EMDR Therapists in Tarpon Springs, FL
![Photo of Alice Elliott, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4679de7f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alice Elliott
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 (Online Only)
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 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.
![Photo of Caroline H Fenderson, MA, PA, BCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c66c2e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline H Fenderson
Counselor, MA, PA, BCPC
Verified Verified
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688 (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.
![Photo of Danelle J Hollenbeck - EMDR and The Happy Couple Expert, MS, LMHC, Uk Clin, Psych, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a7c5d7a-450e-4f42-8ba1-96a6f177f230/1/320x400.jpeg)
EMDR and The Happy Couple Expert
Counselor, MS, LMHC, Uk Clin, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
I use EMDR &TFCBT to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders,etc.
I help people whose unresolved trauma has turned into anxiety, depression, fear of living, and avoidance, just to name a few. These symptoms take over at the worst possible moments, therefore, finding it debilitating and are in need of help to decrease these symptoms, and find fulfillment in their lives. I treat couples in marriage counseling who might have grown apart, have infidelity/online love romances, or communication problems. I ask you to question, "What if life with your partner could be as exciting as it was when you first got together?” If you want to find out, give me a call.
I use EMDR &TFCBT to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders,etc.
I help people whose unresolved trauma has turned into anxiety, depression, fear of living, and avoidance, just to name a few. These symptoms take over at the worst possible moments, therefore, finding it debilitating and are in need of help to decrease these symptoms, and find fulfillment in their lives. I treat couples in marriage counseling who might have grown apart, have infidelity/online love romances, or communication problems. I ask you to question, "What if life with your partner could be as exciting as it was when you first got together?” If you want to find out, give me a call.
![Photo of Lisa Preston, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfd4eb36-f429-4bcc-a5eb-b51c0038aaf9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Preston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688
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.
![Photo of Cheryl Simmons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e032f94c-e85d-43ff-b157-078276edf73e/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andrea Sutrick, LMHC, ATR-BC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e46a0812-d97e-4254-bdf7-7acec1ff318b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Sutrick
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688 (Online Only)
With Art Therapy, EMDR & nature-based approaches, our work together is a natural unfolding.
You’ve tried talk therapy & it hasn’t helped... Talking about yourself may seem overwhelming when you have so much anxiety, past memories and feel distanced from those you care about. At work, it’s hard for you to hit that ‘off button.’ At home, you stay up late getting caught up in the thoughts of your past or replaying a conversation in your head. Your stress has caused yet another panic attack. Each week is so draining as you hold tension in your shoulders, a swirling spiral of stomach yuck, or feel keyed up as you scroll mindlessly on your phone. You crave relief & direction and haven’t been able to find it anywhere else.
With Art Therapy, EMDR & nature-based approaches, our work together is a natural unfolding.
You’ve tried talk therapy & it hasn’t helped... Talking about yourself may seem overwhelming when you have so much anxiety, past memories and feel distanced from those you care about. At work, it’s hard for you to hit that ‘off button.’ At home, you stay up late getting caught up in the thoughts of your past or replaying a conversation in your head. Your stress has caused yet another panic attack. Each week is so draining as you hold tension in your shoulders, a swirling spiral of stomach yuck, or feel keyed up as you scroll mindlessly on your phone. You crave relief & direction and haven’t been able to find it anywhere else.
![Photo of Leslie de Graaf, LMHC, LPC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/477808af-ed8d-4121-ae64-6e4c47cc1164/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie de Graaf
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
My special interests and trainings include PTSD, trauma, and EMDR therapy.
I specialize in supporting women with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic health, and pre/post-natal issues. Seeking a counselor can be scary, but I'm here to extend a helping hand. You no longer have to carry the weight alone. If the burden has become too much, let me be the dedicated professional to assist you. Recognizing you as the expert in your own life, I aim to guide you towards new paths of healing. I provide a safe space for each woman to share their life experiences. Here, you can feel, say, and be exactly who you are.
My special interests and trainings include PTSD, trauma, and EMDR therapy.
I specialize in supporting women with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic health, and pre/post-natal issues. Seeking a counselor can be scary, but I'm here to extend a helping hand. You no longer have to carry the weight alone. If the burden has become too much, let me be the dedicated professional to assist you. Recognizing you as the expert in your own life, I aim to guide you towards new paths of healing. I provide a safe space for each woman to share their life experiences. Here, you can feel, say, and be exactly who you are.
![Photo of Omodele Cordero, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/064aca8c-643d-457a-96bb-5d97ba37e998/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Bryan Daniel Koesler, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d759797-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
![Photo of Diane C Hahn, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ceb0826-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is committed to providing quality psychotherapy and psychological services to adults with compassion, professionalism, and undivided attention. Using a collaborative and educational approach we will work together to find the right treatment style for you. While some individuals prefer brief, goal oriented-symptom relief with a focus on increasing coping skills, others are looking for deeper self-awareness, authenticity and intimacy in relationships. I have 20 years of experience and am confidant that I can find the right type of approach that suits your unique circumstances.
My practice is committed to providing quality psychotherapy and psychological services to adults with compassion, professionalism, and undivided attention. Using a collaborative and educational approach we will work together to find the right treatment style for you. While some individuals prefer brief, goal oriented-symptom relief with a focus on increasing coping skills, others are looking for deeper self-awareness, authenticity and intimacy in relationships. I have 20 years of experience and am confidant that I can find the right type of approach that suits your unique circumstances.
![Photo of Jackie Breuer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e640711d-36fd-4f32-8b1a-735551c89c2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with a wide range of clients and concerns. I provide psychotherapy to couples and individuals. I have in-depth training in play therapy, relational therapy, and trauma. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or simply the stresses of day-to-day life, psychotherapy can be tremendously effective.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with a wide range of clients and concerns. I provide psychotherapy to couples and individuals. I have in-depth training in play therapy, relational therapy, and trauma. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or simply the stresses of day-to-day life, psychotherapy can be tremendously effective.
15 Second Videos
Andrea Sutrick
Leslie de Graaf
Lynn Barrette
![Photo of Aria Davison, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a0e8dcc-18e0-4b4a-b343-0ff1d7b4be93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aria Davison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed and at a loss with your child or young adult? Sometimes being a parent feels like an impossible task. I specialize in treating children, adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about helping children and teens heal, grow and change. I am also passionate about helping young adults navigate and transition from teen to an adult. As a parent, you may need support and guidance in your relationship with your child. I am committed to helping parents grow in their abilities to be strong and influential guides in their children’s lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and at a loss with your child or young adult? Sometimes being a parent feels like an impossible task. I specialize in treating children, adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about helping children and teens heal, grow and change. I am also passionate about helping young adults navigate and transition from teen to an adult. As a parent, you may need support and guidance in your relationship with your child. I am committed to helping parents grow in their abilities to be strong and influential guides in their children’s lives.
![Photo of Christopher Burke, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edf2898c-0f50-4e52-a522-64336616ab01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Burke, LMHC: For decades now, I have been helping people recover from addiction along with those who, seemingly, had a hopeless and helpless state of mind. If you are struggling with addiction stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, abuse, PTSD, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, or just being stuck, there are answers. Those answers can come in the form of universal truths, principles, evidence-based therapeutic interventions, and Spirituality.
Christopher Burke, LMHC: For decades now, I have been helping people recover from addiction along with those who, seemingly, had a hopeless and helpless state of mind. If you are struggling with addiction stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, abuse, PTSD, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, or just being stuck, there are answers. Those answers can come in the form of universal truths, principles, evidence-based therapeutic interventions, and Spirituality.
![Photo of Lauren Hunt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce4f0f05-6c29-4758-909f-a142c0b04585/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with connections, regulating emotions or executive dysfunction? It can be hard to find hope that things will be different. Suppose you want to change, work towards a better version of yourself, and understand how things can be different. What steps are you taking to achieve your desired outcomes? Do you know where to start? The road to change is never easy, but with the right people and interventions in place, you will find success.
Do you struggle with connections, regulating emotions or executive dysfunction? It can be hard to find hope that things will be different. Suppose you want to change, work towards a better version of yourself, and understand how things can be different. What steps are you taking to achieve your desired outcomes? Do you know where to start? The road to change is never easy, but with the right people and interventions in place, you will find success.
![Photo of Lynn Barrette, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f46340e-6b90-42f9-acf4-879d7d1397b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Barrette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 (Online Only)
Welcome to Center for Dynamic Healing! We are here to evolve into more conscious, responsible individuals. Blending psychology with spirituality, I work with adolescents and adults dealing with life difficulties, transitions, relationship healing needs, spirituality, and parenting issues.
Welcome to Center for Dynamic Healing! We are here to evolve into more conscious, responsible individuals. Blending psychology with spirituality, I work with adolescents and adults dealing with life difficulties, transitions, relationship healing needs, spirituality, and parenting issues.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Elizabeth Yoak, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b87db32e-4ba4-489c-9952-2cada9cdda5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Michelle Hart Aletkin - Better Care Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a2053e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Better Care Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761 (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.
![Photo of Stacey Fish, MA, LMHC, NBCC, RYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c90f3d-f1ed-4766-bed1-cb270ca9562e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use EMDR, CBT, DBT & solution focused counseling that help to look at things from a different view, find ways to manage big feelings & set small goals that creates a path for healing & growth.
Are you ready to take the first step towards positive change and reclaim your happiness? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, creating healthy relationships, simply seeking clarity or stress relief? My goal is to provide you with the support and guidance you need to navigate life's challenges. Through counseling, we'll work together to uncover your true potential, develop effective coping strategies, and foster a sense of balance and fulfillment in your life. Are you ready to take control of your emotional well-being and embark on a transformative journey towards personal growth?
I use EMDR, CBT, DBT & solution focused counseling that help to look at things from a different view, find ways to manage big feelings & set small goals that creates a path for healing & growth.
Are you ready to take the first step towards positive change and reclaim your happiness? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, creating healthy relationships, simply seeking clarity or stress relief? My goal is to provide you with the support and guidance you need to navigate life's challenges. Through counseling, we'll work together to uncover your true potential, develop effective coping strategies, and foster a sense of balance and fulfillment in your life. Are you ready to take control of your emotional well-being and embark on a transformative journey towards personal growth?
![Photo of Tamara K Honickman - Psychological Counseling Services, LLC, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04ade8e7-73f6-438e-b47f-ca3ea37c7f38/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Zoe Skowronski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b778b5-bce8-4712-a9be-7bd30ce11598/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zoe Skowronski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626 (Online Only)
I also use EMDR to help women process trauma that hasn't been helped by other therapies tried before.
Do you ever feel like the weight of past trauma or abuse is too much? Are you kept awake at night by racing thoughts about the future - or regrets about the past? Some days, does sadness seem to linger for no reason at all? Maybe you've been coping by turning inward and self criticizing, controlling food or exercise, or by forming relationships with others that never turn out quite right. If any of this sounds like you, please know you're not alone. Together we can figure out why this all started and how to deal with problems in ways that actually solve them.
I also use EMDR to help women process trauma that hasn't been helped by other therapies tried before.
Do you ever feel like the weight of past trauma or abuse is too much? Are you kept awake at night by racing thoughts about the future - or regrets about the past? Some days, does sadness seem to linger for no reason at all? Maybe you've been coping by turning inward and self criticizing, controlling food or exercise, or by forming relationships with others that never turn out quite right. If any of this sounds like you, please know you're not alone. Together we can figure out why this all started and how to deal with problems in ways that actually solve them.
See more therapy options for Tarpon Springs
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Tarpon Springs
- Clearwater
- Dunedin
- Land O Lakes
- Lutz
- New Port Richey
- Odessa
- Oldsmar
- Palm Harbor
- Port Richey
- Safety Harbor
- Trinity
- Westchase
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.