Photo of Julia Daniels - Julia Daniels, M Ed, Ed S, MCAP, LMHC, LMT, Counselor
Julia Daniels
Counselor, M Ed, Ed S, MCAP, LMHC, LMT
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
Children, Adolescents, Adults, Individuals, Couples and Family Therapies, Addictions, Co-dependency, 12 Step Recovery, PTSD/Complex Trauma, Adult Child/Inner Child, Internal Family Systems, Grief Recovery, EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique, Imago Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Body-Centered Psychotherapies including Cranio-Sacral Therapy, and Holotropic Breathwork.
As a psychotherapist, master's level addictions professional, hypnotherapist, and body-centered psychotherapist, Julia Daniels is trained in state of the art healing. Drawing on both her professional skills and her own personal experiences of healing, Julia has helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families move through life's challenges, heal, and find peace and freedom to be their authentic self. Deeply insightful, caring, warm, intuitive, and experienced, she helps clients get to the root causes of issues and helps clients resolve them.
Children, Adolescents, Adults, Individuals, Couples and Family Therapies, Addictions, Co-dependency, 12 Step Recovery, PTSD/Complex Trauma, Adult Child/Inner Child, Internal Family Systems, Grief Recovery, EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique, Imago Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Body-Centered Psychotherapies including Cranio-Sacral Therapy, and Holotropic Breathwork.
As a psychotherapist, master's level addictions professional, hypnotherapist, and body-centered psychotherapist, Julia Daniels is trained in state of the art healing. Drawing on both her professional skills and her own personal experiences of healing, Julia has helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families move through life's challenges, heal, and find peace and freedom to be their authentic self. Deeply insightful, caring, warm, intuitive, and experienced, she helps clients get to the root causes of issues and helps clients resolve them.
(561) 264-0795 View (561) 264-0795
Photo of Adam Colling, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, Counselor
Adam Colling
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
I'm a licensed Counseling Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I've worked in churches, mental health agencies, addiction treatment centers, group practices and my own private practice. I am further certified in EMDR trauma therapy and am currently working towards certification in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Over the years, I believe working with you in healing the root shame that has negatively impacted your view of yourself or others can completely transform your life.
I'm a licensed Counseling Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I've worked in churches, mental health agencies, addiction treatment centers, group practices and my own private practice. I am further certified in EMDR trauma therapy and am currently working towards certification in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Over the years, I believe working with you in healing the root shame that has negatively impacted your view of yourself or others can completely transform your life.
(561) 375-5184 View (561) 375-5184
Photo of Jason Carl Weed - Infinite Wellness & Recovery LLC, MA, LMHC, CTP, LCPC, Counselor
Infinite Wellness & Recovery LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CTP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
I will be able to help you address your challenges and achieve your goals by utilizing evidence-based treatments, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, due to my experience working in a psychiatric facility that focuses on mental health and addiction.
I graduated from South University in Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families, I use strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Enhancement Therapy. I have years of expertise treating serious mental health problems, trauma, and addictions. In order to help clients and families make the healthiest and most proactive decisions for their lives, I will support, empower and motivate you to seek and achieve the goals you wish to set for yourself.
I will be able to help you address your challenges and achieve your goals by utilizing evidence-based treatments, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, due to my experience working in a psychiatric facility that focuses on mental health and addiction.
I graduated from South University in Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families, I use strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Enhancement Therapy. I have years of expertise treating serious mental health problems, trauma, and addictions. In order to help clients and families make the healthiest and most proactive decisions for their lives, I will support, empower and motivate you to seek and achieve the goals you wish to set for yourself.
(561) 418-6391 View (561) 418-6391
Photo of Stacy Jo Poffenbarger, MA, RMHCI, CAP, ICADC, CET, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Stacy Jo Poffenbarger
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, RMHCI, CAP, ICADC, CET
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
An ideal client is anyone who shows up at your door understanding that something in their life is not working the way they want it to and having the desire to change that. I have been working in the substance abuse and mental health field for over a decade and have encountered many people with many different life situations and stories. Each person is unique and I believe that once we identify the core issue, we are well on our way to removing the block and creating the life a client truly desires. I use talk therapy along with EMDR to assist clients in achieving the goals they have set for themselves.
An ideal client is anyone who shows up at your door understanding that something in their life is not working the way they want it to and having the desire to change that. I have been working in the substance abuse and mental health field for over a decade and have encountered many people with many different life situations and stories. Each person is unique and I believe that once we identify the core issue, we are well on our way to removing the block and creating the life a client truly desires. I use talk therapy along with EMDR to assist clients in achieving the goals they have set for themselves.
(561) 440-6095 View (561) 440-6095
Photo of Christopher Michael Baird, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christopher Michael Baird
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33406  (Online Only)
I have my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and i'm trained in EMDR as well as a Neurolinguistic Programming Masters Level Practitioner alongside Hypnotherapy and EFT. I am Kripalu Yoga 200/hr Trained Instructor as well as Reiki Master and Vedic Thai Massage practitioner. I am also a Transformational Breath Facilitator in training. I am an Ontological Coach as well and a Transformational Coach. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor.
I have my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and i'm trained in EMDR as well as a Neurolinguistic Programming Masters Level Practitioner alongside Hypnotherapy and EFT. I am Kripalu Yoga 200/hr Trained Instructor as well as Reiki Master and Vedic Thai Massage practitioner. I am also a Transformational Breath Facilitator in training. I am an Ontological Coach as well and a Transformational Coach. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor.
(561) 861-2544 View (561) 861-2544
Photo of Alejandra Hochstedler-Stipo - Bilingual Clinical  Services  CT-FL, MS, LPC, NBCCH, EMDR, DCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bilingual Clinical Services CT-FL
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCCH, EMDR, DCC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
My mission is moving you from Survive to Success. Awarded WorkPlace CT for Advocacy and Diversity . Telehealth Bilingual (English Spanish)Mental Health EMDR Trauma Counselor "Thank you so much for all your support, wisdom and care during my hardest time" "Gracias! salvo mi familia". We accept CTCare and Medicare
My mission is moving you from Survive to Success. Awarded WorkPlace CT for Advocacy and Diversity . Telehealth Bilingual (English Spanish)Mental Health EMDR Trauma Counselor "Thank you so much for all your support, wisdom and care during my hardest time" "Gracias! salvo mi familia". We accept CTCare and Medicare
(203) 660-0869 View (203) 660-0869
Photo of Jennifer Tomko, MSW, LCSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Tomko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
While I am certified as an EMDR therapist, I also utilize an integrative approach that is a collection of EMDR, CBT, IFS and TF-CBT.
The paralysis from anxiety and the fogginess from depression are real. It is very difficult to break free of these feelings, once they've taken hold of us. I believe that we can recover from these feelings. I want to be a part of that change by helping to overcome barriers. Therefore, I work with teens & adults who have trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis & and several other mental health concerns. If you have been struggling and want to improve your life. I can help. I can offer you the tools you need to understand the problem and yourself in a new way.
While I am certified as an EMDR therapist, I also utilize an integrative approach that is a collection of EMDR, CBT, IFS and TF-CBT.
The paralysis from anxiety and the fogginess from depression are real. It is very difficult to break free of these feelings, once they've taken hold of us. I believe that we can recover from these feelings. I want to be a part of that change by helping to overcome barriers. Therefore, I work with teens & adults who have trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis & and several other mental health concerns. If you have been struggling and want to improve your life. I can help. I can offer you the tools you need to understand the problem and yourself in a new way.
(561) 559-5340 View (561) 559-5340
Photo of Monique Taylor-Lincoln, MS,  MHC,  MFT, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP, Counselor
Monique Taylor-Lincoln
Counselor, MS, MHC, MFT, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33404
I am also a Certified Family Court Mediator, a trained EMDR clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Certified Prepare Enrich and COUPLE Communication facilitator.
Hello and Welcome to New Beginnings and Horizons. My areas of clinical expertise include mental health counseling, addiction counseling, couples counseling, family therapy, and specific presenting concerns of blended families, depression and anxiety. My personal motto as a Clinician is “Being of Service and Helping others.” I believe strongly in the philosophy of instilling “Hope” to those with whom I am fortunate to cross paths with, because with “Hope” comes possibility. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I look forward to being of service to you.
I am also a Certified Family Court Mediator, a trained EMDR clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Certified Prepare Enrich and COUPLE Communication facilitator.
Hello and Welcome to New Beginnings and Horizons. My areas of clinical expertise include mental health counseling, addiction counseling, couples counseling, family therapy, and specific presenting concerns of blended families, depression and anxiety. My personal motto as a Clinician is “Being of Service and Helping others.” I believe strongly in the philosophy of instilling “Hope” to those with whom I am fortunate to cross paths with, because with “Hope” comes possibility. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I look forward to being of service to you.
(561) 677-9453 View (561) 677-9453
Photo of Sue Jobe, PhD, MA, MEd, NCSP, CCMHC, Counselor
Sue Jobe
Counselor, PhD, MA, MEd, NCSP, CCMHC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401  (Online Only)
CBT, EMDR, I and II; NLP.
I use an eclectic holistic and personalized approach. Everyone is unique so the therapy must fit the person. A warm and friendly atmosphere with time to tell your story to an objective and understanding listener can set the pace for healing and learning. From anxiety to relationship issues we work together to find the best solutions and new strategies. We can be structured or spontaneous whichever is most comfortable for you. Learning new skills and gaining insights can dramatically improve your current state. If you are experiencing intense feelings and have difficulty functioning there is often immediate relief. Call now.
CBT, EMDR, I and II; NLP.
I use an eclectic holistic and personalized approach. Everyone is unique so the therapy must fit the person. A warm and friendly atmosphere with time to tell your story to an objective and understanding listener can set the pace for healing and learning. From anxiety to relationship issues we work together to find the best solutions and new strategies. We can be structured or spontaneous whichever is most comfortable for you. Learning new skills and gaining insights can dramatically improve your current state. If you are experiencing intense feelings and have difficulty functioning there is often immediate relief. Call now.
(561) 763-7099 View (561) 763-7099
Photo of Jaki Neering - Inspire Recovery, MSW
Inspire Recovery
Registered Social Worker Intern, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
(561) 475-4729 View (561) 475-4729
Photo of Emily Thompson, MEd, Psy D, Counselor
Emily Thompson
Counselor, MEd, Psy D
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33404  (Online Only)
I have experience in depression, anxiety, addictions, self-esteem, mood disorders, marriage and family, couples, and trauma. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I love helping clients to overcome the life challenges that impact their daily lives. I am passionate about helping others become mentally healthy and. I have been in the field since 2014 and is verse with different disorders, cultures, and ethnicities. I constantly build competencies by completing CEUs, partipate in workshops, and reading literature. I stay updated on the new advances in mental health through different avenues.
I have experience in depression, anxiety, addictions, self-esteem, mood disorders, marriage and family, couples, and trauma. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I love helping clients to overcome the life challenges that impact their daily lives. I am passionate about helping others become mentally healthy and. I have been in the field since 2014 and is verse with different disorders, cultures, and ethnicities. I constantly build competencies by completing CEUs, partipate in workshops, and reading literature. I stay updated on the new advances in mental health through different avenues.
(561) 933-5153 View (561) 933-5153
Photo of Dillon A Steinman, LMHC, Counselor
Dillon A Steinman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
Stressed about life? Relationship issues, finances, work, addiction, mental illness, etc. You want more from life, but you simply aren't able to make that happen on your own due to the current circumstances. You will soon experience a significantly better life as we work towards accomplishing your goals.
Stressed about life? Relationship issues, finances, work, addiction, mental illness, etc. You want more from life, but you simply aren't able to make that happen on your own due to the current circumstances. You will soon experience a significantly better life as we work towards accomplishing your goals.
(561) 537-5586 View (561) 537-5586
Photo of Sean Duane - Ambrosia Treatment Center, PsyD, LCSW, CCTSA, CCTSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ambrosia Treatment Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, CCTSA, CCTSI
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Don't settle for generic treatment. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good.
Don't settle for generic treatment. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good.
(561) 375-2688 View (561) 375-2688
Photo of Daniela Riccelli - Startliving, DSW, LCSW, MCAP, Eng, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Startliving
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MCAP, Eng
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, racing thoughts, lack of purpose, substance use, or just need to process life circumstances, please contact me 561-543-1028. I specialize in childhood trauma issues, mental health, and addiction.
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, racing thoughts, lack of purpose, substance use, or just need to process life circumstances, please contact me 561-543-1028. I specialize in childhood trauma issues, mental health, and addiction.
(561) 448-6539 View (561) 448-6539
Photo of Julie Lillis - Soul Ambition Counseling, MS, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Soul Ambition Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
If you're suffering from anxiety or depression, relief is possible. We're here to help. Whether you're facing a specific problem or experiencing chronic symptoms, working with a trained therapist has been shown to have high success rates. We offer a safe, comfortable, and trusting environment where you can freely share your worries and reflect on changes you'd like to make. Build your mental strength and learn to heal your heart with your mind. Emotions are temporary. We want to help you learn to stay present for the joyous moments and have tools ready to help you tolerate the painful ones.
If you're suffering from anxiety or depression, relief is possible. We're here to help. Whether you're facing a specific problem or experiencing chronic symptoms, working with a trained therapist has been shown to have high success rates. We offer a safe, comfortable, and trusting environment where you can freely share your worries and reflect on changes you'd like to make. Build your mental strength and learn to heal your heart with your mind. Emotions are temporary. We want to help you learn to stay present for the joyous moments and have tools ready to help you tolerate the painful ones.
(561) 903-2789 View (561) 903-2789
Photo of Level Up Treatment Center - We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment, MCAP, LMFT
We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment
MCAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
(954) 231-3294 View (954) 231-3294

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kathryn Caroline Shafer - Limitless Potentials, PhD, LCSW, CAP, E-IAYT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Limitless Potentials
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CAP, E-IAYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
For over 40 years Dr. Kathy works with individuals, families, teens, and couples impacted by trauma, addiction, legal issues, and random life circumstances. In live or zoom sessions, she utilizes cognitive behavioral and integrative (mindful) therapies to restore balance and support you on your life journey. As a licensed psychotherapist, certified EMDR, addiction, yoga, and Gottman (Level 3) trained therapist, and creator of the Fun(TM) program, Dr. Kathy unpacks tools to design a plan of action targeted to relieve suffering. She also assists families with the Marchman Act or conducts interventions when loved ones refuse help.
For over 40 years Dr. Kathy works with individuals, families, teens, and couples impacted by trauma, addiction, legal issues, and random life circumstances. In live or zoom sessions, she utilizes cognitive behavioral and integrative (mindful) therapies to restore balance and support you on your life journey. As a licensed psychotherapist, certified EMDR, addiction, yoga, and Gottman (Level 3) trained therapist, and creator of the Fun(TM) program, Dr. Kathy unpacks tools to design a plan of action targeted to relieve suffering. She also assists families with the Marchman Act or conducts interventions when loved ones refuse help.
(561) 275-5012 View (561) 275-5012
Photo of Cindy Conroy, MS, LMHC, CAP, ICADC, Counselor
Cindy Conroy
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33403
Are you struggling with difficult relationship issues, family and life concerns and need a safe place to process and heal? Are you tired of your pain interfering with your present functioning? Is the dysfunction and trauma that you survived negatively influencing you? Let me help you with your journey of healing and self discovery in the comfort of a validating safe environment. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who uses many therapeutic modalities including EMDR Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, strength-based, and solution focused approach to help clients gain awareness, healing, and hope.
Are you struggling with difficult relationship issues, family and life concerns and need a safe place to process and heal? Are you tired of your pain interfering with your present functioning? Is the dysfunction and trauma that you survived negatively influencing you? Let me help you with your journey of healing and self discovery in the comfort of a validating safe environment. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who uses many therapeutic modalities including EMDR Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, strength-based, and solution focused approach to help clients gain awareness, healing, and hope.
(561) 600-5197 View (561) 600-5197
Photo of Deborah L Rasso, MS, LMHC, MCAP, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Deborah L Rasso
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MCAP, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wellington, FL 33414  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Hypnotherapist and am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which has proven results for varying issues.
Every new day is a chance to change your life. My job as a counselor is to help you make the change in your life that will bring you to a better place. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or having problems with adjustment to any new life situation, things can get better with help through counseling. I have a special fondness for working with people who struggle with addictions (drug, alcohol, gambling, eating, etc). Addictions are a coping skill that can be replaced with more healthy choices. Working together we will find a better way!
I am a Certified Hypnotherapist and am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which has proven results for varying issues.
Every new day is a chance to change your life. My job as a counselor is to help you make the change in your life that will bring you to a better place. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or having problems with adjustment to any new life situation, things can get better with help through counseling. I have a special fondness for working with people who struggle with addictions (drug, alcohol, gambling, eating, etc). Addictions are a coping skill that can be replaced with more healthy choices. Working together we will find a better way!
(561) 308-4774 View (561) 308-4774
Photo of Rachael Starr, LCSW, EMDR, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Worth, FL 33463
I use a combination of therapies that include EMDR and attachment style therapy.
Do you want to improve your life? Become a happier, healthier person? Do you want a therapist who is always honest with you? I aim to help my clients achieve all their goals, and help them develop the tools to fill their needs. I will work as often as they might want to in order to help them heal. We can work together on any issues they have so that they can live their best life!
I use a combination of therapies that include EMDR and attachment style therapy.
Do you want to improve your life? Become a happier, healthier person? Do you want a therapist who is always honest with you? I aim to help my clients achieve all their goals, and help them develop the tools to fill their needs. I will work as often as they might want to in order to help them heal. We can work together on any issues they have so that they can live their best life!
(772) 783-9574 View (772) 783-9574

See more therapy options for West Palm Beach

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.