EMDR Therapists in Westchase, FL

Photo of Maria T. Aranda - Dr. Maria T. Aranda, Ph.D. LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Maria T. Aranda, Ph.D. LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westchase, FL 33626
I have training in play therapy, parent training, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR and ACT.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I also have a specialization in child and adolescent psychology. The mission of my practice is to promote growth and well-being for all individuals so that they can reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives. I offer individualized services in a family friendly, nurturing and caring environment. I limit the number of clients that I treat in order to provide the best research-based treatment possible. I am fluent in Spanish and am able to provide all services in this language.
I have training in play therapy, parent training, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR and ACT.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I also have a specialization in child and adolescent psychology. The mission of my practice is to promote growth and well-being for all individuals so that they can reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives. I offer individualized services in a family friendly, nurturing and caring environment. I limit the number of clients that I treat in order to provide the best research-based treatment possible. I am fluent in Spanish and am able to provide all services in this language.
(813) 896-3847 View (813) 896-3847
Photo of Kylee Bissette, CRC
Kylee Bissette
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchase, FL 33626
Kylee uses EMDR to guide clients through their healing journey, addressing deeply rooted pain and fostering resilience.
Are you are struggling with the lingering effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, or grief? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness? If so, It's time to take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life. Kylee would love to be that person to help guide you through your healing journey. As a trained EMDR therapist, Kylee provides empathetic and compassionate care to help her clients heal from trauma and emotional distress. Kylee fosters a safe space for her clients to explore their feelings and experiences.
Kylee uses EMDR to guide clients through their healing journey, addressing deeply rooted pain and fostering resilience.
Are you are struggling with the lingering effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, or grief? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness? If so, It's time to take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life. Kylee would love to be that person to help guide you through your healing journey. As a trained EMDR therapist, Kylee provides empathetic and compassionate care to help her clients heal from trauma and emotional distress. Kylee fosters a safe space for her clients to explore their feelings and experiences.
(813) 568-9601 View (813) 568-9601
Photo of Charley Rodich, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charley Rodich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westchase, FL 33626
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally she is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy ( EMDR).
I am so glad you are here! I started my private practice in hopes of creating a modern, safe and open environment to normalize talking about mental health; a space where we can have real, down-to-earth conversations. I wholeheartedly invest in the individuals I work with and believe therapy works best when it is a collaborative process. Ultimately you want a therapist that just gets it.. and I do. If you're not living your life the way you'd like to, let's talk about it.
Additionally she is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy ( EMDR).
I am so glad you are here! I started my private practice in hopes of creating a modern, safe and open environment to normalize talking about mental health; a space where we can have real, down-to-earth conversations. I wholeheartedly invest in the individuals I work with and believe therapy works best when it is a collaborative process. Ultimately you want a therapist that just gets it.. and I do. If you're not living your life the way you'd like to, let's talk about it.
(813) 590-7333 View (813) 590-7333
Photo of Ha Alberti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ha Alberti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchase, FL 33626
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges? You don't have to struggle alone anymore. Allow me to walk beside you and offer support. As your therapist, my mission is to provide a safe haven where you can feel understood and validated. I will help you to identify the root cause of your pain, provide you with skills to deal with life's challenges, and maximize your potential for personal growth and fulfillment.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges? You don't have to struggle alone anymore. Allow me to walk beside you and offer support. As your therapist, my mission is to provide a safe haven where you can feel understood and validated. I will help you to identify the root cause of your pain, provide you with skills to deal with life's challenges, and maximize your potential for personal growth and fulfillment.
(813) 906-1492 View (813) 906-1492
Photo of William A Lambos, PhD, BCN, Psychologist
William A Lambos
Psychologist, PhD, BCN
Verified Verified
Westchase, FL 33626  (Online Only)
I am Dr. William A. Lambos. I am dedicated to providing quality care that emphasizes treating you as a whole person. In my treatment model, medication is a last resort and utilized only after other options have been fully explored. My approach is different in that I recognize the role of the brain in mental health. I recognize that problems in one area of a client's life impact other areas, and so my philosophy is designed to integrate all aspects of functioning. I am committed to helping you achieve balance and harmony in every area of your life by reducing stress and teaching independent self-regulation.
I am Dr. William A. Lambos. I am dedicated to providing quality care that emphasizes treating you as a whole person. In my treatment model, medication is a last resort and utilized only after other options have been fully explored. My approach is different in that I recognize the role of the brain in mental health. I recognize that problems in one area of a client's life impact other areas, and so my philosophy is designed to integrate all aspects of functioning. I am committed to helping you achieve balance and harmony in every area of your life by reducing stress and teaching independent self-regulation.
(813) 321-4417 View (813) 321-4417
Photo of Natalia Savage, MS, LMHC, LPC
Natalia Savage
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westchase, FL 33626
You feel like your family is falling apart and you don’t know what else to do. You are stressed and exhausted from all the arguments, power struggles and fights. You’ve tried everything- following your family and friends’ advice, talking, negotiating, but nothing seems to work and things only get worse. Some days, you cry in the bathroom, feeling like a complete failure.
You feel like your family is falling apart and you don’t know what else to do. You are stressed and exhausted from all the arguments, power struggles and fights. You’ve tried everything- following your family and friends’ advice, talking, negotiating, but nothing seems to work and things only get worse. Some days, you cry in the bathroom, feeling like a complete failure.
(813) 993-4533 View (813) 993-4533
Photo of Jennifer Lipkins, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Jennifer Lipkins
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Westchase, FL 33626
I have helped many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and much more. Using my years of experience with so many different clients from many different backgrounds, I have developed an intuition for meeting you where you're at and quickly creating a unique therapy plan with the most efficient and effective therapeutic modality for you, your circumstances, and your goals for counseling. I always provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to talk about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so we can dive deep together and evoke the changes necessary to make you feel your best!
I have helped many clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and much more. Using my years of experience with so many different clients from many different backgrounds, I have developed an intuition for meeting you where you're at and quickly creating a unique therapy plan with the most efficient and effective therapeutic modality for you, your circumstances, and your goals for counseling. I always provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to talk about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so we can dive deep together and evoke the changes necessary to make you feel your best!
(813) 733-7469 View (813) 733-7469

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Bentivenga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Bentivenga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626
I teach coping skills, and I am in training for a certification in EMDR to treat those with trauma and many other issues.
Do you need help you with depression, anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, grief or something you can't even name? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you dealing with medical issues that greatly affect your life? Have you experienced something significantly stressful and need a safe person to talk to about it? Have you experienced trauma recently or in the past and need help getting past it? These and many other issues have brought people to my practice over the past 14 years. I am currently available for in-person sessions within two weeks, and I may be able to see you virtually sooner.
I teach coping skills, and I am in training for a certification in EMDR to treat those with trauma and many other issues.
Do you need help you with depression, anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, grief or something you can't even name? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you dealing with medical issues that greatly affect your life? Have you experienced something significantly stressful and need a safe person to talk to about it? Have you experienced trauma recently or in the past and need help getting past it? These and many other issues have brought people to my practice over the past 14 years. I am currently available for in-person sessions within two weeks, and I may be able to see you virtually sooner.
(813) 296-5228 View (813) 296-5228
Photo of Wanda Neal, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Wanda Neal
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626
I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs.
I'm Wanda Neal, LMHC, a licensed therapist with over 7 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, you've come to the right place. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. I understand that taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey to healing.
I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs.
I'm Wanda Neal, LMHC, a licensed therapist with over 7 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, you've come to the right place. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. I understand that taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey to healing.
(813) 501-6585 View (813) 501-6585
Photo of Dr. Yamilka Urquiza-Mendoza, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Yamilka Urquiza-Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626
I have specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Therapy (AEDP), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am deeply committed to supporting intercultural couples and individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them embrace their unique journeys and overcome challenges. By fostering understanding and heartfelt communication, I empower partners and families to navigate differences and life transitions with grace. Through a lens of cultural humility, I passionately assist those healing from trauma, including racial/ethnic discrimination, and narcissistic abuse, guiding them towards hope and resilience.
I have specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Therapy (AEDP), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am deeply committed to supporting intercultural couples and individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them embrace their unique journeys and overcome challenges. By fostering understanding and heartfelt communication, I empower partners and families to navigate differences and life transitions with grace. Through a lens of cultural humility, I passionately assist those healing from trauma, including racial/ethnic discrimination, and narcissistic abuse, guiding them towards hope and resilience.
(813) 896-3788 View (813) 896-3788
Photo of Traci Moreno - Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional psychotherapy (CBT, DBT & EMDR), we offer alternative treatments (Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Coaching, Crystal Reiki & Retreats).
All services are offered via Telehealth Only through a confidential video link or by phone. If you've never tried Telehealth Therapy, we understand you may be hesitant or question the effectiveness of treatment. However, Telehealth Treatment is just as effective as being in-person. We are not your average therapists! If you're looking for someone to nod their head in agreement with everything you say or for someone to just listen until "time is up," then this is not the place for you. We are an active part of your treatment.
In addition to traditional psychotherapy (CBT, DBT & EMDR), we offer alternative treatments (Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Coaching, Crystal Reiki & Retreats).
All services are offered via Telehealth Only through a confidential video link or by phone. If you've never tried Telehealth Therapy, we understand you may be hesitant or question the effectiveness of treatment. However, Telehealth Treatment is just as effective as being in-person. We are not your average therapists! If you're looking for someone to nod their head in agreement with everything you say or for someone to just listen until "time is up," then this is not the place for you. We are an active part of your treatment.
(786) 807-7117 View (786) 807-7117
Photo of Stacey Fish, MA, LMHC, NBCC, RYT, EMDR-C, Counselor
Stacey Fish
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NBCC, RYT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oldsmar, FL 34677
I am EMDR certified, IFS informed, and use traditional counseling modalities like CBT, DBT & solution focused therapy.
Are you feeling stuck with traditional talk therapy I can help move you to the next stage of healing. Let's move you from your frontal lobe to your back brain and reprocess your triggers, intrusive thoughts, trauma big or little. Lets create a relationship with your inner self to create lasting change. 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 am EMDR certified, IFS informed, and use traditional counseling modalities like CBT, DBT & solution focused therapy.
Are you feeling stuck with traditional talk therapy I can help move you to the next stage of healing. Let's move you from your frontal lobe to your back brain and reprocess your triggers, intrusive thoughts, trauma big or little. Lets create a relationship with your inner self to create lasting change. 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?
(813) 578-0841 View (813) 578-0841
Photo of Mary Michelle Rubin, LMHC, Counselor
Mary Michelle Rubin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I provide a safe, non judgmental and compassionate environment to navigate present and past challenges. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I use several different modalities in therapy to meet an individual's needs. I am specifically trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Adoption Competency. Supporting and empowering each person individually to move to a more fulfilling and satisfying feeling is my goal as a therapist.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I provide a safe, non judgmental and compassionate environment to navigate present and past challenges. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I use several different modalities in therapy to meet an individual's needs. I am specifically trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Adoption Competency. Supporting and empowering each person individually to move to a more fulfilling and satisfying feeling is my goal as a therapist.
(813) 532-3580 View (813) 532-3580
Photo of Bernadette Alers-Estelle, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernadette Alers-Estelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33626
I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting and I am IFS informed.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. My experience is with individuals in a variety of settings. I have experience with a wide range of clinical issues such as, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and neurodivergence. Additionally, I’ve worked with family of origin issues, relationship issues and LGBTQIA related issues. My current focus is with young adults who are struggling to navigate through life; BIPOC in particular.
I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting and I am IFS informed.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. My experience is with individuals in a variety of settings. I have experience with a wide range of clinical issues such as, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and neurodivergence. Additionally, I’ve worked with family of origin issues, relationship issues and LGBTQIA related issues. My current focus is with young adults who are struggling to navigate through life; BIPOC in particular.
(786) 321-2313 View (786) 321-2313
Photo of Michelle Forester, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Forester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33626
I specialize in EMDR, CBT, DBT (mindfulness therapy), and harm reduction techniques.
As your therapist, I seek to address the root cause of your psychological symptoms and encourage healing, self-awareness, resilience, and self-empowerment. My approach is holistic, eclectic, direct, and collaborative. In the past, I have provided psychotherapeutic care in an inpatient psychiatric setting, the VA hospital, and have worked as a medical social worker in an ICU during the pandemic. I have also provided psychological services in public schools, skilled nursing facilities, and both the juvenile justice and adoption systems.
I specialize in EMDR, CBT, DBT (mindfulness therapy), and harm reduction techniques.
As your therapist, I seek to address the root cause of your psychological symptoms and encourage healing, self-awareness, resilience, and self-empowerment. My approach is holistic, eclectic, direct, and collaborative. In the past, I have provided psychotherapeutic care in an inpatient psychiatric setting, the VA hospital, and have worked as a medical social worker in an ICU during the pandemic. I have also provided psychological services in public schools, skilled nursing facilities, and both the juvenile justice and adoption systems.
(813) 607-6355 View (813) 607-6355
Photo of Aarti Mathur, PsyD, Psychologist
Aarti Mathur
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33626
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 Glenda Beach, LMFT, PA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glenda Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oldsmar, FL 34677
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 Erin Wiley, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Erin Wiley
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626
As a therapist in my fifties, with a 27 year marriage and 2 college kids, I not only have my education & clinical experience to offer you, but life experience as well. My goal is to help you (& your partner or family if you wish) improve your overall happiness and life satisfaction. I use the newest, most effective therapy techniques to assist you in healing your mind, your heart, & your relationships. For 7 years in a row I've been named the best therapist in Toledo, Ohio, and in 2023 I started seeing clients in Seminole as well. I look forward to talking with you about how I can help you change your life for the BETTER!
As a therapist in my fifties, with a 27 year marriage and 2 college kids, I not only have my education & clinical experience to offer you, but life experience as well. My goal is to help you (& your partner or family if you wish) improve your overall happiness and life satisfaction. I use the newest, most effective therapy techniques to assist you in healing your mind, your heart, & your relationships. For 7 years in a row I've been named the best therapist in Toledo, Ohio, and in 2023 I started seeing clients in Seminole as well. I look forward to talking with you about how I can help you change your life for the BETTER!
(727) 361-2291 View (727) 361-2291
Photo of Renata F. Martins - Open Talk Therapy, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Open Talk Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33626  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Renata! My experience has focused on trauma, anxiety, and childhood concerns - things that we can all relate to, but we may have second thoughts or some hesitation about addressing or even acknowledging. Sometimes we feel disconnected and detached from others, emotionally fatigued and/or on edge, and sometimes we just feel "off" and have no idea where to start. This is it, though - you reading this and looking through countless therapist's profiles is the first tedious, but necessary, step (yay!).
Hello, my name is Renata! My experience has focused on trauma, anxiety, and childhood concerns - things that we can all relate to, but we may have second thoughts or some hesitation about addressing or even acknowledging. Sometimes we feel disconnected and detached from others, emotionally fatigued and/or on edge, and sometimes we just feel "off" and have no idea where to start. This is it, though - you reading this and looking through countless therapist's profiles is the first tedious, but necessary, step (yay!).
(772) 266-5206 View (772) 266-5206
Photo of Bethany Brunn, LMHC, Counselor
Bethany Brunn
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33635
The problems of mid-life are not easy- the children are growing up and leaving, parents are aging and you are their caregivers, to name a few. Meanwhile, your career is changing, or is in need of a change, and you might have a few new medial issues of your own. All of these, especially if you are experiencing more than one, can lead to feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed-out. Who is taking care of you while you are taking care of everyone and everything else? And when there's still so much to do, how do get the energy to carry on?
The problems of mid-life are not easy- the children are growing up and leaving, parents are aging and you are their caregivers, to name a few. Meanwhile, your career is changing, or is in need of a change, and you might have a few new medial issues of your own. All of these, especially if you are experiencing more than one, can lead to feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed-out. Who is taking care of you while you are taking care of everyone and everything else? And when there's still so much to do, how do get the energy to carry on?
(727) 353-9869 View (727) 353-9869

See more therapy options for 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.