EMDR Therapists in Du Quoin, IL

Photo of Dhru Mukherjee, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dhru Mukherjee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Du Quoin, IL 62832
I specialize in trauma-informed services such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (Tf-CBT), eye movement desensitization processing ( EMDR), and Financial Social work.
I have experience treating a diverse range of clients across all life stages. I assist clients in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD), self-worth issues, identity stressors, suicidality and couples therapy. I am also a board-certified clinical supervisor for clinicians working toward their LCSW.
I specialize in trauma-informed services such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (Tf-CBT), eye movement desensitization processing ( EMDR), and Financial Social work.
I have experience treating a diverse range of clients across all life stages. I assist clients in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD), self-worth issues, identity stressors, suicidality and couples therapy. I am also a board-certified clinical supervisor for clinicians working toward their LCSW.
(817) 242-9951 View (817) 242-9951
Photo of Michelle Venegoni-Vigil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Venegoni-Vigil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Du Quoin, IL 62832
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
(618) 617-6712 View (618) 617-6712

Online Therapists

Photo of Courtney Elizabeth Kampwerth, LCSW, ICDVP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Elizabeth Kampwerth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
Troy, IL 62294  (Online Only)
I will provide a safe and welcoming environment to introduce and implement EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive behavioral therapy TF-CBT, or CBT.
In my 10 years of helping individuals, families, and communities I have realized we all have needs/wants and those needs/wants matter. We all come to therapy with unique experiences, and you are the expert of your experience. Sometimes things can become too difficult to handle on our own and we need some extra help figuring out the best way to move forward.
I will provide a safe and welcoming environment to introduce and implement EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive behavioral therapy TF-CBT, or CBT.
In my 10 years of helping individuals, families, and communities I have realized we all have needs/wants and those needs/wants matter. We all come to therapy with unique experiences, and you are the expert of your experience. Sometimes things can become too difficult to handle on our own and we need some extra help figuring out the best way to move forward.
(618) 423-8593 View (618) 423-8593
Photo of Carrie Seehausen, MA, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Carrie Seehausen
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Collinsville, IL 62234  (Online Only)
My approach is compassionate yet direct and my style is eclectic, meaning I use techniques from many modalities such as CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, person centered therapy, narrative and grief therapy, and EMDR.
Many people approach therapy with a desire to feel seen and heard. Perhaps they're shouldering burdens and need support, rest, and relief. They want to move forward but don't know how. I strive to be a sounding board and a source of encouragement and validation. I will help you get to the root of your problems and recognize your strengths along the way. The driving force behind my passion for helping people is my faith in God's love and His ability to heal completely.
My approach is compassionate yet direct and my style is eclectic, meaning I use techniques from many modalities such as CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, person centered therapy, narrative and grief therapy, and EMDR.
Many people approach therapy with a desire to feel seen and heard. Perhaps they're shouldering burdens and need support, rest, and relief. They want to move forward but don't know how. I strive to be a sounding board and a source of encouragement and validation. I will help you get to the root of your problems and recognize your strengths along the way. The driving force behind my passion for helping people is my faith in God's love and His ability to heal completely.
(618) 313-5669 View (618) 313-5669
Photo of Carrie Ryberg, LPC, Counselor
Carrie Ryberg
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Granite City, IL 62040
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
(773) 305-6923 View (773) 305-6923
Photo of Melinda Pierson - Pierson Counseling, LLC , LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pierson Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carbondale, IL 62901  (Online Only)
I am trained in providing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, but also incorporate a variety of counseling approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
With over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, I am ready to walk with you through whatever you are experiencing, helping identify personal strengths and strategies that can help you not only cope, but thrive. I am a licensed clinical social worker who works with those experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, family conflicts and symptoms of ADHD.
I am trained in providing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, but also incorporate a variety of counseling approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
With over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, I am ready to walk with you through whatever you are experiencing, helping identify personal strengths and strategies that can help you not only cope, but thrive. I am a licensed clinical social worker who works with those experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, family conflicts and symptoms of ADHD.
(618) 590-5821 View (618) 590-5821
Photo of Erich F Pilz, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erich F Pilz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
I use a mix of proven therapy techniques like EMDR (which can help process trauma) and CBT (which helps change negative thinking patterns) – but more importantly, I’m here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be yourself.
Hi, I'm Erich, and I'm here to help you feel better. Life can be a lot sometimes. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, it's not always easy to find a way through. That's where I come in. I’m here to listen, support you, and help you work through whatever is holding you back.
I use a mix of proven therapy techniques like EMDR (which can help process trauma) and CBT (which helps change negative thinking patterns) – but more importantly, I’m here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be yourself.
Hi, I'm Erich, and I'm here to help you feel better. Life can be a lot sometimes. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, it's not always easy to find a way through. That's where I come in. I’m here to listen, support you, and help you work through whatever is holding you back.
(618) 912-0400 View (618) 912-0400
Photo of Kassandra Leber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kassandra Leber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murphysboro, IL 62966
Hello! My name is Kassandra Leber, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, and Minors. I have experience treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Phobias, PTSD, trauma, Family/Interpersonal Issues, Parenting Related Stress, Gender Dysmorphia, intimacy concerns, and more. I work with various theoretical approaches, including CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and strength-based. I believe I treat each individual to create lasting change in their life.
Hello! My name is Kassandra Leber, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, and Minors. I have experience treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Phobias, PTSD, trauma, Family/Interpersonal Issues, Parenting Related Stress, Gender Dysmorphia, intimacy concerns, and more. I work with various theoretical approaches, including CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and strength-based. I believe I treat each individual to create lasting change in their life.
(309) 598-1679 View (309) 598-1679
Photo of Laura Adamgbo, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Adamgbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alton, IL 62002
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
(314) 925-1850 View (314) 925-1850
Photo of Angela M Ingram, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Angela M Ingram
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Shiloh, IL 62269  (Online Only)
I work with clients using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused brief therapy, EMDR, Person-Centered techniques, and Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy.
Whether you've been to a counselor before or this is your first time seeking help, I offer acceptance, openness, and inclusion to everyone. Some concerns I've helped others with include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and traits, trauma, abuse, sexuality, substance use, work stress, and caregiver stress.
I work with clients using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused brief therapy, EMDR, Person-Centered techniques, and Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy.
Whether you've been to a counselor before or this is your first time seeking help, I offer acceptance, openness, and inclusion to everyone. Some concerns I've helped others with include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and traits, trauma, abuse, sexuality, substance use, work stress, and caregiver stress.
(618) 589-2880 View (618) 589-2880
Photo of Anne Clayton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, IL 62946  (Online Only)
After working 8 years in child welfare, in 2014 I began working as a therapist in a primary care setting, which afforded me the opportunity to work with a broad spectrum of clients. I believe that I am a relational clinician that is able to utilize a client focused, strengths based approach who best serves individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and those who have experienced trauma. From ten years of practice skill and wisdom, combined with a training background in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR, I believe together we can develop goals to reach the outcome you desire.
After working 8 years in child welfare, in 2014 I began working as a therapist in a primary care setting, which afforded me the opportunity to work with a broad spectrum of clients. I believe that I am a relational clinician that is able to utilize a client focused, strengths based approach who best serves individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and those who have experienced trauma. From ten years of practice skill and wisdom, combined with a training background in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR, I believe together we can develop goals to reach the outcome you desire.
(618) 706-3682 View (618) 706-3682
Photo of Lisa Koegler, LCPC, Counselor
Lisa Koegler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Herrin, IL 62948  (Online Only)
While I have treated those with active addiction for many years, I use EMDR and other evidenced based practices to treat the patterns stemming from addictions and family dysfunction.
Hello! So glad you are here! Do you get into relationships hoping that this time things will be different? Do you feel overwhelmed and have a hard time exploring and working towards your goals or just life fulfillment? Would you like a more kind and loving relationship with yourself? I love helping people who are ready to identify patterns that hold them back from happiness and fulfillment in both relationship and other areas of life.
While I have treated those with active addiction for many years, I use EMDR and other evidenced based practices to treat the patterns stemming from addictions and family dysfunction.
Hello! So glad you are here! Do you get into relationships hoping that this time things will be different? Do you feel overwhelmed and have a hard time exploring and working towards your goals or just life fulfillment? Would you like a more kind and loving relationship with yourself? I love helping people who are ready to identify patterns that hold them back from happiness and fulfillment in both relationship and other areas of life.
(618) 226-8952 View (618) 226-8952
Photo of Lois Harmon, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lois Harmon
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jerseyville, IL 62052
Waitlist for new clients
Through the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), the memories become just memories and not something that controls you.
Do you feel like your past is controlling your present? You want to live in the present and enjoy the present, but the past keeps pulling you down. You want to move forward and make decisions which will make your present and future better, but the memories of what has occurred will not allow you. You know you are a loving person and have a lot of offer the world. You are ready to make a change.
Through the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), the memories become just memories and not something that controls you.
Do you feel like your past is controlling your present? You want to live in the present and enjoy the present, but the past keeps pulling you down. You want to move forward and make decisions which will make your present and future better, but the memories of what has occurred will not allow you. You know you are a loving person and have a lot of offer the world. You are ready to make a change.
(618) 847-0726 x102 View (618) 847-0726 x102
Photo of Dominique Wilson, MA, LCPC-S
Dominique Wilson
Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
I utilize Parts and Memory Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness-based CBT to assist clients with a wide array of issues causing distress.
Have you tried everything to feel “normal” and still feel wounded, damaged, or out of control? If this is you, it’s time to step out of the solitary confinement of your mind and allow a healer to guide you. After all, being with a therapist is a relationship that can go beyond any other. For your therapist may know every secret and dark thought you've had, and hold trust that you've never gifted to anyone. When you ask for help, you’re expecting skills, processing, for "it" not to hurt so bad. Being gifted to heal people from their trauma creates a sense of owing the world my best effort at the work I love.
I utilize Parts and Memory Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness-based CBT to assist clients with a wide array of issues causing distress.
Have you tried everything to feel “normal” and still feel wounded, damaged, or out of control? If this is you, it’s time to step out of the solitary confinement of your mind and allow a healer to guide you. After all, being with a therapist is a relationship that can go beyond any other. For your therapist may know every secret and dark thought you've had, and hold trust that you've never gifted to anyone. When you ask for help, you’re expecting skills, processing, for "it" not to hurt so bad. Being gifted to heal people from their trauma creates a sense of owing the world my best effort at the work I love.
(618) 762-3343 View (618) 762-3343
Photo of Tracy A Hermanson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Tracy A Hermanson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collinsville, IL 62234
Waitlist for new clients
My work involves helping people in troubled relationships find what is important to them, personally and in relationship to others. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, and other emotions that are keeping them stuck as they attempt to move forward. The clients I see hope to rebuild their lives, make sense of their experiences, and move on. I am an EMDR-trained and practicing therapist where trust is key. Once trust is built between the team of client and therapist, great inroads to health and recovery are possible with this therapeutic practice.
My work involves helping people in troubled relationships find what is important to them, personally and in relationship to others. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, and other emotions that are keeping them stuck as they attempt to move forward. The clients I see hope to rebuild their lives, make sense of their experiences, and move on. I am an EMDR-trained and practicing therapist where trust is key. Once trust is built between the team of client and therapist, great inroads to health and recovery are possible with this therapeutic practice.
(618) 974-9054 View (618) 974-9054
Photo of Stephanie Thomas, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie Thomas
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
Some of these approaches include Person-Centered therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused brief therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Techniques, and Motivational Interviewing.
I help adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, and challenges with communication reduce symptoms by improving upon current strengths and coping skills to build insight into symptoms experienced. My specialty areas include anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, communication issues, and work-life balance. I offer openness and collaboration to those I work with and believe that a collaborative effort has a direct impact on benefits gained from counseling services.
Some of these approaches include Person-Centered therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused brief therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Techniques, and Motivational Interviewing.
I help adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, and challenges with communication reduce symptoms by improving upon current strengths and coping skills to build insight into symptoms experienced. My specialty areas include anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, communication issues, and work-life balance. I offer openness and collaboration to those I work with and believe that a collaborative effort has a direct impact on benefits gained from counseling services.
(833) 922-1518 View (833) 922-1518
Photo of Katrina Schoenfeld, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Schoenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Effingham, IL 62401
Through EMDR therapy, we can work together to process and integrate challenging memories, paving the way for lasting positive change.
If you find yourself carrying the weight of traumatic experiences, grappling with persistent negative beliefs, or feeling a disconnection from yourself, I am here to offer support and guidance. Together, we can unravel the layers of your experiences, providing a path towards growth, self-acceptance, and a renewed sense of purpose. I believe in the inherent strength within each individual and the capacity for profound healing. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to be heard, understood, and validated.
Through EMDR therapy, we can work together to process and integrate challenging memories, paving the way for lasting positive change.
If you find yourself carrying the weight of traumatic experiences, grappling with persistent negative beliefs, or feeling a disconnection from yourself, I am here to offer support and guidance. Together, we can unravel the layers of your experiences, providing a path towards growth, self-acceptance, and a renewed sense of purpose. I believe in the inherent strength within each individual and the capacity for profound healing. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to be heard, understood, and validated.
(618) 617-6227 View (618) 617-6227
Photo of Ashley Wofford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wofford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flora, IL 62839
Therapy styles include but are not limited to solution-focused therapy, EMDR, strengths-based, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Ashley N Wofford, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who works with adults in several different specialty areas, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and stress management. She obtained her master's degree in social work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and has been practicing for over a decade. While she utilizes an eclectic approach in therapy to tailor treatment to match each client's needs. Therapy styles include but are not limited to solution-focused therapy, EMDR, strengths-based, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Therapy styles include but are not limited to solution-focused therapy, EMDR, strengths-based, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Ashley N Wofford, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who works with adults in several different specialty areas, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and stress management. She obtained her master's degree in social work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and has been practicing for over a decade. While she utilizes an eclectic approach in therapy to tailor treatment to match each client's needs. Therapy styles include but are not limited to solution-focused therapy, EMDR, strengths-based, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(773) 902-0917 View (773) 902-0917
Photo of Austin Fishback, MSE, Pre-Licensed Professional
Austin Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSE
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I use trauma therapies including EMDR.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
I use trauma therapies including EMDR.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
(618) 243-0288 View (618) 243-0288
Photo of Patty Roosevelt, MAC, LCPC, LPC
Patty Roosevelt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, IL 62236
Once a teacher of young children, I am now a TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) Practitioner and an EMDR certified therapist.
Pain. It finds us. Whether it's the result of the loss of love, health, or security, pain finds us, and it can be overwhelming. Licensed in Illinois and Missouri, I offer support to hurting children, adults, and families by providing emotional safety, sharing compassion, and helping my clients to learn and apply new skills as needed. Passionate about issues that have resulted from attachment and relational wounding I have specialized in treating issues of attachment and trauma.
Once a teacher of young children, I am now a TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) Practitioner and an EMDR certified therapist.
Pain. It finds us. Whether it's the result of the loss of love, health, or security, pain finds us, and it can be overwhelming. Licensed in Illinois and Missouri, I offer support to hurting children, adults, and families by providing emotional safety, sharing compassion, and helping my clients to learn and apply new skills as needed. Passionate about issues that have resulted from attachment and relational wounding I have specialized in treating issues of attachment and trauma.
(618) 221-5341 View (618) 221-5341

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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.