EMDR Therapists in Miami Gardens, FL

Photo of Diana Lynn Foltz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Lynn Foltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33169
My name is Diana Foltz, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida and working with individuals via Telehealth. I work with adolescents to geriatrics and have experience with all age groups with specialties in anxiety & mood disorders, grief/loss issues, traumatic stress (acute or post), and help with adjusting to major life changes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma-informed care, including experience with EMDR. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
My name is Diana Foltz, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida and working with individuals via Telehealth. I work with adolescents to geriatrics and have experience with all age groups with specialties in anxiety & mood disorders, grief/loss issues, traumatic stress (acute or post), and help with adjusting to major life changes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma-informed care, including experience with EMDR. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
(786) 833-8287 View (786) 833-8287
Photo of Der'Resha K. Bastien, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Der'Resha K. Bastien
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
Using evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and EMDR I empower my clients to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and live more fulfilling lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Are you struggling to overcome some of your daily struggles? Are you looking forward to a healthy and meaningful life? If so, I am here to help. As a licensed therapist, I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space to process your thoughts and emotions while working with you to foster positive changes.
Using evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and EMDR I empower my clients to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and live more fulfilling lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Are you struggling to overcome some of your daily struggles? Are you looking forward to a healthy and meaningful life? If so, I am here to help. As a licensed therapist, I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space to process your thoughts and emotions while working with you to foster positive changes.
(786) 667-7048 View (786) 667-7048
Photo of Josephine Ibisagba, LMHC
Josephine Ibisagba
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize CBT and EMDR to work through problem areas.
Do you struggle saying no to others in relationships? Do you have a difficult time emotionally regulating during transition periods? Are you struggling to find yourself after a major incident? If any of these apply to you, then you are in the right place. I am a dedicated and empathetic therapist with years of experience in assisting people in reconnecting with the most authentic version of themselves. My goal as a therapist is to make sure anybody who works with me feels seen and acknowledged. I specialize in mood disorders, self esteem issues, and trauma. I utilize trauma informed CBT and EMDR as interventions in sessions.
I utilize CBT and EMDR to work through problem areas.
Do you struggle saying no to others in relationships? Do you have a difficult time emotionally regulating during transition periods? Are you struggling to find yourself after a major incident? If any of these apply to you, then you are in the right place. I am a dedicated and empathetic therapist with years of experience in assisting people in reconnecting with the most authentic version of themselves. My goal as a therapist is to make sure anybody who works with me feels seen and acknowledged. I specialize in mood disorders, self esteem issues, and trauma. I utilize trauma informed CBT and EMDR as interventions in sessions.
(904) 675-3862 View (904) 675-3862
Photo of Destiny Redmond, MS, LPC, NCC, CTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Destiny Redmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
Welcome!, my name is Destiny and I am a licensed professional counselor, certified trauma professional, and EMDR-Trained therapist practicing in the state of Georgia for four year and now Florida. However, I have been in the mental health field as a student, paraprofessional, advocate, and blogger for 6 years. Over the years I have worked with many diverse individuals and groups in inpatient, private practice, residential, and corrections. I specialize in trauma-informed care, mood disorders, and women's issues.
Welcome!, my name is Destiny and I am a licensed professional counselor, certified trauma professional, and EMDR-Trained therapist practicing in the state of Georgia for four year and now Florida. However, I have been in the mental health field as a student, paraprofessional, advocate, and blogger for 6 years. Over the years I have worked with many diverse individuals and groups in inpatient, private practice, residential, and corrections. I specialize in trauma-informed care, mood disorders, and women's issues.
(678) 688-3270 View (678) 688-3270
Photo of Lashunda F Watkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lashunda F Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33055  (Online Only)
, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Strengths Based, EMDR and more) and interventions to meet the unique treatment needs of my clients.
Perhaps life has been extremely challenging lately (e.g., struggling to find balance in managing the kids, relationships and/or a stressful career) and you are feeling unable to adequately attend to your own emotional needs. Maybe unprocessed trauma (e.g., childhood abuse/neglect, workplace or racial) experiences are affecting your relationships and keeping you from living your best life. Could it be that women’s health issues (e.g., infertility, PCOS or PMDD) or men's health issues have left you feeling helpless? Yes, I see you. Regardless of the challenge, I am here to let you know that there is hope!
, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Strengths Based, EMDR and more) and interventions to meet the unique treatment needs of my clients.
Perhaps life has been extremely challenging lately (e.g., struggling to find balance in managing the kids, relationships and/or a stressful career) and you are feeling unable to adequately attend to your own emotional needs. Maybe unprocessed trauma (e.g., childhood abuse/neglect, workplace or racial) experiences are affecting your relationships and keeping you from living your best life. Could it be that women’s health issues (e.g., infertility, PCOS or PMDD) or men's health issues have left you feeling helpless? Yes, I see you. Regardless of the challenge, I am here to let you know that there is hope!
(239) 829-9210 View (239) 829-9210
Photo of Dr. James E Francis, EdD, LPC, LMHC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. James E Francis
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
If you struggle with anxiety, anger, church hurt or abuse, depression, life transitions, racial-related distress, a lack of resilience, spiritual maturity, or trauma, I would love the opportunity to share tools that can help you find relief. For individuals, the journey begins with identifying your feelings, understanding the goals of your behavior, and exploring childhood pain. I assist couples to repair past emotional injuries including the heartbreak and betrayal of infidelity. I can help any couple create a safe space to share their deepest longings, learn to communicate well, and create a new relationship.
If you struggle with anxiety, anger, church hurt or abuse, depression, life transitions, racial-related distress, a lack of resilience, spiritual maturity, or trauma, I would love the opportunity to share tools that can help you find relief. For individuals, the journey begins with identifying your feelings, understanding the goals of your behavior, and exploring childhood pain. I assist couples to repair past emotional injuries including the heartbreak and betrayal of infidelity. I can help any couple create a safe space to share their deepest longings, learn to communicate well, and create a new relationship.
(470) 868-6545 View (470) 868-6545
Photo of Evelyn Theresa Castillo-Fundora - My School Psychologist, Inc, EdS, LSP
My School Psychologist, Inc
EdS, LSP
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33015
Welcome and thank you for taking the time to read through my profile. My practice is called My School Psychologist, Inc. and it is a company founded with the premise that our society has a profound impact on our youth's intellectual, behavioral, emotional, and psychologi​cal development. This practice was conceived in hopes of fostering the inspiration and motivation back into the community and youth through affordable and thorough psychological services.
Welcome and thank you for taking the time to read through my profile. My practice is called My School Psychologist, Inc. and it is a company founded with the premise that our society has a profound impact on our youth's intellectual, behavioral, emotional, and psychologi​cal development. This practice was conceived in hopes of fostering the inspiration and motivation back into the community and youth through affordable and thorough psychological services.
(786) 713-2328 View (786) 713-2328
Photo of Edelys M. Diaz - Child And Teen Therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edelys M. Diaz - Child And Teen Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33015
Does your child struggle with expressing themselves? Is your child having a hard time with self-regulation? Does your child not know how to manage with big emotions and lacks healthy coping skills? You just landed in the right place! Welcome to play therapy! A place where a child’s mind, heart and soul meet! Play therapy is a fantastic way for kids to develop communication skills, learn coping strategies, and improve emotional regulation. By playing and interacting with others in a safe environment, your child can develop healthy social skills and improve emotional intelligence, all while having fun!
Does your child struggle with expressing themselves? Is your child having a hard time with self-regulation? Does your child not know how to manage with big emotions and lacks healthy coping skills? You just landed in the right place! Welcome to play therapy! A place where a child’s mind, heart and soul meet! Play therapy is a fantastic way for kids to develop communication skills, learn coping strategies, and improve emotional regulation. By playing and interacting with others in a safe environment, your child can develop healthy social skills and improve emotional intelligence, all while having fun!
(786) 305-4679 View (786) 305-4679
Photo of Evelyn Duncan, LCSW, TBRI, English, Spanish, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TBRI, English, Spanish
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33015  (Online Only)
¡Hola! Soy Evelyn, terapeuta especializada en el tratamiento del trauma en Florida, con más de 8 años de experiencia. Mi enfoque se centra en ayudar a personas que han atravesado traumas relacionales, infidelidades, ansiedad y depresión. Sé de primera mano lo desafiante que puede ser vivir con el peso del trauma. Por eso, estoy aquí para acompañarte en tu proceso de sanación, brindándote las herramientas necesarias para que puedas vivir una vida plena y significativa.
¡Hola! Soy Evelyn, terapeuta especializada en el tratamiento del trauma en Florida, con más de 8 años de experiencia. Mi enfoque se centra en ayudar a personas que han atravesado traumas relacionales, infidelidades, ansiedad y depresión. Sé de primera mano lo desafiante que puede ser vivir con el peso del trauma. Por eso, estoy aquí para acompañarte en tu proceso de sanación, brindándote las herramientas necesarias para que puedas vivir una vida plena y significativa.
(954) 280-8154 View (954) 280-8154
Photo of Christian Vazquez - Meraki Wellness & Healing, Inc, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Meraki Wellness & Healing, Inc
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Meraki Wellness & Healing, Inc. strives for maximum level of care. We believe that each client entering our facility will be treated with respect and dignity. Our main goal is to elevate level of care for our clients, providing them with services needed, and implement continuum of care. We believe in team work and providing a cohesive treatment model for our clients to get individualized care. We are here for you, our clients come first. Se habla Espanol.
Meraki Wellness & Healing, Inc. strives for maximum level of care. We believe that each client entering our facility will be treated with respect and dignity. Our main goal is to elevate level of care for our clients, providing them with services needed, and implement continuum of care. We believe in team work and providing a cohesive treatment model for our clients to get individualized care. We are here for you, our clients come first. Se habla Espanol.
(305) 677-8199 View (305) 677-8199
Photo of Michael James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33055  (Online Only)
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
(904) 601-0187 View (904) 601-0187
Photo of Lucy Coba, MS, LMHC
Lucy Coba
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33056  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed? Do you feel powerless in managing stress related feelings? Have you lost interest in what you once enjoyed? Do you struggle in maintaining relationships? If you answered yes to any of these questions, therapy may be helpful for you. I strongly believe that therapy can provide beneficial improvements in mental well-being and a path for the life you want and deserve. My role is to help you develop the coping skills necessary to manage life’s difficulties and sustain overall well-being. I provide short-term counselling and long-term therapy in an effort to facilitate growth, enable change and foster healing.
Are you feeling stressed? Do you feel powerless in managing stress related feelings? Have you lost interest in what you once enjoyed? Do you struggle in maintaining relationships? If you answered yes to any of these questions, therapy may be helpful for you. I strongly believe that therapy can provide beneficial improvements in mental well-being and a path for the life you want and deserve. My role is to help you develop the coping skills necessary to manage life’s difficulties and sustain overall well-being. I provide short-term counselling and long-term therapy in an effort to facilitate growth, enable change and foster healing.
(305) 487-8611 View (305) 487-8611

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julie M Basulto, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie M Basulto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
TF-CBT National Certification and EMDR Trained Trauma Therapist.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist focused on providing individual, family and couples counseling. Specialized in the treatment of trauma as well as depression, anxiety, stress management, and working with the LGBTQ+ community (adolescents, adults and couples). The ideal client is motivated in accomplishing their treatment plan goals and is always willing to learn new things to benefit their personal growth. It has been rewarding in working with survivors of sexual trauma because they are strong willed in overcoming their issues related to their trauma in order to heal themselves mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
TF-CBT National Certification and EMDR Trained Trauma Therapist.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist focused on providing individual, family and couples counseling. Specialized in the treatment of trauma as well as depression, anxiety, stress management, and working with the LGBTQ+ community (adolescents, adults and couples). The ideal client is motivated in accomplishing their treatment plan goals and is always willing to learn new things to benefit their personal growth. It has been rewarding in working with survivors of sexual trauma because they are strong willed in overcoming their issues related to their trauma in order to heal themselves mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
(786) 833-7390 View (786) 833-7390
Photo of Rivkah Reichler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rivkah Reichler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aventura, FL 33160  (Online Only)
I bring skills from years of training and experience in other modalities as well, including EMDR, CBT, MI, AEDP, SE, and DBT.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression or major life changes? If so, the good news is that there are scientifically proven methods to help you heal and get relief from your symptoms. As a trained and experienced therapist, I can guide you on a journey of self-discovery that will ultimately help you unburden, transform and heal.
I bring skills from years of training and experience in other modalities as well, including EMDR, CBT, MI, AEDP, SE, and DBT.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression or major life changes? If so, the good news is that there are scientifically proven methods to help you heal and get relief from your symptoms. As a trained and experienced therapist, I can guide you on a journey of self-discovery that will ultimately help you unburden, transform and heal.
(802) 424-8920 View (802) 424-8920
Photo of Christy Jordan, MA, CAP, LMHC, Counselor
Christy Jordan
Counselor, MA, CAP, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
I have a passion for helping others overcome life's obstacles, creating a life without bondage. I am a certified addictions professional, trauma informed therapist and Emotional Freedom Therapy and EMDR provider. My background experience consist of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, codependency, singleness, life coaching, business executives, criminal justice, behavior modification, addictions and life adjustments. I work with adjustments including loss, imposter syndrome and life coaching for the next season, relationships or business through trauma processing & mindset shifting, boundary setting and breaking cycles.
I have a passion for helping others overcome life's obstacles, creating a life without bondage. I am a certified addictions professional, trauma informed therapist and Emotional Freedom Therapy and EMDR provider. My background experience consist of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, codependency, singleness, life coaching, business executives, criminal justice, behavior modification, addictions and life adjustments. I work with adjustments including loss, imposter syndrome and life coaching for the next season, relationships or business through trauma processing & mindset shifting, boundary setting and breaking cycles.
(407) 499-8634 View (407) 499-8634
Photo of Shoshanah E. Glucksman, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shoshanah E. Glucksman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33142  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, DBT, and Somatic interventions and successfully treated PTSD and mood disorders by increasing awareness of the nervous system/sensory integration/social skills that need boosting for connection.
You've already succeeded, you took the first step, you reached out to find solutions to the unsettling emotions and challenges you've been experiencing. As a Licensed Marriage & Family/Mental Health counslor and trauma specialist, I work with you collaboratively, advocating and supporting you to strengthen your voice and become more assertively present in your life. I often work with clients that feel stuck, helping them create a life that is vibrant and alive. Imagine being present without needing to numb the pain when triggers or challenges arise. Let me guide you whether as an individual a couple or family.
I use EMDR, DBT, and Somatic interventions and successfully treated PTSD and mood disorders by increasing awareness of the nervous system/sensory integration/social skills that need boosting for connection.
You've already succeeded, you took the first step, you reached out to find solutions to the unsettling emotions and challenges you've been experiencing. As a Licensed Marriage & Family/Mental Health counslor and trauma specialist, I work with you collaboratively, advocating and supporting you to strengthen your voice and become more assertively present in your life. I often work with clients that feel stuck, helping them create a life that is vibrant and alive. Imagine being present without needing to numb the pain when triggers or challenges arise. Let me guide you whether as an individual a couple or family.
(305) 487-8385 View (305) 487-8385
Photo of Vanessa Leon, RCSWI
Vanessa Leon
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33314
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies to help you develop a deeper understanding of your inner dynamics, cultivate self-compassion, and gain insight into the underlying issues driving your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
It takes courage to embark on a journey of self-exploration. Facing challenging emotions, releasing painful memories and experiences, and forming new beliefs takes commitment and resilience. It is so important to have a gentle guide by your side who has the tools to bring about change and healing. My therapeutic approach is centered on calm, compassionate, nonjudgmental empathy and acceptance, which creates a safe and nurturing space for healing and growth. A life of freedom and joy is possible.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies to help you develop a deeper understanding of your inner dynamics, cultivate self-compassion, and gain insight into the underlying issues driving your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
It takes courage to embark on a journey of self-exploration. Facing challenging emotions, releasing painful memories and experiences, and forming new beliefs takes commitment and resilience. It is so important to have a gentle guide by your side who has the tools to bring about change and healing. My therapeutic approach is centered on calm, compassionate, nonjudgmental empathy and acceptance, which creates a safe and nurturing space for healing and growth. A life of freedom and joy is possible.
(786) 463-0727 View (786) 463-0727
Photo of Nally Fernandez, LMHC, Counselor
Nally Fernandez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33169
Support for adolescents, adults, and families who need assistance with life challenges such as anxiety, family related generational trauma, sexual concerns, PTSD /Complex trauma ( sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, adoption trauma) attachment issues, occupational stress (first responders) EMDR Certified, trauma focused, Sex Therapy Certified. Adoption Competent and Kink/poly and sex work affirmative. As your therapist, your healing is my goal. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish both in person and via telehealth. Techniques include EMDR, Somatic treatment, psychodynamic client centered attachment based strategies.
Support for adolescents, adults, and families who need assistance with life challenges such as anxiety, family related generational trauma, sexual concerns, PTSD /Complex trauma ( sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, adoption trauma) attachment issues, occupational stress (first responders) EMDR Certified, trauma focused, Sex Therapy Certified. Adoption Competent and Kink/poly and sex work affirmative. As your therapist, your healing is my goal. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish both in person and via telehealth. Techniques include EMDR, Somatic treatment, psychodynamic client centered attachment based strategies.
(786) 707-2045 View (786) 707-2045
Photo of Maria Elena Collazo, PsyD, Psychologist
Maria Elena Collazo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33160
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET).
Emotional and psychological health are the keys to a happy and successful life! In today's fast-paced and ever changing world, we may find ourselves less likely and less able to control or predict events and circumstances in our lives. But with a healthy mind and attitude, we can be more resilient, and can respond in healthier, more appropriate ways (with a lot less stress!)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET).
Emotional and psychological health are the keys to a happy and successful life! In today's fast-paced and ever changing world, we may find ourselves less likely and less able to control or predict events and circumstances in our lives. But with a healthy mind and attitude, we can be more resilient, and can respond in healthier, more appropriate ways (with a lot less stress!)
(786) 373-2512 View (786) 373-2512
Photo of Laura E Giner, LMHC, EMDRIA
Laura E Giner
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR-trained therapist that also utilizes Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Do you feel stuck in a repeating pattern you don't know how to break? Do you have emotions that overwhelm you and prevent you from connecting to others or achieving your goals? Together, we will embark on a journey to find solutions. We will take time to explore who you are, your past experiences, and how you became you. You will learn tools that can be implemented to help you manage your emotions in real time. You will learn communication skills like how to navigate conflict, how to ask for what you need, and how to set and maintain healthy boundaries.
I am an EMDR-trained therapist that also utilizes Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Do you feel stuck in a repeating pattern you don't know how to break? Do you have emotions that overwhelm you and prevent you from connecting to others or achieving your goals? Together, we will embark on a journey to find solutions. We will take time to explore who you are, your past experiences, and how you became you. You will learn tools that can be implemented to help you manage your emotions in real time. You will learn communication skills like how to navigate conflict, how to ask for what you need, and how to set and maintain healthy boundaries.
(954) 287-4615 View (954) 287-4615

See more therapy options for Miami Gardens

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.