EMDR Therapists in Lutz, FL

Photo of Charmagne C Lundberg, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Charmagne C Lundberg
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33559
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy by the EMDR Institute, and an Integrative Mental Health Practitioner (using nutrition in mental health therapy).
I do not believe that we are meant to merely survive in life, but rather, THRIVE! However, things in life, from mere annoyances to severe traumas, can rob us of the joy, energy, hope, and love of life! My goal as a therapist is that through compassionate & active listening, guidance, education, support and encouragement, you and I together can work through these issues that are holding you back, and set you on a new path of growth, hope and healing.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy by the EMDR Institute, and an Integrative Mental Health Practitioner (using nutrition in mental health therapy).
I do not believe that we are meant to merely survive in life, but rather, THRIVE! However, things in life, from mere annoyances to severe traumas, can rob us of the joy, energy, hope, and love of life! My goal as a therapist is that through compassionate & active listening, guidance, education, support and encouragement, you and I together can work through these issues that are holding you back, and set you on a new path of growth, hope and healing.
(727) 240-3567 View (727) 240-3567
Photo of Tina Bilyeu, MA, RMHCI
Tina Bilyeu
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33559
Whether you are desiring to live to the fullest or learning to navigate unexpected life events, there is hope! My heart is for individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and low self-esteem. I have a passion to see women gain fresh insight, healing, and freedom to be their authentic selves after experiencing trauma. I'm EMDR trained, which I am passionate about. People can get fresh insight and healing through EMDR.
Whether you are desiring to live to the fullest or learning to navigate unexpected life events, there is hope! My heart is for individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and low self-esteem. I have a passion to see women gain fresh insight, healing, and freedom to be their authentic selves after experiencing trauma. I'm EMDR trained, which I am passionate about. People can get fresh insight and healing through EMDR.
(727) 855-3503 View (727) 855-3503
Photo of Chris M Meshula, LMHC, Counselor
Chris M Meshula
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33558
Using EMDR and emotional regulations skills I can help you to cut loose from the tethers holding you back from the life you deserve.
For more than 15 years I have been helping to change lives for the better. My philosophy is that the issues we face have origins in our past experiences. Therefore, there is hope for all of us to improve our lives. There are proven ways to reprogram our emotional states and our perspectives on life. I have gained skills for treating a wide variety of diagnoses and life situations affecting children and adults. I have a reputation for helping the most apprehensive people to trust the therapy process and find better outcomes.
Using EMDR and emotional regulations skills I can help you to cut loose from the tethers holding you back from the life you deserve.
For more than 15 years I have been helping to change lives for the better. My philosophy is that the issues we face have origins in our past experiences. Therefore, there is hope for all of us to improve our lives. There are proven ways to reprogram our emotional states and our perspectives on life. I have gained skills for treating a wide variety of diagnoses and life situations affecting children and adults. I have a reputation for helping the most apprehensive people to trust the therapy process and find better outcomes.
(813) 699-5714 View (813) 699-5714
Photo of Lisa Bentivenga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Bentivenga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33558
I teach coping skills, and I am in training for a certification in EMDR to treat those with trauma and many other issues.
Do you need help you with depression, anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, grief or something you can't even name? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you dealing with medical issues that greatly affect your life? Have you experienced something significantly stressful and need a safe person to talk to about it? Have you experienced trauma recently or in the past and need help getting past it? These and many other issues have brought people to my practice over the past 14 years. I am currently available for in-person sessions within two weeks, and I may be able to see you virtually sooner.
I teach coping skills, and I am in training for a certification in EMDR to treat those with trauma and many other issues.
Do you need help you with depression, anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, grief or something you can't even name? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you dealing with medical issues that greatly affect your life? Have you experienced something significantly stressful and need a safe person to talk to about it? Have you experienced trauma recently or in the past and need help getting past it? These and many other issues have brought people to my practice over the past 14 years. I am currently available for in-person sessions within two weeks, and I may be able to see you virtually sooner.
(813) 296-5228 View (813) 296-5228
Photo of Michelle Forester, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Forester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33548
I specialize in EMDR, CBT, DBT (mindfulness therapy), and harm reduction techniques.
As your therapist, I seek to address the root cause of your psychological symptoms and encourage healing, self-awareness, resilience, and self-empowerment. My approach is holistic, eclectic, direct, and collaborative. In the past, I have provided psychotherapeutic care in an inpatient psychiatric setting, the VA hospital, and have worked as a medical social worker in an ICU during the pandemic. I have also provided psychological services in public schools, skilled nursing facilities, and both the juvenile justice and adoption systems.
I specialize in EMDR, CBT, DBT (mindfulness therapy), and harm reduction techniques.
As your therapist, I seek to address the root cause of your psychological symptoms and encourage healing, self-awareness, resilience, and self-empowerment. My approach is holistic, eclectic, direct, and collaborative. In the past, I have provided psychotherapeutic care in an inpatient psychiatric setting, the VA hospital, and have worked as a medical social worker in an ICU during the pandemic. I have also provided psychological services in public schools, skilled nursing facilities, and both the juvenile justice and adoption systems.
(813) 607-6355 View (813) 607-6355
Photo of Crystal Macritchie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Macritchie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33558
I am deeply committed to continuing to update my counseling skills and have been trained in EMDR; Psychodrama; Art Therapy and Play Therapy.
Life, relationships, and making ends meet can be difficult even under the best of circumstances and we may find ourselves in situations in where our determination, knowledge and experience are not enough to create change. - this is a normal part of life. When we find ourselves in these types of situations, counseling can help to provide a safe and confidential environment where individuals and families can examine their perspective and find a solution to their problems.
I am deeply committed to continuing to update my counseling skills and have been trained in EMDR; Psychodrama; Art Therapy and Play Therapy.
Life, relationships, and making ends meet can be difficult even under the best of circumstances and we may find ourselves in situations in where our determination, knowledge and experience are not enough to create change. - this is a normal part of life. When we find ourselves in these types of situations, counseling can help to provide a safe and confidential environment where individuals and families can examine their perspective and find a solution to their problems.
(813) 536-6236 View (813) 536-6236
Doris Cheung
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33548
Hi! I am Doris Cheung. As a counselor, I am honored to support individuals experiencing difficulties and/or pursuing personal growth. Are you depressed? Anxious? Stressed out? I understand and want to help you learn mental health tools to support you in finding the joy and peace you desire. Have you lived through trauma and fear you’ll never be the person you were before the tragedy you suffered? Do you wonder if you’ve developed PTSD? I am here to walk with you on the path of recovery and am equipped with specialized training, such as EMDR, that can accelerate your healing.
Hi! I am Doris Cheung. As a counselor, I am honored to support individuals experiencing difficulties and/or pursuing personal growth. Are you depressed? Anxious? Stressed out? I understand and want to help you learn mental health tools to support you in finding the joy and peace you desire. Have you lived through trauma and fear you’ll never be the person you were before the tragedy you suffered? Do you wonder if you’ve developed PTSD? I am here to walk with you on the path of recovery and am equipped with specialized training, such as EMDR, that can accelerate your healing.
(813) 798-5208 View (813) 798-5208
Photo of April Covington, MA, LMHC, EMDR, CCTP
April Covington
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33548
As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I have witnessed healing from past traumas and attachment injuries.
Although I’ve climbed mountains in Hawaii with breathtaking views, nothing is more beautiful than seeing God’s work in someone’s story. I am honored to witness healing and changed lives daily. My approach to counseling begins with understanding my client’s beliefs and life experiences. We then collaborate to create personalized goals and solutions. I admire your bravery in reaching out for help and prioritizing your own overall wellbeing.
As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I have witnessed healing from past traumas and attachment injuries.
Although I’ve climbed mountains in Hawaii with breathtaking views, nothing is more beautiful than seeing God’s work in someone’s story. I am honored to witness healing and changed lives daily. My approach to counseling begins with understanding my client’s beliefs and life experiences. We then collaborate to create personalized goals and solutions. I admire your bravery in reaching out for help and prioritizing your own overall wellbeing.
(813) 219-8844 View (813) 219-8844
Photo of Karrissa Manchester, MA, LMHC, CIT, Counselor
Karrissa Manchester
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CIT
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33548
I am certified in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), an evidence-based approach that addresses trauma, distressing emotions, and negative beliefs.
Hello. :-) Ofrezco la terapia en español. My name is Karrissa Manchester and I provide counseling in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language. While I work with a wide population with various concerns, the majority of my work is geared toward helping people who are struggling with the effects of trauma, such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, codependency, negative thought patterns, sleep disturbance, and so much more. I not only help you build coping skills to decrease distress, but I also help you get to the root of your symptoms so that you will experience long-term relief.
I am certified in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), an evidence-based approach that addresses trauma, distressing emotions, and negative beliefs.
Hello. :-) Ofrezco la terapia en español. My name is Karrissa Manchester and I provide counseling in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language. While I work with a wide population with various concerns, the majority of my work is geared toward helping people who are struggling with the effects of trauma, such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, codependency, negative thought patterns, sleep disturbance, and so much more. I not only help you build coping skills to decrease distress, but I also help you get to the root of your symptoms so that you will experience long-term relief.
(813) 544-1822 View (813) 544-1822
Photo of Bay Area Clarity, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bay Area Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33559
Waitlist for new clients
Are you seeking counseling for the very first time? Or desiring different results? I am a licensed clinician specializing in the internationally renowned EMDR therapy as well as mind & body practices.
Would you like someone to talk to - completely without judgement or bias? To have a safe space for guidance? To gain a different perspective? Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is ideal for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be noted. Here, you are taking responsibility by accepting what you are experiencing and making a commitment to change something about it.
Are you seeking counseling for the very first time? Or desiring different results? I am a licensed clinician specializing in the internationally renowned EMDR therapy as well as mind & body practices.
Would you like someone to talk to - completely without judgement or bias? To have a safe space for guidance? To gain a different perspective? Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is ideal for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be noted. Here, you are taking responsibility by accepting what you are experiencing and making a commitment to change something about it.
(813) 501-6716 View (813) 501-6716
Photo of Vivian Abouallol, MSEd, LMHC, LCPC, EMDR, NPT-C, Counselor
Vivian Abouallol
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, LCPC, EMDR, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33548  (Online Only)
I treat trauma stress using trauma informed modalities EMDR and Accelerated Resolution therapy.
If you are facing a Trauma stress that is causing emotional distress, then I can help you. I am licensed mental health counselor, trauma informed counselor and EMDR practitioner. I have experience in treating Trauma, anxiety and relationship issues.
I treat trauma stress using trauma informed modalities EMDR and Accelerated Resolution therapy.
If you are facing a Trauma stress that is causing emotional distress, then I can help you. I am licensed mental health counselor, trauma informed counselor and EMDR practitioner. I have experience in treating Trauma, anxiety and relationship issues.
(813) 723-3791 View (813) 723-3791
Photo of Brooke S. James, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke S. James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33548
I am a Level II EMDR Therapist and trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy which help resolve uncomfortable feelings, thoughts and reactions related to past trauma.
I strive to help my clients achieve their goals and discover their authentic self. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief reactions, adjustment issues, coping with physical disability, anger issues or divorce recovery, we will collaboratively identify your goals and develop a plan to reduce distress and identify solutions.
I am a Level II EMDR Therapist and trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy which help resolve uncomfortable feelings, thoughts and reactions related to past trauma.
I strive to help my clients achieve their goals and discover their authentic self. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief reactions, adjustment issues, coping with physical disability, anger issues or divorce recovery, we will collaboratively identify your goals and develop a plan to reduce distress and identify solutions.
(727) 270-8151 View (727) 270-8151
Photo of Dr. Susan Ruth Freedman, PhD, LMHC, CST, CHT, Counselor
Dr. Susan Ruth Freedman
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CST, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33548
My areas of Specialty are Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), PTSD & Trauma Therapy, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Addictions, Depression and Anxiety.
Sex Therapy, Couples & Marriage Counseling, Couples Intimacy & Arousal Issues, Erectile Dysfunction (ED)/Sexual Issues, EMDR/Trauma Specialist, Hypnotherapy are my major areas of focus! I am offering Tele-Health and in-person office sessions for both Individuals and Couples. I am deeply passionate about helping clients work through trauma, find peace and lead happy and fulfilling lives. I work with couples to help them deepen their emotional connection, develop open communication and improve their sexual intimacy. For more information about my services, fees and online schedule visit my website at www.anewtomorrow.net
My areas of Specialty are Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), PTSD & Trauma Therapy, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Addictions, Depression and Anxiety.
Sex Therapy, Couples & Marriage Counseling, Couples Intimacy & Arousal Issues, Erectile Dysfunction (ED)/Sexual Issues, EMDR/Trauma Specialist, Hypnotherapy are my major areas of focus! I am offering Tele-Health and in-person office sessions for both Individuals and Couples. I am deeply passionate about helping clients work through trauma, find peace and lead happy and fulfilling lives. I work with couples to help them deepen their emotional connection, develop open communication and improve their sexual intimacy. For more information about my services, fees and online schedule visit my website at www.anewtomorrow.net
(813) 534-4795 View (813) 534-4795
Maureen Banks
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33548
I help people using EMDR, hypnosis, self hypnosis and values based decision making.
I help my clients to minimize the weaknesses they struggle with and develop their Strengths. I strive to give them new tools to use to make their life better. I care about my clients and work with them to achieve their goals.
I help people using EMDR, hypnosis, self hypnosis and values based decision making.
I help my clients to minimize the weaknesses they struggle with and develop their Strengths. I strive to give them new tools to use to make their life better. I care about my clients and work with them to achieve their goals.
(813) 658-5513 View (813) 658-5513
Photo of Jenine Kopet, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jenine Kopet
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33549  (Online Only)
I am also trauma trained in CPT and EMDR.
I am very happy you are here today! I am 55, married and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I have experience with Community Mental Health with inpatient and outpatient therapy. I currently work at the VA in Tampa full time, but am starting my side business working with adults.
I am also trauma trained in CPT and EMDR.
I am very happy you are here today! I am 55, married and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I have experience with Community Mental Health with inpatient and outpatient therapy. I currently work at the VA in Tampa full time, but am starting my side business working with adults.
(813) 945-7924 View (813) 945-7924
Photo of McKenzie Esplin, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
McKenzie Esplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33548
I am a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidenced-based modality used to treat various forms of trauma.
I believe a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and validated is the epitome of a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing, self-worth, and positivity. For 9+ years I've worked with children, teens, adults, and families who have fought with depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self-worth, guilt & shame, attachment issues, and trauma. Whether it's simply expanding your coping skills, to more specialized trauma work, I'd love to be a part of your journey! I offer both in-person and virtual services.
I am a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidenced-based modality used to treat various forms of trauma.
I believe a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and validated is the epitome of a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing, self-worth, and positivity. For 9+ years I've worked with children, teens, adults, and families who have fought with depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self-worth, guilt & shame, attachment issues, and trauma. Whether it's simply expanding your coping skills, to more specialized trauma work, I'd love to be a part of your journey! I offer both in-person and virtual services.
(352) 310-8046 View (352) 310-8046
Photo of Sharalyn Vester, LMHC, C-DBT
Sharalyn Vester
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33558
Accepting New Clients! TBCS is a group of mental health clinicians dedicated to providing quality mental health services so you feel comfortable to heal, improve, and change what you can through psychotherapy. Specializing in treatment using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy ( CPT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-DBT), Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Somatic Integration and Processing (SIP), Dance/Movement Therapy, and Art therapy, we believe mental health for all ages includes emotional/mental flexibility, openness, and healthy social connection.
Accepting New Clients! TBCS is a group of mental health clinicians dedicated to providing quality mental health services so you feel comfortable to heal, improve, and change what you can through psychotherapy. Specializing in treatment using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy ( CPT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-DBT), Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Somatic Integration and Processing (SIP), Dance/Movement Therapy, and Art therapy, we believe mental health for all ages includes emotional/mental flexibility, openness, and healthy social connection.
(813) 214-6816 View (813) 214-6816
Photo of Megan Santiago, RMHCI
Megan Santiago
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33558
I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR as well as ADHD and interpersonal issues such as issues setting boundaries. Do you frequently worry about what others think about you, or do you struggle to say "no"? Do you worry about many issues or lack motivation? Unprocessed trauma can contribute to everyday anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, effective communication, and improving self-esteem. I use a variety of therapies to tailor treatment to a client's needs. I approach mental health treatment from a very holistic perspective.
I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR as well as ADHD and interpersonal issues such as issues setting boundaries. Do you frequently worry about what others think about you, or do you struggle to say "no"? Do you worry about many issues or lack motivation? Unprocessed trauma can contribute to everyday anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, effective communication, and improving self-esteem. I use a variety of therapies to tailor treatment to a client's needs. I approach mental health treatment from a very holistic perspective.
(813) 543-8453 View (813) 543-8453
Photo of Karyn Bramanti McGuire, MSW, LCSW, RYT-500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karyn Bramanti McGuire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT-500
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33548
Now offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy (a type of eye movement therapy, similar to EMDR) to treat your symptoms.
5 star Google rating! Symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma can leave us feeling stuck and alone, stop us from living the life we want and negatively impact our relationships. Thoughts and feelings related to anxiety, depression and trauma can make us feel like we aren't good enough, worried, afraid & stuck. Physical symptoms of anxiety (pounding heart, difficulty breathing, etc.) can leave us feeling terrified and wondering, "What is going on with me?". Constantly feeling tense, exhausted, stressed, worried and disconnected does not have to be your normal.
Now offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy (a type of eye movement therapy, similar to EMDR) to treat your symptoms.
5 star Google rating! Symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma can leave us feeling stuck and alone, stop us from living the life we want and negatively impact our relationships. Thoughts and feelings related to anxiety, depression and trauma can make us feel like we aren't good enough, worried, afraid & stuck. Physical symptoms of anxiety (pounding heart, difficulty breathing, etc.) can leave us feeling terrified and wondering, "What is going on with me?". Constantly feeling tense, exhausted, stressed, worried and disconnected does not have to be your normal.
(727) 201-1011 View (727) 201-1011
Photo of Kortney Ploski, RMHCI
Kortney Ploski
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33558
I am additionally certified in Trauma Focused CBT and EMDR.
Hello, hi, heyy, wut up, hola! My name is Kortney Ploski. I am the owner and lead therapist at Resilience Mental Health Services, Tampa. I am a qualified mental health professional and Licensed Registered Mental Health Intern, with over 7 years of mental health experience. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida. I graduated my masters level education with honors granted from International Honors Society of Psychology at Nova Southeastern University.
I am additionally certified in Trauma Focused CBT and EMDR.
Hello, hi, heyy, wut up, hola! My name is Kortney Ploski. I am the owner and lead therapist at Resilience Mental Health Services, Tampa. I am a qualified mental health professional and Licensed Registered Mental Health Intern, with over 7 years of mental health experience. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida. I graduated my masters level education with honors granted from International Honors Society of Psychology at Nova Southeastern University.
(813) 896-3480 View (813) 896-3480
1
EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.