EMDR Therapists in Palm Harbor, FL

Photo of Sarah Trembley, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Trembley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, and Lifespan Integration (Inner Child reparenting) therapies to help identify and work to resolve distressing issues such as PTSD, Complex PTSD, Anxierty, Depression, and relational issues. I work with adults of all ages and varied cultures and ethnicities, and specialize in Maternal Mental Health and helping parents resolve their own issues so they can be optimal parents to their children.
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, and Lifespan Integration (Inner Child reparenting) therapies to help identify and work to resolve distressing issues such as PTSD, Complex PTSD, Anxierty, Depression, and relational issues. I work with adults of all ages and varied cultures and ethnicities, and specialize in Maternal Mental Health and helping parents resolve their own issues so they can be optimal parents to their children.
(727) 761-8968 View (727) 761-8968
Photo of Lisa Preston, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Preston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Lisa is EMDR certified, an informed Internal Family Systems Therapist (IFS), and trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Lisa Preston is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience helping couples, families and individuals. Lisa is the owner of North Pinellas Christian Counseling, where the gospel is incorporated into evidence-based techniques. The goal in therapy is to facilitate the release of shame and guilt which leads to the decrease of symptoms. Instead of mere behavior modification, clients will experience healing and transformation.
Lisa is EMDR certified, an informed Internal Family Systems Therapist (IFS), and trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Lisa Preston is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience helping couples, families and individuals. Lisa is the owner of North Pinellas Christian Counseling, where the gospel is incorporated into evidence-based techniques. The goal in therapy is to facilitate the release of shame and guilt which leads to the decrease of symptoms. Instead of mere behavior modification, clients will experience healing and transformation.
(727) 642-4152 View (727) 642-4152
Photo of Caroline H Fenderson, MA, PA, BCPC, Counselor
Caroline H Fenderson
Counselor, MA, PA, BCPC
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34684  (Online Only)
I do brief therapy for current issues, and EMDR for trauma/changing negative ideas, feelings, and behaviors.
Does you life feel like it isn't working for you? Do you want to change negative ideas and dsyfunctional behaviors; let go of negative painful feelings and patterns of behavior that keep repeating? For 28 years I have been in practive to help clients develop positive beliefs, feelings, and behaviors that serve to help them feel they are true to themselves, positively connected to others, can manage what challenges them, and live with a sense of respectful self-acceptance knowing they can trust themselves and life. I would treasure helping you feel and live this way.
I do brief therapy for current issues, and EMDR for trauma/changing negative ideas, feelings, and behaviors.
Does you life feel like it isn't working for you? Do you want to change negative ideas and dsyfunctional behaviors; let go of negative painful feelings and patterns of behavior that keep repeating? For 28 years I have been in practive to help clients develop positive beliefs, feelings, and behaviors that serve to help them feel they are true to themselves, positively connected to others, can manage what challenges them, and live with a sense of respectful self-acceptance knowing they can trust themselves and life. I would treasure helping you feel and live this way.
(727) 399-6048 View (727) 399-6048
Photo of Laurie Giancola, LMHC, Counselor
Laurie Giancola
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
My training includes EMDR, hypnosis, traumatic incident reduction, adoption competency, child-parent psychotherapy, and I am a level 2 certified clinical trauma specialist.
Traumatic experiences can impact every aspect of your life and leave you feeling angry, confused, and lonely. If you feel discouraged, misunderstood, and just exhausted by how much energy it takes to cope on a daily basis, we should talk. I understand that trauma symptoms are disempowering and want you to know that you don’t have to handle this on your own.
My training includes EMDR, hypnosis, traumatic incident reduction, adoption competency, child-parent psychotherapy, and I am a level 2 certified clinical trauma specialist.
Traumatic experiences can impact every aspect of your life and leave you feeling angry, confused, and lonely. If you feel discouraged, misunderstood, and just exhausted by how much energy it takes to cope on a daily basis, we should talk. I understand that trauma symptoms are disempowering and want you to know that you don’t have to handle this on your own.
(727) 205-2614 View (727) 205-2614
Photo of Elizabeth Yoak, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Yoak
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34683  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Elizabeth Yoak, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. Reaching out for help can be an intimidating obstacle at first, and I am so glad you've taken this step! I specialize in helping people overcome trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders. In my approach, I use a variety of techniques tailored to my client's specific needs. Some of the approaches I use include EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and more. Each person is unique in their story and therefore the approach I use with each client varies based on what works best for them.
Welcome! My name is Elizabeth Yoak, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. Reaching out for help can be an intimidating obstacle at first, and I am so glad you've taken this step! I specialize in helping people overcome trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders. In my approach, I use a variety of techniques tailored to my client's specific needs. Some of the approaches I use include EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and more. Each person is unique in their story and therefore the approach I use with each client varies based on what works best for them.
(321) 273-5158 View (321) 273-5158
Photo of Doriangel Fuchs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doriangel Fuchs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684  (Online Only)
Looking for a somatic psychotherapist? Is your past seeping into your daily life and you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed? I’m specialized in trauma therapy and can help you process and release! Are you experiencing panic or anxiety symptoms? I got you with treatments that work! If you’re dealing with depression, mood issues, impostor syndrome or self esteem issues, feel misunderstood or that you don't fit in, let me help you process and learn the tools needed to lean into your most authentic self. I embrace all things creative and infuse this into my work, and use methods such as CPT, BSP, EMDR, and Trauma-Focused Yoga.
Looking for a somatic psychotherapist? Is your past seeping into your daily life and you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed? I’m specialized in trauma therapy and can help you process and release! Are you experiencing panic or anxiety symptoms? I got you with treatments that work! If you’re dealing with depression, mood issues, impostor syndrome or self esteem issues, feel misunderstood or that you don't fit in, let me help you process and learn the tools needed to lean into your most authentic self. I embrace all things creative and infuse this into my work, and use methods such as CPT, BSP, EMDR, and Trauma-Focused Yoga.
(727) 966-2711 View (727) 966-2711
Photo of Nichole Parker, LMFT, MSP, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nichole Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSP, MSMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
I really enjoy working through a variety of issues, and have a unique and comforting approach to guiding clients out of whatever they are currently sitting with. I believe the client is the expert in their own lives and they are capable of change, but sometimes need some help to figure out their path and find solutions. I don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to any issue, and use various methods such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and solution focused, depending on your needs. I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples.
I really enjoy working through a variety of issues, and have a unique and comforting approach to guiding clients out of whatever they are currently sitting with. I believe the client is the expert in their own lives and they are capable of change, but sometimes need some help to figure out their path and find solutions. I don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to any issue, and use various methods such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and solution focused, depending on your needs. I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples.
(727) 324-6449 View (727) 324-6449
Photo of Teresa C McKenna, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II, QS, Counselor
Teresa C McKenna
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Searching for change in your life? In today's uncertain world we are all vulnerable and may need support to find more Peace, Comfort, Love, Self-acceptance or a desire to face negative life events and find a positive pathway to healing. I treat those affected by anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, bereavement, attachment difficulties, loneliness, isolation, addiction, trauma, self-harm, suicide and PTSD. I have over 15 years of experience in clinical trauma and use an integrative approach to treatment with modalities in CBT, ACT, EFT, EMDR certified to help client face their difficulties.
Searching for change in your life? In today's uncertain world we are all vulnerable and may need support to find more Peace, Comfort, Love, Self-acceptance or a desire to face negative life events and find a positive pathway to healing. I treat those affected by anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, bereavement, attachment difficulties, loneliness, isolation, addiction, trauma, self-harm, suicide and PTSD. I have over 15 years of experience in clinical trauma and use an integrative approach to treatment with modalities in CBT, ACT, EFT, EMDR certified to help client face their difficulties.
(813) 525-4634 View (813) 525-4634
Photo of Omodele Cordero, LMHC, Counselor
Omodele Cordero
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained and uses this approach to treat patients with PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety and Emotional Distress.
Hello! My name is Omodele Cordero and I am a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern who has been working in the mental health field for several years. I earned my Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School Professional Psychology.
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained and uses this approach to treat patients with PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety and Emotional Distress.
Hello! My name is Omodele Cordero and I am a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern who has been working in the mental health field for several years. I earned my Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School Professional Psychology.
(727) 353-8342 View (727) 353-8342
Photo of Tamara K Honickman - Psychological Counseling Services, LLC, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Psychological Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
I am trained in the Gottman method, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), mindfulness, tele-therapy, and EMDR.
Life can be a real challenge: stress, arguments, impatience, thoughts of divorce, feeling disconnected, depressed, anxious..... It can be hard knowing what direction to take, where to draw the line with others, and how not to be used or abused in the process. Some people need a long-term therapist to work through deep and enduring problems while others may want to check-in for only a session or two to keep in psychological shape. Your goals for happiness, sorting through a decision, reducing your anxiety, or just figuring out what is wrong are equally important to me in working with you.
I am trained in the Gottman method, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), mindfulness, tele-therapy, and EMDR.
Life can be a real challenge: stress, arguments, impatience, thoughts of divorce, feeling disconnected, depressed, anxious..... It can be hard knowing what direction to take, where to draw the line with others, and how not to be used or abused in the process. Some people need a long-term therapist to work through deep and enduring problems while others may want to check-in for only a session or two to keep in psychological shape. Your goals for happiness, sorting through a decision, reducing your anxiety, or just figuring out what is wrong are equally important to me in working with you.
(727) 365-5811 View (727) 365-5811
Photo of Cheryl Simmons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
I use a variety of sound, therapeutic techniques from cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and EMDR therapies as appropriate.
Are you struggling with depression/anxiety, loneliness, divorce, abuse, miscarriage/infertility, grief, rejection, fear, self-destruction, isolation, lack of focus, lack of direction, etc? Many of our troubling thoughts and feelings come from beliefs we developed early on from difficult and painful experiences that went unprocessed. I can help you identify what is holding you back, where these beliefs came from, and how to heal so you can grow, engage and thrive! Want to feel better, but don’t know how to get there? I use assessment tools to help determine where you are struggling, & track progress along the way.
I use a variety of sound, therapeutic techniques from cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and EMDR therapies as appropriate.
Are you struggling with depression/anxiety, loneliness, divorce, abuse, miscarriage/infertility, grief, rejection, fear, self-destruction, isolation, lack of focus, lack of direction, etc? Many of our troubling thoughts and feelings come from beliefs we developed early on from difficult and painful experiences that went unprocessed. I can help you identify what is holding you back, where these beliefs came from, and how to heal so you can grow, engage and thrive! Want to feel better, but don’t know how to get there? I use assessment tools to help determine where you are struggling, & track progress along the way.
(727) 513-2806 View (727) 513-2806
Photo of Kristal A Dulleck - Kristal Dulleck, LMHC, LMHC
Kristal Dulleck, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
I have extensive training in EMDR, and am a Couple SYMBIS facilitator.
My clients find, wether they come in with very specific needs or an overall feeling of wanting to change, that I am able to meet them where they are and co-create the way to find what they are seeking. I am a strength-based therapist, who helps the client discover the positive inner attributes they already possess that often are overlooked, due to their struggle. Combine this with a strong counselor-client trust relationship, and we are able to work through whatever brings them in. With a safe a compassionate environment which promotes healing, growth and a newfound sense of purpose and wellbeing, I am honored to provide for others
I have extensive training in EMDR, and am a Couple SYMBIS facilitator.
My clients find, wether they come in with very specific needs or an overall feeling of wanting to change, that I am able to meet them where they are and co-create the way to find what they are seeking. I am a strength-based therapist, who helps the client discover the positive inner attributes they already possess that often are overlooked, due to their struggle. Combine this with a strong counselor-client trust relationship, and we are able to work through whatever brings them in. With a safe a compassionate environment which promotes healing, growth and a newfound sense of purpose and wellbeing, I am honored to provide for others
(727) 334-2766 View (727) 334-2766
Photo of Glenda Beach, LMFT, PA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glenda Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34685
My specializations include relationship issues, depression/anxiety and low self esteem. I am down to earth and easy to talk to, I have over 25 years of experience and offer a safe environment to find solutions to problems and create new possibilities. In addition to traditional therapy, I offer EMDR, (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) treating the effects of trauma and other persistent problems. I use EFT Tapping which is especially effective for anxiety. My office in Oldsmar offers convenient access for many surroundings communities. Call or email me for a free 15 minute consultation. 727-787-0646.
My specializations include relationship issues, depression/anxiety and low self esteem. I am down to earth and easy to talk to, I have over 25 years of experience and offer a safe environment to find solutions to problems and create new possibilities. In addition to traditional therapy, I offer EMDR, (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) treating the effects of trauma and other persistent problems. I use EFT Tapping which is especially effective for anxiety. My office in Oldsmar offers convenient access for many surroundings communities. Call or email me for a free 15 minute consultation. 727-787-0646.
(727) 466-4393 View (727) 466-4393
Photo of Lori Georgiou, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Georgiou
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
I am certified in EMDR, trained in IFS, Ego State Therapy, and the Early Childhood Trauma Protocol.
There is no greater gift you can give to yourself than finding someone qualified to help you during this time of your life. If you are struggling with feelings of anxiety, self-worth, depression, grief over the loss of a loved one, overwhelmed by circumstances, relationship challenges, loneliness, or troubled by past events, just know that you don’t have to manage this alone. I am certified and trained in a number of proven therapeutic modalities that are effective in managing and healing from difficult times and circumstances.
I am certified in EMDR, trained in IFS, Ego State Therapy, and the Early Childhood Trauma Protocol.
There is no greater gift you can give to yourself than finding someone qualified to help you during this time of your life. If you are struggling with feelings of anxiety, self-worth, depression, grief over the loss of a loved one, overwhelmed by circumstances, relationship challenges, loneliness, or troubled by past events, just know that you don’t have to manage this alone. I am certified and trained in a number of proven therapeutic modalities that are effective in managing and healing from difficult times and circumstances.
(727) 304-1148 View (727) 304-1148
Photo of Michelle Hart Aletkin - Better Care Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Better Care Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684  (Online Only)
Overall, I curtail my approach to the individual needs of my clients, utilizing a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral approach as well as EMDR.
Reaching out for help is often the first and most difficult step to initiating change in our lives but I'm so glad that you are here! My name is Michelle and I have over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I work with clients with a wide range of struggles including depression, anxiety, infertility, relationship or adjustment issues, grief and those who have experienced trauma. I also help many first responders who witnessed multiple traumatic events as part of their work and helped them to improve their ability to cope with such exposure and remaining memories.
Overall, I curtail my approach to the individual needs of my clients, utilizing a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral approach as well as EMDR.
Reaching out for help is often the first and most difficult step to initiating change in our lives but I'm so glad that you are here! My name is Michelle and I have over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I work with clients with a wide range of struggles including depression, anxiety, infertility, relationship or adjustment issues, grief and those who have experienced trauma. I also help many first responders who witnessed multiple traumatic events as part of their work and helped them to improve their ability to cope with such exposure and remaining memories.
(727) 491-3999 View (727) 491-3999
Photo of Aarti Mathur, PsyD, Psychologist
Aarti Mathur
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
I am a Certified EMDR practitioner, Level 2 AEDP practitioner, trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, trained in ART, DBT, Polyvagal informed therapy, EPI model and CBT.
I started my professional training in psychology in 1988, earning three masters and a doctorate degree. My training has focused extensively on working with adults and children in out-patient, in-patient and residential settings. I have served as an adjunct faculty at Argosy University. I conduct workshops to facilitate awareness of mental health issues and provide resources for different organizations. I am contracted with QTC Medical group - a group through the Department of Veterans Affairs, to provide psychological services to our veterans.
I am a Certified EMDR practitioner, Level 2 AEDP practitioner, trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, trained in ART, DBT, Polyvagal informed therapy, EPI model and CBT.
I started my professional training in psychology in 1988, earning three masters and a doctorate degree. My training has focused extensively on working with adults and children in out-patient, in-patient and residential settings. I have served as an adjunct faculty at Argosy University. I conduct workshops to facilitate awareness of mental health issues and provide resources for different organizations. I am contracted with QTC Medical group - a group through the Department of Veterans Affairs, to provide psychological services to our veterans.
(813) 701-2570 View (813) 701-2570
Photo of Alice Elliott, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alice Elliott
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34682  (Online Only)
I use a combination of different therapy interventions that have been shown to help people recover from trauma, such as CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) , DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), prolonged exposure therapy and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
I offer compassionate and non-judgmental therapy to adults who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed or even hopeless. I've been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. As as an EMDR-Trained Therapist, I specialize in treating trauma-related issues such as panic attacks/anxiety, PTSD, anger management, relationship problems, self-destructive behaviors and disturbing memories and dreams.
I use a combination of different therapy interventions that have been shown to help people recover from trauma, such as CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) , DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), prolonged exposure therapy and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
I offer compassionate and non-judgmental therapy to adults who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed or even hopeless. I've been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. As as an EMDR-Trained Therapist, I specialize in treating trauma-related issues such as panic attacks/anxiety, PTSD, anger management, relationship problems, self-destructive behaviors and disturbing memories and dreams.
(727) 498-2827 View (727) 498-2827
Photo of Dan Tuttle, DC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Tuttle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
I use EMDR for people with trauma.
I work with people to help them reach their full potential. I can do this with telehealth or in person. My job is to help remove those barriers keeping you from becoming who you really are. That might simply be a change in your life you are having trouble making. Or that may be a mental health or physical issue you have. Because I'm both a psychotherapist AND Chiropractic Physician, I can address the physical components of things that are keeping you from being who you want to be too. Often the physical problems have psychological components and the psychological problems have physical components.
I use EMDR for people with trauma.
I work with people to help them reach their full potential. I can do this with telehealth or in person. My job is to help remove those barriers keeping you from becoming who you really are. That might simply be a change in your life you are having trouble making. Or that may be a mental health or physical issue you have. Because I'm both a psychotherapist AND Chiropractic Physician, I can address the physical components of things that are keeping you from being who you want to be too. Often the physical problems have psychological components and the psychological problems have physical components.
(678) 828-2603 View (678) 828-2603
Photo of Patricia Demasky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Demasky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34685
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
(407) 863-7053 View (407) 863-7053
Photo of Jessica Gagliardo., MA, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Jessica Gagliardo.
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34682
My main treatment modality is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Welcome! I am so glad that you are considering therapy. My name is Jessica and I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adults with trauma and trauma related disorders. I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I regularly work with clients who have PTSD resulting from sexual abuse or assault, being in combat, or being the victim of a violent crime.
My main treatment modality is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Welcome! I am so glad that you are considering therapy. My name is Jessica and I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adults with trauma and trauma related disorders. I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I regularly work with clients who have PTSD resulting from sexual abuse or assault, being in combat, or being the victim of a violent crime.
(727) 205-1217 View (727) 205-1217
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.