Consultant in EMDR, an effective treatment for Trauma, perceived feelings of being "stuck" and Performance Empowerment.
I am a seasoned clinician with over 23 years of experience providing services to adolescents, adults and couples. Providing a warm, nurturing atmosphere where the person can feel safe and understood, I help my clients explore and understand how past/current issues are impacting and "coming in the way" of being able to fully enjoy life and set future attainable goals. We will address how certain emotions affect our way of thinking, performing and our capacity to feel "free". Since the mind and body are deeply and strongly connected, I consider the relationship between presenting issues, family history, current relationships and ongoing sources of stress.
(786) 886-1919 View (786) 886-1919
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.