EMDR Therapists in Miami Lakes, FL
![Photo of Julie M Basulto, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee22cef9-81da-4349-8859-cb53859edaca/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rosa Barroso - The Therapy Labs by Rosa Barroso, LMHC, LMHC, RPT-S, EMDR, RRT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41cf5652-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Therapy Labs by Rosa Barroso, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC, RPT-S, EMDR, RRT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33016
I am a LMHC, Qualified Supervisor, Infant Mental Health Specialist, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, EMDR certified, TF-CBT, Rapid Resolution Therapy, NLP/Hypnosis.
Parents, do you need help with your child or teenager? Do you want to minimize the negative interactions and increase the positive interactions? Tired of the tantrums or talking back? A child's behavior is their way of communicating with you. Together we can work on understanding what your child is "saying". If you are an adult seeking some assistance, our practice also has counselors that specialize working with adults, contact us for more information.
I am a LMHC, Qualified Supervisor, Infant Mental Health Specialist, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, EMDR certified, TF-CBT, Rapid Resolution Therapy, NLP/Hypnosis.
Parents, do you need help with your child or teenager? Do you want to minimize the negative interactions and increase the positive interactions? Tired of the tantrums or talking back? A child's behavior is their way of communicating with you. Together we can work on understanding what your child is "saying". If you are an adult seeking some assistance, our practice also has counselors that specialize working with adults, contact us for more information.
![Photo of Katherine L Aparicio - Be Kind To Your Mind Therapy LLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e82ec183-b7ae-4182-a883-f426f1781976/2/320x400.jpeg)
Be Kind To Your Mind Therapy LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami Lakes, FL 33014 (Online Only)
I primarily integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) depending on your needs.
I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist who is passionate about serving as a support for those who are struggling with their mental health. I enjoy working closely and collaboratively with individuals to develop skills that will help them feel better equipped to face life’s challenges.
I primarily integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) depending on your needs.
I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist who is passionate about serving as a support for those who are struggling with their mental health. I enjoy working closely and collaboratively with individuals to develop skills that will help them feel better equipped to face life’s challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Yisel Fernandez, LMFT, TIRF, TIRT, CTP, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0a11bf7-0339-4c39-871e-9215b25d050b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yisel Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TIRF, TIRT, CTP, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33018
You are the expert! I will provide a safe space for individuals to heal in a non-judgmental way. I believe in the mind-body connection, practicing with a holistic approach to help get individuals to a healthier self. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist , EMDR therapist , Hypnotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Sound Therapy Facilitator . I incorporate in my practice holistic services such as : Reiki, Sound bath, Meditation and Mindfulness. I have enjoyed working with clients doing individual, couples and family sessions in both English and Spanish. Hablo Espanol! Available in office sessions & Telehealth
You are the expert! I will provide a safe space for individuals to heal in a non-judgmental way. I believe in the mind-body connection, practicing with a holistic approach to help get individuals to a healthier self. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist , EMDR therapist , Hypnotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Sound Therapy Facilitator . I incorporate in my practice holistic services such as : Reiki, Sound bath, Meditation and Mindfulness. I have enjoyed working with clients doing individual, couples and family sessions in both English and Spanish. Hablo Espanol! Available in office sessions & Telehealth
![Photo of Malena Castillo, LMHC, C-EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b045776-46dd-4beb-8195-e3c042047b54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Malena Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, C-EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33018 (Online Only)
I use various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, TRI (Traumatic Incident Reduction), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapies.
My ideal client is a person who has difficulties with depression/anxiety, loneliness, divorce, domestic violence, abuse, grief, rejection, fear, isolation, adjustment, lack of direction, traumatic issues, etc. My approach is integrative and individualized; therefore, each individual's sessions and progress look different. I am an LMHC that works with clients from the first contact. I am a compassionate, empathic, and supportive therapist. I grew in my clinical skills through years of practice with all clients, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or disability.
I use various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, TRI (Traumatic Incident Reduction), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapies.
My ideal client is a person who has difficulties with depression/anxiety, loneliness, divorce, domestic violence, abuse, grief, rejection, fear, isolation, adjustment, lack of direction, traumatic issues, etc. My approach is integrative and individualized; therefore, each individual's sessions and progress look different. I am an LMHC that works with clients from the first contact. I am a compassionate, empathic, and supportive therapist. I grew in my clinical skills through years of practice with all clients, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or disability.
![Photo of Carlos E Plasencia, PhD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4def7c8-1474-4406-b3ed-1a28f00842eb/5/320x400.jpeg)
Specialties are Faith-based/Christian Counseling (only if a person wishes to address their issues from that perspective); EMDR (trauma therapy); ADHD evaluations (all ages); Weight loss surgery (bariatric) and disc replacement pre-surgical evaluations; Law Enforcement/ Firefighters, and their families.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 25 years in the same location. My approach is based upon your needs, but clinically speaking, I have a cognitive-behavioral orientation and family systems perspective. Most of my day I am helping people deal better with their anxiety and stress, sadness, grief, anger, work issues and relationships. I am teaching coping skills, and helping people become better versions of themselves. I generally treat persons individually from the ages of 18-up. Couples counseling is also an area of great interest and experience for me.
Specialties are Faith-based/Christian Counseling (only if a person wishes to address their issues from that perspective); EMDR (trauma therapy); ADHD evaluations (all ages); Weight loss surgery (bariatric) and disc replacement pre-surgical evaluations; Law Enforcement/ Firefighters, and their families.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 25 years in the same location. My approach is based upon your needs, but clinically speaking, I have a cognitive-behavioral orientation and family systems perspective. Most of my day I am helping people deal better with their anxiety and stress, sadness, grief, anger, work issues and relationships. I am teaching coping skills, and helping people become better versions of themselves. I generally treat persons individually from the ages of 18-up. Couples counseling is also an area of great interest and experience for me.
![Photo of Dr. Nadine Greene, PhD, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d47b2f31-e423-4bf0-848f-40e97b6c99f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nadine Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
My ideal mental health client is someone who recognizes the importance of prioritizing their emotional well-being and is committed to their own growth and healing. They may be experiencing a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress-related disorders. These challenges may be impacting various aspects of their life, including relationships, work, and overall quality of life. Their needs are centered around support, understanding, and validation. They seek a safe and nonjudgmental space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
My ideal mental health client is someone who recognizes the importance of prioritizing their emotional well-being and is committed to their own growth and healing. They may be experiencing a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress-related disorders. These challenges may be impacting various aspects of their life, including relationships, work, and overall quality of life. Their needs are centered around support, understanding, and validation. They seek a safe and nonjudgmental space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
![Photo of Christian Vazquez - Meraki Wellness & Healing, Inc, LMHC, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e2b2521-df9f-42db-8bfc-ffd8f4b71c94/3/320x400.jpeg)
Meraki Wellness & Healing, Inc
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
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.
![Photo of Michelle T Reichard - ARC Mental Health, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52df96a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help individuals who are struggling with emotional, mental, behavioral, interpersonal, and or/ spiritual challenges. Clients typically come to me with symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic, stress, past trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and/ or addiction. I help connect my clients with any referrals they may need in conjunction to counseling (i.e. Psychiatrist and other specialists). HABLO ESPANOL!
I help individuals who are struggling with emotional, mental, behavioral, interpersonal, and or/ spiritual challenges. Clients typically come to me with symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic, stress, past trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and/ or addiction. I help connect my clients with any referrals they may need in conjunction to counseling (i.e. Psychiatrist and other specialists). HABLO ESPANOL!
![Photo of Dr. Luis D Permuy, PhD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7b24ab4-64ed-4b5b-b257-fd266e33cc8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am the Founder of Permuy Diversity Intervention LLC. I have had professional results for over twenty years in different countries and counties of Florida as a Lead Analyst and in many roles in the Mental Health field. I value diversity, integrity, and inclusivity. I always customize my approach to meet the needs of the individual. I invite you to visit any reference to Permuy Diversity Intervention LLC to learn more about my private practice. I can provide a trusting and nonjudgmental space. Let us embark on any challenge together, shaping your life path with care and support. It is never too early or too late for personal growth.
I am the Founder of Permuy Diversity Intervention LLC. I have had professional results for over twenty years in different countries and counties of Florida as a Lead Analyst and in many roles in the Mental Health field. I value diversity, integrity, and inclusivity. I always customize my approach to meet the needs of the individual. I invite you to visit any reference to Permuy Diversity Intervention LLC to learn more about my private practice. I can provide a trusting and nonjudgmental space. Let us embark on any challenge together, shaping your life path with care and support. It is never too early or too late for personal growth.
![Photo of Belen Gangotena, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c58d718-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The decision to pursue therapy to help guide you towards making the decisions that will best serve you in life can be the first step towards success. Perhaps you are struggling with a relationship that has become toxic or just feels stuck? Maybe you are feeling frustrated with yourself as you do not know how to break the cycles that are holding you back? Has a difficult situation in your past created obstacles for you that seem difficult to overcome? These are the times when we need a safe place to heal and recover.
The decision to pursue therapy to help guide you towards making the decisions that will best serve you in life can be the first step towards success. Perhaps you are struggling with a relationship that has become toxic or just feels stuck? Maybe you are feeling frustrated with yourself as you do not know how to break the cycles that are holding you back? Has a difficult situation in your past created obstacles for you that seem difficult to overcome? These are the times when we need a safe place to heal and recover.
![Photo of Jannea Wolff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac6f38b9-58ba-44e9-aa52-9e4608d135f0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jannea Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Lakes, FL 33014 (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you have lost yourself in motherhood and wonder who you are outside of that title? Do you want to regain a zest for life and be able to manage anxiety/depression that seems to keep you in a cycle of unfulfillment? Or, has past trauma impacted your relationship with self and/or others? I too, have been in your shoes after experiencing a traumatic birth that changed my life, and now I am committed to helping other women reclaim their lives. I specialize in working with women who want to find the joy in their lives again and manage symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Do you ever feel like you have lost yourself in motherhood and wonder who you are outside of that title? Do you want to regain a zest for life and be able to manage anxiety/depression that seems to keep you in a cycle of unfulfillment? Or, has past trauma impacted your relationship with self and/or others? I too, have been in your shoes after experiencing a traumatic birth that changed my life, and now I am committed to helping other women reclaim their lives. I specialize in working with women who want to find the joy in their lives again and manage symptoms of depression or anxiety.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Taylor Liam Mugavin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c57cb282-6217-42c4-977a-1ec98b024626/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Liam Mugavin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33012 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Taylor Mugavin, but I go by Liam. As a clinical LCSW, I utilize both EMDR and talk therapy to create a multi-dimensional and safe environment for you to process your struggles, self reflect, and build resilience.
Hello! My name is Taylor Mugavin, but I go by Liam. As a clinical LCSW, I utilize both EMDR and talk therapy to create a multi-dimensional and safe environment for you to process your struggles, self reflect, and build resilience.
![Photo of Ellen Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ecc6b5a-84b3-4081-8a40-2f15bfbb0548/1/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily use CBT, motivational interviewing and I am EMDR trained.
Hello! I'm so glad you are on the journey towards healing and self-discovery. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I've primarily worked in the areas of mental health, substance abuse and eating disorders.
I primarily use CBT, motivational interviewing and I am EMDR trained.
Hello! I'm so glad you are on the journey towards healing and self-discovery. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I've primarily worked in the areas of mental health, substance abuse and eating disorders.
![Photo of Alicia Lints, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5489cc7-b841-4586-bc4e-3bb951fd629f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Some specific evidence-based therapies I offer are EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy), CRAFT (community reinforcement approach and family training), TREM (trauma recovery and empowerment model), and Seeking Safety.
Hi, my name is Alicia. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in a million directions? Are you struggling with relationships, work, or health? Are you looking for support? I have been in the helping profession for the last 6 years, working with adolescents and adults using evidence-based practices. I utilize a trauma-informed lens that allows me to meet you where you are at and focus on only the goals you would like to work on. This is your journey and I am here to support you!
Some specific evidence-based therapies I offer are EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy), CRAFT (community reinforcement approach and family training), TREM (trauma recovery and empowerment model), and Seeking Safety.
Hi, my name is Alicia. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in a million directions? Are you struggling with relationships, work, or health? Are you looking for support? I have been in the helping profession for the last 6 years, working with adolescents and adults using evidence-based practices. I utilize a trauma-informed lens that allows me to meet you where you are at and focus on only the goals you would like to work on. This is your journey and I am here to support you!
![Photo of Heather Lampton, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e133fc15-2edf-4b46-94d9-5728daff15ea/1/320x400.png)
I support adults dealing with depression, emotional disruptions, life changes, and challenges using methods like Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT), EMDR, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Person-Centered, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and more.
Do you often feel exhausted by anxiety and depression? Have you considered seeking help but find it challenging to take the first step? These feelings can be overwhelming, making it difficult to know where to turn. However, there is a path to healing, and I'm here to assist you every step of the way. With compassionate support and effective treatment, we can work together to overcome these challenges and help you find relief.
I support adults dealing with depression, emotional disruptions, life changes, and challenges using methods like Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT), EMDR, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Person-Centered, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and more.
Do you often feel exhausted by anxiety and depression? Have you considered seeking help but find it challenging to take the first step? These feelings can be overwhelming, making it difficult to know where to turn. However, there is a path to healing, and I'm here to assist you every step of the way. With compassionate support and effective treatment, we can work together to overcome these challenges and help you find relief.
![Photo of Tiffany Crider, LMHC-QS, MCAP, CST, EMDR-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40910dd1-86dc-44e5-901e-b988cc8377c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Crider
Counselor, LMHC-QS, MCAP, CST, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33014 (Online Only)
We also treat trauma extensively, offering EMDR treatment.
Prevail and Progress Counseling is committed to Educating, Inspiring, and Empowering individuals to overcome adversity and personal challenges so that they can become the best version of themselves. We specialize in Transforming Lives, Cultivating Dreams, and Establishing Vision. We assist you by giving you the tools and resources that are needed to strengthen your mindset daily, allowing you to increase your confidence in yourself and your abilities to take control of your life and make the best decisions possible for your overall health and well-being.
We also treat trauma extensively, offering EMDR treatment.
Prevail and Progress Counseling is committed to Educating, Inspiring, and Empowering individuals to overcome adversity and personal challenges so that they can become the best version of themselves. We specialize in Transforming Lives, Cultivating Dreams, and Establishing Vision. We assist you by giving you the tools and resources that are needed to strengthen your mindset daily, allowing you to increase your confidence in yourself and your abilities to take control of your life and make the best decisions possible for your overall health and well-being.
![Photo of Daphne Choute, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5133f7e-a67f-4420-853d-d24efc135385/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Brainspotting, and CBT, and I tailor my approach to best meet your unique needs and goals.
Are you finding it difficult to break free from the patterns of the past? Parenting is challenging, especially when your own upbringing left you with wounds that still affect you today. But it doesn't have to be this way. At Paved Counseling Services, we specialize in helping parents like you overcome the impact of generational trauma. Our approach is designed to help you heal, so you can break the cycle and give your children the healthy, loving environment they deserve.
I am trained in various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Brainspotting, and CBT, and I tailor my approach to best meet your unique needs and goals.
Are you finding it difficult to break free from the patterns of the past? Parenting is challenging, especially when your own upbringing left you with wounds that still affect you today. But it doesn't have to be this way. At Paved Counseling Services, we specialize in helping parents like you overcome the impact of generational trauma. Our approach is designed to help you heal, so you can break the cycle and give your children the healthy, loving environment they deserve.
![Photo of Melissa Ludwig, MS, LMHC, LCPC, QS, C-DBT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00f4d147-afa3-4824-85b7-9bb199a4458d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Ludwig
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC, QS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33012 (Online Only)
I tailor my treatment based on each individual client! I am certified in DBT, and am also trained in EMDR and also in Gottman levels 1-3.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship? Do you feel like you no longer know the person you married? Do you miss that honeymoon feeling? Let’s work together to rekindle those romantic feelings, learn to effectively communicate during both every day and large-scale conflicts, and improve intimacy. Or, have people told you you're "not yourself" lately? Are you stressing about a recent or upcoming life/job/family change? Are you hoping to get some non-biased insight on your life from a professional? No matter how big or small the issue may be, I am here to guide you through this uncertain, scary part of your life.
I tailor my treatment based on each individual client! I am certified in DBT, and am also trained in EMDR and also in Gottman levels 1-3.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship? Do you feel like you no longer know the person you married? Do you miss that honeymoon feeling? Let’s work together to rekindle those romantic feelings, learn to effectively communicate during both every day and large-scale conflicts, and improve intimacy. Or, have people told you you're "not yourself" lately? Are you stressing about a recent or upcoming life/job/family change? Are you hoping to get some non-biased insight on your life from a professional? No matter how big or small the issue may be, I am here to guide you through this uncertain, scary part of your life.
![Photo of Darlene M Amin, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b968bd03-56df-4161-97c0-10e8f9213cee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darlene M. Amin, M.A., LMHC has over 13 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, co-dependency, and addiction. I am also EMDR trained and have helped clients process trauma, anxiety, and addictions.
Darlene M. Amin, M.A., LMHC has over 13 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, co-dependency, and addiction. I am also EMDR trained and have helped clients process trauma, anxiety, and addictions.
See more therapy options for Miami Lakes
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Miami Lakes
- Coconut Grove
- Cooper City
- Coral Gables
- Doral
- Hialeah
- Hollywood
- Miami
- Miami Gardens
- Miramar
- North Miami
- North Miami Beach
- Pembroke Pines
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.