EMDR Therapists in Beaverdale, IA

Photo of Emily Cruse Elliott, MA, LMHC, NCC, PMH-C, Counselor
Emily Cruse Elliott
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverdale, IA 50310  (Online Only)
I view the therapy space as a collaborative experience and enjoy utilizing creative concepts including EMDR, yoga, somatic movement, and mindfulness in addition to traditional talk therapy.
As a therapist who specializes in women's health, it is vital for me to see the world through your eyes and lived experiences. I offer integrative treatment modalities based on your preferences, often incorporating feminist and multicultural orientations. Safety is key when working with a new therapist, and it is my job to ensure every client feels supported in the therapy space. My specializations include perinatal mental health, trauma, parenting, sexuality, and perimenopause. I am a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and I am an open and affirming therapist who believes in equality, equanimity, and body autonomy.
I view the therapy space as a collaborative experience and enjoy utilizing creative concepts including EMDR, yoga, somatic movement, and mindfulness in addition to traditional talk therapy.
As a therapist who specializes in women's health, it is vital for me to see the world through your eyes and lived experiences. I offer integrative treatment modalities based on your preferences, often incorporating feminist and multicultural orientations. Safety is key when working with a new therapist, and it is my job to ensure every client feels supported in the therapy space. My specializations include perinatal mental health, trauma, parenting, sexuality, and perimenopause. I am a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and I am an open and affirming therapist who believes in equality, equanimity, and body autonomy.
(515) 209-3732 View (515) 209-3732
Photo of Richard Joens - Counseling Associates of Central Iowa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Associates of Central Iowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverdale, IA 50310
We are a group of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to collaborate and meet you at your specific place in life. We can provide support and guidance by empowering you to develop the strength, wisdom and courage to cope with the challenges in your life. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life situation or need some encouragement and understanding to help you make personal changes, we can help. Please call or email us for a therapy consultation today.
We are a group of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to collaborate and meet you at your specific place in life. We can provide support and guidance by empowering you to develop the strength, wisdom and courage to cope with the challenges in your life. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life situation or need some encouragement and understanding to help you make personal changes, we can help. Please call or email us for a therapy consultation today.
(515) 619-5250 View (515) 619-5250
Photo of Thomas Sunderman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Thomas Sunderman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Beaverdale, IA 50310
I believe it is important to meet you as an individual, couple or family where you are at in your unique journey in life. During this process, I feel it's essential for you to encounter a non-judgmental, accepting and empathetic atmosphere through which you can work on areas of your life at a pace you feel comfortable with. Additionally, it is my hope that you experience a sense of empowerment and motivation to grow and move towards self-discovery.
I believe it is important to meet you as an individual, couple or family where you are at in your unique journey in life. During this process, I feel it's essential for you to encounter a non-judgmental, accepting and empathetic atmosphere through which you can work on areas of your life at a pace you feel comfortable with. Additionally, it is my hope that you experience a sense of empowerment and motivation to grow and move towards self-discovery.
(515) 393-4143 View (515) 393-4143
Photo of Sharrell Soliveras, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharrell Soliveras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverdale, IA 50310
Do you find yourself feeling stuck thinking about things that have hurt you in the past? Or struggling with bonding or connecting with others in a meaningful way? Do negative thoughts or lack of motivation have you feeling run down? Do you desire to change but don’t know where to begin? What if there was a different way to live each day? Days of feeling encouraged, optimistic, and excited about your future. The START line is closer than you think. We live in a world filled with stress, anxiety, depression, isolation, and trauma, but you can take charge of your life and strive for a brighter future that you deserve.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck thinking about things that have hurt you in the past? Or struggling with bonding or connecting with others in a meaningful way? Do negative thoughts or lack of motivation have you feeling run down? Do you desire to change but don’t know where to begin? What if there was a different way to live each day? Days of feeling encouraged, optimistic, and excited about your future. The START line is closer than you think. We live in a world filled with stress, anxiety, depression, isolation, and trauma, but you can take charge of your life and strive for a brighter future that you deserve.
(515) 417-2278 View (515) 417-2278
Photo of Danielle Ballard-Green, MSW, LISW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Ballard-Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
Beaverdale, IA 50310
Not accepting new clients
I have additional training in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and utilize trauma-informed approaches in my therapy practice.
I believe therapy can be a catalyst for new beginnings, a safe place to explore fears, loss, trauma, stress and anything holding you back from reaching your full potential. As your therapist I want to provide a safe place for you to learn about yourself, develop new insights, and heal from past hurts and trauma. I enjoy working with clients 16 years old and beyond. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am an LGBTQ+ ally. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker (LISW) and licensed substance abuse counselor (CADC).
I have additional training in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and utilize trauma-informed approaches in my therapy practice.
I believe therapy can be a catalyst for new beginnings, a safe place to explore fears, loss, trauma, stress and anything holding you back from reaching your full potential. As your therapist I want to provide a safe place for you to learn about yourself, develop new insights, and heal from past hurts and trauma. I enjoy working with clients 16 years old and beyond. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am an LGBTQ+ ally. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker (LISW) and licensed substance abuse counselor (CADC).
(515) 257-6137 View (515) 257-6137
Photo of Megan Hoxhalli, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Hoxhalli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverdale, IA 50310
Not accepting new clients
I have training in EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Hi, I'm Megan, an experienced therapist who works with teenagers and adults. I'm here to help you work through trauma, cope with anxiety and depression, and move towards living the life you want. I believe that every person deserves a safe and comfortable place to talk through stress, share their fears, and receive nonjudgmental support.
I have training in EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Hi, I'm Megan, an experienced therapist who works with teenagers and adults. I'm here to help you work through trauma, cope with anxiety and depression, and move towards living the life you want. I believe that every person deserves a safe and comfortable place to talk through stress, share their fears, and receive nonjudgmental support.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angela La Luzerne, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela La Luzerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322
Using a strengths-based perspective, I draw from CBT, MI, DBT, EMDR, systems theory, and pain reprocessing therapy.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
Using a strengths-based perspective, I draw from CBT, MI, DBT, EMDR, systems theory, and pain reprocessing therapy.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
(515) 523-7354 View (515) 523-7354
Photo of Devon Gilliland-Minard, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devon Gilliland-Minard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
When appropriate, I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in relieving many types of distress stemming from past trauma(s).
I believe all of us manage the ups and downs of life in different ways. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can develop more effective ways to manage these issues. I enjoy working with individuals (adolescents to adults), couples, and families who desire to make changes in their lives to better themselves. I draw on many approaches to meet your needs and what will work best for you. I believe therapy should be a comfortable process where you leave feeling you have benefited in some way.
When appropriate, I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in relieving many types of distress stemming from past trauma(s).
I believe all of us manage the ups and downs of life in different ways. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can develop more effective ways to manage these issues. I enjoy working with individuals (adolescents to adults), couples, and families who desire to make changes in their lives to better themselves. I draw on many approaches to meet your needs and what will work best for you. I believe therapy should be a comfortable process where you leave feeling you have benefited in some way.
(515) 512-5902 View (515) 512-5902
Photo of Marcy Shrum, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy Shrum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50314
I utilize Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDR) as a basis for my work, and am trained in EMDR.
I have limited availability, but feel free to e-mail with name, insurance provider and general concerns to begin the process. I desire to create a collaborative relationship that is grounded in mutual respect and positive regard so you can address the real issues that are affecting your quality of life. I will help you establish reasonable goals to guide you to become your best self. I have worked with individuals who have experienced adverse life experiences which can impact ones ability to live in the moment. I ask 'what happened to you?', not 'what is wrong with you?'.
I utilize Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDR) as a basis for my work, and am trained in EMDR.
I have limited availability, but feel free to e-mail with name, insurance provider and general concerns to begin the process. I desire to create a collaborative relationship that is grounded in mutual respect and positive regard so you can address the real issues that are affecting your quality of life. I will help you establish reasonable goals to guide you to become your best self. I have worked with individuals who have experienced adverse life experiences which can impact ones ability to live in the moment. I ask 'what happened to you?', not 'what is wrong with you?'.
(515) 599-3439 View (515) 599-3439
Photo of Natalie Lonsdale Gruss, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Lonsdale Gruss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
My experiences with EMDR and IFS have demonstrated that people have the potential to heal from anything.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds, nationalities, identities and orientations. I work closely with clients to create personalized goals and am trained in a wide range of issues including: anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, identity, sexuality, body image, survivors of trauma, adult children of alcoholics, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, and many others. If you want to feel better, I am here to help!
My experiences with EMDR and IFS have demonstrated that people have the potential to heal from anything.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds, nationalities, identities and orientations. I work closely with clients to create personalized goals and am trained in a wide range of issues including: anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, identity, sexuality, body image, survivors of trauma, adult children of alcoholics, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, and many others. If you want to feel better, I am here to help!
(515) 421-4370 View (515) 421-4370
Photo of Kristy Lynn Brown, LMHC, NCC, CADC, Counselor
Kristy Lynn Brown
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), AMHCA Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Trauma (DCMHS-T), Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT), EMDR Trained Therapist, Trained in Discovery Work & as a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer.
Accepting new clients! Immediate on line registration and appointment scheduling available. Accepting clients 18 + if you have Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or private pay. Trying to find a therapist that is a good fit can be overwhelming. With over 20 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession, I specialize in working with individuals struggling with emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, substances, stress management, communication, overall relationship dynamics, family conflict, school issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), AMHCA Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Trauma (DCMHS-T), Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT), EMDR Trained Therapist, Trained in Discovery Work & as a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer.
Accepting new clients! Immediate on line registration and appointment scheduling available. Accepting clients 18 + if you have Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or private pay. Trying to find a therapist that is a good fit can be overwhelming. With over 20 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession, I specialize in working with individuals struggling with emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, substances, stress management, communication, overall relationship dynamics, family conflict, school issues, and trauma.
(515) 975-9915 View (515) 975-9915
Photo of Shay Scholtes, LMHC, Counselor
Shay Scholtes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50324
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Offering both in person and telehealth options. Schedule is Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays, 10-5PM.
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Offering both in person and telehealth options. Schedule is Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays, 10-5PM.
(515) 305-2494 View (515) 305-2494
Photo of Pat Petersen, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
If you are ready for change in your life, therapy is a great catalyst! I am an experienced and competent Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Des Moines, Iowa. I am trained as an EMDR therapist and Sandplay® therapy. Now I am also a facilitator of SoulCollage® which is another creative expression to work with individuals, couples, families and groups.
If you are ready for change in your life, therapy is a great catalyst! I am an experienced and competent Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Des Moines, Iowa. I am trained as an EMDR therapist and Sandplay® therapy. Now I am also a facilitator of SoulCollage® which is another creative expression to work with individuals, couples, families and groups.
(515) 474-7551 View (515) 474-7551
Photo of Shannon Lynne Sandahl, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Lynne Sandahl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I have been providing therapy for children (age 5 and up), adolescents and adults since 2000 in a variety of therapeutic settings. I specialize in the area of trauma and other forms of abuse that causes emotional stress and negative impact on the individual's life and families lives. I am an EMDR trained therapist.
I have been providing therapy for children (age 5 and up), adolescents and adults since 2000 in a variety of therapeutic settings. I specialize in the area of trauma and other forms of abuse that causes emotional stress and negative impact on the individual's life and families lives. I am an EMDR trained therapist.
(515) 420-0357 View (515) 420-0357
Photo of Brandi Munch, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandi Munch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50313
My approach is eclectic and I interweave mindfulness, EMDR, and CBT, while offering a strength-based perspective, humor, and authenticity throughout.
Accepting new clients in September. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I believe that everyone deserves the space to be heard and understood and I am passionate about providing this safe space for others. Areas of interest include LGBTQIA+ issues, body and weight neutrality, and Complex PTSD.
My approach is eclectic and I interweave mindfulness, EMDR, and CBT, while offering a strength-based perspective, humor, and authenticity throughout.
Accepting new clients in September. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I believe that everyone deserves the space to be heard and understood and I am passionate about providing this safe space for others. Areas of interest include LGBTQIA+ issues, body and weight neutrality, and Complex PTSD.
(515) 854-0409 View (515) 854-0409
Photo of Sarah Lynn Cavan, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lynn Cavan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
My therapeutic approach is more eclectic, and I often interweave these with EMDR to help “turn down the volume”on emotional scars from the past.
Feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or like you are on the outside looking in? Do you feel unseen or unheard and want a therapist that strives to really see and hear you? I approach all clients as an interaction between two people, not just you talking. I often offer feedback, insights, and sometimes direction. I also love to laugh and swear with my clients, and I sometimes even cry with them. Most importantly, I see you as a unique and strong individual with a story to tell and a healing journey ahead of you; and I would be honored to share this journey with you.
My therapeutic approach is more eclectic, and I often interweave these with EMDR to help “turn down the volume”on emotional scars from the past.
Feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or like you are on the outside looking in? Do you feel unseen or unheard and want a therapist that strives to really see and hear you? I approach all clients as an interaction between two people, not just you talking. I often offer feedback, insights, and sometimes direction. I also love to laugh and swear with my clients, and I sometimes even cry with them. Most importantly, I see you as a unique and strong individual with a story to tell and a healing journey ahead of you; and I would be honored to share this journey with you.
(515) 325-8932 View (515) 325-8932
Photo of Ashley Paulson, MA, LMHC, LIMHP, CHT, Counselor
Ashley Paulson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LIMHP, CHT
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50311  (Online Only)
Strategies I use to help clients move toward a more empowered life: PCIT (for parents w/kids aged 2 to 7), mindfulness (great for anxiety, stress, & coping), EMDR (trauma processing), CBT (diving into thoughts/beliefs), NLP (coping & releasing patterns), and hypnosis (many uses including inner child healing).
Feeling stuck or anxious? Overthinking or losing sleep? Not feeling good enough in relationships or in parenting? I help adults let go of what's holding them back from thriving including anxious thinking, people pleasing, perfectionist tendencies, feelings of unworthiness, and trauma. I also help parents who are feeling defeated to create more peace and joy at home through connection. All services are online/virtual. Sessions are by video.
Strategies I use to help clients move toward a more empowered life: PCIT (for parents w/kids aged 2 to 7), mindfulness (great for anxiety, stress, & coping), EMDR (trauma processing), CBT (diving into thoughts/beliefs), NLP (coping & releasing patterns), and hypnosis (many uses including inner child healing).
Feeling stuck or anxious? Overthinking or losing sleep? Not feeling good enough in relationships or in parenting? I help adults let go of what's holding them back from thriving including anxious thinking, people pleasing, perfectionist tendencies, feelings of unworthiness, and trauma. I also help parents who are feeling defeated to create more peace and joy at home through connection. All services are online/virtual. Sessions are by video.
(515) 902-0316 View (515) 902-0316
Photo of Juan Pablo Padilla, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Juan Pablo Padilla
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I have learned about principle-driven, research-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Spiritual Integrated and Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT).
I know life gets challenging sometimes, especially when we bring childhood trauma or phase life problems and transitions. Coming to therapy is an excellent opportunity to give us a chance to heal from harmful experiences and learn from them. We need a space to understand what is happening with the people around us and us. It is okay to challenge ourselves to grow and change. The point is to feel and get better, with more personal resources, a deeper understanding, and a better way to connect with ourselves and others.
As a therapist, I have learned about principle-driven, research-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Spiritual Integrated and Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT).
I know life gets challenging sometimes, especially when we bring childhood trauma or phase life problems and transitions. Coming to therapy is an excellent opportunity to give us a chance to heal from harmful experiences and learn from them. We need a space to understand what is happening with the people around us and us. It is okay to challenge ourselves to grow and change. The point is to feel and get better, with more personal resources, a deeper understanding, and a better way to connect with ourselves and others.
(515) 493-7981 View (515) 493-7981
Photo of Patrick Turpin, LMHC, Counselor
Patrick Turpin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Patrick utilizes a variety of approaches including CBT, mindfulness, EMDR and other therapeutic interventions.
Patrick is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who brings humor and authenticity to his work with adolescents and adults. He has experience working with a variety of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief and loss and other life experiences. He believes that each person has a unique story that has shaped their attitudes and experiences. Through his work he strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how those experiences impact daily life, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and purpose driven.
Patrick utilizes a variety of approaches including CBT, mindfulness, EMDR and other therapeutic interventions.
Patrick is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who brings humor and authenticity to his work with adolescents and adults. He has experience working with a variety of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief and loss and other life experiences. He believes that each person has a unique story that has shaped their attitudes and experiences. Through his work he strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how those experiences impact daily life, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and purpose driven.
(515) 220-2720 View (515) 220-2720
Photo of Sally Pray, MS, tLMHC, Counselor
Sally Pray
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Depression, anxiety, improving relationships, as well as healing trauma, are a few of the areas I focus on. I enjoy working with people from a variety of backgrounds, from age 10 to mature adults. My therapeutic approach integrates a strengths-based, person-centered approach with EMDR.
Depression, anxiety, improving relationships, as well as healing trauma, are a few of the areas I focus on. I enjoy working with people from a variety of backgrounds, from age 10 to mature adults. My therapeutic approach integrates a strengths-based, person-centered approach with EMDR.
(515) 661-4577 View (515) 661-4577

See more therapy options for Beaverdale

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.